Prince George's origins date back to the early 19th century when it was Fort George, a trading post for the North West Company fur trappers. Before that, the area was home to the Lheidli T'enneh First Nation, or the “people of the confluence of the two rivers.” To say that it has a colorful history is an understatement, and to say that it has a long history doesn't do it justice.
Its growth once came by way of railroads and steam engines, but it continues because of the landscape, the opportunities, and the rugged beauty of the region. Find out how to ensure a picture-perfect vacation in Prince George.
When is a good time to travel to Prince George, BC?
Until 1990 or so, Prince George was classified as a subarctic climate. Over the past few decades, however, the area has gotten considerably warmer and now experiences a humid continental climate. The temperatures still never get very high, but each separate season is pleasant.
Winter isn't what you might expect, partly thanks to the recent rise in humidity. Don't make the mistake of thinking that Prince George is like Portland or Seattle just because they're all in the Northwest. Prince George receives a decent amount of snow. You can count on it between December and February, but it often starts in October and doesn't stop entirely until May. On the plus side, that leaves ample opportunities for low room rates and snowy adventures.
The transition between winter and summer happens fast. They say that fall in New England is short-lived, but that's nothing compared to the length of the season in British Columbia. Fall in Prince George is fast but fierce. The air has the perfect bite, you can still enjoy outdoor activities, and hotel prices still tend to drop to mid-range or lower. The same is true in spring when the warm-up seems to blossom all at once in May.
Then, all of a sudden, it's summer, with sunny 70-degree days. The evenings are still chilly, but that just means you can find a fire pit somewhere and warm your bones. The humidity boosts the comfort level. You'll feel warm, maybe even hot, but rarely overheated. Room rates go up somewhat in June, July, and August, but you can lock in a price you can afford if you browse early and book as soon as possible.
Below is a chart of the current pricing seasonality of hotels and motels in Prince George, BC:
Prince George, BC: Prices by Star Rating Class
Below we've posted 3 graphs illustrating avg. nightly cost patterns by star rating class in Prince George, BC. Browse these charts to evaluate the least expensive dates to book in Prince George during the year.
Where are the best luxury accommodations in Prince George, BC?
Lap up a little Northwestern luxury at Prestige Treasure Cove Hotel & Casino, less than two miles from the town center. It has everything you need, such as a bar and lounge, a pool for the kiddies alongside the big-kid pool, and state-of-the-art fitness facilities. Chic decor, comfortable beds, and bathrooms that count as a splurge — what more could you want? The brightly lit casino floor doesn't hurt.
Reserve a room at the Sandman Signature Prince George Hotel, and you'll rave about your accommodations for years to come. Not only can you choose a room with a kitchen, but some suites also have bunk beds for kids or extra guests. For a surcharge, breakfast is available each morning. In the evening, venture down to the lounge.
What are the best budget-friendly hotel options near Prince George, BC?
3 Star Average Prices: $83.20
Travelers who come to Canada from another country need to keep an eye out for lower-cost accommodations due to the exchange rates. However, even folks from other parts of Canada or BC can benefit from being thrifty wanderers. You can score affordable prices at many hotels right in Prince George.
The Riviera City Centre Hotel is directly in the heart of the city. You can easily reach Fort George Park from the hotel. The Exploration Place Museum and Science Centre is also nearby. Guests with four-legged friends are welcome to bring their furry buddies along with them.
A charming courtyard with manicured grass and hanging flowers is a standout feature, and that's just the exterior. Homey rooms come with coffeemakers, mini-fridges, and microwaves. Save more money by making your own coffee, buying foods you can eat cold or heat up, and dining on doggie-bag fare. Comfy beds, cozy living room areas, and a lovely cafe on the main floor complete the package.
2 Star Average Prices: $99.34
What hotels in Prince George are best for discounts?
Eligible travelers might have a discount in their pocket without even knowing it. Do you have AAA? Are you a senior citizen? Have you served in the military or in a government capacity? It's possible that you can snag a lower rate than you expected.
