Town of Banff

Town of banff
Mountain with grass and lake in the foreground
Johnston Canyon
Kids walking on a frozen lake
town of banff
Sulphur Mountain

As Canada’s first National Park, Banff is one of the most unique and storied places in the world. All year long, visitors to this magical place can experience the majesty of the mountains, lakes, rivers, and people who live here.

Whether you are coming for a ski vacation with family and friends, or looking to hike and explore the beauty of the Rocky Mountains, Banff truly has something for everyone. Handpicked by local experts, here are some of the top things to do, places to eat, and unique experiences to have while visiting the Town of Banff and Banff National Park.

Our Local Favourites

Restaurants

  • Fresh ravioli on a floured board

    01. LUPO Italian Restaurant

    This traditional Italian market offers homemade pasta and pizza, along with Italian wines, on a rooftop terrace in the heart of Banff. Don’t miss the special cocktails during Italian-style happy hour at LUPO Italian Restaurant.

  • Steak curing on a board with rosemary

    02.  Chuck’s Steakhouse

    The perfect place to enjoy premium Alberta beef. The cuts come from Angus farms passed down through generations, from father to son. Settle into the elegant dining room for an intimate meal, or reserve the space for a large group at Chuck's Steakhouse.

  • Hummus with olive oil in the background

    03. The Balkan Mediterranean Restaurant

    This friendly local establishment has been serving fresh Greek cuisine for decades. This popular spot offers a menu made with high-quality ingredients, featuring many halal, vegetarian, and gluten-free options.

  • Wine on a low table with people in the background

    04. The Bison Restaurant

    In the mood to enjoy a summer day listening to live music on a sunny patio? Or to cozy up by a fire pit on a terrace? Then The Bison is the perfect place. Settle in and enjoy a menu made with ingredients sourced from passionate local producers, with a focus on seasonal freshness.

Things to do

  • Hike tunnel mountain

    05. Hike Tunnel Mountain

    This moderate hiking trail winds up to the summit of Tunnel Mountain, offering panoramic views of the town of Banff and the surrounding mountains. This 5 km round-trip hike takes about 2 hours and can be done year-round. If you visit in winter, be sure to bring crampons or snowshoes and a picnic to enjoy at the summit.

  • Lake Minnewanka

    06. Visit Two Jack Lake and Lake Minnewanka

    To admire the majestic Mount Rundle, take the trail along Two Jack Lake. This alpine lake is perfect for canoeing, picnicking, or simply enjoying the scenery. Nearby, visit Lake Minnewanka, often called the “Spirit Lake” due to the archaeological sites and artifacts over 14,000 years old that surround it. Don’t miss the Lakeshore Trail leading to Stewart Canyon. Both lakes are accessible via the Roam Route 6 bus from downtown Banff. If you’re lucky, you may spot wildlife such as elk and bighorn sheep along the trail.

  • Skier on chair lift

    07. SkiBig3

    Ski across a combined total of 8,000 acres of terrain spread over three alpine ski resorts. Skiers can purchase a SkiBig3 pass to experience Mount Norquay, Lake Louise Ski Resort, and Banff Sunshine Village during their visit to Banff. Each resort is set against the majestic backdrop of the Canadian Rockies, offering an unforgettable high-mountain skiing experience.

  • Banff gondola with mountains in the background

    08. Take the Banff Gondola to Sulphur Mountain

    For panoramic views of the Rocky Mountains, the Bow Valley, and the town of Banff, a gondola ride is a must. Take the Banff Gondola and head to the top of Sulphur Mountain and walk along the boardwalk to the Cosmic Ray Station and Sanson Peak. There, you can learn about the history of Canada’s first national park and enjoy a meal on the summit terrace while taking in a spectacular mountain sunset.

Unique Experiences

  • Loose leaf tea in a mason jar

    09. Jolene's Tea House

    Tea houses have a long history in the Canadian Rockies, offering refuge to early explorers and mountaineers. Located in Banff’s oldest building, Jolene’s Tea House offers more than 60 varieties of teas made from hand-picked leaves, fresh spices, and local herbs. Sample these small-batch teas on-site, take some with you, or settle in to enjoy a tea-infused cocktail.

  • Guitarist in shadow

    10. Catch a Concert or Show at the Banff Centre

    One of Canada’s leading centers for creativity and culture, the Banff Centre for Arts and Creativity offers a diverse lineup of performances, concerts, and festivals throughout the year. During your visit, there’s a good chance you’ll be able to attend a dance recital, a theater performance, an art exhibition, a film festival, or another showcase well worth experiencing.