Top Activities in Banff
Ride the Banff Gondolas
No view encapsulates the majesty of Banff National Park like the 360-degree outlook from the summit of Sulphur Mountain.
Visit a Distillery in a National Park
A distillery in the middle of a Canadian national park? Sounds unlikely, but Park Distillery is a perfect fit for Banff. Using water culled from six glaciers high in the Rocky Mountains and premium grains sourced from family farms in the Alberta foothills, the spirits at Park Distillery are hand-milled, hand-mashed and hand-distilled.
Taste Local Craft Beers
While best known for its beautiful scenery, pristine wilderness and world-class skiing, Banff National Park is also carving out a reputation as a craft beer paradise.
A world of unique, local, craft beers awaits in Banff to quench your mountain side thirst.
Take a Stroll on Banff Avenue
Banff Avenue stretches straight through the middle of Banff and the views from the street are so amazing it’s considered one of the most Instagrammable places on Earth!
Check-Out the Art Scene
The galleries in Banff and Lake Louise showcase the incredible work of many local artists and are a wonderful opportunity to immerse yourself in the art and culture of the area. For those on the hunt for the perfect piece to add to your personal collection, there are a number of galleries and shops where you can find that special work of art to commemorate your trip.
Visit Museums and Historic Sites
Steeped in rich history as Canada’s oldest national park, Banff National Park has preserved its classic historic and cultural sites for visitors to explore.
Cozy Up at Historic Tea Houses
Nestled among the spectacular peaks surrounding Lake Louise are two historic tea houses, both with their own unique charm. Perfectly positioned for a well-earned rest, cozy up with a warm beverage and enjoy breathtaking views of glacial valleys.
Soak Up Tranquility in the Hot Springs
Rejuvenate and relax with a soak in the soothing waters of Banff Upper Hot Springs. A favorite among visitors and locals, it’s the perfect spot to unwind and enjoy the healing properties of the mineral-rich waters.​
Enjoy Afternoon Tea
The Fairmont Banff Springs
The traditional tea service taken to new heights! Linger over flaky scones with house-made preserves, pastries and finger sandwiches presented with flourish on a tiered tea service while basking in majestic mountain views.
Play a Round of Golf
The Fairmont Banff Springs
The Banff Springs Hotel sits right beside easily one of the most beautiful places to golf in the entire world. If you’re a golfer, you have to enjoy a round here!
Relax at an Award-Winning Spa
The Fairmont Banff Springs
Step into Banff's best spa to reconnect with your senses and be nourished by nature. Feel the comforting sensations of rushing waterfalls and burbling mineral pools inviting you for a restorative soak.
Shop Till Your Heart is Content
Slow down and take some time to appreciate the town setting and local stores by shopping in Banff and Lake Louise. As you wander the lively streets and soak in the views, you’ll find a wide variety of shops from big brand clothing and technical outerwear to local art and genuine Canadian goods.
See From Above in a Helicopter
Helicopter flights near Banff National Park offer a unique way to view the stunning scenery of the majestic Canadian Rocky Mountains. Join a flight for a once in a life time scenic experience.
Show Your Adventurous Side on an ATV Tour
Explore the Rockies with the wind in your hair! ATV (All-Terrain Vehicle) tours give guests the thrill of wilderness adventure. Off-road lovers will get their fix as they travel across mountain ridges, visit old mines and see the Canadian Rockies from high above the valley floor.
Go Fishing
Canada’s Rockies are a fisherman’s dream, renowned for lakes and rivers teaming with an abundance of trout. With multiple tours available you’ll be able to hone your skills and enjoy some quality R&R in one of the most scenic areas Alberta has to offer.
Glide in a Canoe or Kayak
Glide in a canoe or kayak on crystal-clear waters, enjoy the tranquility of nature and explore the Bow River as it winds through the valleys. No matter your previous experience, at whatever pace you prefer, Banff has options for you!
Catch an Exhilarating White Water Raft Trip
Rushing water, heart-pumping adrenaline, and picturesque beauty around every turn. Whether you’re a diehard adventure seeker or a first time rafter looking to make special memories with friends, a day spent on the water is the perfect way to experience the magic of Mother Nature firsthand.
Take a Wildlife Tour
Banff National Park is one of Canada's best places to observe a variety of wildlife up close and personal…from a respectful distance, of course! Join one of the guided tours and explore the natural habitats of the wildlife thriving in the Rockies.
See the Caves and Canyons of the Rockies
If you are ready to see a new side of the Rocky Mountains, these tours might be for you. Venture beneath the surface and uncover hidden secrets of one of the longest cave systems in Canada. Or, go off the beaten path into the stunning and remote Ghost Wilderness area for a one in a lifetime experience.
Drive the Legendary Icefields Parkway
An experience you won't want to miss is driving the Icefields Parkway, known as one of the best road trips on the planet. This iconic highway weaves its way through the best mountain scenery in Canada all to way to the glorious Columbia Icefield and the Athabasca Glacier
