Passing through Muskoka Airport? A layover in Muskoka is more doable than you might think. The city is only about 75 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.
Quick Checks Before Leaving the Airport
Before heading into Muskoka, 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: Muskoka is roughly 75 minutes from YQA via Taxi/Ride-share. 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.
Getting to Muskoka from the Airport
From YQA, the Taxi/Ride-share gets you to Muskoka in around 75 minutes. That’s the option most travelers with a time constraint should pick.
Taxis and ride-hailing services are available too (expect roughly 95 minutes), but they cost more and are at the mercy of traffic. Unless you’re traveling with heavy luggage or in a group, the Taxi/Ride-share offers the best balance of speed, cost, and reliability.
How Much Money You’ll Need
Here’s a rough breakdown of what a quick trip into Muskoka might cost in USD:
- Transport (round trip): ~$10 USD
- A meal: ~$19 USD
- Miscellaneous: ~$10 USD
- Estimated total: ~$39 USD
If you’re only out for a few hours, you might not need much cash at all — many places accept contactless payments.
What to See and Do in Muskoka
Two recommendations for your time in Muskoka:
Start with Bracebridge Falls. It’s a popular stop for visitors with limited time in Muskoka. Then, if time allows, make your way to Muskoka Wharf (Gravenhurst). Worth checking out if your schedule allows.
If you’d rather stay inside YQA — maybe your layover is shorter than expected, or you just prefer to stay close to your gate — there are still ways to pass the time:
- Muskoka Airport Plane Spotting
- Muskoka Airport Waiting Area Relaxation
Food & Dining Options
In Muskoka
If you make it into town, The Old Station Restaurant is a good bet for a proper meal. For something different, try Griffin Gastropub.
Inside YQA
If you’re staying in the terminal, Muskoka Airport Cafe is your main option. Muskoka Airport Grab & Go works too if you want something quick.
Storing Your Luggage at Muskoka Airport
Luggage storage options at YQA 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 Muskoka 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 YQA for basic browsing. If you plan to navigate Muskoka 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.
Where to Rest During Your Layover
Sometimes the best layover plan is no plan at all. If you need sleep at YQA, scope out the quieter gate areas first. Noise-canceling headphones and an eye mask go a long way in a busy terminal.
Lounge access is another option if you want a real seat and maybe a shower. Check Priority Pass or ask at the information desk about day-use rates.
Final Thoughts
A layover in Muskoka with time to spare is really an invitation to explore. Muskoka may not have been on your original itinerary, but sometimes those surprise stops become the best part of a trip.
Just remember: set an alarm, know your gate, and leave time for security. Everything else is an adventure.
Nearby Layover Guides
Disclaimer: Visa rules, transport schedules, and prices change. Always verify details with official sources and your airline before leaving the airport.