Few things beat the feeling of sneaking in a city visit during a layover in Smiths Falls. Smiths Falls-Montague (Russ Beach) Airport is well-positioned for exactly that — downtown is reachable in about 30 minutes. Here’s what you need to know to make it happen smoothly.
Quick Checks Before Leaving the Airport
Stepping out of the airport during a layover takes a little preparation. Here’s what to keep in mind at YSH:
First, verify that you can enter Canada — visa requirements depend on your nationality and can change. Second, know your timing: the local transport takes about 30 minutes into Smiths Falls, so add that up for the round trip plus security buffer. Third, have your payment sorted — local currency is the currency here. Cards are widely accepted in most places, but carrying some the local currency in cash is a good idea for smaller vendors.
Exploring Smiths Falls on a Layover
If you head into Smiths Falls, here are two things worth checking out:
Rideau Canal National Historic Site (Smiths Falls Lockstation) is a solid choice if you want to get a feel for the area. History buffs will appreciate this, and it doesn’t take long to explore the grounds.
Railway Museum of Eastern Ontario is another option that’s easy to fit into a short visit. Worth a stop if you have at least an hour to spare.
Not every layover calls for a city trip. If you’re staying at YSH, check out Aircraft Spotting at YSH or Rideau Valley Flying Club FBO to keep yourself occupied.
Food & Dining Options
For food in Smiths Falls, local travelers recommend Smiths Falls Brew Pub. If you have time for a second stop, My Place Restaurant is another popular pick.
Back at YSH, Rideau Valley Flying Club Pilot’s Lounge Refreshments is the go-to. YSH Airport Vending Station rounds out your in-terminal options.
The Best Way Into Smiths Falls from YSH
You have two main options for getting from Smiths Falls-Montague (Russ Beach) Airport into town:
- local transport: About 30 minutes, affordable, and consistent. This is what we recommend for time-conscious travelers.
- Taxi or ride-share: Around 50 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.
Planning Your Layover Spending
Wondering how much cash to bring? For a few hours in Smiths Falls, budget roughly $40 USD to cover transport, a meal, and incidentals.
The average cost of a meal here runs about $20 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.
Where to Leave Your Bags
Dedicated luggage storage at YSH may be limited. Your best bet is to check services like Bounce or Stasher for verified storage locations near the airport or in Smiths Falls’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 YSH 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 YSH
Long overnight layover? Your options at YSH include terminal seating (look for areas away from the main walkways) and, if available, airport lounges with day passes. Some airports in Canada also have transit hotels or sleeping pods — worth checking availability before your trip.
Final Thoughts
Not every layover leads somewhere interesting, but a layover in Smiths Falls 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.