A Businessclass Verified Hotel
Positioned as Canada’s first Indigenous-owned boutique art hotel, Skwachàys Lodge stands as a beacon of cultural celebration and social impact in Vancouver. Established by the Vancouver Native Housing Society (VNHS) in 2012, this visionary property has been meticulously reimagined from a neglected historic building into a sophisticated, purpose-driven retreat. Each of the hotel’s 18 guestrooms is uniquely curated—pairing leading Vancouver interior designers with Indigenous artists to craft immersive, art-filled sanctuaries that reflect the rich stories and traditions of the Pacific Northwest’s First Nations. Guests enjoy amenities including a cozy lounge with a fireplace serving breakfast, curated snacks, and BC wines, as well as access to a communal kitchen for added flexibility.
The lodge’s acclaimed Artists in Residence program continues to provide transformative living and creative studio space for Indigenous artists, with more than 100 participants having benefited since its inception. The rooftop features a ceremonial smudge room adorned with striking murals, while the on-site Aboriginal art gallery showcases contemporary works for guests and collectors alike. Weekly cultural workshops led by resident artists—ranging from drum crafting and beadwork to storytelling and spoken word—invite travelers to engage deeply with Indigenous traditions. Ideally located at the intersection of Gastown, Chinatown, and Railtown, Skwachàys Lodge offers a distinctive luxury stay in Vancouver’s vibrant Downtown Eastside, blending authentic hospitality with meaningful cultural exchange.