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Baltimore – Washington Layover Guide (BWI)

What are you looking for in BWI?
Tours/To do | Relax/Sleep | Internet/SIM | Transport | Storage | Money

Baltimore Airport (BWI) is an international airport located in Linthicum Heights, Maryland. It’s situated about 14 km (9 miles) south of downtown Baltimore. The airport officially opened in 1950. Baltimore is a historic port city known for its vibrant neighborhoods and cultural landmarks. It’s considered a major hub for healthcare and education. The city also offers a wide range of leisure activities, including museums, waterfront dining, and sports events.

Can you leave Baltimore Airport (BWI) airport during a layover? Do you need a visa?
You can exit Baltimore Washington International Thurgood Marshall Airport (BWI) during a layover but must clear U.S. Customs and Border Protection immigration and pass through TSA security again before reboarding. Travelers require a valid U.S. visa or approved ESTA under the Visa Waiver Program. Check embassy guidance for eligibility requirements. (more info).

Tours, Things to do, Sightseeing

Layover Guide Organized Tours

Layover Guide Things to do / Sightseeing

• National Aquarium The acclaimed National Aquarium houses over 20,000 creatures across immersive exhibits, from tropical rainforests to open ocean. Marvel at dolphins, sharks, tropical fish, and jellyfish in engaging habitats. (Time required: 1.5–2 hours. / Airport to here: Take Light RailLink from BWI to Convention Center station (30 minutes), then a 10-minute walk.)
• Fort McHenry National Monument This historic star-shaped fort defended Baltimore Harbor during the War of 1812, inspiring the US national anthem. Explore ramparts, interpretive exhibits, and scenic waterfront views at this iconic landmark. (Time required: 1–1.5 hours. / Airport to here: Light RailLink to Camden Yards station (35 minutes), then a 5-minute taxi.)
• Inner Harbor Promenade Baltimore’s Inner Harbor offers a scenic waterfront district bustling with shops, dining, and attractions. Wander the promenade, enjoy harbor cruises, and soak in stunning city and water views. (Time required: 1–2 hours. / Airport to here: Light RailLink to Convention Center station (30 minutes), then a 10-minute walk.)
• American Visionary Art Museum The American Visionary Art Museum celebrates self-taught creators with vibrant, imaginative artworks and installations. Exhibits range from folk sculptures to kinetic art in a whimsical riverside setting. (Time required: 1–1.5 hours. / Airport to here: Light RailLink to Convention Center station (30 minutes), then a 10-minute taxi.)
• Oriole Park at Camden Yards Oriole Park at Camden Yards is a beloved baseball stadium where architecture meets America’s pastime. Take a guided tour to explore dugouts, press boxes, and historic club-level suites. (Time required: 1–1.5 hours. / Airport to here: Light RailLink to Camden Yards station (35 minutes).)
• Baltimore Museum of Industry Explore Baltimore’s industrial legacy at the Baltimore Museum of Industry, featuring historic machinery, interactive exhibits, maritime artifacts, and hands-on displays among restored warehouse spaces tracing the city’s manufacturing heritage. (Time required: 1–1.5 hours. / Airport to here: Light RailLink to Baltimore Penn Station (25 minutes), then a 5-minute taxi.)
• Fells Point Fells Point is a historic waterfront neighborhood lined with cobblestone streets, eclectic boutiques, lively pubs, and waterfront dining—the perfect spot for a leisurely lunch or scenic stroll. (Time required: 1–2 hours. / strong>Airport to here: Light RailLink to Shot Tower/Market Place station (30 minutes), then a 10-minute walk.)
• Federal Hill Park Perched atop a historic hill, Federal Hill Park offers sweeping panoramas of Baltimore’s skyline and harbor. Ideal for a quick picnic, photo op, and relaxation amid green lawns and shaded paths. (Time required: 1 hour. / Airport to here: Light RailLink to University Center/Baltimore St station (30 minutes), then a 10-minute taxi.)

