S
cott and Laurie LaFleur moved their family of six to Maine's Aroostook County from Halifax, Nova Scotia and transformed a local hotel property into an elevated, classy business hotel and convention center. The property features two fantastic eateries onsite: Tundra and Buck's Bar.
S
Congratulations are in order for the Best Western Caribou Inn, which has been recognized with the prestigious WelcomeME Award by the Maine Office of Tourism and Maine Tourism Association! This award honors the property's exemplary customer service and its front-line workforce's dedication to high standards of hospitality. The recognition comes on the heels of the inn receiving the Business of the Year for Economic Impact Award from the Central Aroostook Chamber of Commerce, celebrating its role as a premier destination and gathering place for both locals and travelers.
How the LaFleur's Came to Caribou
The story of the Best Western Caribou Inn's transformation is driven by owners Scott and Laurie LaFleur. Originally from Nova Scotia, the couple's journey to Aroostook County started after the LaFleur's acquired and renovated the former Budget Traveler Inn in Presque Isle, establishing Maine's first SureStay by Best Western. The renovation of the Presque Isle property was a welcomed change to the region and an improvement to lodging availability near BigRock Mountain in Mars Hill.
Seeing the immense potential of the former Caribou Inn and Convention Center, they purchased the property in the fall of 2022. Over the next two years, the couple led a massive renovation to update 66 guest rooms, ballroom and bar, and the spacious indoor courtyard. They rebranded the property as a Best Western in late 2024, combining modern amenities with localized charm—including framed Aroostook photography from a local legend Paul Cyr and reimagining the lobby and welcome area to provide style, character and welcoming warmth during The County's winters.
When the LaFleur's are asked about the hotel they are quick to point out the great staff who work to make the hotel a great destination. From warm welcomes to friendly bar service, the whole team makes the property the positive experience it is known for. The staff were recently recognized and awarded for their work by the Best Western franchise for their attention to detail and cleanliness.
Their vision to create an authentic community gathering place continued with the opening of Buck’s Bar, a stylish hunting-themed bourbon bar serving up mouth watering handhelds like burgers that pays homage to northern Maines rich outdoor heritage. Tundra Restaurant operates in the space formally known as The Greenhouse Restaurant and is best known for breakfasts and a menu full of local flavor.
Maine Tourism Conference: WelcomeME Award
The WelcomeME Award, presented annually by the Maine Office of Tourism and the Maine Tourism Association, recognizes one outstanding front-line tourism professional or business who exemplifies exceptional hospitality and customer service. As one of just six Maine Tourism Awards given each year, it honors an individual who goes above and beyond to create memorable visitor experiences, serve as a genuine ambassador for their destination, and inspire travelers to explore more of Maine. Recipients of the WelcomeME Award set the standard for welcoming service, demonstrating how personal connection, local knowledge, and a commitment to excellence can elevate the state’s tourism industry. Beyond Scott and Laurie's hotel, they actively give back to the community through volunteer work at Caribou Economic Council, tourism leadership with Aroostook County Tourism, and local engagement with Aroostook Women's Network, making them deserving recipients of this year’s WelcomeME Award.
About Caribou, Maine
Located in the heart of Aroostook County, Caribou is th United States most northeasterly city. The landscape is defined by the winding Aroostook River and a patchwork of agricultural fields and forests. This is the center of North America's #1 snowmobile trail system and recognized as one of the top ten winter destinations for snow lovers by USA Today. Maine's best winter is in the City of Caribou. The type of visitor coming to Aroostook County is evolving. In 2023, the region saw a 20.2% increase in overnight visitation, followed by an additional 16.5% increase in 2025. Year-round, Caribou is energized by community events such as Thursdays on Sweden Street and live music, creating a vibrant and welcoming atmosphere. As the premier winter destination in New England, Caribou attracts visitors from all 50 states and around the world.
