There’s a certain thrill to turning a layover in Wrigley into a quick city adventure. From YWY, the local transport can get you into town in around 60 minutes. Below, we’ll walk you through transport, budget, bags, and what’s actually worth seeing.
Pre-Departure Checklist
Before heading into Wrigley, 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: Wrigley is roughly 60 minutes from YWY 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.
Transport from Wrigley Airport to Downtown
| Option | Approximate Time | Cost Level | Notes |
|---|---|---|---|
| local transport | ~60 min | $ | Recommended for layovers |
| Taxi / Ride-share | ~80 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.
Layover Budget Breakdown
Wondering how much cash to bring? For a few hours in Wrigley, 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.
What to See and Do in Wrigley
Two recommendations for your time in Wrigley:
Start with Wrigley Riverfront Park. Great for a short stroll — bring a coffee and take it easy. Then, if time allows, make your way to Wrigley Heritage Museum. 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 YWY, check out Wrigley Executive Lounge or Northern Gifts & Souvenirs to keep yourself occupied.
Eating Well on a Wrigley Layover
- In the city: Wrigley’s Family Diner and The Maple Leaf Bistro are both worth a visit if you’re exploring Wrigley.
- At the airport: Wrigley Coffee Co. and Tarmac Grill & Pub will get the job done without leaving the terminal.
What to Do With Your Bags
Dedicated luggage storage at YWY may be limited. Your best bet is to check services like Bounce or Stasher for verified storage locations near the airport or in Wrigley’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
Most airports offer free WiFi these days, and YWY is no exception — connect and browse while you sort out your plans. If you’re heading into Wrigley and want data on the go, pick up a local SIM from a shop in the arrivals hall or download an eSIM before you land. Airalo and Holafly are popular options that let you set up data access before you even touch down.
Where to Rest During Your Layover
Sometimes the best layover plan is no plan at all. If you need sleep at YWY, 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
There you have it — everything you need to make a layover in Wrigley count. The hardest part is usually just deciding to leave YWY. 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.