Whether it’s planned or a surprise, a layover in St Thomas gives you a genuine shot at exploring somewhere new. The trip from YQS to the city takes roughly 30 minutes by local transport, and we’ve put together this guide to help you spend your time wisely.
Pre-Departure Checklist
Before heading into St Thomas, 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: St Thomas is roughly 30 minutes from YQS via local transport. 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.
The Best Way Into St Thomas from YQS
| 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.
How to Spend Your Time in St Thomas
Two recommendations for your time in St Thomas:
Start with Elgin County Railway Museum. You can see the highlights in about an hour without rushing. Then, if time allows, make your way to Jumbo the Elephant Monument. You can see the main features in a short visit.
If you’d rather stay inside YQS — 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:
- YQS Aircraft Viewing Area
- St. Thomas Flight Centre Lobby & Shop
Food & Dining Options
- In the city: Railway City Brewing Co. Taproom Kitchen and Legends Tavern are both worth a visit if you’re exploring St Thomas.
- At the airport: St. Thomas Flight Centre Restaurant and YQS Terminal Grab-and-Go Snacks will get the job done without leaving the terminal.
What to Budget for Your St Thomas Side Trip
You don’t need a fortune for a layover outing. Here’s a realistic estimate for St Thomas:
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.
Cards are increasingly accepted in St Thomas, but cash is still useful for smaller purchases.
Luggage Storage at YQS
Specific locker facilities at YQS aren’t well-documented. We recommend checking Bounce before your trip to find a secure storage spot either near the airport or in St Thomas itself.
If you’re traveling carry-on only, you might be able to skip storage entirely and bring your bag along.
Staying Connected
You’ll find free WiFi at YQS for basic browsing. If you plan to navigate St Thomas 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
Long overnight layover? Your options at YQS 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
Whether you spend your layover in St Thomas exploring the streets or relaxing at YQS, 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.