From the brick-cloistered third-floor courtyard, you could be steeping in a noir drama. The Walper’s 79 asymmetrical rooms and suites all maintain a stately, bygone charm that’s closer to working class than social mogul (save inside the Prime Minister’s suite, perhaps). Likewise, the fixtures and furniture are a hodgepodge of antiques from local auctions and estate sales—the 115-year-old building was gutted to stave off bankruptcy in 1979. Today’s owners have revived the place as a comfy, self-sufficient throwback in the historical heart of downtown Kitchener.  

The property boasts a vintage barbershop and a plush ballroom with 11 crystal chandeliers. Guests get passes to the ample Good Life fitness centre just steps away, or they can assault their lungs through less constructive means thanks to an adjoining tobacco shop. Below ground is the Rum Runner, a dimly lit and cavernous pub, cut with weathered walls, scuffed wood and exposed brick, a Yuk Yuk’s theatre and a lounge with no-frills tap selection and decent grub. Anchoring the building’s corner at street level is the Terrace Café, a bright, elegant, open room that serves award-winning food—think lobster omelettes and oatmeal brulée for breakfast, and a Cajun salmon sandwich or barbecue pear quesadilla for lunch.

Rooms start at $120.

walper.com