
By Elke Porter | WBN News Vancouver | April 15, 2025
The Terminal City Club, founded in 1892 as the Metropolitan Club, has a rich and intertwined history with the city of Vancouver itself. The city's journey began with its incorporation in April 1886, followed closely by the arrival of the first train from the Canadian Pacific Railway in May 1887, establishing Vancouver as the railway's western terminus. The origins of the Terminal City Club are somewhat enigmatic, but it is widely believed to have evolved from the Vancouver Chess and Draughts Club, which was established in 1889.
Evidence supporting this connection includes the fact that both clubs occupied the same building, and the Chess and Draughts Club ceased operations shortly after 1892, with the Metropolitan maintaining a private meeting room known as the Chess and Drafts Room for a decade.
The first official mention of the Metropolitan Club occurred in October 1892 when it announced its elected officers. It is thought to have been incorporated officially on December 5, 1892, an anniversary commemorated in the following year with a celebratory concert. The club initially resided in the Ferguson Building at Hastings and Richards, owned by Alfred Graham Ferguson, who later became the club's president in 1897. By around 1893, the club relocated to O’Brien Hall at Hastings and Homer.
Fast forward to today, the Terminal City Club stands as one of Vancouver's most esteemed institutions, blending over a century of tradition with modern elegance. Nestled in the heart of downtown, it offers its members exclusive access to an array of top-tier amenities that foster both professional and social connections. Its facilities include fine dining restaurants, casual lounges, and versatile meeting spaces that cater to business functions and private gatherings alike.
This April, as spring blooms, the club is alive with fresh energy, presenting new menus crafted from locally sourced ingredients at the Grill and Lions Pub. The return of patio season will allow members to enjoy al fresco dining while taking in stunning city views.
Beyond dining, the Terminal City Club promotes wellness through a fully equipped fitness center, a swimming pool, and tailored wellness programs. Engaging networking events, such as the Latin Social Dance Night on April 11, provide members with opportunities to connect and unwind in a vibrant, lively atmosphere.
The festivities continue with an Easter celebration on April 20, featuring a family brunch with an expansive buffet, activities for children, and a visit from the Easter Bunny. In honor of Earth Day on April 22, the Club will showcase its commitment to sustainability with a selection of organic, biodynamic, and vegan wines.
With a legacy of excellence in service and a strategic location, the Terminal City Club remains a beloved institution where tradition meets innovation, creating a dynamic and welcoming atmosphere for its diverse membership.
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