Cariboo Hotel

If you are looking for a place where the history of the Gold Rush era comes to life, the Cariboo Hotel is a must-see on your itinerary. This iconic two-story building, constructed in 1916, is located in the heart of Quesnel, British Columbia, Canada. The hotel is a classic example of early 20th-century architecture and a recognized historical landmark of the city.

Today, this building combines a cozy traditional pub, a bar, and a liquor store. Despite various renovations, the hotel has carefully preserved its original features: its timber frame, distinctive mansard roof, and classic front veranda. An old-school atmosphere can be felt in every detail of the interior.

The Cariboo Hotel served as the city's social center for a long time. Over the years, it housed not only guest rooms but also a dance hall, exhibition spaces, and even a dining room. Now, it is a popular meeting spot where you can enjoy live music, great food, and experience the true flavor of local culture.

For those planning to visit this historic establishment, here is the current contact information. The Cariboo Hotel always welcomes guests and locals alike.

Visiting the Cariboo Hotel is a great chance to spend time in the laid-back setting of an authentic pub. Here, you can try hearty classic dishes and sample local beers. The interiors, reminiscent of the wilderness pioneering days, create the perfect backdrop for a relaxing break after a walk through the city.

For those who enjoy active leisure, there are pool tables in the hall, and in the evenings, the venue frequently hosts live band performances. The live music and friendly atmosphere make the hotel a magnet for both tourists and residents of Quesnel.

Don't forget to stop by the local liquor store or use the convenient drive-thru service if you are traveling by car. If you prefer quiet contemplation, settle in on the cozy veranda with a drink and simply watch the leisurely pace of life in the downtown core.

Finding the Cariboo Hotel is easy, as it is located in the heart of downtown Quesnel at 254 Front St. If you are already in the city center, a pleasant walk along Front Street will lead you right to the doors of this historic building.

For travelers arriving via Quesnel Airport (YQZ), the trip takes only about 5–10 minutes by taxi or rental car. The city is a major transportation hub for the North Cariboo and is easily accessible via the scenic Highway 97, which runs through the province.

If your journey follows the "Gold Rush Trail" from Barkerville or Wells, the drive will take approximately 1–1.5 hours. Parking is available near the hotel, and for those in a hurry, there is a convenient drive-thru service at the liquor store.

The history of this site dates back to 1865, when a brewery and saloon were opened on this very plot. The business was founded by James Kerr and Dan Duwig. After Duwig's death, the establishment passed to Mrs. McLaughlin, who gave it the famous name — Cariboo Hotel.

The building we see today emerged after the tragic events of 1916. A massive fire that started in the Empress Theatre, located right inside the hotel, destroyed it to the ground along with neighboring buildings. The new owner and builder was John Strand, a well-known local contractor who also built the city's first hospital and the "The Quesnel" steamboat.

During the 1920s and 30s, the hotel became a true center of innovation for the city. It had its own electric generator, providing power even to neighboring buildings, and featured an indoor mini-golf course. Over the years, the building added a basement and a spacious beer parlor, maintaining its status as the primary social hub of Quesnel.

Today, the Cariboo Hotel is recognized as an important historical landmark. It embodies the era of the region's development as a gold mining center and serves as a wonderful example of how heritage architecture can harmoniously adapt to the modern needs of a city.

If you just want to take a quick look inside and appreciate the historic interiors of the Cariboo Hotel, you will only need a short amount of time — about 20–30 minutes. However, most visitors prefer to stay longer to soak up the unique spirit of old-world Canada.

Typically, a full visit including lunch or dinner at the pub and a tour of the building takes 1 to 2 hours. If you happen to catch an evening of live music or decide to play a game of pool with the locals, plan to spend up to 3 hours here.

Operating hours for the different establishments within the Cariboo Hotel may vary. The pub is typically open to visitors Monday through Saturday from 11:00 AM to 10:00 PM. The hotel's liquor store operates on an extended schedule — daily from 9:00 AM to 11:00 PM.

Since opening hours may change depending on holidays or special events, we recommend checking for the latest information on the official website or directly on-site before your visit.

A stroll around the hotel's surroundings will allow you to dive deeper into the atmosphere of the historic center. Many interesting locations are within walking distance, making this an ideal starting point for a city tour.