How to Maximize Your Layover in Calgary

A layover doesn’t have to mean endless hours stuck in an airport lounge. With the right plan—staying at one of the top YYC hotels just minutes from the terminal—you can turn a few spare hours into a mini-adventure. Here’s how to make the most of your Calgary layover when you choose a hotel near Calgary airport as your home base.

Plan by Layover Length

Short Layovers (Under 3 Hours)

• Relax On-Site: Take advantage of your hotel’s amenities—grab a quick dip in the indoor pool, soak away jet lag in the hot tub, or squeeze in a fast treadmill session in the fitness centre.
• Grab a Bite to Go: Order a coffee and snack from the 24-hour snack shop or onsite lounge, then let the complimentary shuttle whisk you back to YYC in time for boarding.

Medium Layovers (3–6 Hours)

• Quick Downtown Tour: Hop the hotel’s shuttle to the airport and catch the CTrain (light rail) into the heart of downtown. Within 20 minutes, you can stroll along Stephen Avenue, snap a photo at the iconic Calgary Tower, or admire the Peace Bridge spanning the Bow River.
• Express Dining: In downtown Calgary, sample Alberta beef sliders at a nearby gastropub, or grab a signature poutine at a fast-casual café before returning to the hotel shuttle.

Long Layovers (6+ Hours)

• Cultural Immersion: Head to the Glenbow Museum or the National Music Centre at Studio Bell for a deeper dive into Calgary’s heritage. Many exhibits can be enjoyed in under two hours.
• Parks and Pathways: Explore Prince’s Island Park or stroll the Rivers District pathway. If time allows, drive (or ride) out to Inglewood for boutique shops and local cafés.
• Meal Stop: Treat yourself to a hearty brunch at a farm-to-table restaurant in the East Village or sample local craft brews and small plates at a brewpub near Stampede Park.

Airport Transfer Services

• 24-Hour Complimentary Shuttle: Your hotel near Calgary airport should offer round-the-clock shuttle departures every 30 minutes. Simply call when you land, and the driver will pick you up at Domestic or International arrivals.
• Calgary Transit Bus 300: For a budget-friendly option, ride Route 300 directly between the airport and downtown LRT station—then connect to CTrain lines.
• Rideshare & Taxis: Uber and local taxis queue up at designated curbside areas. Factor in peak-hour traffic, especially if you’re heading downtown.
• Car Rentals: If you prefer to explore on your own schedule, many YYC hotels have onsite parking and car-rental desks—ideal for longer layovers when you want full flexibility.

Insider Tips for Smooth Transitions

• Pack Light: Stow carry-on items with the hotel bell desk so you can move freely between attractions.
• Time Your Return: Aim to be back at your hotel near Calgary airport at least 90 minutes before your next flight, allowing time for shuttle pickup and security.
• Stay Connected: Use the hotel’s complimentary high-speed Wi-Fi to check live flight updates and plan any last-minute itinerary changes.

By pairing smart planning with the right YYC hotel, your layover in Calgary can feel more like a mini-vacation than a wait. Book your stay at Best Western Premier Freeport Inn Calgary Airport for seamless transfers, premium amenities, and insider local tips—so every minute of your layover counts.