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FAIRMONT HOTEL MACDONALD

Our Story

The legacy of the river valley castle

The Grand Trunk Pacific Railway Company opened Fairmont Hotel Macdonald on July 5, 1915. Built as an early 20th-century railway hotel, Edmonton’s Châteauesque-styled building was designed to serve the passengers of Canada’s then-expanding rail network into Alberta.

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1915: Chateau on the River

Upon its opening in the summer of 1915, guests would depart train cabins for hotel rooms at what was deemed the grand “Chateau on the River,” marking the beginning of a legacy of elegance and unparalleled hospitality in Edmonton.

1919: The First Royal Visit

King Edward travelled to Alberta where he stated the province’s “space, tranquility & apparent freedom captured his imagination." While in Edmonton, the then prince stayed at Hotel Macdonald, but soon found more rustic accommodations for future visits. On this 1919 visit, he purchased a cattle ranch in the Alberta foothills.

1944: Loyal Edmonton Regiment Brought the Heart of Edmonton to Italy

Colonel Ernie Wilson, his driver, and signaler were among the first in Florence. They named the Canadian military headquarters Hotel Macdonald after their "favourite place in their hometown, which they hoped to visit again soon."

1951: Queen Elizabeth II First Visit to Hotel Macdonald

During her first Royal Visit to Canada, then Princess Elizabeth and the Duke of Edinburgh were welcomed into a suite with turn-of-the-century regal décor. Upon entering the suite, it's said that Prince Philip exclaimed, "Gracious! Just like home!"

1991: Reopening of Hotel Macdonald

On May 15, hundreds of Edmontonians gathered outside to witness the celebrated reopening of the city's beloved hotel, restored to its original grandeur, after eight years of closure.

Fairmont Hotel Macdonald receives Edmonton’s first and only MICHELIN Key

The international accolade recognized not only the hotel’s enduring legacy of service and hospitality, but also Edmonton’s growing place among Canada’s top destinations for exceptional travel experiences.

Awards

Steeped in history and grandeur, Fairmont Hotel Macdonald has been a beacon of luxury and excellence since its opening in 1915. Known Edmonton’s River Valley Castle, the landmark hotel has consistently set the standard for world-class hospitality.

  • MICHELIN Key, 2025

  • Tripadvisor Travelers’ Choice Awards, 2025

  • Best Hotel Bar, AGLC Best Bar None Program, 2025

  • Best Hotel in Canada, U.S. News & World Report, 2026

Our Commitment to the Future

Sustainable Responsibility

At Fairmont Hotels & Resorts, our commitment to the future is rooted in a deep respect for our environment, communities, and guests. We are dedicated to pioneering sustainable practices across our properties, from reducing our carbon footprint to supporting local cultures and economies.

A journey behind the scenes of Fairmont Hotel Macdonald

Preserving our Legacy

The magic of Fairmont Hotel Macdonald is its rich history and timeless elegance. To ensure this legacy is preserved for generations to come, we are committed to restoration and preservation to maintain the hotel's original character and charm. Preservation details are found throughout the hotel, from restoration of our historic ballrooms to conservation of original guest room door handles.