The Ultimate Guide to YVR Airport
March 15th, 2018
Written by: Sonu Purhar
Photo courtesy of YVR
Sure, some airports are just places you have to sit in before you go on vacation. But others, like Vancouver International Airport (YVR), are gorgeously designed, activity-laden wonders that are a getaway within themselves. Did you know YVR is the only airport ever to have been voted North America’s best eight times in a row?! And for good reason: it’s got relaxing, spacious parks, breathtaking public art exhibits and even wine tastings. Here’s how guests staying at Accent Inns Vancouver Airport hotel–a 15-minute free shuttle ride away from YVR–can spend a day AT the airport. And love it. We promise.
Morning
Hop aboard our free airport shuttle (PS–you can also check-in for your flight at the lobby kiosk)! Soon, you’ll be able to enjoy a breakfast spread fit for royalty at Eggspectation, our hotel’s brand new restaurant opening summer 2018, before you leave!
Eggspectation will be opening soon!
For now, enter the airport via the International Terminal and fuel up with a healthy smoothie at Booster Juice on level 3. Next, head to level 1 and start your morning with a hit of relaxation at Absolute Spa! Indulge in a blissful chair massage or banish those flyaways with a sleek blowout.
Next, catch YVR’s complimentary South Terminal Shuttle and head for Larry Berg Flight Path Park. This hidden gem is located at the end of the runway and is the perfect spot to sprawl on the grass and watch the hypnotizing rhythm of planes taking off and landing. The park is also home to walking trails and “runway” paths that mirror the marking and lights of real runways!
Photo Courtesy of YVR
You’re probably feeling a bit peckish by now, right? Take an eight-minute stroll towards the water where floatplanes, helicopters and other small aircrafts whisk travelers to and from Vancouver. The Flying Beaver, popular among locals and passengers alike, is right on the water’s edge. Snag window seats so you can watch the floatplanes skimming the water as they land. Tuck into satisfying west coast pub care like burgers, fresh pizzas or a delicious salad (we’re looking at you, West Coast Salmon Salad!) before wandering your way back to the Main Terminal.
Afternoon
The Canada line Skytrain goes from YVR to downtown Vancouver, with some crucial stops in between. Catch the train to Templeton Station, a free, five-minute trip from the airport. Just outside the station lies McArthur Glen Designer Outlet, an open-air shopping village boasting more than 60 discoutn outlets for designer brands. Between browsing, rejuvenate with coffee at Caffè Artigiano or snack on a sweet crepe at Café Crepe.
McArthur Glen Outlet (courtesy YVR)
Once you’ve exhausted your wallet, return to YVR via Skytain. Head to the International Terminal, level 2. Your destination is Vino Volo, a laidback wine bar with options from all the best wine regions. Try a tasting “flight” and sip your way across the world–no passport required. We also recommend you order a selection of small plates to complement your tastings.
Vino Volo, courtesy of YVR
Before returning to Accent Inns, visit the public art exhibits on level 3 of the International Terminal. Here, you’ll find a sample of YVR’s noteworthy public art collection, including “The Spirit of Haida Gwaii: The Jade Canoe” by famed local artist Bill Reid.
The Spirit of Haida Gwaii (courtesy YVR)
Evening
As soon as you arrive back at Accent Inns Airport Hotel, head straight for the hot tub to soak your muscles after a hard day’s exploring. Take advantage of the hotel’s free Wifi to share your amazing photos from the day, then stretch out on your comfy bed and enjoy a well-earned night’s sleep. Happy travels!
