Few things beat the feeling of sneaking in a city visit during a layover in Ruby. Ruby Airport is well-positioned for exactly that — downtown is reachable in about 30 minutes. Here’s what you need to know to make it happen smoothly.
Essential Info Before You Head Out
Three things to verify before you walk out of RBY:
- Can you legally enter United States? Some nationalities need a visa even for a few hours. Check your passport’s validity too.
- Do you have enough time? With a 30-minute journey each way by Local Shuttles/Taxis, you’ll want at least 5-6 hours total to make the trip worthwhile.
- How will you pay? Local currency is the USD. You’re in USD territory, so no currency conversion needed.
Transport from Ruby Airport to Downtown
The most straightforward way into Ruby is the Local Shuttles/Taxis, which takes about 30 minutes. This is generally the best option for layover travelers — it’s reliable and you won’t get stuck in traffic.
A taxi or ride-share will also get you there, typically in 50 minutes depending on conditions, but expect to pay significantly more. If time is tight, the Local Shuttles/Taxis is usually the smarter call.
Bag Storage Near RBY
Specific locker facilities at RBY aren’t well-documented. We recommend checking Bounce before your trip to find a secure storage spot either near the airport or in Ruby itself.
If you’re traveling carry-on only, you might be able to skip storage entirely and bring your bag along.
Planning Your Layover Spending
Here’s a rough breakdown of what a quick trip into Ruby might cost in USD:
- Transport (round trip): ~$10 USD
- A meal: ~$20 USD
- Miscellaneous: ~$10 USD
- Estimated total: ~$40 USD
Cards are increasingly accepted in Ruby, but cash is still useful for smaller purchases.
Top Picks for a Quick Visit
With limited time, focus on what’s accessible. In Ruby, two standouts are:
- Ruby Riverfront Park & Promenade — Nice green space that’s easy to enjoy without a tight schedule.
- Ruby History & Gemstone Museum — You can see the highlights in about an hour without rushing.
Both are realistic options even if you only have a few hours to spare.
If you’d rather stay inside RBY — maybe your layover is shorter than expected, or you just prefer to stay close to your gate — there are still ways to pass the time:
- Ruby Sky Lounge
- Gemstone Gallery Boutique
Eating Well on a Ruby Layover
Two dining recommendations if you’re heading into Ruby: Ruby Table & Tap and Mama Mia’s Pizzeria & Italian Eatery. Both are accessible without a huge time commitment.
Staying at the airport? Look for Skyline Bistro or Ruby Roast Coffee & Bakery. Airport food may not be glamorous, but it’ll keep you fueled up for the next leg.
Staying Connected
You’ll find free WiFi at RBY for basic browsing. If you plan to navigate Ruby or use ride-hailing apps, having mobile data is much more convenient. Consider setting up an eSIM through a provider like Airalo or Holafly before your trip — it takes a few minutes and saves you from hunting for SIM card kiosks.
Sleep & Lounge Options at RBY
Sometimes the best layover plan is no plan at all. If you need sleep at RBY, scope out the quieter gate areas first. Noise-canceling headphones and an eye mask go a long way in a busy terminal.
Lounge access is another option if you want a real seat and maybe a shower. Check Priority Pass or ask at the information desk about day-use rates.
Final Thoughts
A layover in Ruby doesn’t have to be wasted time. With the city just 30 minutes from RBY, you’ve got a real opportunity to turn a stopover into a mini-trip. The logistics are straightforward — it’s just a matter of deciding to go for it.
Watch the clock, travel light, and have a great time out there.
Nearby Layover Guides
Disclaimer: Visa rules, transport schedules, and prices change. Always verify details with official sources and your airline before leaving the airport.