From Dairy to Luxury – The Historic Transformation of our Award Winning Hotel

Cairns Creameries

Built in 1928 by Fred Cairns, Cairns Creameries was one of the largest dairies and ice cream producers in the Niagara region. Known for its high-quality dairy products, the creamery quickly became a household name, supplying fresh milk and delicious ice cream to families across the area. The success of Cairns Creameries caught the attention of a larger dairy company, leading to its sale in 1930.

Bordens Dairy

In 1930, Cairns Creameries was purchased by Bordens Dairy, a well-established name in the dairy industry. Over the next 44 years, Bordens Dairy became a landmark in Niagara Falls, recognized not only for its freshly bottled milk and rich ice cream but also for its iconic giant concrete milk bottle that stood proudly on the property.

Bordens Dairy was the last remaining dairy in the region to maintain the tradition of the milkman. Local residents fondly remember the sight of a horse and carriage delivering glass bottles of fresh milk right to their doorsteps. This nostalgic service continued until 1974 when Bordens Dairy ceased operations.

Images Courtesy of Niagara Falls Public Library,
Donated by William S. Peckham

The Night Club Era

The building that now houses the Sterling Inn & Spa in Niagara Falls has a rich history, including its time as a popular nightlife venue in the 1980s and 1990s. During this period, the establishment was known as “Castle Rock,” and it was one of several nightclubs that operated in the building, along with “Roman Court” and “The Basement.” ​

Castle Rock was renowned for its vibrant atmosphere and live music, making it a favourite spot for both locals and visitors. Notably, the band LMT Connection had a legendary Sunday night residency at Castle Rock from 1995 to 1997, highlighting the club’s significance in the local music scene.

For a glimpse into the building’s past as Castle Rock, you might find this video from 1997 interesting.

The Sterling Inn & Spa

More than three decades later, in 2007, the historic dairy building was transformed into what is now the Sterling Inn & Spa, owned by Merani Hotel Group. The redevelopment held on to some of the historic buildings original architectural features such as the giant cement milk bottle exterior and exposed wooden beams throughout the front entrance and in some of the guest rooms. As one of Niagara Falls’ only boutique hotels, it offers a fusion of luxury accommodations and intimate charm.

Today, guests can experience tranquility at the full-service spa, indulge in regional farm-to-table cuisine at the award winning on-site restaurant, AG Inspired Cuisine, and unwind in beautifully designed suites—each one unique in layout. With amenities designed for couples, including breakfast in bed and spa-inspired bathrooms, the Sterling Inn & Spa has become the perfect destination for honeymoons and romantic getaways.

Located just minutes from Clifton Hill, Casino Niagara, and the Falls, the Sterling Inn & Spa continues to be a Niagara Falls landmark—this time as a luxurious retreat where history meets indulgence.