Fodor's Expert Review Fairmont Waterfront

900 Canada Pl. Way, Vancouver, British Columbia, V6C 3L5, Canada See on Map Fodor's Choice

If you want stunning views, incredible amenities, and one of the most luxurious hotel experiences in the Vancouver area, you're definitely going to want to stay at the Fairmont Waterfront. This 23-story hotel, which is located directly across the street from the city's cruise ship terminal, is a truly exceptional hotel experience—and one you won't want to miss on your next visit to the city.

room

Everything in the rooms at is Fairmont Waterfront is gorgeous, from the soft color palette to the blonde wood furnishings—but the real star of the show is the views. The floor-to-ceiling windows offer unparalleled views of the harbor, the mountains, and Stanley Park.

YOU SHOULD KNOW The best views are (obviously) on the higher floors, but elevator wait times can be long—it's definitely worth the wait, but if you're the impatient type, it's something you'll want to keep in mind.

Fairmont Terrace Room
Photo: Fairmont Terrace Room
Fairmont Gold City View Room
Photo: Fairmont Gold City View Room
Fairmont Gold City View Room
Photo: Fairmont Gold City View Room
Bathroom
Photo: Bathroom

bathroom

Most bathrooms feature rain spa showers, and each bathroom comes stocked with plush terrycloth bathrobes and Le Labo toiletries.

Bathroom
Photo: Bathroom

lobby

The open and airy lobby at the Fairmont Waterfront is gorgeous, but the best part about it? The staff. Everyone from the front desk staff to the bellhops are available to help you make the most out of your stay—feel free to stop by and ask for recommendations. You can also ask the front desk for complimentary water bottles, umbrellas (perfect for rainy days), and running towels.

Third Floor Rooftop Pool
Photo: Third Floor Rooftop Pool

pool

The property's hot tub, steam room, and outdoor pool are open daily from 5 am to 10 pm daily. Make sure to take a few minutes to enjoy the epic views from the pool deck (which are some of the best in the hotel).

Third Floor Rooftop Pool
Photo: Third Floor Rooftop Pool
Health Club
Photo: Health Club

gym

The 24-hour fitness center, located in the 3rd floor Health Club, has everything you need to get a solid workout in, from cardio equipment to free weights to rowing machines.

If you're a runner, make sure to join the other guests for a guided run, which takes off every Tuesday and Thursday morning at 6:30am sharp.

Health Club
Photo: Health Club

dining

ARC Bar is a hip yet comfortable spot to grab a meal. The restaurant specializes in upscale, handcrafted meals with a focus on seafood (although there are a decent amount of vegetarian options).


drinking

The Fairmont Waterfront has a rooftop herb garden, and the 3rd-floor terrace is home to 4 beehives, which the hotel uses to harvest honey—and those herbs and honey are the stars of their cocktail menu. Try the Walk in the Garde, a cocktail made with vodka, cider, peach bitters, and a basil-blackberry-honey syrup.

LOCATION

Getting Around

Self-parking is available for $49 a night. If you don't have a car, it's a quick 5-minute walk to the Waterfront Station, where you can catch the Canada Line SkyTrain.

Restaurants

Stop by West (13-minute drive) for their weekend brunch, where you can enjoy top-notch breakfast classics like brioche french toast and eggs benedict (served with the restaurant's house-cured bacon). Miku (3-minute walk), a local favorite that combines Japanese and West Coast flavors, offers an innovative menu of sustainable sushi and seafood dishes served alongside a gorgeous view of the waterfront.

Bars

If you're in the mood for a stiff drink, try Pourhouse (9-minute walk), where you can enjoy a rotating menu of inventive craft cocktails with flavors ranging from light aperitifs to the strong, dark, and smokey. For an after-dinner nightcap, head to Scoozis (4-minute walk) and enjoy one of their coffee cocktails, like the Monte Cristo with Grand Marnier and Kahlua.

WHY WE LIKE IT

The Fairmont Waterfront is, hands down, one of the most high-end properties in Vancouver. From the unparalleled views to the prime waterfront location to the exceptional guest experience, this is a hotel you won't want to miss.

QUICK FACTS

Hotel
Green
Sophisticated
Central
$$$$

HOTEL INFO

Phones: 604-540–4509

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