10 Unique Places to Stay in Vancouver
Vancouver, British Columbia, is one of the most beautiful cities in the Pacific Northwest, offering a stunning mix of urban sophistication and natural beauty. Nestled between the Pacific Ocean and the Coast Mountains, Vancouver is a year-round destination that offers vibrant neighborhoods, world-class dining, outdoor adventures, and rich cultural experiences.
If you’re looking for something beyond a standard hotel, I am offering 10 unique places to stay in Vancouver. From floating homes and Indigenous art lodges to retro-chic motor inns and luxury hotels with a twist, these accommodations offer a one-of-a-kind stay that will make your trip even more memorable.
I personally chose these properties for their variety, central location, and their general “Wow!” factor.
Why Go to Vancouver?
Vancouver offers something for everyone. Outdoor enthusiasts can hike in the nearby mountains, cycle around Stanley Park, or take a day trip to Whistler. Food lovers can enjoy fresh seafood, world-class sushi, and a thriving farm-to-table scene. Culture seekers can visit the Museum of Anthropology, catch a show at the Queen Elizabeth Theatre, or explore the city’s many art galleries.
The city’s blend of natural beauty and urban energy makes it an ideal destination for any road trip through the Pacific Northwest. Whether you’re traveling solo, with family, or on a romantic getaway, Vancouver has the perfect mix of adventure, relaxation, and excitement.
So let’s get started on where to hang your hat while you’re here!
Unique Hotels in Vancouver
Note: I did not group these in any particular order with respect to their budget, moderate, or luxury status, as I believe they all deserve equal billing. That said, if you normally travel on a budget, I encourage you to splurge (just this once) and try one of the luxury properties!
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The DOUGLAS, Autograph Collection
📍 Address: 39 Smithe St, Vancouver, BC V6B 0R3
⭐ Star Rating: 5 Stars
🐾 Pet Friendly: Yes
The DOUGLAS is a nature-inspired boutique hotel within the Parq Vancouver complex, offering a seamless blend of luxury and sustainability. Designed to resemble a modern forest retreat, the hotel pays homage to British Columbia’s rich landscapes with wood-accented interiors and natural aesthetics. Guests can enjoy access to Parq Vancouver’s casino, restaurants, and rooftop park, making it an urban oasis in the heart of downtown.
Why It’s Unique
The DOUGLAS brings the beauty of British Columbia’s forests into a sleek, urban setting. Located in Parq Vancouver, this boutique luxury hotel offers a stylish and nature-inspired retreat.
Guest Rooms
Rooms feature natural wood tones, luxurious linens, and floor-to-ceiling windows that provide stunning city or mountain views.
Amenities
- Rooftop park with city views
- Access to Parq Vancouver’s casino and restaurants
- Fitness center and spa
Book The Douglas, Autograph Collection now!
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The Sylvia Hotel
📍 Address: 1154 Gilford St, Vancouver, BC V6G 2P6
⭐ Star Rating: 3 Stars
🐾 Pet Friendly: Yes
The Sylvia Hotel is a charming historic property located right on English Bay. Covered in ivy and dating back to 1912, this boutique hotel has a warm, nostalgic feel and is one of Vancouver’s most beloved landmarks. It’s a great choice for travelers who want to stay steps away from the beach while experiencing a piece of Vancouver’s history.
Why It’s Unique
This ivy-covered hotel, built in 1912, is a charming and historic gem located on English Bay. Its old-world charm and unbeatable waterfront location make it a favorite for travelers who love history and scenic views.
Guest Rooms
Rooms are cozy and filled with vintage charm. Some feature bay windows with ocean views, while others offer a classic heritage aesthetic.
Amenities
- Oceanfront dining at The Sylvia Restaurant & Lounge
- Steps from Stanley Park and English Bay Beach
- Free Wi-Fi
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OPUS Hotel
📍 Address: 322 Davie St, Vancouver, BC V6B 5Z6
⭐ Star Rating: 4 Stars
🐾 Pet Friendly: Yes
Situated in the trendy Yaletown district, OPUS Hotel is a stylish and playful boutique hotel known for its vibrant, color-themed rooms and contemporary design. With an energetic atmosphere, OPUS is a favorite among younger travelers and those who enjoy staying in the heart of the city’s nightlife and dining scene.
