Things to do in Banff

Banff is a charming town in the heart of the Canadian Rockies. There is so much to see and do, so we have put together our suggestions on how to  spend 72 hours in Banff, meaning you can get the most out of your time here. 

Start your day off with a trip up Sulphur Mountain on the Banff Gondola. The 8-minute ride takes you to the summit of Sulphur Mountain which offers 360° over the Canadian Mountains, enjoy walking trails, an interpretive centre and a selection of top-notch restaurants where you can grab lunch whilst enjoying the views. 

Back down at ground level spend the afternoon exploring the boutique and souvenir shops, or if you want to keep exploring why not book a cruise on Lake Minnewanka which offers some of the most interesting and spectacular scenery found anywhere in the Canadian Rockies. 

Get an early night tonight as tomorrow you've got an early wake up call! 

The wake up call today is very early but it will be well worth it. Head out to Lake Moraine before sunrise and enjoy this popular spot but without the crowds. With an expert guide watch the sunrise over Moraine Lake and sip on a delicious hot chocolate. You'll also have time to explore the hiking trails before departing when all the normal coach groups roll in. On the way back to town you'll travel along the back roads where you might spot wildlife. 

After the early start this morning take it easy this afternoon and relax at your hotel or explore some of the bars in Banff. Alternatively head to Banff Upper Hot Springs and spend a few hours unwinding in the steaming hot mineral waters as you admire your gorgeous surroundings. 

It might be your last day in Banff but there is still so much to do, for those animal lovers join a wildlife tour and head out in the morning for the best chance of spotting some local wildlife. Most tours also include an orientation of the top spots like Fairmont Banff Springs, Tunnel Mountain and the hoodoos. 

Adventure seekers can opt for either a helicopter flight this afternoon or white-water rafting trip, both are memorable experiences. Take to the skies and fly over the Three Sisters Peaks and see the Rockies from above or pop on a wetsuit and grab your ore to take on the rapids.  

As it's your last night in Banff enjoy a delicious meal at one of the popular restaurants, Bluebird Wood-fired Steakhouse, Three Bears Brewery & Restaurant and The Grizzly House are some of our top choices. 

As Canada's oldest national park, Banff is steeped in rich history. You can immerse yourself in the intricate past by visiting some of the many historic sites, museums and galleries. Spend some time at Banff Park Museum National Historic Site, here you can learn about the history of how the area became the first national park by exploring the 5,000 specimens within the museum. To learn more about the First Nations People of the Northern Plains and Canadian Rockies head to Buffalo National Luxton Museum, see detailed beadwork, exquisite tools carved from bone and representations of important ceremonies. 

There are many galleries to be explored across Banff and Lake Louise, many of which showcase local artists. Carter-Ryan Gallery is a beautiful space with modern paintings and sculptures. BearHead Photography shows the Canadian Rockies from National Geographic photographers perspectives, many of the images can be taken home as souvenirs. Up at The Fairmont Banff Springs hotel you will find Mountain Galleries at Banff Springs. This is a favourite spot for collectors of Canadian art as the gallery features quality paintings, sculptures and unique Inuit carvings. 

As you wander the lively streets of Banff you’ll find a wide variety of shops from big brand clothing stores and technical outerwear shops to local art and genuine Canadian goods. Whether you’re on the hunt for that perfect souvenir for yourself or gifts for someone else, you’re sure to find it here. A Bit Of Banff, Banff Trading Post and About Banff are great shops to find souvenirs or if your after big brand clothing head to Canada Goose Inc. Lululemon, North Face or Patagonia Banff and if your here in winter then SkiBig3 Adventure Hub will be able to sort you out with all you winter gear. 

Looking for something a bit more unique? The Last Temptation Vintage is a thrift store or charity shop as we know them. Find unique clothing and accessories as well as local crafts. A bit more high-end but very unique, Castle Jewels sell high quality Canadian Polar Bear and Polar Ice diamonds which each has been minutely engraved. If your after semi-precious stones, minerals or fossils then Rocks & Gems Canada is the place for you. Banff has a great selection of branded and unique shops making it a great place to shop. 

Home to world-renowned mountainscapes, Banff and the surrounding areas offer boundless opportunities to experience incredible beauty all year-round. Discover glistening emerald lakes, stunning snow-capped peaks and countless scenic viewpoints. Whether you’re looking to explore by foot, pedal, paddle or ski, discover the possibilities for amazing adventures in the heart of nature.

Whether you are here in summer or winter you can get out and explore Banff's nature. In winter head up one of the mountains and enjoy the fresh air and beautiful scenery. Or enjoy activities like ice-skating, snowmobiling and fat biking. 

Summer brings a whole different look and feel to Banff and brings many activities to allow you to explore the great outdoors. Hike the mountains and meadows, paddle across beautiful lakes, see the scenery on horseback or hit the golf courses. 

There are many things you can do in Banff or in the surrounds area for free. Grab your hiking boots and take in the beautiful scenery on one of the many trails, walk along Banff Avenue and pop into some of the galleries and museums, drive out to Lake Louise or Moraine Lake and enjoy these iconic spots or go in search of waterfalls; Johnston Canyon is one of our favourites. 

Banff also hosts many events and festivals many of which are free. In winter marvel at the gigantic ice sculptors on display throughout Banff and summer brings an art trail with outdoor exhibits dotted along the banks of Bow River. Later in the year Banff Film and Music Festivals comes to town at the Banff Centre for Arts & Creativity. To finish the year you can enjoy wandering round the Banff Christmas Market with unique gifts, festive entertainment and culinary delights.