Things To Do in Rankin Inlet & Rankin Inlet Airport Layover Ideas

If you are fortunate enough to visit the area, and find yourself with a layover at YRT Rankin Inlet Airport, seize the opportunity to take in a once-in-a-lifetime experience.

See the Northern Lights

Inquire with locals about when and where you can see the Northern Lights.

See the Work of Artisans

Rankin Inlet is not only notable for its artists and artisans, it is recognized as housing the only Inuit fine-arts ceramics production facility in the world. Community artists work in a variety of mediums including ceramics, prints, bronze castings, carvings, watercolor and drawing. The Matchbox Gallery, founded in 1987, showcases art work and provides educational resources.

Visit Iqalugaarjuup Nunanga Territorial Historic Park

The Iqalugaarjuup Nunanga Territorial Historic Park is a favorite spot for hiking, fishing and bird watching. Archaeological sites, such as the European whaler shipwreck near Marble Island and the Thule site in the Ijiraliq River area provide glimpses into a remarkable past. On a Walking Tour through the community you will see where north meets south, and a fascinating blend of 2 very different ways of life. You will find where an ancient past borders on a vibrant present. You can see caribou skins & arctic char drying on racks, outside of homes in the fresh Arctic Air.

Take a Tour

Tundra tours, archeological site tours (such as the European whaler shipwreck near Marble Island and the Thule site in the Ijiraliq River area), and cross-cultural tours are among the activities available in the area.

Go Dogsledding

Yes, you can go dogsledding from YRT Rankin Inlet Airport! But you’ll need lots of time. If your layover isn’t long enough, inquire about a tour that might include seeing the dogs or sledding.

As always, make sure you leave plenty of time to get back to YRT Rankin Inlet Airport and clear security in time for your connecting flight. Enjoy your transit city rather than whiling away the time leaning up against your luggage in the departures lounge.