A layover in Waycross is one of those happy accidents of air travel. Waycross Ware County Airport sits just 30 minutes from the city center by Taxi/Rideshare, 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.
Pre-Departure Checklist
Three things to verify before you walk out of AYS:
- 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 30-minute journey each way by Taxi/Rideshare, 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
With limited time, focus on what’s accessible. In Waycross, two standouts are:
- Okefenokee Heritage Center — It’s a popular stop for visitors with limited time in Waycross.
- Downtown Waycross Historic District Walk — You can see the main features in a short visit.
Both are realistic options even if you only have a few hours to spare.
If you’d rather stay inside AYS — 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:
- Waycross Aviation FBO Lounge
- General Aviation Plane Spotting
Food & Dining Options
- In the city: Mrs. Shoney’s and Maria’s Italian Restaurant are both worth a visit if you’re exploring Waycross.
- At the airport: Waycross Aviation FBO Refreshments and Airport Terminal Vending Machines will get the job done without leaving the terminal.
Getting from AYS to Waycross
You have two main options for getting from Waycross Ware County Airport into town:
- Taxi/Rideshare: About 30 minutes, affordable, and consistent. This is what we recommend for time-conscious travelers.
- Taxi or ride-share: Around 50 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
Here’s a rough breakdown of what a quick trip into Waycross might cost in USD:
- Transport (round trip): ~$9 USD
- A meal: ~$18 USD
- Miscellaneous: ~$10 USD
- Estimated total: ~$37 USD
Cards are increasingly accepted in Waycross, but cash is still useful for smaller purchases.
Bag Storage Near AYS
Specific locker facilities at AYS aren’t well-documented. We recommend checking Bounce before your trip to find a secure storage spot either near the airport or in Waycross 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 AYS for basic browsing. If you plan to navigate Waycross 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
If your layover is an overnight one or you just need to recharge, look for quiet seating areas near less-busy gates. Some travelers report finding usable rest spots near the international departures area at AYS.
For something more comfortable, check if there’s a lounge you can access — many offer day passes regardless of your airline or class of travel. Apps like LoungeBuddy can help you find options.
Final Thoughts
Not every layover leads somewhere interesting, but a layover in Waycross genuinely does. There’s enough to fill a few hours with good food, interesting sights, and the kind of experience that makes a journey feel like more than just getting from A to B.
Make the most of it. You’ve got this.
Nearby Layover Guides
Disclaimer: Visa rules, transport schedules, and prices change. Always verify details with official sources and your airline before leaving the airport.