At the Travelodge Prince George Goldcap BC, inquire about a discount if you're in the military, a veteran, or a qualifying government professional. Bring your pets, too; they stay free. Speaking of free, your breakfast is comped, as well. The rooms are modern but comfortable, down to the cloud-like pillows and cushioned chairs. See about getting a room with its own small kitchen.
Military and government discounts apply at the Coast Inn of the North, too. Located near Cottonwood Island Park and the Prince George Railway, it boasts a bar and lounge with an on-site chef, fitness facilities, and an indoor pool, plus you can get breakfast for a surcharge. Nine floors guarantee views that are more gorgeous the higher you go. Swim or frolic in the indoor pool and dry off back in your suite. Each chic room resembles a hip one-bedroom apartment more than anything else.
Older adventurers who stay at Canada's Best Value Inn Prince George are near the CN Centre and the Prince George Aquatic Center, which are worth a visit. Breakfast is free, and you have access to the pool. Inquire about a room with a kitchen to cut back on eating at restaurants.
Calling all AAA members! Anchor your vacation at the Ramada Plaza by Wyndham Prince George for proximity to all of the best attractions in the heart of downtown. There's an indoor pool, breakfast for a nominal fee, and a fitness center. Enjoy a drink or a meal at the bar, then head to your chic, modern room. Some suites have hot tubs in the bedrooms; others include expansive sitting rooms.
Where are the hotels with the best value near Prince George, British Columbia?
Stick to a name you know and trust anytime value is essential for your Northwest holiday. Research the rates, particularly for a stay that lasts longer than four days. The Super 8 by Wyndham Prince George is a popular value pick. It's recognizable, reputable, and in this case, it's in the center of the city.
This particular Super 8 as an indoor pool for adults and a separate pool for kids. It's pet-friendly and provides free breakfast. Guests can work off steam in the fitness center. The decor is a dream that will make you feel like you're in a tropical place where the palm trees grow.
The Four Points by Sheraton Prince George veers more toward the expensive side in comparison to Super 8, but it's a value-for-money choice all the same. Culture vultures will love its proximity to the Prince George Playhouse, while sporty guests can head to the Prince George Golf and Curling Club. The fitness facilities are available all day and night. There's a bar-and-lounge area where you can grab a bite and a beer at the end of a long day. Look for a room with a fireplace and a kitchenette, or take it up a notch with an en-suite hot tub. The Days Inn Downtown Prince George is an enchanting option due to its prime location and its recent renovations. You get to soak up the lively bustle of Prince George from your room. Free breakfast and fitness facilities are the tip of the iceberg of attractive features and can't-miss amenities. Modern furniture and little extras, such as coffee nooks and mini-fridges, help to make your stay more enjoyable.
What are the top attractions in Prince George, BC?
Are you a fan of wine tastings? At Northern Lights Estate Winery, you can sip on the best that British Columbia has to offer. CrossRoads Brewing is the spot for beer enthusiasts. Leave room in your travel itinerary for a pit stop at this tasting adventure. Perhaps you might start with a visit to Cottonwood Island Nature Park to visit with all the local critters. Then enjoy a spot of lunch, enjoy your wine tasting, then head to the Prince George Railway Museum to learn about the area's relationship with trains.
Set aside a day to explore the Huble Homestead Historic Site, a living history museum. While you're there, you can watch a blacksmith work, stop by the fish-smoking house, and grab some souvenirs from the general store. Hiking, fishing, skiing, and snowboarding await once you tire of museums.
Make sure you time your visit so that the season lines up with the activities you want to enjoy. What do you plan to do in Prince George?
'There seems to be little that separates us from the beasts of wilderness apart from literacy and culture. To take them for granted is like rejecting our humanhood.
Brian Fawcett, a noted Canadian writer and activist, wrote the sentence quoted above in one of his newspaper columns. Born and raised in Prince George, British Columbia (Canada), this very statement tells us heaps about the kind of culture and maturity that Prince George the City seems to breed.
