A layover in Spokane is one of those happy accidents of air travel. Felts Field sits just 40 minutes from the city center by Local Bus / Taxi, 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.
Before You Step Outside SFF
Before heading into Spokane, take a moment to confirm the basics:
- Visa status: Entry rules for United States vary by nationality. If you’re unsure, check with your airline or the immigration desk before leaving the secure area.
- Getting there: Spokane is roughly 40 minutes from SFF via Local Bus / Taxi. Plan to be back at the airport at least 2 hours before your next departure.
- Money: You’ll be spending in USD. You’re in USD territory, so no currency conversion needed.
The Best Way Into Spokane from SFF
From SFF, the Local Bus / Taxi gets you to Spokane in around 40 minutes. That’s the option most travelers with a time constraint should pick.
Taxis and ride-hailing services are available too (expect roughly 60 minutes), but they cost more and are at the mercy of traffic. Unless you’re traveling with heavy luggage or in a group, the Local Bus / Taxi offers the best balance of speed, cost, and reliability.
How Much Money You’ll Need
Quick budget math for your Spokane layover:
| Expense | Estimated Cost (USD) |
|---|---|
| Round-trip transport | ~$9 |
| Meal | ~$18 |
| Buffer / extras | ~$10 |
| Total | ~$37 |
If you’re only out for a few hours, you might not need much cash at all — many places accept contactless payments.
Where to Leave Your Bags
Dedicated luggage storage at SFF may be limited. Your best bet is to check services like Bounce or Stasher for verified storage locations near the airport or in Spokane’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.
What’s Worth Seeing in Spokane
If you head into Spokane, here are two things worth checking out:
Riverfront Park is a solid choice if you want to get a feel for the area. Great for a short stroll — bring a coffee and take it easy.
Spokane Falls is another option that’s easy to fit into a short visit. It’s a popular stop for visitors with limited time in Spokane.
Not every layover calls for a city trip. If you’re staying at SFF, check out Felts Field Aircraft Observation or Felts Field Historic District Walk to keep yourself occupied.
Where to Eat
Two dining recommendations if you’re heading into Spokane: Wild Dawgs and Frank’s Diner. Both are accessible without a huge time commitment.
Staying at the airport? Look for Skyway Cafe or Subway (Felts Field Area). Airport food may not be glamorous, but it’ll keep you fueled up for the next leg.
Where to Rest During Your Layover
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 SFF.
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.
Staying Connected
WiFi at SFF 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.
Final Thoughts
There you have it — everything you need to make a layover in Spokane count. The hardest part is usually just deciding to leave SFF. Once you do, you’ll be glad you did.
Keep your flight info handy, budget a buffer for the return, and enjoy the ride.
Nearby Layover Guides
Disclaimer: Visa rules, transport schedules, and prices change. Always verify details with official sources and your airline before leaving the airport.