Canada’s First Cambria Hotel Planned for Thunder Bay Airport
THUNDER BAY — July 28, 2026 — A 107-room Cambria Hotel is planned for Thunder Bay International Airport, bringing the upscale hotel brand to Canada for the first time while expanding accommodations for travellers moving through Northwestern Ontario’s busiest aviation hub.
The First Nations-majority-owned development will be built next to the airport terminal. Construction is scheduled to begin this summer, with the hotel expected to open in September 2027.
First Nations Ownership Central to Airport Development
The project is being led by Rideout Bay Developments and will be 90 per cent First Nations owned.
Wabigoon Lake Ojibway Nation is the majority shareholder. Boundary Waters Anishinaabeg Development LP, an economic development organization owned by four Treaty 3 First Nations in the Rainy River District, is also a partner.
“This development represents a major milestone for the Thunder Bay Airport and our community and an exciting partnership with First Nations communities,” said Graham Ingham, president and CEO of the Thunder Bay International Airports Authority.
Ingham said the hotel will improve services for passengers while supporting regional economic growth.
The development will include a four-storey First Nations-themed mural and other Indigenous design elements.
Wabigoon Lake Ojibway Nation Chief Clayton Wetelainen said the project reflects Thunder Bay’s expanding role as a centre for First Nations business, education and health-care services.
“As majority shareholder, we are pleased to lead such a landmark development — a significant development for Thunder Bay and for our First Nations communities,” Wetelainen said.
He said the hotel will help address demand for quality accommodations from people travelling to Thunder Bay from communities across the region.
Hotel to Include Restaurant and Conference Space
Plans call for modern guest rooms, a full-service restaurant and bar, fitness facilities and flexible meeting and conference areas.
The conference facilities could support business gatherings, regional meetings, Indigenous governance events and organizations bringing participants to Thunder Bay from remote and rural communities.
“Boundary Waters Anishinaabeg Development LP is proud to be a partner in bringing Canada’s first Cambria Hotel to Thunder Bay,” CEO Peter Moen said.
“By collaborating on this first-class facility, we are not only expanding regional infrastructure but ensuring our First Nations are central drivers of Northern Ontario’s economic future.”
Boundary Waters Anishinaabeg Development LP is owned by Couchiching First Nation, Mitaanjigamiing First Nation, Nigigoonsiminikaaning First Nation and Seine River First Nation.
Why the Airport Location Matters to Northwestern Ontario
The hotel’s location beside the terminal could be especially important for passengers travelling between Thunder Bay and smaller northern communities.
Thunder Bay is a connecting point for residents travelling for medical appointments, education, court proceedings, government services and business. A hotel within walking distance of the terminal could also provide an additional option when weather, mechanical issues or scheduling changes disrupt flights.
The development may also strengthen Thunder Bay’s ability to host regional conferences and business events by combining meeting space, accommodations and airport access at one location.
For First Nations partners, majority ownership means a larger share of the project’s long-term economic benefits could remain connected to Indigenous communities in Northwestern Ontario.
“At Rideout Bay, we believe the strongest projects are built on shared vision and long-term value,” Rideout Bay Developments CEO Ben Cohen said. “This project reflects confidence in Thunder Bay’s growth and its vital role for Northwestern Ontario.”
Cambria Brand Making Canadian Debut
Cambria Hotels is an upscale Choice Hotels brand focused on modern accommodations, restaurants, meeting facilities and design elements reflecting the communities where its properties operate.
Choice Hotels has previously confirmed that Thunder Bay will be the location of the first Cambria property in Canada. The company had initially pointed to a 2026 opening, but the latest announcement now sets the anticipated opening for September 2027. Construction and opening schedules remain subject to change.
“Introducing the Cambria brand to Canada in Thunder Bay reflects confidence in the region and the strength of this collaboration,” said Kris Crundwell, regional vice-president of development with Choice Hotels Canada.
“We look forward to delivering an elevated hospitality experience for travellers.”.
