For travelers with a layover in Old Crow, the proximity of YOC to the city center is a real gift. Getting into town takes around 30 minutes via local transport, and we’ve mapped out the logistics so you can spend less time planning and more time exploring.
Pre-Departure Checklist
A few things to sort out before you leave YOC:
- 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 Old Crow takes about 30 minutes by local transport. 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.
Top Picks for a Quick Visit
Two recommendations for your time in Old Crow:
Start with Vuntut Gwitchin Cultural Centre. It’s a popular stop for visitors with limited time in Old Crow. Then, if time allows, make your way to Old Crow Village Walk. It’s the kind of area you can wander through at your own pace.
Staying airside? That’s fine too. Inside YOC, you can spend time at Main Terminal Waiting Area or try Aircraft Watching Area. Sometimes the best layover is a calm one.
Where to Eat
Two dining recommendations if you’re heading into Old Crow: Old Crow General Store Deli and Community Centre Kitchen. Both are accessible without a huge time commitment.
Staying at the airport? Look for YOC Grab-n-Go Counter or Northern Air Espresso Point. Airport food may not be glamorous, but it’ll keep you fueled up for the next leg.
Getting from YOC to Old Crow
| Option | Approximate Time | Cost Level | Notes |
|---|---|---|---|
| local transport | ~30 min | $ | Recommended for layovers |
| Taxi / Ride-share | ~50 min | $$$ | Convenient but traffic-dependent |
For a layover, the local transport 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.
What to Budget for Your Old Crow Side Trip
Here’s a rough breakdown of what a quick trip into Old Crow might cost in USD:
- Transport (round trip): ~$10 USD
- A meal: ~$19 USD
- Miscellaneous: ~$10 USD
- Estimated total: ~$39 USD
Cards are increasingly accepted in Old Crow, but cash is still useful for smaller purchases.
Bag Storage Near YOC
Dedicated luggage storage at YOC may be limited. Your best bet is to check services like Bounce or Stasher for verified storage locations near the airport or in Old Crow’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.
Staying Connected
WiFi at YOC should cover you while you’re in the terminal. Once you step outside, you’ll want your own data connection for maps, translating, and getting around. An eSIM is the simplest solution — set it up on your phone before landing in Canada and you’re good to go.
Taking a Break at YOC
Sometimes the best layover plan is no plan at all. If you need sleep at YOC, 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
Whether you spend your layover in Old Crow exploring the streets or relaxing at YOC, 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.