Few things beat the feeling of sneaking in a city visit during a layover in Rochester. Rochester International Airport is well-positioned for exactly that — downtown is reachable in about 70 minutes. Here’s what you need to know to make it happen smoothly.
Important Details Before You Go
Stepping out of the airport during a layover takes a little preparation. Here’s what to keep in mind at RST:
First, verify that you can enter United States — visa requirements depend on your nationality and can change. Second, know your timing: the RTS Bus takes about 70 minutes into Rochester, so add that up for the round trip plus security buffer. Third, have your payment sorted — USD is the currency here. You’re in USD territory, so no currency conversion needed.
What’s Worth Seeing in Rochester
For a layover visit to Rochester, we’d suggest Mayo Clinic Campus – Gonda Building and Plummer House. Neither requires a full day, and both give you a real taste of the area.
It’s a popular stop for visitors with limited time in Rochester. Accessible and enjoyable even on a short visit.
Staying airside? That’s fine too. Inside RST, you can spend time at Gateway Gifts or try Terminal Relaxation & Free Wi-Fi. Sometimes the best layover is a calm one.
Airport to City: Your Transport Options
| Option | Approximate Time | Cost Level | Notes |
|---|---|---|---|
| RTS Bus | ~70 min | $ | Recommended for layovers |
| Taxi / Ride-share | ~90 min | $$$ | Convenient but traffic-dependent |
For a layover, the RTS Bus is usually the way to go. It’s predictable, which matters when you have a flight to catch. Taxis can be faster in ideal conditions but slower when traffic builds up.
Best Bites Near RST
- In the city: Pescara and Chester’s Kitchen & Bar are both worth a visit if you’re exploring Rochester.
- At the airport: Crossings Cafe & Bar and will get the job done without leaving the terminal.
Money & Budget Tips
Quick budget math for your Rochester layover:
| Expense | Estimated Cost (USD) |
|---|---|
| Round-trip transport | ~$10 |
| Meal | ~$20 |
| Buffer / extras | ~$10 |
| Total | ~$40 |
Budget a little extra for the unexpected. It’s better to come back with spare change than to run short.
Staying Connected
WiFi at RST should cover you while you’re in the terminal. Once you step outside, you’ll want your own data connection for maps, translating, and getting around. An eSIM is the simplest solution — set it up on your phone before landing in United States and you’re good to go.
Luggage Storage Options
Specific locker facilities at RST aren’t well-documented. We recommend checking Bounce before your trip to find a secure storage spot either near the airport or in Rochester itself.
If you’re traveling carry-on only, you might be able to skip storage entirely and bring your bag along.
Sleep & Lounge Options at RST
Not every layover involves sightseeing. If you’d rather rest, RST has seating areas throughout the terminal, though comfort levels vary. Grab a neck pillow and stake out a quiet corner.
Airport lounges — accessible via day pass, credit card perks, or services like Priority Pass — typically offer reclined seating, showers, and a quieter environment.
Final Thoughts
Whether you spend your layover in Rochester exploring the streets or relaxing at RST, the key is to make the time feel worthwhile. A quick city visit can turn a tedious wait into the highlight of a long travel day.
Just keep your boarding pass handy and leave plenty of time to get back. Happy travels.
Nearby Layover Guides
Disclaimer: Visa rules, transport schedules, and prices change. Always verify details with official sources and your airline before leaving the airport.