Layover at YVR? 10 things to do nearby before your flight

YVR’s award-winning Sense of Place includes thematic art and architecture that draws on the themes of land, sea, and sky. Discover original art from a range of Indigenous artists throughout the airport, and pieces you can bring home at the Lattimer Gallery. Visit yvr.ca/art for details.

Didn’t get the chance to visit your favourite spot to eat in Vancouver? Japadog, Pajo’s Fish & Chips, Purebread, and White Spot all have locations at YVR before the security checkpoint.

Day use packages include access to a comfortable private room as well as the hotel’s health club and fitness centre. Everyone can dine at Globe@YVR restaurant, which serves refined breakfast, lunch, dinner, and afternoon tea in a beautiful room with sweeping views.

Absolute Spa offers chair massage, hair styling, esthetics, and hair removal services. Located in the Domestic Terminal near Gate C31 and the U.S. Terminal near Gate E85.

Book a stay of up to six hours at Plaza Premium Lounge, where passengers on any airline, with any class of ticket are welcome. Find buffet food, drinks, and comfortable seating at their four locations at YVR. YVR is also home to the first Plaza Premium First in North America, found at Gate D67 in the International Terminal. Enjoy gourmet seasonal dishes from the à la carte menu and a full-service bar with fine wines, champagne, and handcrafted cocktails, all in a beautiful mountain-view space with floor-to-ceiling windows.

Take the free shuttle to YVR’s South Terminal, then walk south toward the Fraser River (600 m). Grab a table at the cheerful Flying Beaver Bar & Grill and enjoy a large menu of pub favourites and local specialties in a rustic setting right on the water.

You don’t have to go far to find a little nature. Chester Johnson Park is located right outside the Main Terminal on Level 2. A winding, tree-lined path is punctuated by benches and interesting rock features.

Aviation enthusiasts, kids, and anyone who wants to stretch their legs will enjoy an outing at Larry Berg Flight Path Park, located an 8-minute drive from the Main Terminal. The park lines up with YVR’s South Runway, making it a great spot to watch planes come and go. You’ll also find informational signage, paper airplane benches, and paths that mirror real runway markings and lights.

Take the Canada Line SkyTrain to Templeton Station to visit the McArthurGlen Designer Outlet Centre, where you can find 100+ brands at up to 70% off retail price. Select the free “Sea Island Only” ticket option on the machine.