A long layover in Upland is an opportunity, not an inconvenience. Rather than watching departure boards at Cable Airport 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.
Important Details Before You Go
Before heading into Upland, 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: Upland is roughly 40 minutes from CCB via local transport. Plan to be back at the airport at least 2 hours before your next departure.
- Money: You’ll be spending in local currency. Cards are widely accepted in most places, but carrying some the local currency in cash is a good idea for smaller vendors.
Getting from CCB to Upland
You have two main options for getting from Cable Airport into town:
- local transport: 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.
What to Budget for Your Upland Side Trip
Quick budget math for your Upland layover:
| Expense | Estimated Cost (USD) |
|---|---|
| Round-trip transport | ~$10 |
| Meal | ~$20 |
| Buffer / extras | ~$10 |
| Total | ~$40 |
Cards are increasingly accepted in Upland, but cash is still useful for smaller purchases.
Things to Do During Your Layover
Two recommendations for your time in Upland:
Start with Historic Downtown Upland. History buffs will appreciate this, and it doesn’t take long to explore the grounds. Then, if time allows, make your way to California Botanic Garden. Nice green space that’s easy to enjoy without a tight schedule.
If you’d rather stay inside CCB — maybe your layover is shorter than expected, or you just prefer to stay close to your gate — there are still ways to pass the time:
- Aircraft Spotting at Cable Airport
- FBO Lounge Area (Cable Airport)
Where to Grab a Meal
Two dining recommendations if you’re heading into Upland: Spaggi’s Italian Restaurant and Eureka! Upland. Both are accessible without a huge time commitment.
Staying at the airport? Look for The Airport Cafe or The Alley Upland. Airport food may not be glamorous, but it’ll keep you fueled up for the next leg.
Luggage Storage Options
Dedicated luggage storage at CCB may be limited. Your best bet is to check services like Bounce or Stasher for verified storage locations near the airport or in Upland’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.
Staying Connected
Most airports offer free WiFi these days, and CCB is no exception — connect and browse while you sort out your plans. If you’re heading into Upland 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.
Need a Nap? Options at CCB
Sometimes the best layover plan is no plan at all. If you need sleep at CCB, 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
Whether you spend your layover in Upland exploring the streets or relaxing at CCB, the key is to make the time feel worthwhile. A quick city visit can turn a tedious wait into the highlight of a long travel day.
Just keep your boarding pass handy and leave plenty of time to get back. Happy travels.
Nearby Layover Guides
Disclaimer: Visa rules, transport schedules, and prices change. Always verify details with official sources and your airline before leaving the airport.