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The airport is my favorite place, only because it generally means I’m going somewhere new and exciting. I’m getting to travel again. But other than that, airports are often busy, chaotic and not a lot of fun. Which is why I appreciate airports that make an effort. YVR Airport does just that.
Vancouver International Airport consistently makes it to lists of top airports in the world, as well as most sustainable airports in the world. It’s not hard to see why.
They put a lot of stock in green initiatives and have some very cool artwork and design features that make this one of the most relaxing airports I’ve visited. Vancouver just so happens to be home for me, so I’m there quite often.
12 Cool Features At YVR Airport
For a small airport, with only one main terminal, YVR Airport has a lot to see. Keep reading to find out some of the best features at the airport. Although, if you visit yourself, I can guarantee you’ll likely find even more.
YVR Airport Welcome Figures
WHERE: International Arrivals Hall
Two of the first things that greets you as you pass through the gates of international arrivals are the gigantic First Nations Welcome Figures. Although you may pass one or two other welcome figures throughout various spots in the airport – including the arrival hall at customs – these ones are harder to ignore.
And why would you want to? These beautifully carved, traditional Clayoquot statues have been here since 1986.
As well as being a reminder of the traditional Musqueam lands the airport stands on, I like to think the figures embody the friendly and welcoming nature of Vancouver, and Canada.
Jellyfish exhibit
WHERE: International Arrivals – between gates and customs
Vancouver Aquarium in Stanley Park is one of the top attractions in the city. But at over $40 entry, it’s not the cheapest activity. So be sure to check out some of their exhibits for free if you’re flying…at YVR airport.
Coming in from an international flight, there’s a small jellyfish aquarium, prior to immigration. Here you can see the mesmerizing jellies floating around the blue water. Keep reading to find out about other aquarium exhibits at Vancouver Airport.
Top YVR Travel Tip: Find the Vancouver Aquarium store at YVR close to the Domestic check in desks.
Bill Reid Sculpture
WHERE: International Departures, just before security gates
One of the best pieces of art to find in YVR is this beautiful indigenous sculpture The Spirit of Haida Gwaii: The Jade Canoe.
Weighing 11,000 lbs, the sculpture by famous Canadian artist Bill Reid, features celebrated animals and characters from aboriginal mythology.
Local’s Tip: Like this art piece? See more of Bill Reid’s work at the Bill Reid Gallery of Northwest Coast Art in downtown Vancouver.
YVR Airport River and Aquarium
WHERE: International Departures – after security
There’s a river in the airport? Sure is – and it creates a peaceful vibe even in one of the most high traffic areas. Through into International Departures, the river can be seen right after passing through the Duty Free store.
Seating all around it make for a relaxing place to sit and read a book pre-flight, and there are even a couple of bridges passing over it. Make sure to follow the river to the large aquarium at the end, found under a stunning First Nations carving.
Dresses on display
WHERE: International Departures, Gate D55 (after security)
Fashion is art too, and YVR has a few different fashion items on display for travelers to see. Be inspired to don a nice gown with some unique creations around the airport. From antique items to local fashion school designs, keep an eye out for some of these pretty frocks.
The above gown can be found in international departures around Gate D55, and is made of brown paper. This is definitely in keeping with the sustainability theme that runs through YVR airport.
Model planes collection
WHERE: Along the moving walkway between B and C Gates (Canada Departures, after security)
Where better to showcase a bazillion model airplanes than an airport? OK, maybe there aren’t that many, but there sure are a lot of model airplanes here. In display cases on the way to the C Gates this is one more reason to skip the moving walkway and walk instead.
Get a closer look at a model plane from what seems to be every airline and then some. From run-of-the-mill passenger planes to rare and specialty jets, see them all in great detail. This is just part of a much larger collection, given to YVR to display, all depicting planes which have been through the airport here.
YVR Airport Yoga room
WHERE: International Departures, Upper Lounge Area, near Gate D58 (after security)
Opposite the beautiful atrium (keep reading to find out more about that), there is an upper lounge area. A side room up there is set aside for yoga. Anyone looking to do some stretches pre-flight, you can give your lululemons a workout – after all it wouldn’t be Vancouver without a little yoga.
There are additional stretching areas in the newly created Quiet Area around gate D67 (also in international departures). There’s a stretching mat, or for those who are not looking to get active you can relax in the comfy seating. As airports are a busy (and often noisy) place, this is the perfect spot for those looking for a little zen before their flight.
Rushing traveler statue
WHERE: Domestic Departures, Gate B28 (after security)
If there’s one thing in the airport that makes me feel seen it’s this statue. The whimsical “Flying Traveller” statue looks like it depicts one in every three visitors to the airport. Rushing frantically to get to their flight.
The art piece was commission specifically for YVR Airport, and if nothing it’ll make you smile as you pass it. Unless you’re the one running for your flight of course.
Disney models collection
WHERE: Along the moving walkway between B and C Gates (Canada Departures, after security)
Hands up who else loves Disney? You don’t have to go all the way to Florida or California to see your favorite Disney character. In fact, there are literally hundreds of them on display at Vancouver International Airport.
