A layover in Tonopah is one of those happy accidents of air travel. Tonopah Test Range Airport sits just 70 minutes from the city center by local transport, 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 XSD
A few things to sort out before you leave XSD:
- 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 Tonopah takes about 70 minutes by local transport. 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.
What’s Worth Seeing in Tonopah
For a layover visit to Tonopah, we’d suggest Tonopah Historic Mining Park and Central Nevada Museum. Neither requires a full day, and both give you a real taste of the area.
Great for a short stroll — bring a coffee and take it easy. Even a quick visit gives you a sense of the local culture and history.
Staying airside? That’s fine too. Inside XSD, you can spend time at Terminal Building Waiting Area or try Vending & Restroom Facilities. Sometimes the best layover is a calm one.
Food & Dining Options
- In the city: Tonopah Brewing Company and Mizpah Hotel Dining Room are both worth a visit if you’re exploring Tonopah.
- At the airport: Staff Breakroom / Coffee Point and On-site Meal Service (Pre-ordered/Restricted) will get the job done without leaving the terminal.
Getting from XSD to Tonopah
You have two main options for getting from Tonopah Test Range Airport into town:
- local transport: About 70 minutes, affordable, and consistent. This is what we recommend for time-conscious travelers.
- Taxi or ride-share: Around 90 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.
Planning Your Layover Spending
You don’t need a fortune for a layover outing. Here’s a realistic estimate for Tonopah:
Transport to the city and back runs about $9 USD. A sit-down meal averages around $18 USD. Add $10 for a coffee, snacks, or a small souvenir, and you’re looking at roughly $37 USD total.
Withdraw local currency from an ATM at the airport rather than using exchange counters — the rates are usually better.
Bag Storage Near XSD
Luggage storage options at XSD can vary. Rather than arriving and hoping for the best, look up nearby storage on platforms like Bounce or Stasher ahead of time.
Another option: if you’re only in Tonopah for a couple of hours, a compact bag that you can carry comfortably saves you the hassle altogether.
Staying Connected
WiFi at XSD 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.
Taking a Break at XSD
Sometimes the best layover plan is no plan at all. If you need sleep at XSD, 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 Tonopah with time to spare is really an invitation to explore. Tonopah 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.