Things to Do in Baltimore Airport (BWI)

Relaxing and Sleeping

Airport Lounges and Relaxing
At BWI, The Club BWI in Concourse D offers complimentary snacks, beverages, Wi-Fi and multiple zones including Relaxing, Productivity and Replenish. Minute Suites in Concourse C provide private, sound-isolated suites for napping, working or relaxing by the hour. Be Relax Spa in Concourse C delivers express massages, aromatherapy and restful seating. » view all lounges or buy a lounge pass or membership online

Hotel and Sleeping
Numerous hotels surround BWI within a three-mile radius offering free airport shuttles and amenities. Options include Aloft, Homewood Suites, SpringHill Suites, Residence Inn, Hilton Garden Inn, Sheraton, Comfort Inn and Holiday Inn Express. Many provide complimentary breakfast, Wi-Fi, parking and 24-hour shuttle service ensuring seamless sleep and transit connections options. view all or book an airport hotel online

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Rest Area and Sleeping in Airport
BWI offers Minute Suites by Gate C3 in Concourse C allowing private, sound-isolated suites for napping, working or relaxing by the hour. No showers available. Throughout all concourses, charging lounges and designated rest areas feature comfortable seating and power outlets, perfect for short breaks or impromptu snoozes between flights comfort.

WIFI/Internet and SIM Card

WIFI/Internet: Free high-speed Wi-Fi is available airport-wide via Slice Wireless. Passengers connect to the “#MyBWI-WiFi” network, accept terms and optionally provide an email address. Service is commercial-free, uninterrupted and supported 24/7. For technical assistance, contact support at [email protected] or call 866-701-7552 instantly, with reliable coverage in all terminals and concourses.

SIM/eSIM Card: SIM cards and eSIMs are available at electronics retailers like InMotion (Terminal A, next to Gate A4), tech showcases and Hudson News outlets post-security. Major carriers (AT&T, T-Mobile, Verizon) offer prepaid options. eSIM plans can be purchased online pre-travel for instant activation upon landing, ensuring seamless connectivity throughout your stay. » buy a global esim card for Layover Guide, that you can use for other countries as well!

Transportation to/from airport

Taxi: Taxi stands at BWI are situated outside baggage claim on the Lower Level near Doors 5 and 13. Licensed taxis operate 24/7 without flat rates; fares meter per jurisdiction standards. Payment by cash and major credit cards is accepted. For ride-hail services, follow signs to the Upper Level Departures zones.

Train: Trains to and from BWI connect via the BWI Marshall Rail Station, a mile east of the terminal. Amtrak Northeast Corridor and MARC Penn Line commuter trains serve the station hourly. A free shuttle bus runs continuously between the terminal and rail station, providing seamless rail access and connections. (more info)

Bus: MDOT MTA operates LocalLink #75 bus from BWI terminal to Arundel Mills Mall, Parkway Center and Patapsco Light Rail Stop. Commuter Bus #201 links Gaithersburg Park & Ride and Shady Grove Metro to BWI. Schedules, routes and fare details are available online. Call 410-539-5000 for assistance or visit mta.maryland.gov. (more info)

Shuttle: Free courtesy shuttles operate 24/7 between the terminal and all parking areas including Express Lot, Daily Garage, Long-Term lots and the Amtrak/MARC Rail Station. Shuttles run every 6-15 minutes depending on route and time of day, ensuring prompt transit across the airport campus and rail connection reliable service frequency coverage.

Car rentals: BWI’s consolidated rental car center sits off-site at New Ridge and Stoney Run Roads, reachable via free shuttle from the lower-level baggage claim. Major providers including Enterprise, Avis, Hertz, Budget, National and Sixt operate self-service kiosks offering diverse vehicle classes. After-hours returns and accessible options ensure flexible pick-up and drop-off. view available cars or rent a car now online

Parking: BWI provides multiple parking options: Hourly Garage adjacent to terminals; Daily Garage connected via walkway; Express Parking with shuttle service; and remote Long-Term Lots served by free shuttles running every 10-15 minutes. Covered and uncovered spaces accommodate short- and long-stay needs with real-time availability displays and ADA-accessible spots fees structures.

Luggage Storage & Lockers

BWI has no on-site luggage lockers or storage by TSA order. Travelers should contact airlines for early check-in or use off-airport services like Vertoe or LuggageHero located nearby, offering hourly and daily rates starting around $5. These independent vendors provide secure, insured storage at local shops and hotels for convenience. » book a luggage storage or locker at online (subject to availability).

Money Exchange and Withdrawal

- Baltimore Airport (BWI) ATMs, currency exchanges and banks