Must-See Attractions and Activities in Banff

Take all the wonderful Canadian stereotypes—friendly people, scenic landscapes, accessible wildlife—and bundle them into one lovely little town, and you will find Banff, Alberta.

No wonder Banff is among Canada’s most popular attractions. This Rocky Mountain town serves as a gateway to stunning countryside, including Canada’s first national park and a continuing national treasure, Banff National Park.

Canada is vast, and traveling from one point of interest to another is often time-consuming; however, once you arrive in Banff, a plethora of attractions await you, many even within walking distance.

As Canada’s highest town, sitting at an elevation of 4,537 feet (1,383 meters), you can easily reach treeline and immerse yourself in glaciers, wildlife, and meadows.

A haven for cycling, hiking, and skiing, Banff attracts more tourists than residents at any time of year; therefore, planning your visit ahead of time is key.

Getting to Banff is straightforward, with the most convenient route being less than a two-hour drive from Calgary.

Get Sky High on the Banff Gondola

The Banff Gondola is more than just a ride to a better viewpoint. Transformed in 2015, Banff’s top attraction takes visitors 2,900 feet up Sulphur Mountain to restaurants, a theatre, exhibits, and a stunning 360-degree rooftop observation deck offering breathtaking views of the Rocky Mountains.

Once at the summit, several hiking trails and a boardwalk allow visitors to indulge in scenic strolls or more ambitious walks along the ridge. Be on the lookout for bighorn sheep and hoary marmots on your trek—these animals often inhabit the area around the treeline.

Learn a Thing or Two at the Whyte Museum of Banff

Many visitors enjoy the charm of local museums, and the Whyte Museum of the Canadian Rockies is no exception. With both permanent and rotating exhibits, visitors can learn about Banff’s history, the beauty of the surrounding area, and the overarching Canadian character through video, photography, artifacts, and art.

The museum chronicles Canada’s national railway and its significant role in Banff’s growth as a tourist destination, immersing visitors in the challenges faced by early pioneers and indigenous communities.

Commune with Nature on Tunnel Mountain Trail

Tunnel Mountain Trail offers another beautiful hiking option, rewarding those who traverse it with incredible views of Banff and the Bow River. The trail takes under an hour to reach the top, making it a convenient choice for those short on time.

Despite being accessible and well-maintained, this trail remains popular, particularly during summer weekends, so be prepared to encounter fellow hikers along the way. Interestingly, Tunnel Mountain got its name due to a miscalculation made by railway surveyors who initially believed a tunnel would need to be blasted through it to create the most efficient route.

Soothe Your Weary Bones

The natural hot springs in Banff continue to attract visitors. Initially discovered by First Nations, these springs gained prominence in 1883 when Canadian Pacific Railway workers stumbled upon the sulfurous hot water source, leading to Banff’s establishment as Canada’s first national park.

Today, the Banff Upper Hot Springs invite visitors to relax in mineral-rich waters year-round. Families can enjoy access for under $25; however, be prepared for larger crowds unless you arrive at opening time or on a less favorable weather day.

Explore Canadian Art at the Canada House Gallery

If you’re interested in authentic Canadian art, consider visiting the Canada House Gallery. Since 1974, this gallery has been dedicated to showcasing Canadian artists, including many locals and Inuit creators. After its 2016 renovation, the gallery boasts a bright, airy space that beautifully presents a variety of artwork.

Get an Early Start to the Day at Bow Falls

Bow Falls is known more for its width than its height. Although not towering, the falls are impressive in their power and enchanting to watch. Since it is a popular spot, especially for picnics, aim to arrive early in the day before the crowds gather. The light before 11 am is also perfect for photography. However, be mindful that in winter, the falls can be frozen and may not appear as impressive.

Getting to Bow Falls on foot is easy. Simply take the Bow River Trail from Banff across the Bow River and walk along its south side for about 15 minutes, where you’ll find many benches to enjoy the serene surroundings.

Explore the Beauty of Lake Minnewanka

Just a short drive from Banff, Lake Minnewanka is stunningly beautiful, featuring turquoise glacial waters, rugged mountains, abundant wildlife, and captivating skies. Visitors are drawn to this location not only for its views, but also for activities such as lake cruises, boating, fishing, and maintained hiking trails.

Treat Yourself at the Fairmont Banff Springs Hotel

Regardless of whether you stay overnight or simply enjoy high tea, the Fairmont Banff Springs Hotel is a must-visit for any traveler. Situated in the heart of the Canadian Rockies, it is conveniently located within walking distance from downtown Banff.

Opened in 1888, this hotel, known as the “Castle in the Rockies,” is part of a prestigious network of hotels connected by Canada’s national railway system. Its architectural styles encompass a blend of French chateau and Scottish baronial influences, creating an impressive structure framed by stunning mountain vistas.

As you explore the hotel, the remnants of its illustrious history are visible in the paintings, artifacts, and photographs adorning the walls. Following significant renovations from the 1980s onward, the hotel has maintained its status as a world-class destination.

Cruise the Strip

Banff features a charming, pedestrian-friendly downtown, originally designed to cater to tourists. With just under 5 square kilometers of well-laid-out streets, you can enjoy exceptional views of Mt. Rundle and Mt. Cascade. Local bylaws keep the area free from overdevelopment, preserving the town’s unique character.

Visitors can explore a range of high-end shops, galleries, and restaurants, offering a variety of Canadian goods and experiences. Moreover, you might encounter roaming herds of caribou that reflect the importance of wildlife in Banff life.

Take a Scenic Drive

With the stunning landscapes surrounding Banff, it’s hard to resist taking a driving tour to experience its beauty. Various routes provide access to breathtaking views of wildlife, mountains, glaciers, and lakes.

Taking a day to explore the area thoroughly or opting for a quick tour is entirely up to you. Popular routes include the Icefields Parkway, linking Banff to Jasper, offering views of ancient glaciers; the Bow Valley Parkway, which provides a calmer driving experience; and the Vermilion Lakes Road, showcasing views of three pristine lakes and Mount Rundle.

Hit the Slopes

Banff is located in prime skiing territory, surrounded by three of Canada’s best ski resorts, known as the Big 3: Norquay, Banff Sunshine, and Lake Louise. Together, these resorts offer nearly 8,000 acres of skiing and regular shuttle services to facilitate inter-resort travel.

Sunshine Village, located 15 kilometers southwest of Banff, offers diverse terrain suitable for various skill levels. Thanks to its high elevation, it often has the most reliable snowfall in the region. Lake Louise, being the largest, boasts 1,700 hectares of skiable terrain known for family-friendly slopes and scenic views. Conversely, Mount Norquay is the closest ski area, only 6 kilometers away, making it an ideal spot for beginners and families.