Whether it’s planned or a surprise, a layover in Smyrna gives you a genuine shot at exploring somewhere new. The trip from MQY to the city takes roughly 70 minutes by Taxi/Rideshare, and we’ve put together this guide to help you spend your time wisely.
Quick Checks Before Leaving the Airport
A few things to sort out before you leave MQY:
- 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 Smyrna takes about 70 minutes by Taxi/Rideshare. 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.
Things to Do During Your Layover
If you head into Smyrna, here are two things worth checking out:
Sam Davis Home is a solid choice if you want to get a feel for the area. Worth checking out if your schedule allows.
Stones River National Battlefield is another option that’s easy to fit into a short visit. Accessible and enjoyable even on a short visit.
Staying airside? That’s fine too. Inside MQY, you can spend time at Aircraft Observation at MQY or try Smyrna Air Center Pilot Shop. Sometimes the best layover is a calm one.
Airport to City: Your Transport Options
From MQY, the Taxi/Rideshare gets you to Smyrna in around 70 minutes. That’s the option most travelers with a time constraint should pick.
Taxis and ride-hailing services are available too (expect roughly 90 minutes), but they cost more and are at the mercy of traffic. Unless you’re traveling with heavy luggage or in a group, the Taxi/Rideshare offers the best balance of speed, cost, and reliability.
Where to Eat
- In the city: Goodness Gracious Cafe and Catering and La Mesa Mexican Restaurant are both worth a visit if you’re exploring Smyrna.
- At the airport: The Hanger Cafe and JWN Aviation Coffee Bar will get the job done without leaving the terminal.
Money & Budget Tips
You don’t need a fortune for a layover outing. Here’s a realistic estimate for Smyrna:
Transport to the city and back runs about $10 USD. A sit-down meal averages around $20 USD. Add $10 for a coffee, snacks, or a small souvenir, and you’re looking at roughly $40 USD total.
If you’re only out for a few hours, you might not need much cash at all — many places accept contactless payments.
Staying Connected
Free WiFi is generally available at MQY, which is handy for checking maps and transport schedules. For connectivity in Smyrna itself, an eSIM is the easiest route — services like Airalo offer data plans for United States that you can activate straight from your phone, no physical SIM swap needed.
Bag Storage Near MQY
Specific locker facilities at MQY aren’t well-documented. We recommend checking Bounce before your trip to find a secure storage spot either near the airport or in Smyrna itself.
If you’re traveling carry-on only, you might be able to skip storage entirely and bring your bag along.
Resting at the Airport
Sometimes the best layover plan is no plan at all. If you need sleep at MQY, 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 Smyrna with time to spare is really an invitation to explore. Smyrna may not have been on your original itinerary, but sometimes those surprise stops become the best part of a trip.
Just remember: set an alarm, know your gate, and leave time for security. Everything else is an adventure.
Nearby Layover Guides
Disclaimer: Visa rules, transport schedules, and prices change. Always verify details with official sources and your airline before leaving the airport.