Few things beat the feeling of sneaking in a city visit during a layover in Van Nuys. Van Nuys Airport is well-positioned for exactly that — downtown is reachable in about 110 minutes. Here’s what you need to know to make it happen smoothly.
Before You Step Outside VNY
Three things to verify before you walk out of VNY:
- Can you legally enter United States? Some nationalities need a visa even for a few hours. Check your passport’s validity too.
- Do you have enough time? With a 110-minute journey each way by Bus & Metrolink/Metro Rail, you’ll want at least 5-6 hours total to make the trip worthwhile.
- How will you pay? Local currency is the USD. You’re in USD territory, so no currency conversion needed.
Things to Do During Your Layover
Two recommendations for your time in Van Nuys:
Start with The Getty Center. It’s a popular stop for visitors with limited time in Van Nuys. Then, if time allows, make your way to Hollywood Walk of Fame & TCL Chinese Theatre. Just walking around here gives you a feel for the local vibe.
Staying airside? That’s fine too. Inside VNY, you can spend time at Van Nuys Airport Plane Spotting or try Aero Accessories Pilot Shop. Sometimes the best layover is a calm one.
Getting to Van Nuys from the Airport
| Option | Approximate Time | Cost Level | Notes |
|---|---|---|---|
| Bus & Metrolink/Metro Rail | ~110 min | $ | Recommended for layovers |
| Taxi / Ride-share | ~130 min | $$$ | Convenient but traffic-dependent |
For a layover, the Bus & Metrolink/Metro Rail is usually the way to go. It’s predictable, which matters when you have a flight to catch. Taxis can be faster in ideal conditions but slower when traffic builds up.
Best Bites Near VNY
- In the city: Porto’s Bakery & Cafe (Northridge) and Brent’s Deli (Northridge) are both worth a visit if you’re exploring Van Nuys.
- At the airport: The 94th Aero Squadron Restaurant and Propeller Cafe will get the job done without leaving the terminal.
Layover Budget Breakdown
Quick budget math for your Van Nuys layover:
| Expense | Estimated Cost (USD) |
|---|---|
| Round-trip transport | ~$13 |
| Meal | ~$25 |
| Buffer / extras | ~$10 |
| Total | ~$48 |
Withdraw local currency from an ATM at the airport rather than using exchange counters — the rates are usually better.
Staying Connected
You’ll find free WiFi at VNY for basic browsing. If you plan to navigate Van Nuys or use ride-hailing apps, having mobile data is much more convenient. Consider setting up an eSIM through a provider like Airalo or Holafly before your trip — it takes a few minutes and saves you from hunting for SIM card kiosks.
Luggage Storage at VNY
Specific locker facilities at VNY aren’t well-documented. We recommend checking Bounce before your trip to find a secure storage spot either near the airport or in Van Nuys 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
Long overnight layover? Your options at VNY include terminal seating (look for areas away from the main walkways) and, if available, airport lounges with day passes. Some airports in United States also have transit hotels or sleeping pods — worth checking availability before your trip.
Final Thoughts
A layover in Van Nuys is a chance to see a slice of somewhere new — even if it’s just for a few hours. Plan your time, keep an eye on the clock, and don’t forget to enjoy the detour. Some of the best travel memories come from the unplanned ones.
Safe travels, and enjoy Van Nuys.
Nearby Layover Guides
Disclaimer: Visa rules, transport schedules, and prices change. Always verify details with official sources and your airline before leaving the airport.