Passing through Gander International Airport? A layover in Gander 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.
What to Know Before Leaving the Terminal
A few things to sort out before you leave YQX:
- Entry requirements: Make sure you have the right visa or entry clearance for Canada. Transit visas and tourist visas are different things — double-check before you exit.
- Travel time: The trip to Gander takes about 40 minutes by Taxi. Factor in the return trip and at least 90 minutes of buffer for security and boarding.
- Currency: The local currency is CAD. Cards are widely accepted in most places, but carrying some CAD in cash is a good idea for smaller vendors.
What to See and Do in Gander
For a layover visit to Gander, we’d suggest North Atlantic Aviation Museum and Gander Silent Witnesses Memorial (9/11 Memorial). Neither requires a full day, and both give you a real taste of the area.
You can see the highlights in about an hour without rushing. A quick visit here gives you a real sense of the area’s past.
Not every layover calls for a city trip. If you’re staying at YQX, check out Gander International Airport Historical Exhibits or Airport Terminal Exploration to keep yourself occupied.
Where to Eat
- In the city: Jungle Jim’s Eatery and Don Cherry’s Sports Grill Gander are both worth a visit if you’re exploring Gander.
- At the airport: Propeller Restaurant and Airport Cafe & Deli will get the job done without leaving the terminal.
The Best Way Into Gander from YQX
You have two main options for getting from Gander International Airport into town:
- Taxi: 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.
Planning Your Layover Spending
Wondering how much cash to bring? For a few hours in Gander, budget roughly $39 USD to cover transport, a meal, and incidentals.
The average cost of a meal here runs about $19 USD, and transport from the airport and back will add another $10 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.
Luggage Storage Options
Specific locker facilities at YQX aren’t well-documented. We recommend checking Bounce before your trip to find a secure storage spot either near the airport or in Gander 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 YQX is no exception — connect and browse while you sort out your plans. If you’re heading into Gander 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.
Where to Rest During Your Layover
Not every layover involves sightseeing. If you’d rather rest, YQX has seating areas throughout the terminal, though comfort levels vary. Grab a neck pillow and stake out a quiet corner.
Airport lounges — accessible via day pass, credit card perks, or services like Priority Pass — typically offer reclined seating, showers, and a quieter environment.
Final Thoughts
Whether you spend your layover in Gander exploring the streets or relaxing at YQX, the key is to make the time feel worthwhile. A quick city visit can turn a tedious wait into the highlight of a long travel day.
Just keep your boarding pass handy and leave plenty of time to get back. Happy travels.
Nearby Layover Guides
Disclaimer: Visa rules, transport schedules, and prices change. Always verify details with official sources and your airline before leaving the airport.