Few things beat the feeling of sneaking in a city visit during a layover in Winston-salem. Smith Reynolds Airport is well-positioned for exactly that — downtown is reachable in about 45 minutes. Here’s what you need to know to make it happen smoothly.
Quick Checks Before Leaving the Airport
Three things to verify before you walk out of INT:
- 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 45-minute journey each way by WSTA Bus (Route 10), 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.
Top Picks for a Quick Visit
For a layover visit to Winston-salem, we’d suggest Old Salem Museums & Gardens and Reynolda House Museum of American Art. Neither requires a full day, and both give you a real taste of the area.
Worth a stop if you have at least an hour to spare. Worth a stop if you have at least an hour to spare.
If you’d rather stay inside INT — 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:
- Aircraft Observation Deck (General Aviation)
- Signature Flight Support Executive Lounge
Eating Well on a Winston-salem Layover
Two dining recommendations if you’re heading into Winston-salem: Mozzarella Fellas and Bernardins Restaurant. Both are accessible without a huge time commitment.
Staying at the airport? Look for Signature Flight Support Cafe & Snacks or Airport Vending Machine Area. Airport food may not be glamorous, but it’ll keep you fueled up for the next leg.
The Best Way Into Winston-salem from INT
The most straightforward way into Winston-salem is the WSTA Bus (Route 10), which takes about 45 minutes. This is generally the best option for layover travelers — it’s reliable and you won’t get stuck in traffic.
A taxi or ride-share will also get you there, typically in 65 minutes depending on conditions, but expect to pay significantly more. If time is tight, the WSTA Bus (Route 10) is usually the smarter call.
Money & Budget Tips
Quick budget math for your Winston-salem layover:
| Expense | Estimated Cost (USD) |
|---|---|
| Round-trip transport | ~$9 |
| Meal | ~$18 |
| Buffer / extras | ~$10 |
| Total | ~$37 |
Budget a little extra for the unexpected. It’s better to come back with spare change than to run short.
Storing Your Luggage at Smith Reynolds Airport
Dedicated luggage storage at INT may be limited. Your best bet is to check services like Bounce or Stasher for verified storage locations near the airport or in Winston-salem’s center.
Some hotels and shops near transit hubs also offer storage for a small fee — worth asking about if you’re headed into town.
Staying Connected
WiFi at INT 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.
Where to Rest During Your Layover
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 INT.
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
A layover in Winston-salem doesn’t have to be wasted time. With the city just 45 minutes from INT, 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.