Brandon travel Guide

Brandon travel guide

National Airports

Brandon, Manitoba has one airport that serves the city and the surrounding region: Brandon Municipal Airport (IATA code YBR). It is a small airport located about 3.5 miles (5.6 km) north of downtown Brandon.

While it is not a national airport, Brandon Municipal Airport does offer daily commercial flights to and from Calgary, Alberta and Winnipeg, Manitoba via WestJet. The airport also serves as a base for general aviation and provides services such as fueling, maintenance, and hangar rentals for private aircraft.

Trains in Brandon

VIA Rail, Canada’s national passenger rail service, operates trains through Brandon. The Canadian, VIA Rail’s flagship train, runs between Vancouver and Toronto, with stops in Brandon, Winnipeg, and other Canadian cities along the way.

The train station in Brandon is located at 19th Street and Princess Avenue, just a few blocks north of the city’s downtown area. The station has a waiting room, ticketing services, and restrooms. There is also a parking lot on site for those traveling to the station by car.

Passengers traveling on VIA Rail trains can choose from a variety of seating options, including economy class, sleeper class, and premium sleeper class. Amenities on board vary depending on the class of service, but may include meals, lounge access, and priority boarding.

Buses in Brandon

Brandon Transit is the local public transit system that provides bus service within the city. The system operates several routes throughout the city, with buses running from early morning to late evening on weekdays and weekends.

Fares are affordable and can be paid with cash or by using a Brandon Transit bus pass. Passengers can purchase passes at various locations throughout the city, including City Hall, the Keystone Centre, and the Brandon University Students’ Union.

In addition to Brandon Transit, there are several intercity bus companies that operate in Brandon, connecting the city to other destinations in Manitoba and beyond. These companies include Greyhound and Maple Bus Lines, among others. Bus service schedules and fares vary by company, so passengers should check with each provider for more information.

How to get to Brandon

There are several ways to get to Brandon, depending on your starting point and mode of transportation. Here are some options:

By Car: Brandon is located on the Trans-Canada Highway (Highway 1), making it easily accessible by car. If you’re driving from Winnipeg, it’s approximately a 2.5-hour drive west on the Trans-Canada Highway.

By Bus: Greyhound and other intercity bus companies offer bus service to Brandon from various locations throughout Manitoba and beyond. You can check schedules and fares on the company’s websites or at their ticket offices.

By Plane: Brandon Municipal Airport is served by WestJet with daily flights to and from Calgary, Alberta and Winnipeg, Manitoba. From the airport, you can take a taxi or rental car to reach your final destination.

By Train: VIA Rail operates trains through Brandon on the Canadian, its flagship train that runs between Vancouver and Toronto. You can check schedules and fares on VIA Rail’s website or at their ticket offices.

No matter how you choose to travel, Brandon is easily accessible from various locations throughout Canada.

What is the best time to travel to Brandon

The best time to travel to Brandon depends on what activities you plan to do and your personal preferences. Here is some information to help you make a decision:

Summer (June-August): The summer months are the warmest in Brandon, with average temperatures ranging from 20-25°C (68-77°F). This is a great time to enjoy outdoor activities like hiking, biking, and festivals. The Brandon Folk, Music, and Art Festival is held in July and is a popular event in the city.

Fall (September-November): Fall in Brandon is cool with average temperatures ranging from 5-18°C (41-64°F). The fall foliage is beautiful during this time, making it a great time for nature walks and hikes. The Brandon Hills Wildlife Management Area is a great place to see the fall colors.

Winter (December-February): Winter in Brandon is cold with average temperatures ranging from -14 to -5°C (7-23°F). However, it is a great time to enjoy winter sports like ice fishing, ice skating, and skiing. The city also hosts the annual Wheat City Winter Festival in February, which features a variety of winter activities.

Spring (March-May): Spring in Brandon is cool with average temperatures ranging from -7 to 10°C (19-50°F). The city starts to come alive with the arrival of spring, and it is a great time to enjoy outdoor activities like walking, hiking, and cycling.

Overall, the best time to travel to Brandon depends on your interests and what you plan to do. If you enjoy outdoor activities, summer and fall are great options. If you enjoy winter sports, winter is the best time to visit.

How to get around Brandon

There are several ways to get around Brandon:

Public Transit: Brandon Transit is the local public transit system that provides bus service within the city. The system operates several routes throughout the city, with buses running from early morning to late evening on weekdays and weekends.

Taxis: Taxis are available in Brandon and can be hailed on the street or called for pick-up. The rates are regulated by the city and can be found posted in the taxi.

Walking and Biking: Brandon is a walkable and bikeable city, with many sidewalks, bike lanes, and trails throughout the city.

Car Rental: There are several car rental agencies in Brandon that offer rental cars for those who prefer to drive themselves. Rental cars can be picked up at the airport or at rental agency locations throughout the city.

Ride-sharing Services: Ride-sharing services such as Uber and Lyft are also available in Brandon.

Overall, there are several options for getting around Brandon, so you can choose the one that best fits your needs and preferences.

Accommodations in Brandon

Brandon offers a variety of accommodations to suit different needs and budgets, including hotels, motels, bed and breakfasts, and vacation rentals. Here are some options to consider:

Hotels: Brandon has several chain hotels, including Best Western, Canad Inns, Comfort Inn, and Days Inn. These hotels offer a range of amenities, including on-site dining, fitness centers, and meeting rooms.

Motels: There are also several independent and chain motels in Brandon, such as Super 8, Motel 6, and Lakeview Inn & Suites. These properties are typically more budget-friendly than hotels but still offer basic amenities like free Wi-Fi and parking.

Bed and Breakfasts: Brandon has several bed and breakfasts, such as The 9th Street Bed and Breakfast and Black Bear Bed and Breakfast. These properties offer a more intimate and personalized experience, with hosts who can provide local recommendations and tips.

Vacation Rentals: For those looking for a home-away-from-home experience, vacation rentals such as Airbnb and VRBO offer a range of options in Brandon, including apartments, condos, and houses.