The private collection of models, stuffed animals and every other depiction of Disney characters you can imagine will keep kids (and adults) amused while waiting for a flight. Peruse hundreds of Mickeys, or my favorite, Pluto, behind glass display cases in the Domestic departures terminal.
Healthy vending machines at YVR Airport
WHERE: Domestic, USA and International Departures – all after security
This might not excite everyone but finding somewhat healthy food in an airport is not always easy. Too quick are we to run to McDonalds or some other fast food establishment in our hurry to get to the plane. But at YVR there is a healthy vending machine, which I was excited to see while waiting for my last flight.
There’s at least one in each terminal (domestic, international and USA) and unlike the shops, they’re available 24-7. Which is great news because a lot of the shops are closed before those late night flights leave. Grab a smoothie, wrap or salad ready for your next flight.
Travel Tip: Keep an eye out for machines like these, they’re popping up in airports more and more now. My first experience was at Chicago O’Hare – they have them everywhere and the food was amazing, and super fresh.
Welcome to British Columbia sign
WHERE: Domestic departures – in front of the food court area by Gate B14
If nothing other than for an Insta-worthy shot, this Welcome to British Columbia sign is worth a peek if you’re close by.
Located in the Domestic departures terminal after security, it’s actually next to the kids play area. Flanked by an old school camper treehouse, it really does depict the outdoors that BC is known for.
YVR Airport Atrium
WHERE: International Departures, near gate D58 (after security)
One of my new favorite areas in Vancouver International Airport is the atrium area in International departures. If the river and aquarium isn’t doing it for you, head further in and check out this new spectacular area. The focal point is the new open air atrium – complete with trees, soil and fresh air.
There are simulated nature sounds, digital glass panels showing everything from swimming salmon to bears and even little tidal pools. In a potentially chaotic place, this is a sea of calm – something YVR does very well.
YVR Airport – Not Just Any Other Airport
After traveling the world I can say I have been to some pretty dismal airports. Void of character, or just plain chaotic, most are nothing more than a place to jump on a plane. But since we all have to arrive hours before our flights, it’s places like YVR Airport in Vancouver that really make travel more enjoyable.
Relax by a serene river, appreciate some local indigenous art, or work out some pre-travel tension in the fitness areas.
YVR Airport is not just another airport, it’s a welcome change from the norm. Whether you’re arriving, departing or merely transiting through, there’s something cool to see in every part of this top Canadian airport.
If you’ve enjoyed this post, leave a comment or share using the social media buttons below. Have you been to YVR Airport before? What was your favorite feature? Feel free to share your favorite airport in the comments below.
Who would have thought that an airport could contain so many attractions.
Parts seem like an art gallery/museum and are very creative.
Never heard of a jellyfish exhibit at an airport though, that is very different..
I shall hopefully be flying into Vancouver airport on my next visit to see friends there so will look out for these attractions.
I’ve been to Vancouver Airport numerous times and I was unfamiliar with most of these. It dawned on me I’ve only flown domestic to and from there. However, I completely agree it’s one of my favorite airports as there’s very little chaos and easy to navigate. You’re lucky it’s your home airport. Mine is pearson.
This is an interesting post on an airport! There seem to be several things to do which would be handy in a layover too. I would love to try out the Yoga room. It must be good to do some stretching after a flight when sitting for a long time. Nice post!
I like when airports make some efforts and go beyond their function of transport hub. In a way they are not just gates to the world but also represent the city. Vancouver definitely got the memo and understood the assignment. The wooden statues are a wonderful tribute to the Canadian indigenous tribes and instantly connect a visitor to this part of Vancouvian history. The sculpture by Bill Reid or the jellyfish aquariums not only are stylish elements to enhance the airport they further add excitement for discovering more in Vancouver. I’m sold!
Carolin | Solo Travel Story
I love YVR! Coming home after an epic trip isn’t always easy, but arriving at YVR does help because it’s so pretty and welcoming. You’ve noted so many great art pieces and little mini museum exhibits, which I appreciate more than rows of shops. I haven’t yet visited the yoga room so I will have to remember that for next time
Spectacular! I would never have thought that an airport could have so many cute and interesting things in its enclosure.
It’s funny because with so many pieces of varied art, it almost looks like a gallery.
No doubt this airport will not be difficult to spend the time of a longer layover!
I must admit that I don’t really notice the airports when I travel – I’m too focused on my destination and get exploring! It impresses me that they’d put such an effort into so many things to see. I would imagine it’s perfect for a layover though – more than just overpriced food and shops!
I generally loathe airports. We love travelling but hate all the faff as well as spending hours hanging around at the airport with nothing to do. So it was like a breath of fresh air to read about Vancouver. What a cool place! There are loads of things to see and do – art, sculpture, nature (how brilliant to have a river!), even yoga – I think we would actually enjoy spending time here. Other airports should take note!
What an original blog post, loved reading it! I know there are few interesting airports in the world such as Changi in Singapore but didn’t know Vancouver was one of them. The art installations look incredible and I love aquariums and could spend hours there so for once I wouldn’t mind a long layover in an airport!
Will be flying into Vancouver in July for a couple of days then onto a cruise to Alaska. So excited to tour the airport.
Amazing, I’ve heard great things about the Alaska cruise, I’m sure you’ll have a wonderful time. Enjoy your visit to Vancouver