The hype
A surprisingly modern and well-maintained hotel for such a remote location, featuring the best dining in town.
The Explorer Hotel
$179-$300/ night
Book this if You want the most reliable, full-service basecamp in Yellowknife with a great restaurant and easy airport access.
Why People Love It
- Traders Grill is arguably the best restaurant in town
- Free airport shuttle and complimentary parking
- Clean, modern rooms with excellent heating for the extreme winters
Quick Take: It's the best hotel in Yellowknife, but remember you're in the remote North—expect high prices for standard amenities and occasional service quirks.
Reviewed by @bijleee_: I stayed at The Explorer Hotel and waking up to this endless snowy view from my bed was unreal. It was so cozy and peaceful, I didn't even want to look at my phone. If you need a quiet winter escape, this is it.
Guest Who Stayed Here Said
Reality check
The walls are paper-thin, so your sleep quality depends entirely on how quiet your neighbors are.
- You are here for an Aurora tour (many pick up right at the hotel)
- You appreciate having a solid on-site restaurant and cozy bar
- You want the convenience of a free airport shuttle
Cleanliness & Maintenance
8.5
- Housekeeping: Daily housekeeping is provided, and guests consistently report clean, well-maintained rooms.
- Bathroom hygiene: Immaculately clean bathrooms with shower/tub combos, though some fixtures are slightly dated.
- Maintenance: Remarkably good condition for an older, remote building, though occasional wear and tear is visible.
- Linens & towels: Fresh, clean linens and standard hotel towels. Beds are frequently praised as extremely comfortable.
- Odors & scents: Generally fresh; it is a 100% smoke-free property.
Sleepability™
7.5SILENT
0-4LOUD
4-7.5MODERATE
7.5-10SILENT
- Hallway traffic and doors closing
- Neighboring rooms due to thin walls
Before you book
Good to know
- There is no swimming pool or spa on the property
- Traders Grill gets fully booked on weekends—make reservations early
- The airport shuttle is free but runs on a scheduled basis
What to pack
- Heavy winter gear (if visiting Nov-Apr) because temperatures regularly drop to -30°C
- Earplugs or a white noise machine to block out hallway noise
Room Genie
Best picks
- Lake View Rooms for a scenic look at Frame Lake rather than the parking lot
- Deluxe King Rooms for extra space and updated decor
Rooms to avoid
- Rooms near the elevator or ice machines due to hallway noise
- Lower floor rooms facing the parking lot
Room Request Genie – copy & paste
“Hi team, I'm really looking forward to my stay. If possible, could I please request a quiet room on a higher floor with a view of Frame Lake, away from the elevators? Thank you!”
FAQ & Hidden tips
Everything you actually want to know before you book.
Does the hotel have a pool?
No, there is no pool or spa on the property, but there is a 24-hour fitness center.
Is there a free airport shuttle?
Yes, the hotel provides a complimentary airport shuttle, which is a huge perk given the extreme cold weather.
Can I see the Northern Lights from the hotel?
While you might catch a glimpse from a north-facing window, you really need to get out of the city lights on a guided tour for the full experience.
Is the on-site restaurant any good?
Traders Grill is actually considered one of the best restaurants in Yellowknife, famous for its Arctic Char and Sunday brunch.
Are pets allowed?
Yes, the hotel is pet-friendly. There is a CAD $20 fee per pet, per night.
Is there free parking?
Yes, self-parking is completely free for all hotel guests.
Insider Tips
- ✨
Book your table at Traders Grill before you even arrive, especially for the Sunday Brunch.
- ✨
Ask for a room facing Frame Lake for the best sunrise and sunset views.
- ✨
Take advantage of the Trapline Lounge's fireplace after a freezing night of Aurora hunting.
5 things to know before you go
💡The giant stuffed polar bear in the lobby is a mandatory photo op.
💡The hotel is built on a knoll, which gives it better views than most downtown buildings.
💡You can rent extreme winter clothing locally if you realize you didn't pack enough layers for -30°C.
💡The tap water is perfectly safe and delicious, no need to buy bottled water.
💡You need your room key card to operate the elevators, adding a nice layer of security.
Local Playbook
Map
See where The Explorer Hotel is located and what's nearby.