Located at the fertile confluence of rivers Fraser and Nechako, Prince George has long been a cultural, economic and industrial capital of the Province of British Columbia, and quite rightly so. It is one of the most populous cities of the region and is known globally for its world-class industrial zones where manufacturing and processing activities of many Fortune 500 companies take place.
From a tourism point of view, Prince George is a wonderful prospect. This is where you can come across the traditional native culture as well as the rich colonial culture (mainly British, partly French). History meets modernity in many of Prince George's districts as you can see antiquated mansions and public schools competing with smart buildings of the 21st century, and historic churches and cathedrals standing shoulder to shoulder with the malls and shopping centers of new-age.
So, to get to know better this city that single-handedly drives business and culture in British Columbia, all you have to do is get up and get going. Maybe, this no-nonsense guide to hotels in Prince George will help you solidify your plans into a better mould!
Budget Hotels and Lodges in Prince George
There are quite a few cheap hotels in and around Prince George. A lot of this fact has to do with another equally important fact that Prince George is the most densely inhabited city in the province. Add to it the industrial and business culture of the city, and it's easy to why a lot of visitors “ including business travelers as well as pleasure seekers “ are hosted by Prince George.
Among various cheap hotels that can be found here, we reviewed a handful and the results were not at all disappointing.
Economy Inn, for example, turned out to be a perfect choice to spend a night or two when you stop by in Prince George for sightseeing or business. Right from the name of the inn, you can be sure that the guys operating this lodge fully well know what they are doing. At affordable prices, you get to experience decent hospitality, basic amenities and even free of charge Wi Fi!
A similarly affordable option in Prince George would be Prince Motel Ltd. It is a typical North American highway-side motel that is perfect to make your halt at if you are driving past it. Safe and secure stay coupled with courteous staff means that you will be getting full worth for the money you pay here “ and then some!
Seeking Luxury in Prince George
If it's luxury that you are after, you won't be disappointed while being in Prince George. Over half a dozen world-class five star Prince George hotels would be happy to host you in order for you to get to know their maverick brands of hospitality.
Sandman Signature Hotel and Suites ended up being at the top of our review list. Although a four star hotel on paper, this is no less of a luxurious resort than any five star hotel in the region. Exquisitely designed suites and a host of in-house amenities come together to create a fabulous staying experience for the patrons of the resort. Prices start from $190 per night.
Four Points by Sheraton is the next resort in line. It carries a tried and tested brand of Sheraton quite faithfully, and prices of $140 per night definitely justify the royal stay you get to experience here.
Northern North Ranch Cottages is a little offbeat option in this segment. Just as costly as the ones listed above, it gives you an additional advantage of exploration of the Canadian wildlife.
Sightseeing in Prince George
There's much to see in Prince George if you are a history buff or a culture vulture.
Fort George Park is a popular destination for tourists and locals alike to find some peace of mind. Located just outside the city limits, it offers a great view of the confluence and jogging tracks in the park are definitely good enough to get you geared up for a fabulous day in Prince George.
Connaught Hill is a small hillock that's situated smack right in the middle of the city. You can easily drive atop the hill in order to get a panoramic view of the city and its surroundings, including both the rivers. It is a popular photo-spree destination among tourists.
Adventure seekers can drive out of the city to ˜Forests for the World', a beautiful ensemble of outdoor activities and simple pleasures of a family picnic. From hiking to wall climbing and from peddle boating to kayaking, a lot of exciting activities will be awaiting you here.
Railway and Forestry Museum can be visited if you have a thing for the treasures of the past. Railways have played an important role in the rise of Canada, and you can see how it all turned out in this small, intimate museum.
Hotels in the Vicinity of Prince George Airport
Most likely, your entry in Prince George will be through the local airport of Prince George. It is located at a drive of about 5 minutes from the city center.
That's why, most Prince George hotels automatically end up being in the vicinity of the airport.
Prince George Weather and Hotel Tariffs
June and July are two months that are most moderate in terms of weather conditions in Prince George. While temperatures can drop well below the freezing point around December, hotels in Prince George tend to slash their prices considerably during this time of the year, as well.
So, you might have to take a calculated risk in order to strike the balance between affordability and convenience.