A long layover in St. Paul is an opportunity, not an inconvenience. Rather than watching departure boards at St Paul Downtown Holman Field for hours, step outside and explore. The city center is about 40 minutes away, and this guide has the practical details you need to pull it off without stress.
Essential Info Before You Head Out
Stepping out of the airport during a layover takes a little preparation. Here’s what to keep in mind at STP:
First, verify that you can enter United States — visa requirements depend on your nationality and can change. Second, know your timing: the local transport takes about 40 minutes into St. Paul, so add that up for the round trip plus security buffer. Third, have your payment sorted — USD is the currency here. You’re in USD territory, so no currency conversion needed.
Getting from STP to St. Paul
The most straightforward way into St. Paul is the local transport, which takes about 40 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 60 minutes depending on conditions, but expect to pay significantly more. If time is tight, the local transport is usually the smarter call.
Where to Leave Your Bags
Dedicated luggage storage at STP may be limited. Your best bet is to check services like Bounce or Stasher for verified storage locations near the airport or in St. Paul’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.
Estimated Costs for a Quick Visit
Here’s a rough breakdown of what a quick trip into St. Paul might cost in USD:
- Transport (round trip): ~$10 USD
- A meal: ~$20 USD
- Miscellaneous: ~$10 USD
- Estimated total: ~$40 USD
Budget a little extra for the unexpected. It’s better to come back with spare change than to run short.
What’s Worth Seeing in St. Paul
If you head into St. Paul, here are two things worth checking out:
Cathedral of Saint Paul is a solid choice if you want to get a feel for the area. Respectful visitors are generally welcome for a quick look.
Minnesota State Capitol Building is another option that’s easy to fit into a short visit. Worth checking out if your schedule allows.
Staying airside? That’s fine too. Inside STP, you can spend time at Aircraft Spotting at STP or try Signature Flight Support FBO Lounge. Sometimes the best layover is a calm one.
Best Bites Near STP
In St. Paul
If you make it into town, Cossetta Alimentari is a good bet for a proper meal. For something different, try Mancini’s Char House.
Inside STP
If you’re staying in the terminal, Holman’s Table is your main option. Signature Flight Support FBO Refreshments works too if you want something quick.
Staying Connected
Free WiFi is generally available at STP, which is handy for checking maps and transport schedules. For connectivity in St. Paul 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.
Where to Rest During Your Layover
Not every layover involves sightseeing. If you’d rather rest, STP has seating areas throughout the terminal, though comfort levels vary. Grab a neck pillow and stake out a quiet corner.
Airport lounges — accessible via day pass, credit card perks, or services like Priority Pass — typically offer reclined seating, showers, and a quieter environment.
Final Thoughts
There you have it — everything you need to make a layover in St. Paul count. The hardest part is usually just deciding to leave STP. 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.