A long layover in Wawa is an opportunity, not an inconvenience. Rather than watching departure boards at Wawa Airport for hours, step outside and explore. The city center is about 60 minutes away, and this guide has the practical details you need to pull it off without stress.
What to Know Before Leaving the Terminal
Three things to verify before you walk out of YXZ:
- Can you legally enter Canada? Some nationalities need a visa even for a few hours. Check your passport’s validity too.
- Do you have enough time? With a 60-minute journey each way by Taxi, you’ll want at least 5-6 hours total to make the trip worthwhile.
- How will you pay? Local currency is the CAD. Cards are widely accepted in most places, but carrying some CAD in cash is a good idea for smaller vendors.
What to See and Do in Wawa
If you head into Wawa, here are two things worth checking out:
Wawa Goose Monument 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.
High Falls (Michipicoten River) is another option that’s easy to fit into a short visit. It’s a popular stop for visitors with limited time in Wawa.
Staying airside? That’s fine too. Inside YXZ, you can spend time at Quiet Waiting Area or try General Aviation Observation. Sometimes the best layover is a calm one.
Eating Well on a Wawa Layover
In Wawa
If you make it into town, Wawa Goose Family Restaurant is a good bet for a proper meal. For something different, try Kinniwabi Pines Restaurant.
Inside YXZ
If you’re staying in the terminal, Airport Vending Corner is your main option. Basic Refreshment Station works too if you want something quick.
Getting to Wawa from the Airport
From YXZ, the Taxi gets you to Wawa in around 60 minutes. That’s the option most travelers with a time constraint should pick.
Taxis and ride-hailing services are available too (expect roughly 80 minutes), but they cost more and are at the mercy of traffic. Unless you’re traveling with heavy luggage or in a group, the Taxi offers the best balance of speed, cost, and reliability.
Estimated Costs for a Quick Visit
You don’t need a fortune for a layover outing. Here’s a realistic estimate for Wawa:
Transport to the city and back runs about $9 USD. A sit-down meal averages around $17 USD. Add $10 for a coffee, snacks, or a small souvenir, and you’re looking at roughly $36 USD total.
Withdraw local currency from an ATM at the airport rather than using exchange counters — the rates are usually better.
What to Do With Your Bags
Luggage storage options at YXZ 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 Wawa for a couple of hours, a compact bag that you can carry comfortably saves you the hassle altogether.
Staying Connected
You’ll find free WiFi at YXZ for basic browsing. If you plan to navigate Wawa 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.
Need a Nap? Options at YXZ
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 YXZ.
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.
Final Thoughts
There you have it — everything you need to make a layover in Wawa count. The hardest part is usually just deciding to leave YXZ. Once you do, you’ll be glad you did.
Keep your flight info handy, budget a buffer for the return, and enjoy the ride.
Nearby Layover Guides
Disclaimer: Visa rules, transport schedules, and prices change. Always verify details with official sources and your airline before leaving the airport.