A layover in Saranac Lake is one of those happy accidents of air travel. Adirondack Regional Airport sits just 40 minutes from the city center by Taxi/Rideshare, 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.
Pre-Departure Checklist
Three things to verify before you walk out of SLK:
- 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 40-minute journey each way by Taxi/Rideshare, 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.
Getting from SLK to Saranac Lake
You have two main options for getting from Adirondack Regional Airport into town:
- Taxi/Rideshare: About 40 minutes, affordable, and consistent. This is what we recommend for time-conscious travelers.
- Taxi or ride-share: Around 60 minutes in normal traffic. More comfortable for groups or heavy luggage, but pricier and less predictable.
Whichever you choose, keep the return journey in mind. Build in extra time — you do not want to be rushing through security.
Where to Leave Your Bags
Specific locker facilities at SLK aren’t well-documented. We recommend checking Bounce before your trip to find a secure storage spot either near the airport or in Saranac Lake itself.
If you’re traveling carry-on only, you might be able to skip storage entirely and bring your bag along.
How Much Money You’ll Need
Quick budget math for your Saranac Lake layover:
| Expense | Estimated Cost (USD) |
|---|---|
| Round-trip transport | ~$10 |
| Meal | ~$20 |
| Buffer / extras | ~$10 |
| Total | ~$40 |
Withdraw local currency from an ATM at the airport rather than using exchange counters — the rates are usually better.
Top Picks for a Quick Visit
Two recommendations for your time in Saranac Lake:
Start with Robert Louis Stevenson Memorial Cottage. You can see the main features in a short visit. Then, if time allows, make your way to Stroll through Historic Downtown Saranac Lake. History buffs will appreciate this, and it doesn’t take long to explore the grounds.
Not every layover calls for a city trip. If you’re staying at SLK, check out Adirondack Regional Airport Viewing Area or Local Art & Information Display to keep yourself occupied.
Where to Eat
- In the city: Left Bank Cafe and Blue Moon Cafe are both worth a visit if you’re exploring Saranac Lake.
- At the airport: SLK Vending & Snack Area and Flight Fuel Grab-and-Go will get the job done without leaving the terminal.
Staying Connected
Most airports offer free WiFi these days, and SLK is no exception — connect and browse while you sort out your plans. If you’re heading into Saranac Lake 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.
Resting at the Airport
Sometimes the best layover plan is no plan at all. If you need sleep at SLK, 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
Not every layover leads somewhere interesting, but a layover in Saranac Lake 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.