Located in the Canadian Rockies, Banff is one of the top mountain destinations in the world and a highlight of any Canada travel itinerary. Its close proximity to Banff National Park and Jasper National Park attracts a lot of tourists year after year. From exploring the National Parks to visiting Lake Louise, there’s so much to do in this little place. One could probably need a whole year and still not see it all. So, if you are planning a visit to Banff and looking for the best things to do in Banff, do refer to our versatile list below. This Banff travel guide helps you plan the perfect trip with top attractions, activities, and travel tips.
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10 Best Things To Do In Banff
Looking for the best places to visit in Banff? Top Banff attractions include visiting Lake Louise, exploring Banff National Park, riding the Banff Gondola, wildlife spotting, and hiking scenic trails. From towering mountains to colorful lakes, from iconic wildlife to endless adventure, here’s a list that has it all.
1. Take A Walk Around Banff Town
Start your trip in Banff town, a place with great alpine vibe and towering peaks. Banff Avenue is dotted with eateries, confectioneries, and shops offering everything from sportswear to souvenirs.
Best Walking Trails: Bow River Trail, Cascade Gardens, Downtown Pedestrian Bridge, Tunnel Mountain, Marsh Loop.
Best Time To Walk Around: June to July and late September to early October.
Duration Of Walk: 2–4 hours
2. Ride The Timeless Gondola
Taking the eight-minute ride to the top of Sulphur Mountain on a Gondola is one of the best things to do. On clear days, one can see the six mountain ranges, the Bow Valley below and the charming town of Banff.
Highlights: Boardwalks and observation decks, 360-degree views of six mountain ranges, mountaintop discovery center.
Best Time To Ride The Gondola: July, August
Duration Of Ride: 8 minutes per trip
Click Here To Book Your Tickets
3. Stay At Fairmont Banff Springs Hotel
Experience this five-star luxury hotel, one of Banff’s most iconic structures which was constructed in 1888. This hotel also known as the “Castle in the Rockies” has restaurants, shops, and a terrace with beautiful views of the Bow Valley.
Highlights: Historic atmosphere, activities and adventure.
Best Time To Visit: July, August, December
Duration Of Stay: 2 days
4. Get An Eyeful Of Bow Falls
Not far from the Banff Springs Hotel is Bow Falls, a wide powerful waterfall formed by glacial waters. It plunges into the river with remarkable twists and churns. The falls is conveniently accessible because it’s inside the town. It’s a great place for short walks and photography.
Highlights: Powerful water flow, ice formations in winter, rafting and 360° views of Mount Rundle.
Best Time To Visit: Accessible year-round
Bow Falls Trail Distance: 1.2-kilometer stroll (25 minutes)
5. Take A Day Trip To Lake Louise
One of the top highlights is visiting Lake Louise inside Banff National Park, with its striking green-blue waters and picture-perfect settings. A day trip here is among the top summertime activities and best things to do in Banff Canada.
Highlights: Hiking around the lake, canoeing, kayaking, taking a historic climb up to the Lake Agnes Teahouse and Fairmont Chateau Lake Louise.
Best Time To Visit: Late June to mid-September and January to March for winter activities.
6. Go Wildlife Spotting In Banff National Park
Here’s your opportunity to see a grizzly bear or gorgeous white mountain goats standing impossibly on a sheer cliff face. The park is also home to wolves, marmots, eagles, bighorn sheep, black bears, mountain lions and, of course, chipmunks and squirrels. Seeing wildlife in Banff National Park is definitely a visual treat.
Top Wildlife Spotting Locations: Bow Valley Parkway, Icefields Parkway, Vermilion Lakes & Minnewanka Loop, Lake Louise & Lake Moraine Area.
Best Time To Visit: Early mornings and late evenings.
7. Relax At Upper Hot Springs
Visit the Upper Hot Springs for an all-natural, low-cost, mineral-rich water experience in a breathtaking mountain setting. This hot spring is located near the base of Sulphur Mountain and is open all year round. A swim in the hot spring is one of the most relaxing and budget-friendly activities in Banff.
