Whether it’s planned or a surprise, a layover in Wilkes-Barre gives you a genuine shot at exploring somewhere new. The trip from WBW to the city takes roughly 45 minutes by Taxi/Rideshare, and we’ve put together this guide to help you spend your time wisely.
Quick Checks Before Leaving the Airport
A few things to sort out before you leave WBW:
- 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 Wilkes-Barre 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.
Getting from WBW to Wilkes-Barre
You have two main options for getting from Wilkes Barre Wyoming Valley Airport into town:
- Taxi/Rideshare: About 45 minutes, affordable, and consistent. This is what we recommend for time-conscious travelers.
- Taxi or ride-share: Around 65 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.
Where to Leave Your Bags
Specific locker facilities at WBW aren’t well-documented. We recommend checking Bounce before your trip to find a secure storage spot either near the airport or in Wilkes-Barre itself.
If you’re traveling carry-on only, you might be able to skip storage entirely and bring your bag along.
Layover Budget Breakdown
Here’s a rough breakdown of what a quick trip into Wilkes-Barre 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 Wilkes-Barre, but cash is still useful for smaller purchases.
Things to Do During Your Layover
With limited time, focus on what’s accessible. In Wilkes-Barre, two standouts are:
- Mohegan Sun Pocono — Accessible and enjoyable even on a short visit.
- Kirby Park — Nice green space that’s easy to enjoy without a tight schedule.
Both are realistic options even if you only have a few hours to spare.
If you’d rather stay inside WBW — 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:
- Airport Waiting Area
- General Aviation Observation
Where to Grab a Meal
- In the city: Ruth’s Chris Steak House and R Bar & Grill are both worth a visit if you’re exploring Wilkes-Barre.
- At the airport: Airport Snack & Coffee Bar and Airport Vending Machines will get the job done without leaving the terminal.
Staying Connected
You’ll find free WiFi at WBW for basic browsing. If you plan to navigate Wilkes-Barre 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.
Need a Nap? Options at WBW
Not every layover involves sightseeing. If you’d rather rest, WBW has seating areas throughout the terminal, though comfort levels vary. Grab a neck pillow and stake out a quiet corner.
Airport lounges — accessible via day pass, credit card perks, or services like Priority Pass — typically offer reclined seating, showers, and a quieter environment.
Final Thoughts
Whether you spend your layover in Wilkes-Barre exploring the streets or relaxing at WBW, 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.