Fairmont Palliser- Calgary, AB

Like just about every grand Canadian hotel of the era, Fairmont Palliser was constructed by the Canadian Pacific Railway. In this case, it was built right next to the station, intended to serve tourists headed to Banff National Park and the CPR’s signature hotel, Banff Springs. Over 100 years later, the hotel still serves this function, although most visitors today arrive from the airport.

Named after an early explorer of the region, Captain John Palliser, the eight story Edwardian building with Chicago school details was designed by Montreal architect Lawrence Gotch in 1914. Built of stone, steel, reinforced concrete and brick, the hotel was constructed in an E shape to provide all rooms with outside lighting and ventilation. Inside, no expense was spared; in the Renaissance Revival lobby, originally known as the Rotunda, guests were greeted with gray Tennessee marble floors, columns finished in Botticino and Sylvian marble, oak paneling, and elegant candelabras.

Costing over $1.5 million to construct, the hotel boasted every modern convenience, including hot and cold running water in each of its 350 guest rooms, which were also outfitted with brass beds and mahogany doors. Elevator service was also available, as well as a railroad ticket office, Tudor style dining room, telephone bureau, and a flower stand, in case you wanted to brighten someone’s day. In 1929, the hotel added three stories, making it the tallest building in Calgary, a record that stood until 1958.

Over the years, the hotel has hosted a long list of distinguished visitors, ranging from King Edward VIII and Queen Elizabeth the II to Oprah. Of course Oprah has stayed there- much like Mark Twain, she pops up everywhere. In 1993, it was granted a Heraldic Badge from the Crown- the first ever issued to a hotel- which was fortunate, as they had been borrowing Palliser’s family crest for the better part of a century at that point.

Renovated several times over the years, the guest rooms are comfortable and modern; while updated, the classically decorated rooms retain their original details and character. However, some recent renovations have left the lobby in limbo. The longtime restaurant, Rimrock, with its 38 foot mural and original fireplace was shuttered, as was the lobby bar, leaving the otherwise lovely space lifeless. Every grand hotel needs a lobby bar, if for no other reason than to give guests a reason to hang out in the lobby. Hopefully the refreshed spaces will reopen soon. Otherwise a solid hotel, the Palliser’s central location is perfect for exploring Calgary.