A long layover in Mayo is an opportunity, not an inconvenience. Rather than watching departure boards at Mayo Airport for hours, step outside and explore. The city center is about 30 minutes away, and this guide has the practical details you need to pull it off without stress.
Quick Checks Before Leaving the Airport
Before heading into Mayo, take a moment to confirm the basics:
- Visa status: Entry rules for Canada vary by nationality. If you’re unsure, check with your airline or the immigration desk before leaving the secure area.
- Getting there: Mayo is roughly 30 minutes from YMA via Taxi. Plan to be back at the airport at least 2 hours before your next departure.
- Money: You’ll be spending in CAD. Cards are widely accepted in most places, but carrying some CAD in cash is a good idea for smaller vendors.
How to Spend Your Time in Mayo
Two recommendations for your time in Mayo:
Start with Mayo Historical Complex & Binet House Museum. Worth a stop if you have at least an hour to spare. Then, if time allows, make your way to Stewart River Waterfront Pathway. Accessible and enjoyable even on a short visit.
Staying airside? That’s fine too. Inside YMA, you can spend time at Waiting Area Relaxation or try Local Flight Observation. Sometimes the best layover is a calm one.
Best Bites Near YMA
For food in Mayo, local travelers recommend Bedrock Motel & Restaurant. If you have time for a second stop, Mayo Hotel Pub is another popular pick.
Back at YMA, Automated Snack Dispensers is the go-to. Beverage Vending Machines rounds out your in-terminal options.
How to Get Into Mayo
| Option | Approximate Time | Cost Level | Notes |
|---|---|---|---|
| Taxi | ~30 min | $ | Recommended for layovers |
| Taxi / Ride-share | ~50 min | $$$ | Convenient but traffic-dependent |
For a layover, the Taxi is usually the way to go. It’s predictable, which matters when you have a flight to catch. Taxis can be faster in ideal conditions but slower when traffic builds up.
Layover Budget Breakdown
Quick budget math for your Mayo layover:
| Expense | Estimated Cost (USD) |
|---|---|
| Round-trip transport | ~$10 |
| Meal | ~$19 |
| Buffer / extras | ~$10 |
| Total | ~$39 |
Keep some small bills handy for tips, street food, and public transport in Mayo.
Where to Leave Your Bags
Luggage storage options at YMA 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 Mayo 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 YMA for basic browsing. If you plan to navigate Mayo 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.
Need a Nap? Options at YMA
Not every layover involves sightseeing. If you’d rather rest, YMA 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
Not every layover leads somewhere interesting, but a layover in Mayo genuinely does. There’s enough to fill a few hours with good food, interesting sights, and the kind of experience that makes a journey feel like more than just getting from A to B.
Make the most of it. You’ve got this.
Nearby Layover Guides
Disclaimer: Visa rules, transport schedules, and prices change. Always verify details with official sources and your airline before leaving the airport.