1. Fairmont Empress
The hotel offers a heated indoor lap pool, an indoor whirlpool and a childrens wading pool. A landmark in its own right, the Fairmont Empress Hotel is easily recognized by its old-fashioned facade. The elegant building (a National Historic Site of Canada) draped in emerald green ivy opened its doors in 1908 and was designed by the same architect of the Parliament Buildings nearby. Plus, a $60 million renovation completed in 2017 has restored the hotel’s interior to its former glory. Accommodations are outfitted with king- or queen-sized beds and offer views of the city, courtyard or the Inner Harbour, though recent guests said the bathrooms are on the smaller side. The Gold level luxury rooms and suites include continental breakfast, free evening hors d’oeuvres and cocktails and access to a private lounge.
2. The Westin Bayshore, Vancouver
The circular outdoor pool offers views of the waterfront, mountains and harbor and is surrounded by cushioned lounge chairs and umbrellas. The indoor pool, suitable for swimming short laps, is next to the fitness center and also includes a whirlpool.