Why It’s Unique
This trendy boutique hotel in Yaletown features color-themed rooms, in-room iPads, and a lively atmosphere.
Guest Rooms
Rooms have bold, modern decor with personalized color schemes (red, blue, green, or orange), heated bathroom floors, and luxurious bedding.
Amenities
- Complimentary bikes
- Hip cocktail bar and restaurant
- Walkable to Yaletown nightlife
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Skwachàys Lodge
📍 Address: 31 W Pender St, Vancouver, BC V6B 1R3
⭐ Star Rating: 3 Stars
🐾 Pet Friendly: No
Skwachàys Lodge is Canada’s first Indigenous arts hotel, combining social enterprise with boutique hospitality. Each of the uniquely designed rooms showcases Indigenous art and storytelling, providing an immersive cultural experience. The lodge also features an Indigenous art gallery and a rooftop smudge room for guests to enjoy a deeper connection with Indigenous traditions.
Why It’s Unique
Canada’s first Indigenous arts hotel, featuring artwork and designs by Indigenous artists, with proceeds supporting the local Indigenous community.
Guest Rooms
Each room is uniquely decorated with Indigenous art, carvings, and cultural themes.
Amenities
- On-site Indigenous art gallery
- Rooftop sweat lodge
- Cultural experiences available
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Fairmont Pacific Rim
📍 Address: 1038 Canada Pl, Vancouver, BC V6C 0B9
⭐ Star Rating: 5 Stars
🐾 Pet Friendly: Yes
The Fairmont Pacific Rim is one of Vancouver’s most luxurious hotels, but its Owner’s Suite Experience takes luxury to another level. This high-end suite features a Fazioli grand piano, floor-to-ceiling ocean views, and a private rooftop terrace. It’s a top choice for travelers seeking an ultra-exclusive stay in Vancouver with world-class amenities and breathtaking views.
Why It’s Unique
An ultra-luxurious suite with a grand piano, private rooftop patio, and breathtaking harbor views.
Guest Rooms
The Owner’s Suite includes a Fazioli grand piano, fire pit, and floor-to-ceiling windows.
Amenities
- Rooftop pool
- Full-service spa
- Michelin-star dining
Book The Fairmont Pacific Rim now!
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Fisherman’s Wharf Floating Bed & Breakfast at Granville Island
📍 Address: Granville Island, Vancouver, BC (Exact location varies by host)
⭐ Star Rating: N/A (Private Rental)
🐾 Pet Friendly: Some units allow pets
Fisherman’s Wharf Floating Bed & Breakfast at Granville Island offers a unique waterfront stay with cozy, nautical-inspired suites, stunning views of False Creek.
Why It’s Unique
This property offers an equally unique waterfront experience. It is moored right in the heart of Granville Island, allowing guests to enjoy life on the water with easy access to the island’s bustling public market, artisan boutiques, theaters, and waterfront restaurants.
Guest Rooms
The cozy floating suites are designed with nautical flair, featuring large windows that let in plenty of natural light and offer stunning views of False Creek and the Vancouver skyline. Guests can fall asleep to the gentle rocking of the water, making for a peaceful, maritime-inspired stay.
Amenities
- Private waterfront deck
- Complimentary breakfast
- Easy access to Granville Island shops, restaurants, and public market
- Kayak rentals nearby for exploring False Creek
Book Fisherman’s Wharf Floating B&B now!
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Wedgewood Hotel & Spa
📍 Address: 845 Hornby St, Vancouver, BC V6Z 1V1
⭐ Star Rating: 5 Stars
🐾 Pet Friendly: No
The Wedgewood Hotel & Spa is one of Vancouver’s only family-owned luxury hotels, offering an intimate, European-style experience in the heart of downtown. With its elegant decor, plush accommodations, and award-winning spa, this boutique hotel is perfect for those looking for a refined and romantic stay.
