Banff
Epic Rockies family adventure with luxury and wonder
Highlights
Marvel at the emerald waters framed by soaring peaks and glaciers, ideal for family photos and serene exploration.
Ascend Sulphur Mountain for panoramic vistas that thrill all ages with breathtaking 360-degree views.
Wander the castle-like luxury hotel with grand architecture, pools, and family-friendly amenities.
Walk easy trails to thundering waterfalls and catwalks, accessible for families with strollers on lower paths.
Picnic and play by cascading waters right in Banff townsite, blending nature with convenience.
Where to Stay
2 picks
Fairmont Banff Springs
Iconic castle-like resort with family rooms, indoor pool, bowling alley, kids' activities, and multiple on-site dining options.
Rimrock Resort Hotel
Modern mountain lodge with spacious family suites, heated pool, stunning valley views, and fine dining at Primrose.
Where to Eat
6 picks
Park Distillery Restaurant & Bar
Craft distillery with house spirits; order wood-fired pizzas and charcuterie for sharing.
Bear Street Tavern
Casual upscale eats; go for gourmet burgers, tacos, and local brews.
Banff Tea Co.
Artisan loose-leaf teas and light bites like scones and sandwiches in a cozy historic spot.
The Bison Restaurant
Fine dining with Canadian Rockies cuisine; try Alberta beef tenderloin or bison striploin.
Primrose at Rimrock
Signature dining with mountain views; sample seared scallops or duck confit.
Skoki Lodge (Day Trip Lunch)
Historic backcountry lodge; enjoy hearty soups, sandwiches, and fresh-baked goods after a short hike.
What to Do
8 picks
Banff Gondola
Ride to Sulphur Mountain summit for 360-degree views, boardwalk trail, and summit restaurant.
Bow Falls
Short walk to powerful cascades; picnic area, viewpoints, and nearby tunnels for kids to explore.
Lake Louise Lakeshore
Stroll the flat lakeside path, rent canoes in summer, or ice skate in winter amid glacier views.
Johnston Canyon Trail
Easy 2.4km round-trip to Lower Falls via catwalks; spot bridges, waterfalls, and ice climbs in winter.
Vermilion Lakes
Easy scenic drive or walk with wildlife spotting, reflections of mountains, and photography spots.
Cave and Basin National Historic Site
Explore Canada's first national park site with thermal pools exhibit, boardwalks, and ranger talks.
Banff Upper Hot Springs
Soak in natural mineral pools with mountain vistas; family-friendly facility with change rooms.
Banff Town Centre
Wander Banff Avenue for shops, street performers, candy stores, and people-watching.
Good to Know
5 picks
Pack for All Weather
Bring waterproof jackets, sturdy boots, hats, gloves, and sunscreen—Banff's microclimates change hourly.
Secure Parks Pass
Purchase a Banff National Park Discovery Pass online ahead; required for all vehicles entering.
Book Experiences Early
Reserve gondola, hot springs, and dinners 1-2 months ahead, especially for winter weekends.
Wildlife Safety Rules
Keep 100m from bears/wolves, 30m from elk; travel in groups, carry bear spray, make noise on trails.
Kid-Friendly Gear
Rent strollers for trails, child carriers for hikes, and sleds for snow play at local outfitters.
Map
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