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For a small town, there sure are a lot of things to do in Banff. As one of my favorite towns in Canada, Banff is probably the most well known place in the Canadian Rockies.
This picturesque little mountain town is nestled between some of the largest and jaw-droppingly awesome mountains and lakes Canada has to offer. But there’s a lot more to it than that.
Banff is especially popular because it’s such a short drive from nearby big city Calgary. It’s about 2 hours whether you take a bus transfer from Calgary downtown (or airport) or if you have access to a car.
There is so much to do in the entire National Park. But for those without access to a car you can still see mountains, do scenic hikes and visit lakes, all without leaving Banff.
So what are some of the top things to do in Banff? If you’re staying for a day, a week or even longer, this guide will give you plenty of great ideas.
Where to stay in Banff
Banff is intensely popular, and is therefore often very busy. You’ll want to plan your trip well in advance to avoid the disappointment of not having a place to stay.
The Fairmont Banff Springs hotel or the Rimrock Resort are both the top choices for those looking for a little luxury on their Rockies trip, but they come with the appropriately matched price tags. The Fairmont Banff Springs is one of my favorites, so if you do have the $$ I recommend a stay at the Castle in the Rockies.
If that’s not your style I recommend a number of mid-range hotels located throughout the main town area. The bonus is that they are also closer to everything. The Moose Hotel is a great place to stay although it’s one of the more costly in-town hotels.
I really enjoyed staying in the Elk and Avenue and the Mount Royal is another good option. Although Mount Royal is a little more central so could be a little livelier on a weekend or in the summer.
For somewhere a little quieter try the Banff Park Lodge, one street over. Looking for more economical accommodation? Banff has a hostel, the Samesun. That’s about as cheap as you’ll find, because fair warning: Banff isn’t that cheap.
The best things to do in Banff
Now you know where to stay let’s get to the good stuff. What can you see and do in Banff? If you’ve chosen to come to the Canadian Rockies then you might be an outdoors fan. That’s great news as there are a lot of fun activities, both soft and more adventurous.
But even if you just want to gaze at the scenery without getting too dirty, there’s also plenty of other great things to do in Banff.
Fun fact: All of downtown Banff’s streets (with the exception of Banff Avenue, Railway Avenue and Bow Avenue) are named after animals. Different animals that are commonly found in the National Park, in fact. Everything from Bear Street and Elk Street, to Wolverine Street and Buffalo Street. That should keep you amused for hours as you walk about the town doing some of these amazing activities.
1 – WHYTE MUSEUM OF THE CANADIAN ROCKIES
I first made the mistake of going into the Banff Park Museum which (in my opinion) was a little too heavy on the taxidermy. But luckily, I then realized Banff had a bigger and better museum just a block away.
The Whyte Museum is a cultural museum focused around the history of the national park and its inhabitants, before and after gaining National Park status.
There’s a great amount of First Nations history as well as information on the growth of the town of Banff, and the railway that still services the Canadian Rockies today. Skip the other one and visit here instead.
Money Saving Tip: Staying at the Fairmont Banff Springs hotel as an Accor member? Complimentary access to the museum is offered – just ask your concierge at the hotel.
2 – HIKE TUNNEL MOUNTAIN
Tunnel Mountain is the popular hike to do in Banff. It’s one that you don’t need a car to get to. Therefore it’s perfect if you aren’t driving, or even if you want to have a car free day.
The hike itself will take you no more than two hours. Probably less. But it’s a great workout for the legs and although it doesn’t seem like the most fun while you’re climbing it, the views are pretty incredible.
Check out my Tunnel Mountain hike post here including everything you need to know to do the hike.
3 – CAVE & BASIN
The Cave & Basin National Historic Site is just a short drive, or a 20-25 minute walk from the town center of Banff. But if you want to know how Canada’s National Park history began, then make sure you visit the Cave & Basin.
