The coolest hotels in Vancouver to stay in

Cool hotels in Vancouver are just one reason this city stands out, with its picturesque setting nestled between snowy mountains and sparkling sea. This sought-after location isn’t only known for its natural splendor, as its skyscraper-lined streets are home to a vibrant multicultural scene that’s ever-popular with visitors. As a result, it also boasts some of the coolest hotels around, with some offering stylish designer rooms and others housing unique spaces for up-and-coming artists. And there’s always something more low-key that allows guests to explore the local culture on their own terms. Places to stay are diverse as the metropolis itself, showing off the many sides of BC chic. All that’s needed is a little insight into everything Vancouver has to offer, so read on.

01

The Douglas

A park in the sky for a nature-inspired stay

The rooms at the Douglas are the epitome of contemporary chic. These stylish quarters combine modern decor with strikingly bold touches, providing a clean and up-to-date aesthetic while avoiding the bare minimalism that often plagues other hotels. Spectacular design is to be expected from Marriott’s signature Autograph Collection, but the Douglas has an extra advantage in the floor-to-ceiling windows that gaze out across the towering Vancouver skyline.

Of course, the rooms aren’t the hotel’s only fashionable feature, although the luxury suites deserve an extra mention for their playful yet breathtaking design. That’s because the Douglas offers a whole range of facilities, not least the rooftop park, a spectacular high-rise attraction covering 30,000 square feet with 15,000 local plants and trees, a water feature, and plenty of space to relax beneath blue skies. When it comes to hotel amenities, a park in the sky is a tough one to beat.

The Pacific Northwest nature continues indoors, where the Douglas pays tribute to its namesake, the Douglas fir. The lobby showcases a striking wooden centerpiece: a 25-foot replica tree trunk that serves as the reception desk, while reclaimed wood accents, a verdant living wall, and forest-inspired textures and earthy tones feature throughout the interior, offering a warm, organic retreat in the heart of Vancouver.

With plenty to do on-site, there’s little reason for guests to venture out into the city. But if you do plan on stepping out, you’ll find yourself in one of its most glamorous districts, right by the waterfront among a wide range of happening restaurants and nightspots. Those in town to see a soccer game will find that the hotel is right by BC Place, a stadium that seats 50,000. With its stunning contemporary design, incredible facilities, and fantastic location, the Douglas earns its place as one of Vancouver’s coolest hotels.

02

OPUS Vancouver

Stylish designs in an equally stylish neighborhood

Situated in one of the city’s coolest areas, the OPUS Vancouver offers boutique luxury right in the middle of a vibrant, cosmopolitan neighborhood. Part of Downtown Vancouver, Yaletown is a former industrial district that’s since been transformed into an artistic haven of colorful bars, stores, and restaurants, set among historic warehouses and former factories. Guests can spend their days shopping and strolling around the gorgeous waterfront parks, and their evenings taking in some of the region’s trendiest hotspots.

The OPUS Vancouver itself is committed to the contemporary glamor of its surroundings, with its high-end rooms and shared spaces furnished with sizzling colors and daring patterns. The huge windows present fantastic views of the surrounding city, and each room comes with a spa bathroom with heated floors. The hotel’s suites feature uniquely striking designs, with its signature suite even including a wraparound balcony and double-sided glass fireplace.

With its own cafe, restaurant, and garden, this award-winning hotel certainly has the right amenities for a high-end boutique experience, but travelers shouldn’t miss out on everything the surrounding area has to offer. The hotel is easy to get to, being right across the street from Yaletown-Roundhouse station, allowing its guests easy access to the entire city. Visitors shouldn’t be too quick to leave, however, as the Canadian Pacific Railway Roundhouse offers a fascinating local insight into the neighborhood’s history, while the local art galleries showcase some of the region’s finest works.

If you’d like to see more before booking your stay or are unsure which room or suite you’d like to reserve, you can even take a virtual online tour of everything the OPUS Vancouver has to offer, with 360-degree vantages of its amenities and private rooms. Just remember that this fashionable hotel is even more incredible in person, as is the district that surrounds it.

03

Skwachàys Lodge Indigenous Hotel and Gallery

One-of-a-kind rooms and works by local artists

There are few Vancouver stays offering an experience quite like the Skwachàys Lodge Indigenous Hotel and Gallery. That’s because this boutique hotel hosts artists in residence from Indigenous, First Nations, Métis, and Inuit communities, featuring workshops that help creatives develop their craft and thereby creating a cultural hotspot that celebrates the region’s rich heritage. How many other hotels can say they’re such a crucial part of the contemporary arts scene?

