Out of the ordinary bars to visit in Canada

Canada has a wealth of intimate drinking dens and breweries fit for big nights out or quiet gatherings with friends. For those looking for a hint of eccentricity mixed in, we’ve found some of Canada’s most unusual bars that will linger long in your memory – or at least until the next day.

Arcade MTL, Montréal, QC

It’s game-on at Arcade MTL in Montréal. The painted Pac-man on the side of the entrance is a timely introduction to what will be a suitably nostalgic evening playing arcade and retro video games. Arcade MTL also hosts a Pokemon puzzle league, so plan your travels in advance if you’re a fan. After you’ve beaten the bar’s high score, head back to Le Square Phillips Hôtel & Suites and soak up the success in their heated indoor pool.

North Beach Volleyball, Toronto, ON

Beers and beach volleyball is an uncommon after hours pairing but a winning combination and you’ll find it in Toronto. The North Beach Volleyball centre is open until 2am on Friday and Saturday nights offering social drop-in games. And with over 20 selections of draught beer, ciders and home-made pizza available on-site, you’ll stay fueled up for the whole evening. After all the fun, unwind at Hotel X Toronto by Library Hotel Collection, while taking in the waterfront and city skyline.

Interactivity Board Game Café, Victoria, BC

Board game lovers need not look any further than Interactivity board game café, where classic board games are combined with a medley of craft beers, milkshakes, boozy floats (ice-cream, soda and a spirit of your choice) and towering grilled sandwiches. With over 900 games to pick from, you can spend the afternoon playing classics like Monopoly or opt for something a little more left-field such as Cards Against Humanity. Once you’ve finished, retreat to Fairholme Manor Inn, where you’ll be treated to a two-person jacuzzi and a daily homemade breakfast.

Hôtel de Glace, Quebec City, QC

If you prefer your drinks ice-cold, then Hôtel de Glace is the place for you. Carved entirely from ice, with elaborate decorative details and mighty polar bear snow sculptures, it is an impressive engineering feat well worth the visit. Once you enter the medieval-arched doorway, head straight to the bar for a shot that’s served in an ice glass. To warm up, come home to the alluring Fairmont Le Chateau Frontenac, with heated indoor pool, hot tub and steam rooms.

The Narrow Lounge, Vancouver, BC

Vancouver has a thriving underground bar scene and The Narrow Lounge is a great introduction if you can find it. With its rustic, rundown entrance, the bar is designed to be misleading. The only telltale sign that you’re in the right place is the glowing red light hanging over the entrance. Once you dare to enter, you’ll immediately be swept up in its wonderfully-grungy atmosphere, courtesy of its floor-to-ceiling graffitied hallway. Choose your favourite local craft beer in the gothic-style basement bar or the entirely different tiki-themed outdoor patio. Once your evening comes to an end, find your way back to the industrial Victorian Hotel – only a 5-minute walk away.

The Rolling Barrel, Victoria, BC

While it’s not officially a bar, this pub crawl is worth mentioning simply because you’re unlikely to find anything else like it. A two hour tour around Victoria, you will pedal your way around the city taking in its famous Gothic and French Renaissance-influenced architecture while stopping at three local bars along the way. Here, you’ll sample some of the excellent local craft beers and ciders on tap, before you glide happily on your way again. After a day of sipping and cycling, it’s time to pamper yourself at Fairmont Empress Hotel, with their luxurious on-site spa treatments.