How to get from Regina International Airport (YQR) to Mosaic Stadium

This is the most straightforward and time-efficient transfer method, perfect for solo travelers, couples, or small groups with standard luggage heading directly to an event.

Why it's the top choice: Zero transfers, direct curbside pickup, and drop-off at the stadium's main entrances. Drivers are familiar with the route and game-day traffic patterns.

Step-by-Step Guide & Key Details

1. Find the Taxi Stand: After collecting baggage, exit the arrivals doors. The official taxi stand is clearly marked directly outside. A dispatcher is usually present during peak hours.
2. Request a Rideshare: For Uber or Lyft, use the app after landing. The designated pickup zone is in the short-term parking lot, a 1-minute walk from arrivals. Follow app instructions.
3. The Route: The driver will typically take Lewvan Drive (Hwy 11) North and exit at 9th Avenue North or 4th Avenue North, providing direct access to the stadium parking lots and drop-off zones.

Cost Breakdown & What to Expect

Service	Estimated Fare (CAD)	Base Fare / Start Fee	Travel Time	Best For
Taxi (Regina Cabs, etc.)	$25 - $35	$3.50 + meter	12-20 min	Immediate pickup, cash payments, fixed-rate quotes available.
UberX / Lyft Standard	$20 - $30	Variable surge pricing	12-20 min	Upfront pricing, card payment, potential savings with shared rides (Uber Pool).
Luxury / XL Vehicle	$45 - $65	Higher base rate	12-20 min	Groups of 5-6, extra luggage, premium service.

Insider Tip: On major event days (Roughriders games, concerts), demand surges. Expect higher fares and longer wait times. Consider booking a taxi in advance via phone or using the rideshare app as soon as you land to lock in a better rate.

Renting a car is ideal if your trip extends beyond the stadium, you're visiting multiple locations in Regina, or you're traveling with a group/family where cost can be split.

Pros, Cons, and Rental Process

Pros: Freedom to explore Regina and surrounding areas (e.g., Royal Saskatchewan Museum, Wascana Park). Cost-effective for groups. Easy to transport tailgating supplies or sports equipment.

Cons: Added cost of rental, insurance, and fuel. Parking at Mosaic Stadium on event days can be expensive ($10-$25) and requires early arrival. Navigating post-event traffic can be challenging.

Airport Rental Guide & Drive Directions

1. Rental Counters: All companies (Enterprise, Budget, Avis, Hertz, National) are located on the main terminal level, across from the baggage claim area.
2. Vehicle Pickup: After completing paperwork, you'll be directed to the adjacent parking garage where the rental fleet is housed.
3. Drive to Mosaic Stadium (10-15 min):
   • Exit the airport onto Lewvan Drive (Hwy 11) North.
   • Continue for approximately 8 km.
   • Take the exit for 9th Avenue North.
   • Follow signs for stadium parking. Official lots (P1, P2, etc.) are color-coded. Review the stadium parking map in advance.

Data Point: According to industry data, the average daily rate for a compact car at YQR is between $45-$75 CAD, but always book in advance for the best rates, especially on weekends with home games.

For the utmost economy, Regina Transit offers a reliable public bus service. While it involves a transfer, it is a viable option for travelers with light luggage who are not pressed for time.

The Route: Step-by-Step Transfer Required

Important: There is no direct bus. The journey requires one transfer at the downtown Regina Bus Mall.

1. Step 1: Airport to Downtown (Route 7 - Argyle Park)
   • Bus Stop: Find the Regina Transit stop located just outside the airport terminal doors on the arrivals level.
   • Frequency: Approximately every 30-60 minutes. Check the current Route 7 schedule.
   • Ride: Take Route 7 eastbound towards the city. Get off at the final stop: City Centre Bus Mall (11th Ave & Scarth St). Travel time: ~25 minutes.
   • Fare: $3.00 exact cash (no change given) or use the Ride Regina mobile app. Request a transfer slip from the driver for your connecting bus.
2. Step 2: Downtown to Stadium (Route 14 - Normanview)
   • Transfer Point: At the City Centre Bus Mall, find the bay for Route 14 (Normanview) heading northwest.
   • Ride: Take Route 14. The closest stop to Mosaic Stadium is at 9th Ave N & McIntyre St. Travel time: ~15 minutes.
   • Final Walk: From the bus stop, it's about a 5-10 minute walk south on McIntyre St to the stadium's east-side entrances.