Like the name suggests there is a cave. You can go in it and see some of the amazing mineral springs that are naturally heated. The Sulphur smell can be a little overpowering at first in a more confined space, but it’s a cool place to visit.
Outside there’s another natural thermal springs and if you get higher up on the building there are some good views of the area too.
4 – BANFF GONDOLA
Ultimate tourist activity number one in Banff has to be the Banff Gondola. The cable car ride up Sulphur Mountain is busy and popular, but for good reason. The views at the top are incredible.
The cable car ride is about 8 minutes and individual gondolas seat up to 4 people. So you don’t have to worry about being in an enclosed space with a bunch of strangers.
That said if you really don’t like the idea, you can always hike up the mountain and just take the cable car down at the end for a smaller fee.
The discovery center at the top tells you about the fauna and flora of the region as well as some more Banff history. But it’s the outdoor boardwalk and viewpoints that you’ll really love.
5 – BANFF UPPER HOT SPRINGS
Also at Sulphur Mountain are the Banff Upper Hot Springs. You don’t need to get on a cable car to enjoy them though, instead follow the signs from the parking lot to the springs, a short trail that takes you part way up the mountain.
The natural springs are a popular destination but make sure to bring your bathing suit and a relaxed state of mind as you melt (not literally) into the warm waters of the natural springs.
Top Tip: The thermal springs are really easy to access if you’re staying at the Rimrock Resort hotel. They are located right at the base of Sulphur Mountain opposite the hotel.
6 – CYCLE AROUND VERMILLION LAKES
Not getting enough of the outdoors on your Canadian Rockies trip? I very much doubt that’s the case! But you can’t go wrong with a fun, relaxing evening cycle ride around Vermillion Lakes.
They are located at the edge of town, just before you get to the highway. You will no doubt have come into Banff on this highway from Calgary or Lake Louise.
The lakes are quiet and while not as impressively blue as many in the Banff area, this natural ecosystem is ripe with wildlife and a great place to relax without the crowds.
Rent a bike and cycle out there. Make plenty of stops along the trail. Again, if you are staying at the Fairmont Banff Springs hotel, check in with the concierge. They offer bike rentals or guided cycle tours of Vermillion Lakes which are often on their seasonal activity lists.
7 – SHOP ‘TIL YOU DROP
Banff is a bustling town with a fair number of tourist shops. But don’t worry they’re not all filled with the same tired souvenirs. There are some great hidden gems in here too.
Foodie fans will love the Evoolution oil and vinegar shop with every flavor olive oil and balsamic vinegar you can imagine. There’s also a delicious popcorn shop and a number of old sweet shops.
Another great shop is the Rocky Mountain Soap Co. which has delicious sounding (and smelling) locally made craft soaps. The lavender is my favorite but you’ll be spoiled for choice with soaps and other beauty products.
8 – VISIT THE FAIRMONT BANFF SPRINGS HOTEL
I know I keep talking about this place, but it really is all that. I promise. Even if you don’t have the funds to be able to stay at such a renowned hotel, that doesn’t mean you can’t go visit the Castle in the Rockies as it is affectionately known.
A short 15-20 minute walk from Banff town center, the Banff Springs has a wealth of activities even non-residents can enjoy. Have a fancy afternoon tea, go ghost hunting in the castle or enjoy a fancy cocktail with a view. Read more on the hotel here.
9 – VISIT BOW FALLS
Bow Falls is a short walk from the town center of Banff. The falls are behind the Fairmont Banff Springs hotel. Although they aren’t very tall and majestic falls, they are impressively powerful.
For another lovely view of Banff and its natural beauty, this is a great trail to check out. And the great thing is it doesn’t involve a lot of ability to get there. The trail to get there is really nice (see below).
10 – WALK ALONG THE BOW RIVER
The walk from Banff town center to the falls follows the Bow River. As the name suggests this then flows through to create Bow Falls.
The river walk can be accessed by either the large stone traffic bridge from Banff Avenue, or from the smaller pedestrian bridge from Muskrat street.