Ticket Price: $7-8 CAD for adults
Best Time To Visit: Early morning
8. Visit The Cave And Basin National Historic Site
The Cave and Basin National Historic Monument is one of Banff’s oldest tourist destinations. It’s worth a visit for its historical significance and natural hot springs. On Saturdays during summer, it offers a family-friendly evening lantern tour, which is one of the more unusual things to do in Banff.
Highlights: Artificial tunnel to natural grotto, original 1887 bathhouse, interpretive displays, hiking and snowshoe trails.
Timings: Thursday to Monday: 11:00 am to 5:00 pm
9. Explore Lake Minnewanka By Boat
The largest lake in Banff National Park, Lake Minnewanka, is only a 15-minute drive from town. Its tranquil blue beauty offers a glimpse of the Canadian Rocky Mountains’ and untamed wilderness. An hour-long boat cruise transports you to Devil’s Gap at the lake’s east end through some isolated alpine views.
Activities On Lake Minnewanka: Guided Tours, Kayaking, canoeing, hiking, and cycling.
Boat Cruise Options: Private Boats, Premium Cruise, Junior Explorer Cruise and Beer Voyage.
Best Time To Visit: June to August
10. Hike Through Banff National Park
When it comes to summertime activities in Banff National Park, hiking is one of the best things to do in Banff. With its alpine meadows, waterfalls, crystal-clear lakes, and breathtaking vistas, this place is a nature lover’s paradise.
Popular Hiking Trails: Larch Valley, Lake Agnes Trail, and Johnston Canyon Trail.
Best Time To Visit: July to September
Banff Itinerary Guide: 2, 3 & 5 Day Travel Plan
2-Day Banff Itinerary
- Day 1: Explore Town, Gondola, Upper Hot Springs
- Day 2: Lake Louise, Johnston Canyon
3-Day Banff Itinerary
- Day 1: Explore Town & Bow Falls
- Day 2: Lake Louise & Lake Agnes Trail
- Day 3: Lake Minnewanka & Wildlife spotting
5-Day Banff Itinerary
- Day 1: Explore Town & Scenic Highlights
- Day 2: Lake Louise & Moraine Lake
- Day 3: Icefields Parkway & Glacier Adventure
- Day 4: Lakes & Wildlife
- Day 5: Hiking & Hidden Gems
7 Quick Travel Tips For Banff
- Book hotels and buy a Parks Canada pass in advance during summer peak season.
- Start your day early (by 7:00 am) at Lake Louise and Moraine Lake to avoid parking issues.
- Carry bear spray when hiking in remote areas.
- Observe animals from a distance, avoid feeding or getting very close to the them.
- Pack layers, waterproof raincoat, and sturdy footwear as mountain weather changes quickly.
- Consider renting a car for easier and faster exploration.
- Internet service is limited on highways and parks, hence download offline maps and guides before you start.
Also Read: 14 Places You Must See In Canada When You Visit
Final Words
Banff is more than just a destination, whether you’re visiting for a weekend getaway or for a long vacation, the many things to do here has something special for every traveler. It’s time to pack your bags and get ready to travel to a place that welcomes you with open arms and endless wonders.
FAQs
It is best known for its stunning natural beauty, wildlife, and outdoor adventures within Banff National Park.
The best time to visit is July and August offering the warmest weather, while June and September provide a good balance of pleasant weather.
Yes, you can see the Northern Lights in Banff with clear skies and a bit of luck, especially between October and March.
Some of the top scenic drives with views of glaciers, turquoise lakes, and towering peaks are Icefields Parkway, Lake Louise Drive, Minnewanka Loop and Bow Valley Parkway.
5 to 7 days is good time to experience the destination without feeling rushed. However, for a deeper exploration 7 to 10 days is recommended.
Calgary International Airport (YYC) which is approximately 144 kilometers east of the town is the closest airport to Banff. It would take about 1.5 to 2 hours by road.
