Hotels (Commonwealth Union) _ Kenora’s iconic Clarion Lakeside Inn and Conference Centre has emerged from extensive renovations, welcoming guests once again after facing challenges following smoke damage in 2020.
The journey from that unsettling day in January 2020, marked by a call reporting smoke in the air from the hotel’s renowned top-floor restaurant, to the present reopening, has been one of resilience and determination.
General Manager Jimmy Koo vividly recalled the moment when he received the alert from the kitchen about the presence of smoke. Subsequently, the discovery of smoke emanating from beneath the building led to a swift evacuation. Although there was no direct fire damage, the severity of the smoke damage necessitated a thorough overhaul, stripping the interior down to the bare concrete.
Initial optimism about a quick reopening was overshadowed by the unexpected disruptions brought on by the COVID-19 pandemic. While the pandemic-induced delays persisted, the Clarion Lakeside Inn and Conference Centre underwent a transformative renovation, breathing new life into the cherished Kenora landmark.
Despite the progress made, some aspects of the restoration are still pending. The kitchen, a central component of the hotel’s allure, is not yet complete, postponing the reopening of the restaurant and lounge until the warmer seasons. Additionally, ongoing installations of audio-visual equipment in the conference rooms underscore the dedication to providing a top-notch experience.
The reopening of the Clarion Lakeside Inn and Conference Centre is not just a momentous occasion for the hotel but also a significant milestone for Kenora’s local economy. Stace Gander, the director of economic development and tourism for the City of Kenora, emphasized the vital role the hotel plays in driving tourism, supporting sports events, and accommodating business travelers.
The closure of the Clarion had a tangible impact on the city’s conference business and the size of hockey tournaments, given the reduced accommodation options. The absence of available hotel rooms also reverberated through events like weddings, affecting the local hospitality ecosystem, including restaurants and bars.
Gander highlighted the significance of the hotel’s top-floor restaurant, not merely as a dining establishment but as a destination. Offering panoramic views of the lake, it has become an integral part of the Kenora experience—a place where people celebrate special occasions, propose to their partners, and create lasting memories.
In essence, the Clarion Lakeside Inn and Conference Centre’s triumphant return symbolizes not only the revival of a beloved landmark but also the revitalization of Kenora’s hospitality sector, contributing to the city’s vibrant tapestry of tourism and community life.
