A layover in San Bernardino is one of those happy accidents of air travel. San Bernardino International Airport sits just 75 minutes from the city center by Local Bus Service, and even a short visit can be surprisingly rewarding. This guide covers everything you need to get out of the terminal and back in time for your next boarding call.
What to Know Before Leaving the Terminal
A few things to sort out before you leave SBD:
- Entry requirements: Make sure you have the right visa or entry clearance for United States. Transit visas and tourist visas are different things — double-check before you exit.
- Travel time: The trip to San Bernardino takes about 75 minutes by Local Bus Service. Factor in the return trip and at least 90 minutes of buffer for security and boarding.
- Currency: The local currency is USD. You’re in USD territory, so no currency conversion needed.
The Best Way Into San Bernardino from SBD
The most straightforward way into San Bernardino is the Local Bus Service, which takes about 75 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 95 minutes depending on conditions, but expect to pay significantly more. If time is tight, the Local Bus Service is usually the smarter call.
What to Do With Your Bags
Dedicated luggage storage at SBD may be limited. Your best bet is to check services like Bounce or Stasher for verified storage locations near the airport or in San Bernardino’s center.
Some hotels and shops near transit hubs also offer storage for a small fee — worth asking about if you’re headed into town.
Layover Budget Breakdown
Here’s a rough breakdown of what a quick trip into San Bernardino might cost in USD:
- Transport (round trip): ~$9 USD
- A meal: ~$18 USD
- Miscellaneous: ~$10 USD
- Estimated total: ~$37 USD
Cards are increasingly accepted in San Bernardino, but cash is still useful for smaller purchases.
How to Spend Your Time in San Bernardino
For a layover visit to San Bernardino, we’d suggest Original McDonald’s Site and Museum and San Bernardino History and Railroad Museum. Neither requires a full day, and both give you a real taste of the area.
Even a quick visit gives you a sense of the local culture and history. You can see the highlights in about an hour without rushing.
Not every layover calls for a city trip. If you’re staying at SBD, check out Relax in SBD’s Modern Terminal or Aircraft Spotting at SBD to keep yourself occupied.
Food & Dining Options
- In the city: Mitla Cafe and The Mexico Cafe are both worth a visit if you’re exploring San Bernardino.
- At the airport: SBD Terminal Cafe and SBD Express Bites will get the job done without leaving the terminal.
Staying Connected
Most airports offer free WiFi these days, and SBD is no exception — connect and browse while you sort out your plans. If you’re heading into San Bernardino and want data on the go, pick up a local SIM from a shop in the arrivals hall or download an eSIM before you land. Airalo and Holafly are popular options that let you set up data access before you even touch down.
Taking a Break at SBD
If your layover is an overnight one or you just need to recharge, look for quiet seating areas near less-busy gates. Some travelers report finding usable rest spots near the international departures area at SBD.
For something more comfortable, check if there’s a lounge you can access — many offer day passes regardless of your airline or class of travel. Apps like LoungeBuddy can help you find options.
Final Thoughts
Not every layover leads somewhere interesting, but a layover in San Bernardino genuinely does. There’s enough to fill a few hours with good food, interesting sights, and the kind of experience that makes a journey feel like more than just getting from A to B.
Make the most of it. You’ve got this.
Nearby Layover Guides
Disclaimer: Visa rules, transport schedules, and prices change. Always verify details with official sources and your airline before leaving the airport.