Passing through Winter Haven Regional Airport – Gilbert Field? A layover in Winter Haven is more doable than you might think. The city is only about 40 minutes from the airport, and with a bit of planning you can stretch your legs, grab a real meal, and see something new before your next flight.
Important Details Before You Go
Three things to verify before you walk out of GIF:
- 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 40-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.
Airport to City: Your Transport Options
You have two main options for getting from Winter Haven Regional Airport – Gilbert Field into town:
- Taxi/Rideshare: About 40 minutes, affordable, and consistent. This is what we recommend for time-conscious travelers.
- Taxi or ride-share: Around 60 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
Luggage storage options at GIF can vary. Rather than arriving and hoping for the best, look up nearby storage on platforms like Bounce or Stasher ahead of time.
Another option: if you’re only in Winter Haven for a couple of hours, a compact bag that you can carry comfortably saves you the hassle altogether.
What to Budget for Your Winter Haven Side Trip
You don’t need a fortune for a layover outing. Here’s a realistic estimate for Winter Haven:
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.
Budget a little extra for the unexpected. It’s better to come back with spare change than to run short.
Top Picks for a Quick Visit
If you head into Winter Haven, here are two things worth checking out:
LEGOLAND Florida Resort (Entrance Area) is a solid choice if you want to get a feel for the area. It’s a popular stop for visitors with limited time in Winter Haven.
Lake Shipp Park & Chain of Lakes Access is another option that’s easy to fit into a short visit. A calm place to walk around and decompress before your next flight.
Not every layover calls for a city trip. If you’re staying at GIF, check out Atlantic Aviation FBO Lounge or General Aviation Aircraft Observation to keep yourself occupied.
Eating Well on a Winter Haven Layover
- In the city: Harry’s Old Place and Arabellas Italian Ristorante are both worth a visit if you’re exploring Winter Haven.
- At the airport: Atlantic Aviation FBO Refreshments and Atlantic Aviation FBO Grab-and-Go Options will get the job done without leaving the terminal.
Staying Connected
Most airports offer free WiFi these days, and GIF is no exception — connect and browse while you sort out your plans. If you’re heading into Winter Haven and want data on the go, pick up a local SIM from a shop in the arrivals hall or download an eSIM before you land. Airalo and Holafly are popular options that let you set up data access before you even touch down.
Sleep & Lounge Options at GIF
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 GIF.
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 Winter Haven doesn’t have to be wasted time. With the city just 40 minutes from GIF, 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.