Why not check out both and get some gorgeous photos of the river with the looming mountains in the background. Keep an eye out for wildlife on your river walk. Bears, beavers and lots of birds can be seen along the banks of the river and sometimes in the wooded areas around.
11 – TAKE TO THE WATER
I just mentioned that Banff is located on the Bow River. But the bow river travels quite far in either direction, and you don’t have to just enjoy the beauty of the river from dry land.
There are some great opportunities to do white water rafting from nearby locations and tours departing from Banff.
If that isn’t your style but you still want to get on the water, how about a float trip on a more calm section of the river? This hour long tour takes you past nearby geological rock formations called Hoodoos and is a relaxing way to take in the scenery.
12 – TRY SOME LOCAL CRAFT BEER
Everyone’s jumping on the craft beer bandwagon, and Banff is no exception. There are a lot of locally sourced brews you can try on your trip including those coming from nearby Canmore.
For something really local try the Banff Avenue Brewing Co. They have a number of delicious signature beers and a revolving set list of seasonal taps.
I love their fruity beers like the one I had last summer which was a strawberry rhubarb wheat. Also, try their pretzels. They are so good! Stop by the gift shop on the street level for some take out beer and merchandise.
13 – PLAY A ROUND OF GOLF
Banff has a famous golf course. I mean, why wouldn’t it? The town is named after a place in Scotland so it makes sense that Scotland’s favorite sport would be prolific in this scenic town.
Save up your pennies and play a round at the famed Fairmont Banff Springs course. You’ll get to golf with the most impressive backdrop you’re likely to get this side of the Atlantic.
14 – SEARCH FOR SOME LOCAL WILDLIFE
Banff is a mountain town and therefore surrounded by wilderness. That comes with a lot of wildlife viewing options. You will find ground squirrels and chipmunks everywhere, they are cute and fun to spot. Wild birds like bald eagles and other birds of prey can often be seen flying around.
Elk are also plentiful in Banff. Just keep an eye on the front lawns of homes in the town as you’ll often see the elk grazing.
If you’re really lucky you will see a bear on your trip to Canada, as there are plenty in Banff National Park. They don’t venture into the town too much, but it isn’t unheard of.
If you’re interested in learning more about the wildlife and where to find it, I recommend tour led by a local. You can take a grizzly bear tour or for a cheaper options, a wildlife discovery tour.
So many things to do in Banff
There are no shortage of things to do in Banff. You can’t be bored in this magical Canadian Rockies town. I know I never am, and I’ve been there a lot.
Make sure to do your research in advance, plan at least some of the most important activities to you. I say this because like I’ve mentioned more than once, Banff is a popular place. And the last thing I’d want is for you to have your heart set on a fun activity and then it be booked up by the time you get there.
Although exploring Banff can be done without a vehicle, I do recommend renting a car for your trip. That said the town of Banff is really walkable, and everything I’ve talked about here can be done without a car.
The town of Banff has its own public transport system, Roam Transit. The tickets are inexpensive and the buses will not only get you to any of the main tourist sites in Banff, but they travel as far as nearby town Canmore also. That widens your options for tours and hiking trails.
Pro Tip: Some hotels offer complimentary Roam Transit rides with your hotel room key. Ask your hotel concierge for more details.
If you’ve enjoyed this post leave a comment or share using the social media buttons below. Have you been to the Canadian Rockies? What are your favorite things to do in Banff and the surrounding area?
I literally cannot get enough of Banff. I just visited last Summer and I simply fell in love! Your post is great! Covered a few things I didn’t get a chance to check out.
Would love to visit one day!
I’m dying to go to Banff. Almost went years ago with a group of friends but we decided to go to Alaska instead. Banff is still on my bucket list. Someday I’ll get there.
I love Banff so much! I used to go with family as a kid, and I’ve gone once as an adult. I need to spend more time hiking in Banff. I love walking up the Main Street and peeking into the shops!
