There’s a certain thrill to turning a layover in Waco into a quick city adventure. From ACT, the Taxi/Rideshare can get you into town in around 45 minutes. Below, we’ll walk you through transport, budget, bags, and what’s actually worth seeing.
What to Know Before Leaving the Terminal
A few things to sort out before you leave ACT:
- 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 Waco takes about 45 minutes by Taxi/Rideshare. 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.
How to Spend Your Time in Waco
If you head into Waco, here are two things worth checking out:
Magnolia Market at the Silos is a solid choice if you want to get a feel for the area. Great for picking up a quick snack or souvenir between flights.
Dr Pepper Museum is another option that’s easy to fit into a short visit. Even a quick visit gives you a sense of the local culture and history.
Staying airside? That’s fine too. Inside ACT, you can spend time at Waco Regional Airport Gift Shop or try General Waiting Area & WiFi. Sometimes the best layover is a calm one.
The Best Way Into Waco from ACT
From ACT, the Taxi/Rideshare gets you to Waco in around 45 minutes. That’s the option most travelers with a time constraint should pick.
Taxis and ride-hailing services are available too (expect roughly 65 minutes), but they cost more and are at the mercy of traffic. Unless you’re traveling with heavy luggage or in a group, the Taxi/Rideshare offers the best balance of speed, cost, and reliability.
Where to Eat
Two dining recommendations if you’re heading into Waco: Magnolia Table and George’s Restaurant & Bar. Both are accessible without a huge time commitment.
Staying at the airport? Look for ACT Airport Cafe or Airport Grab-and-Go Kiosk. Airport food may not be glamorous, but it’ll keep you fueled up for the next leg.
Money & Budget Tips
You don’t need a fortune for a layover outing. Here’s a realistic estimate for Waco:
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.
Staying Connected
WiFi at ACT 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.
What to Do With Your Bags
Specific locker facilities at ACT aren’t well-documented. We recommend checking Bounce before your trip to find a secure storage spot either near the airport or in Waco itself.
If you’re traveling carry-on only, you might be able to skip storage entirely and bring your bag along.
Rest Areas & Lounges
Sometimes the best layover plan is no plan at all. If you need sleep at ACT, 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 Waco doesn’t have to be wasted time. With the city just 45 minutes from ACT, you’ve got a real opportunity to turn a stopover into a mini-trip. The logistics are straightforward — it’s just a matter of deciding to go for it.
Watch the clock, travel light, and have a great time out there.
Nearby Layover Guides
Disclaimer: Visa rules, transport schedules, and prices change. Always verify details with official sources and your airline before leaving the airport.