Why It’s Unique
One of the only family-owned luxury hotels in Vancouver, offering European charm.
Guest Rooms
Elegant decor with marble bathrooms, balconies, and plush robes.
Amenities
- Award-winning Bacchus Restaurant
- Luxury spa
Book The Wedgewood Hotel & Spa now!
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The Burrard
📍 Address: 1100 Burrard St, Vancouver, BC V6Z 1Y7
⭐ Star Rating: 3 Stars
🐾 Pet Friendly: Yes
Once a 1950s motor inn, The Burrard has been transformed into a retro-chic boutique hotel with a Palm Springs-inspired aesthetic. Its bright colors, neon lights, and lush courtyard create a fun, laid-back atmosphere. The hotel’s central location and complimentary bike rentals make it an excellent choice for urban explorers.
Why It’s Unique
A retro-chic former motor inn turned trendy boutique hotel.
Guest Rooms
Bright, colorful, mid-century modern rooms with vintage vibes.
Amenities
- Outdoor courtyard
- Free bikes
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YWCA Hotel Vancouver
📍 Address: 733 Beatty St, Vancouver, BC V6B 2M4
⭐ Star Rating: 2 Stars
🐾 Pet Friendly: No
Really, a YWCA?
Hear me out.
The YWCA Hotel has transformed their brand over the years. This should be your go-to for an affordable, modern, and socially responsible accommodation option in downtown Vancouver. Unlike a typical budget hotel, this not-for-profit hotel reinvests its earnings into local community programs, offering travelers a feel-good stay without sacrificing comfort.
Why It’s Unique
A budget-friendly, not-for-profit hotel that reinvests earnings into community programs. It’s clean, modern, and centrally located, making it an affordable option with a social mission.
Guest Rooms
Rooms are simple, surprisingly contemporary and well-maintained, with options ranging from private en-suite rooms to shared accommodations.
Amenities
- Shared kitchen for guests
- Free Wi-Fi
- Near Rogers Arena and BC Place
Book YWCA Hotel Vancouver now!
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Cambie Lodge Bed & Breakfast
📍 Address: 446 W 13th Ave, Vancouver, BC V5Y 1W5
⭐ Star Rating: 3 Stars
🐾 Pet Friendly: No
A cozy and charming Edwardian-style B&B, Cambie Lodge provides a peaceful retreat in a quiet residential area near downtown Vancouver. With its home-like atmosphere, vintage decor, and daily homemade breakfasts, it’s perfect for those who appreciate a slower, more intimate travel experience.
Why It’s Unique
A charming Edwardian-style bed & breakfast offering a quiet, homey retreat away from the bustle of downtown.
Guest Rooms
Each room is individually decorated with vintage-style furnishings and a cozy atmosphere.
Amenities
- Daily homemade breakfast
- Shared lounge and garden
- Quiet neighborhood near City Hall
Book Cambie Lodge Bed & Breakfast now!
How to Get to Vancouver from Portland and Seattle
- From Portland, Oregon: The drive from Portland to Vancouver takes about 5.5 to 6 hours via I-5 North, depending on traffic at the U.S.-Canada border. Amtrak’s Cascades train also offers a scenic alternative, taking about 8.5 hours to reach Vancouver’s Pacific Central Station.
- From Seattle, Washington: The drive from Seattle to Vancouver is approximately 2.5 to 3 hours on I-5 North. If you prefer public transit, Amtrak Cascades takes about 4 hours, and BoltBus and FlixBus offer affordable coach services. Flights from Seattle-Tacoma International Airport (SEA) to Vancouver International Airport (YVR) take about 1 hour and are frequent.
Vancouver is filled with incredible places to stay, and if you’re looking for something outside the ordinary, these 11 unique accommodations offer an unforgettable experience.
Which of these places would you love to stay at on your next Vancouver trip? Let us know in the comments!
