Few things beat the feeling of sneaking in a city visit during a layover in North Bay. North Bay Jack Garland Airport is well-positioned for exactly that — downtown is reachable in about 50 minutes. Here’s what you need to know to make it happen smoothly.
Important Details Before You Go
Before heading into North Bay, 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: North Bay is roughly 50 minutes from YYB via Local Bus (North Bay Transit). 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.
Transport from North Bay Jack Garland Airport to Downtown
You have two main options for getting from North Bay Jack Garland Airport into town:
- Local Bus (North Bay Transit): About 50 minutes, affordable, and consistent. This is what we recommend for time-conscious travelers.
- Taxi or ride-share: Around 70 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.
Money & Budget Tips
You don’t need a fortune for a layover outing. Here’s a realistic estimate for North Bay:
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.
Withdraw local currency from an ATM at the airport rather than using exchange counters — the rates are usually better.
Bag Storage Near YYB
Dedicated luggage storage at YYB may be limited. Your best bet is to check services like Bounce or Stasher for verified storage locations near the airport or in North Bay’s center.
Some hotels and shops near transit hubs also offer storage for a small fee — worth asking about if you’re headed into town.
How to Spend Your Time in North Bay
Two recommendations for your time in North Bay:
Start with North Bay Waterfront Park. Perfect for a short walk when you need fresh air after a long flight. Then, if time allows, make your way to Discovery North Bay Museum. You don’t need long to appreciate it — even a brief visit is refreshing.
Not every layover calls for a city trip. If you’re staying at YYB, check out YYB Terminal Seating Area or North Bay Aviation History Display to keep yourself occupied.
Eating Well on a North Bay Layover
In North Bay
If you make it into town, Churchill’s Prime Rib House is a good bet for a proper meal. For something different, try The Fox and the Fiddle Pub.
Inside YYB
If you’re staying in the terminal, The Coffee Shop is your main option. YYB Grab-and-Go Counter works too if you want something quick.
Where to Rest During Your Layover
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 YYB.
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.
Staying Connected
Free WiFi is generally available at YYB, which is handy for checking maps and transport schedules. For connectivity in North Bay itself, an eSIM is the easiest route — services like Airalo offer data plans for Canada that you can activate straight from your phone, no physical SIM swap needed.
Final Thoughts
Whether you spend your layover in North Bay exploring the streets or relaxing at YYB, 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.