Passing through Yakima Air Terminal McAllister Field? A layover in Yakima is more doable than you might think. The city is only about 35 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.
What to Know Before Leaving the Terminal
Three things to verify before you walk out of YKM:
- 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 35-minute journey each way by Yakima Transit Bus, 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.
How to Spend Your Time in Yakima
Two recommendations for your time in Yakima:
Start with Yakima Valley Museum. You can see the highlights in about an hour without rushing. Then, if time allows, make your way to Yakima Area Arboretum. Accessible and enjoyable even on a short visit.
If you’d rather stay inside YKM — 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:
- Main Terminal Waiting Area
- Airport Souvenir Shop
Where to Grab a Meal
Two dining recommendations if you’re heading into Yakima: Miner’s Drive-In Restaurant and Crafted. Both are accessible without a huge time commitment.
Staying at the airport? Look for Skyport Cafe or Airport Convenience Stand. Airport food may not be glamorous, but it’ll keep you fueled up for the next leg.
Getting to Yakima from the Airport
From YKM, the Yakima Transit Bus gets you to Yakima in around 35 minutes. That’s the option most travelers with a time constraint should pick.
Taxis and ride-hailing services are available too (expect roughly 55 minutes), but they cost more and are at the mercy of traffic. Unless you’re traveling with heavy luggage or in a group, the Yakima Transit Bus offers the best balance of speed, cost, and reliability.
How Much Money You’ll Need
Wondering how much cash to bring? For a few hours in Yakima, 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.
Where to Leave Your Bags
Specific locker facilities at YKM aren’t well-documented. We recommend checking Bounce before your trip to find a secure storage spot either near the airport or in Yakima itself.
If you’re traveling carry-on only, you might be able to skip storage entirely and bring your bag along.
Staying Connected
Most airports offer free WiFi these days, and YKM is no exception — connect and browse while you sort out your plans. If you’re heading into Yakima 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.
Rest Areas & Lounges
Sometimes the best layover plan is no plan at all. If you need sleep at YKM, 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 Yakima doesn’t have to be wasted time. With the city just 35 minutes from YKM, 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.