Guests seeking something different from your standard accommodations will appreciate its unique style. Each of the hotel’s 18 rooms features a one-of-a-kind look created by the city’s top designers, working in partnership with Indigenous artists. Travelers can marvel at the colorful murals of the Collage Room, ponder the drawings and verses of the Poem Room, or bask in the forested backdrop and vibrant sprites of the Forest Spirits Room. No matter which option you choose, you’ll be granted intimate access to some exceptional creations.

The commitment to culture doesn’t stop there, as the ground floor features its own fair-trade art gallery displaying paintings, tapestries, and sculptures crafted by artists that were hosted by the hotel. The rooftop garden even holds sweat lodge ceremonies alongside other Indigenous practices. Aside from providing a unique atmosphere, this is one of the city’s most ethical hotel options, as guests staying at the Skwachàys Lodge can sleep soundly knowing they’re supporting some of the area’s most promising artists.

We haven’t even covered the hotel’s location, which is right next to Vancouver’s Chinatown, where visitors can explore even more of the city’s diverse culture by stopping in at the Chinese Canadian Museum, the Dr. Sun Yat-Sen Classical Chinese Garden, or indulging in some of the area’s best local restaurants. For travelers who want to experience BC’s many cultural marvels, the Skwachàys Lodge Indigenous Hotel and Gallery presents an incredible choice.

04

Wedgewood Hotel & Spa

Fabulous luxury right at the heart of the city

The Wedgewood Hotel & Spa is where you’ll find some of Vancouver’s finest high-end glamor. Founded by European hotelier Eleni Skalbania and managed ever since by her family, the hotel has provided visitors with fashionable opulence and deluxe facilities for generations. The various rooms and suites provide a calming, classical atmosphere, with many of its windows looking out across Robson Square park, offering bustling panoramas right in the heart of the city. Visitors who want the ultimate experience can select one of four luxurious penthouse suites, each of which comes with its own balcony or terrace.

As its name suggests, the spa is one of the hotel’s proudest features. Set alongside a lush rooftop garden, the wellness center offers a range of treatments as well as a relaxation lounge and eucalyptus steam room. Guests can even create their own custom spa day by combining various wellness services, which also comes with its own discount. It’s a great opportunity to work up an appetite for the Wedgewood’s opulent cuisine.

This sumptuous establishment is extremely well-located, standing right in the middle of Downtown Vancouver. With Robson Square just outside, guests will find many of the city’s attractions within walking distance. It’s right next to the Vancouver Art Gallery, while being surrounded by downtown stores, restaurants, and bars. Simply wander in any direction and you’ll happen upon some of the city’s coolest locations, including the Orpheum performing arts theater, which is just a six-minute walk away.

The hotel can be easily reached from the Vancouver City Centre subway stop, and is one of the best ways to take in everything this vibrant metropolis has to offer. If you’re looking to get a little exercise during your stay, the Wedgewood even provides complimentary bikes for guests to use, alongside maps featuring recommended routes.

05

The Ivy on Parker Guest House

Leafy local streets offering boutiques and coffee shops

Charm and warmth are in abundance at The Ivy on Parker Guest House, giving its visitors a Vancouver experience all its own. This heritage home was built in 1908 and is cared for by a small team of dedicated hosts who are happy to provide local insights to travelers. There are five choices of adults-only accommodation that blend traditional BC characteristics with modern conveniences. The balconies offer beautiful views of the neighborhood, and the guest house includes work desks with access to free Wi-Fi, should you need to sneak in a little work time during your trip.

Away from the busy crowds of Downtown Vancouver, The Ivy is situated in an enchanting area of the city and is right around the corner from Commercial Drive, which is home to a variety of local restaurants and coffee shops. Travelers who prefer a low-key setting will appreciate its leafy streets and historic houses, which form a fantastic backdrop for a quiet stroll.

Should you want to head to the center of the city, it’s less than a 10-minute drive away, but why not make the most of the idyllic streets and enjoy the leisurely half-hour walk instead? It’s a beautiful location for appreciating Vancouver’s outdoors, offering a local flavor that’s easy to miss from the inside of a taxi. Along the way, you’ll find plenty of opportunity for a snack, a coffee, or a browse in one of the neighborhood boutiques.

Sometimes the most stylish experience you can have is the one that’s custom-tailored to your needs. Whether you want a captivating adventure that’s full of local flair, are seeking a romantic getaway, or just want to enjoy a Canadian brew while sitting on one of the guest house’s idyllic porches, The Ivy presents one of the best spots in the city.

No matter your brand of cool, Vancouver has a place for you. Art aficionados can be inspired by unique works, fashionistas can sample the very best of its trendy districts, and luxury lovers can find extravagant comforts among the many towers downtown. The settings may change, but all of them share the same vibrant energy that’s made the city such a hit with global travelers. Check out Vancouver’s best hotels to find the BC experience that’s right for you.