Total Journey: 45-75 minutes | Total Cost: $3.00 (with valid transfer).

Critical Advice: Service frequency drops significantly on evenings and Sundays. Do not attempt this with large suitcases or on a tight schedule before an event.

While technically possible, walking is strongly discouraged for all but the most adventurous and prepared pedestrians. This analysis explains why.

The Route, Distance, and Hazards

• Distance: Approximately 10 kilometers (6.2 miles).
• Estimated Time: 2 hours to 2 hours 30 minutes of non-stop walking.
• Primary Route: You would walk north on Lewvan Drive (Hwy 11), a major multi-lane arterial road with high-speed traffic.
• Key Hazards:
  • Inconsistent Pedestrian Infrastructure: Long stretches have no sidewalk, forcing you onto gravel shoulders.
  • Weather Exposure: Regina is known for extreme wind, summer heat, and cold winters. There is minimal shelter.
  • Safety Concerns: Walking alongside fast traffic, especially near highway interchanges, is dangerous.
  • Luggage Impracticality: Rolling a suitcase for 10 km on uneven surfaces is nearly impossible.

Verdict: The time, physical effort, and safety risks far outweigh any cost savings. Only consider this if you are an experienced urban hiker traveling with a small backpack on a perfect weather day. For everyone else, choose any of the other options listed above.

This table summarizes all key data to help you make a final decision based on your priorities: speed, cost, or convenience.

Transport Method	Estimated Cost (One Way)	Travel Time	Transfers / Steps	Best For	Our Recommendation
Taxi / Rideshare	$20 - $35 CAD	12-20 min	None (Door-to-Door)	Speed, convenience, small groups	⭐ BEST OVERALL
Rental Car	$45-$75/day + parking & fuel	12-15 min (drive time)	Rental pickup/drop-off	Groups, multi-stop trips, flexibility	⭐ BEST FOR GROUPS/EXPLORING
Public Bus (Regina Transit)	$3.00 CAD	50-75 min	1 Transfer (Route 7 → 14)	Solo budget travelers, no time pressure	⭐ CHEAPEST OPTION
Walking	Free	120-150 min	N/A	Extreme budget, fitness challenge	NOT RECOMMENDED

Beyond the schedules and fares, here are practical insights from seasoned travelers to enhance your trip from YQR to Mosaic Stadium.

• Game Day Logistics: If attending a Saskatchewan Roughriders game, arrive at least 2-3 hours early if driving. Traffic congestion is significant. Taxis have dedicated drop-off zones that bypass some traffic.
• Peak vs. Off-Peak: Flight arrivals on Friday evenings or before major events see the highest demand for taxis/rideshares. If arriving then, be prepared to wait or pre-book.
• Luggage Strategy: If you're going straight to the stadium with bags, check if your hotel offers luggage storage downtown. Some downtown hotels are on the bus route, allowing you to drop bags before catching Route 14 to the stadium.
• Weather Preparedness: Regina's weather can change rapidly. Have a jacket or rain gear accessible. This is crucial if you have a walk after the bus or are waiting in line for a taxi.
• Payment Methods: While most taxis and all rideshares accept cards, carrying ~$40 CAD in cash is wise for taxis, bus fare (exact change), or incidental purchases.
• Post-Event Return Tip: Getting a taxi/rideshare away from the stadium after a game can involve long queues. Consider walking 10-15 minutes away from the stadium grounds before requesting a ride to get away from surge pricing and crowds.