Passing through Whitehorse / Erik Nielsen International Airport? A layover in Whitehorse is more doable than you might think. The city is only about 70 minutes from the airport, and with a bit of planning you can stretch your legs, grab a real meal, and see something new before your next flight.
Quick Checks Before Leaving the Airport
A few things to sort out before you leave YXY:
- 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 Whitehorse takes about 70 minutes by Whitehorse City Bus. 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.
Getting to Whitehorse from the Airport
You have two main options for getting from Whitehorse / Erik Nielsen International Airport into town:
- Whitehorse City Bus: 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.
Layover Budget Breakdown
Quick budget math for your Whitehorse layover:
| Expense | Estimated Cost (USD) |
|---|---|
| Round-trip transport | ~$10 |
| Meal | ~$19 |
| Buffer / extras | ~$10 |
| Total | ~$39 |
Cards are increasingly accepted in Whitehorse, but cash is still useful for smaller purchases.
Top Picks for a Quick Visit
With limited time, focus on what’s accessible. In Whitehorse, two standouts are:
- SS Klondike National Historic Site — A quick visit here gives you a real sense of the area’s past.
- MacBride Museum of Yukon History — You can see the highlights in about an hour without rushing.
Both are realistic options even if you only have a few hours to spare.
If you’d rather stay inside YXY — 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:
- Yukon Wildlife Taxidermy Displays
- Airport Gift Shop
Best Bites Near YXY
- In the city: Klondike Rib & Salmon and Earls Kitchen + Bar are both worth a visit if you’re exploring Whitehorse.
- At the airport: Sky High Cafe and Air North Bistro (Check-in Area) will get the job done without leaving the terminal.
Luggage Storage at YXY
Luggage storage options at YXY 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 Whitehorse 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 YXY for basic browsing. If you plan to navigate Whitehorse 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 YXY
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 YXY.
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
Not every layover leads somewhere interesting, but a layover in Whitehorse 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.