Layover in Dallas (DAL)
Dallas Love Field (DAL). Here's how much of a layover you can really use, and what fits in it.
About Dallas
Dallas, with a population of more than 1.3 million residents, is the ninth largest city in the United States and the third largest in the state of Texas. It is an impressive melting pot of culture and character. Boasting high-end luxury hotels, innumerable fine dining spots, and one of the busiest airports in the world, Dallas maintains an upscale ethos reflected by an affluent population, world-class museums, and a shimmering modern skyline. Its history was marred by the infamous assassination of U.S. President John F. Kennedy, but there is more historic and contemporary heritage to be discovered in the city.
From Wikivoyage, CC BY-SA.
How much time can you use?
After getting off the plane, immigration for international arrivals, the trip into town and back, and security.
| Layover | Domestic arrival | International arrival |
|---|---|---|
| 4 hours | About 1h 39m in the city | Head straight to your gate |
| 6 hours | About 3h 39m in the city | About 2h 4m in the city |
| 8 hours | About 5h 39m in the city | About 4h 4m in the city |
| 12 hours | About 9h 39m in the city | About 8h 4m in the city |
Getting into Dallas
About 23m each way by train, bus or taxi to the center, roughly 9 km (6 mi). This is an estimate based on distance; the planner checks real transit times for your exact flight.
Questions
Can I leave the airport on a layover in Dallas?
On a domestic connection, you need roughly 4 hours or more to get into Dallas and back with time to enjoy it. If you're arriving internationally and must clear immigration, plan on about 6 hours or more.
How do I get from DAL to central Dallas?
Allow about 23m each way by train, bus or taxi to the center; the center is about 9 km (6 mi) from the airport.
How early should I head back to DAL?
Be back through security about 1h 20m before a domestic departure and 2h 10m before an international one, plus the ride back.
Build a plan for your exact flight
Guide data from OurAirports, © OpenStreetMap contributors and Wikivoyage (CC BY-SA). Times are estimates for planning; check transit schedules and airline rules before you leave the airport.