Ah I am so excited to go to Banff one day! We were supposed to go two summers ago, and two summers before that, but both times our trips fell through. It looks so beautiful! Bow River is stunning and I’d love to ride the gondola.
I would do them all except for maybe #1 and 13. Great list! I visited here when I was just a kid, do you think I can remember or appreciate how beautiful it is? Time for a return visit this I know.
I am dying to go to Banff! This place looks so magical and come on craft beer, I am sold!
Thanks for sharing, looks lots of things to do and a great place to visit 🙂
Looks amazing! Hope to visit it one day 🙂
I really only saw Lake Louise when I was in the Banff area, so I definitely want to go back and see more of the area! I really want to do the Bow River walk now!
Love your post and all beautiful places you recommend to visit in Banff! I am waiting for the US-Canadian border to be opened again and I’m heading for a few weeks road trip to Canada,including a few days stop in Calgary and Banff.
We’re moving to Philadelphia in a few years and I cannot wait to explore Canada. These photos look so 😍 Banff is definitely on my bucket list now!
I’ve never been to Canada or Banff, but I think I’d be most excited for the outdoor adventures (hiking, seeing wildlife)! I’m intrigued by that waterfall too. I’m really looking forward to when travel is possible again, to say the least.
Banff is so high on my list right now! I want to see the Vermillion Lakes and Bow Falls. The local brews look amazing as well.
I love Banff, but each time I’ve gone, I fail to allow enough time to explore the town and the immediate surrounding area. Next time I go back, I definitely want to hike Tunnel Mountain. I figure if I can hike up Sulphur Mountain, I can do Tunnel!
I haven’t heard of the Whyte Museum before, that sound super interesting to learn about First Nations history and the history of Banff. Banff is so beautiful, I need to explore it more, especially the hikes you mentioned!
BANFF IS LEGIT MY FAVOURITE PLACE ON THE PLANET! I have been there twice and would seriously go back every single day if I could.
I feel like when you’re there, it is as though your inside a post card!
I also loved that there is so many Aussie’s there so I felt right at home.
From your list, I have done most things except for the Hot Springs!
LOVE LOVE LOVE this place!
Great guide since there is something here for everyone. Also good to know that some of the hotels provide you with public transit. Great tips!
You make Canada and Banff sound like an amazing place to visit! I’d love to see the wildlife and some of those hikes look spectacular!
I loved that the streets are name after different animals! Banff looks like an incredible place! I’ve only ever visited the original Banff (in Scotland 😆).
Banff looks seriously incredible! I’d love to visit the Fairmont hotel and cycle along the lake 🙂
I need to visit Banff! The charming hotel and nature looks like a fairytale! Great guide!
It’s been so high on my bucket list for so long! Gorgeous photos, thanks for sharing!
Banff looks amazing – the mountains are so beautiful! I would love to visit one day (we don’t have mountains like that in Australia) 🙂 Saving this post for the day I get to visit!
Banff is stunning!! I went a few years ago, but wildfires took over our trip, unfortunately. I would love to go back and experience its true beauty and hike! Tunnell Mountain looks like an incredible hike that I am adding to my bucket list as we speak. 🙂
I want to go to Banff sooooooo badly! All I really knew about it before reading this post was “pretty mountains” which, while true, is clearly only scratching the surface! Thanks for this guide!
What a really researched and informative post. I have pinned it for my future travel reference. Visiting Canada and Banff has long been a dream for me. I would love to soak into the wilderness these Canadian national parks offer!
Holy cow it’s so beautiful in Banff! I visited when I was a kid, but hardly remember it. I definitely want to make another trip up there to explore it properly!
I visited Banff last summer and your post brought back memories. I have to go back again. There are still so many things to see and do. Thanks for sharing.
Elk are unbelievably gorgeous creatures. Lovely photo!
Visiting the Canadian Rockies is something I’ve been talk9ng about for years! Banff sound like a great place to start!
That Tunnel Mountain hike sounds amazing!
