A layover in Brandon is one of those happy accidents of air travel. Brandon Municipal Airport sits just 60 minutes from the city center by Taxi/Ride-Share, and even a short visit can be surprisingly rewarding. This guide covers everything you need to get out of the terminal and back in time for your next boarding call.
Pre-Departure Checklist
Three things to verify before you walk out of YBR:
- Can you legally enter Canada? Some nationalities need a visa even for a few hours. Check your passport’s validity too.
- Do you have enough time? With a 60-minute journey each way by Taxi/Ride-Share, you’ll want at least 5-6 hours total to make the trip worthwhile.
- How will you pay? Local currency is the CAD. Cards are widely accepted in most places, but carrying some CAD in cash is a good idea for smaller vendors.
Things to Do During Your Layover
If you head into Brandon, here are two things worth checking out:
Brandon Riverbank Discovery Centre is a solid choice if you want to get a feel for the area. Accessible and enjoyable even on a short visit.
Daly House Museum is another option that’s easy to fit into a short visit. Worth a stop if you have at least an hour to spare.
Staying airside? That’s fine too. Inside YBR, you can spend time at Commonwealth Air Training Plan Museum or try Relax in the Main Terminal. Sometimes the best layover is a calm one.
Where to Eat
- In the city: Lady of the Lake Shop & Cafe and Prairie Firehouse are both worth a visit if you’re exploring Brandon.
- At the airport: The Airside Cafe and Airport Vending Machine Area will get the job done without leaving the terminal.
Getting to Brandon from the Airport
The most straightforward way into Brandon is the Taxi/Ride-Share, which takes about 60 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 80 minutes depending on conditions, but expect to pay significantly more. If time is tight, the Taxi/Ride-Share is usually the smarter call.
What to Budget for Your Brandon Side Trip
You don’t need a fortune for a layover outing. Here’s a realistic estimate for Brandon:
Transport to the city and back runs about $10 USD. A sit-down meal averages around $19 USD. Add $10 for a coffee, snacks, or a small souvenir, and you’re looking at roughly $39 USD total.
If you’re only out for a few hours, you might not need much cash at all — many places accept contactless payments.
Bag Storage Near YBR
Luggage storage options at YBR 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 Brandon for a couple of hours, a compact bag that you can carry comfortably saves you the hassle altogether.
Staying Connected
You’ll find free WiFi at YBR for basic browsing. If you plan to navigate Brandon or use ride-hailing apps, having mobile data is much more convenient. Consider setting up an eSIM through a provider like Airalo or Holafly before your trip — it takes a few minutes and saves you from hunting for SIM card kiosks.
Resting at the Airport
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 YBR.
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 Brandon is a chance to see a slice of somewhere new — even if it’s just for a few hours. Plan your time, keep an eye on the clock, and don’t forget to enjoy the detour. Some of the best travel memories come from the unplanned ones.
Safe travels, and enjoy Brandon.
Nearby Layover Guides
Disclaimer: Visa rules, transport schedules, and prices change. Always verify details with official sources and your airline before leaving the airport.