A long layover in Washington County is an opportunity, not an inconvenience. Rather than watching departure boards at Westerly State Airport for hours, step outside and explore. The city center is about 30 minutes away, and this guide has the practical details you need to pull it off without stress.
Pre-Departure Checklist
Before heading into Washington County, 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: Washington County is roughly 30 minutes from WST via Taxi/Ride-Share. Plan to be back at the airport at least 2 hours before your next departure.
- Money: You’ll be spending in USD. You’re in USD territory, so no currency conversion needed.
Airport to City: Your Transport Options
| Option | Approximate Time | Cost Level | Notes |
|---|---|---|---|
| Taxi/Ride-Share | ~30 min | $ | Recommended for layovers |
| Taxi / Ride-share | ~50 min | $$$ | Convenient but traffic-dependent |
For a layover, the Taxi/Ride-Share 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.
Top Picks for a Quick Visit
With limited time, focus on what’s accessible. In Washington County, two standouts are:
- Misquamicut State Beach — Perfect for a short walk when you need fresh air after a long flight.
- Watch Hill Lighthouse — Accessible and enjoyable even on a short visit.
Both are realistic options even if you only have a few hours to spare.
Not every layover calls for a city trip. If you’re staying at WST, check out Atlantic Aviation FBO Lounge or Aircraft Spotting to keep yourself occupied.
Where to Eat
Two dining recommendations if you’re heading into Washington County: Mia’s Cafe and Bridge Restaurant. Both are accessible without a huge time commitment.
Staying at the airport? Look for The Pub on WST or Atlantic Aviation FBO Snack Bar. Airport food may not be glamorous, but it’ll keep you fueled up for the next leg.
Layover Budget Breakdown
Wondering how much cash to bring? For a few hours in Washington County, budget roughly $37 USD to cover transport, a meal, and incidentals.
The average cost of a meal here runs about $18 USD, and transport from the airport and back will add another $9 or so. Keep a small buffer for unexpected expenses.
Withdraw local currency from an ATM at the airport rather than using exchange counters — the rates are usually better.
Storing Your Luggage at Westerly State Airport
Specific locker facilities at WST aren’t well-documented. We recommend checking Bounce before your trip to find a secure storage spot either near the airport or in Washington County itself.
If you’re traveling carry-on only, you might be able to skip storage entirely and bring your bag along.
Staying Connected
You’ll find free WiFi at WST for basic browsing. If you plan to navigate Washington County 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.
Resting at the Airport
Sometimes the best layover plan is no plan at all. If you need sleep at WST, 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 Washington County 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 Washington County.
Nearby Layover Guides
Disclaimer: Visa rules, transport schedules, and prices change. Always verify details with official sources and your airline before leaving the airport.