Banff really is at the top of my list of things to do in Canada. Of course it’s all about the outdoors, but I would be up for some ghost hunting too of course. Excellent guide.
Ooh I’m excited to learn about the caves – I love caves! It’s also great to know how walkable it is since I can’t drive.
I’m not a big beer fan, but I love fruity beers and so that strawberry rhubarb one sounds fantastic, will definitely have to add that to my list!
Banff is a place plenty of my friends have visited and talked fondly about. I would love to cycle around Vermillion Lakes and try the local beer. Two of my favourite things to do in a new location 😁
I love Banff. It impresses with its variety of attractions and amazing views. I especially remember warming up in hot springs when the temperature outside was minus 5 degrees Celsius. And indeed, the area and the town are full of wildlife; the moose walking around the streets was amazing. You have compiled a very inspiring list of Banff’s best things to do.
I never knew that the city was named after Banff in Scotland. I had noticed that connection but didn’t check it out to see if it was true …. and now I know it is.
I had always thought of Banff as just a massive ski resort so was surprised to find it has a golf course!
There is so much more to do here than I imagined and this is a great guide to use to explore not only the city but the surrounding area.
I do love that pseudo-French Chateau building style of the Fairmont – a style repeated for the hotel market, in the early century times, in other cities
I visited Banff when I was 8 years old and have very happy memories but I am itching to return, especially that I’m now old enough to drink craft beer! This is a great post highlighting so many things to do in this wonderful area. It’s good to know that the Banff Gondola comprises individual gondolas rather than being squished with strangers, and the views look spectacular. It was also good to know about how many activities are within walking distance of the town centre – great for a car-free day. We would love to see the wildlife in the area as well. We really need to book that trip to Canada!
I am currently obsessing over Banff as I’m watching a travel series on the BBC that’s filmed in Canada and the Rockies in particular. Soaking up in hot springs would be my number one activity but I would also love to see Lake Louise and the Bow Falls. Good to know you can walk to pretty much everywhere and that the public transport is reliable.
I love that the streets are named after animals found in the area, I don’t think I noticed that detail before. Love that most if not all of this list is possible without car. I’d love to go back and do some hiking and relaxin in the hot springs.
Another lovely Canadian town that has a lot to offer. The architecture is charming and I’m also drawn to the many hiking opportunities, nature and wildlife. I also like that Banff is a place that can engage you more than once and doesn’t necessarily require a car to move around.
Carolin
Lucky you getting to go back to Banff. It’s my favourite part of canada. I stayed at the Rimrock and loved it! I didn’t get to see Bows falls though. I didn’t realize they were in town. Next time. Have a great trip!
Ah Banff has been on my list for so long! Just the views and hiking made me want to visit. Now I have so many more reasons to go! Your pictures are stunning. I would love to ride the Banff Gondola.
These landscapes are breathtaking! Indeed Canada can be unbeatable when it comes to amazing landscapes. Hiking Tunnel Mountain and a hike on the Bow River would definitely be a must for me. Being able to enjoy nature and see wildlife would be factors that would drive me to visit Banff, plus of course it’s a lovely town.
Such a breathtaking hike to the Tunnel Mountain. The stunning vistas over Banff are spectacular
So gorgeous! I have never been to Canada, and if and when I visit, I will definitely make Banff a long enough stop on the trip!
This is a great list! When do you recommend to visit, to enjoy all of these activities without too many crowds?
I have visited most months of the year and for me May is always a good one. There’s still some snow on the mountains, but it’s before a lot of the summer crowds have arrived and after the ski season is ended. The only thing is that some of the lakes may still be fully or partially frozen. October is therefore another good time to visit before the cold weather really sets in
Banff is probably the place I want to visit the most in Canada, so this will definitely come in handy when I finally do!
We visited Banff last year and quickly fell in love with the town! There are so many great things to do, which you’ve featured in your post! Can’t wait to go back on day.
This made me want to visit! So beautiful