There’s a certain thrill to turning a layover in Prince George into a quick city adventure. From YXS, the Prince George Transit Route 15 can get you into town in around 70 minutes. Below, we’ll walk you through transport, budget, bags, and what’s actually worth seeing.
Pre-Departure Checklist
Before heading into Prince George, 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: Prince George is roughly 70 minutes from YXS via Prince George Transit Route 15. 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.
Exploring Prince George on a Layover
Two recommendations for your time in Prince George:
Start with The Exploration Place. It’s a popular stop for visitors with limited time in Prince George. Then, if time allows, make your way to Prince George Railway & Forestry Museum. Worth a stop if you have at least an hour to spare.
Staying airside? That’s fine too. Inside YXS, you can spend time at YXS Art & Culture Displays or try YXS Gift Shop & Newsstand. Sometimes the best layover is a calm one.
Transport from Prince George Airport to Downtown
You have two main options for getting from Prince George Airport into town:
- Prince George Transit Route 15: About 70 minutes, affordable, and consistent. This is what we recommend for time-conscious travelers.
- Taxi or ride-share: Around 90 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.
Food Worth Trying
In Prince George
If you make it into town, North 54 is a good bet for a proper meal. For something different, try Betulla Burning.
Inside YXS
If you’re staying in the terminal, The Take-Off Cafe (Hot Meals) is your main option. YXS Gift Shop & Convenience (Grab-and-Go) works too if you want something quick.
Planning Your Layover Spending
Wondering how much cash to bring? For a few hours in Prince George, 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.
Staying Connected
Free WiFi is generally available at YXS, which is handy for checking maps and transport schedules. For connectivity in Prince George 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.
Luggage Storage Options
Luggage storage options at YXS 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 Prince George for a couple of hours, a compact bag that you can carry comfortably saves you the hassle altogether.
Sleep & Lounge Options at YXS
Sometimes the best layover plan is no plan at all. If you need sleep at YXS, 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 Prince George doesn’t have to be wasted time. With the city just 70 minutes from YXS, you’ve got a real opportunity to turn a stopover into a mini-trip. The logistics are straightforward — it’s just a matter of deciding to go for it.
Watch the clock, travel light, and have a great time out there.
Nearby Layover Guides
Disclaimer: Visa rules, transport schedules, and prices change. Always verify details with official sources and your airline before leaving the airport.