Are you looking for things to do in Banff, Alberta? If yes, then you have come to the right place.
Banff is a popular starting point for the Icefields Parkway road trip and honestly feels like a scene out of a postcard.
This charming town in Alberta is nestled deep within the Canadian Rockies and is nothing short of a fairytale.
I still remember taking my trip to Banff and being in awe of the entire landscape, even in July.
This list has something for every kind of traveler, from glittering lakes and towering peaks to cozy downtown streets and hot springs.
Excited for your Banff travel?
Then, keep reading my list of the Top 10 Things to Do in Banff, Alberta, for the Trip of a Lifetime!
Where is Banff Located?
Now, before I share some of the best Banff attractions with you, let’s discuss where Banff is.
Banff sits within Banff National Park, Canada’s first national park, which spans over 6,600 square kilometers/2500 square miles of wilderness.
The town itself is located in Alberta, about 1.5 to 2 hours’ drive from Calgary, which is the closest major airport.
If you’re flying in from another country or another part of Canada, Calgary is your gateway.
Read my tips on how to avoid getting sick on a plane to arrive in Alberta healthy.
From there, you can rent a car, hop on a shuttle, or even take a scenic train ride to reach Banff.
Weather in Banff: What to Expect Year-Round
You will enjoy the summers here with pleasant temperature that ranges between 15°C to 25°C (60°F to 77°F).
This is the perfect time for hiking, canoeing, or simply lounging by a lake.
In winter, you feel as if you have been transported to a wonderland.
From November to March, the temperature hovers around -5°C to -15°C (23°F to 5°F), making it quite cold.
It is the perfect time for skiing, snowshoeing, gliding across lakes, and more.
Spring means lots of waterfalls and wildflowers blooming.
Fall means more shades of red, gold, and orange, making it a great time for photography.
I feel this city is a perfect destination year-round, so you can plan anytime you want.
10 Things to Do in Banff Alberta for the Trip of a Lifetime
Explore Lake Louise
No trip to Banff is complete without visiting Lake Louise, one of the main highlights of the Rockies.
With its vibrant turquoise waters and towering snow-capped peaks, this is one of the top Banff attractions that you simply cannot miss!
The lake gets its color from the glacial silt and looks absolutely magical during sunrise and sunset.
You can rent a canoe and paddle across the lake in the summer or enjoy exploring hikes around the lake through the alpine forests.
If you plan your visit in winter, then one of the best things to do in Canada is ice skating at frozen Lake Louise.
Trust me, if you want to see a fairytale-like place in real life, then don’t forget to visit Lake Louise.
Book This: Banff/Canmore: Moraine Lake 1.5h & Lake Louise Half-Day Tour
Book This: Emerald Lake, Moraine, Louise, Johnston Canyon & Banff Town
Discover Moraine Lake
Another one of my favorite Banff attractions is the gorgeous Moraine Lake.
Since it is not as popular as Lake Louise, you can find fewer crowds here, but the same vistas to enjoy.
I love how turquoise this lake is, so it feels unreal at times, especially in the morning light.
Plus, it is surrounded by the Valley of the Ten Peaks, which makes it a stunning photography spot.
If you are adventurous like me, then you can easily find plenty of hikes around with amazing views of the Rockies.
I would particularly recommend arriving here at sunrise, as the reflection of the mountains glowing pink and gold in the lake is just too good to be missed!
Book This: Sunrise or Sunset/Stargazing Tour at Moraine Lake from Banff
Book This: Moraine Lake Sunrise & Lake Louise Golden Hour Experience
Ride the Banff Gondola
One of my favorite things to do in Banff, Canada, was to take the gondola to Sulphur Mountain for amazing views of the town.
The gondola itself is an experience as it slowly glides above the treetops and cliffs.
Once you reach the summit, you can walk on the boardwalk that loops around the peak for panoramic views of the Rockies and the Bow Valley below.
You can also indulge in a meal at the mountaintop restaurant here if you want to relax and enjoy the view.
But if you love hiking like me, then there are a few trails here to explore as well.
Trust me, whether you come for sunrise or sunset, this is one of the top activities to enjoy the view.
Book This: Banff Gondola Admission Ticket
Relax at Banff Upper Hot Springs
Tired after all the hikes and skiing in Banff?
If yes, then don’t forget to unwind at the Banff Upper Hot Springs to regain your strength.
These natural mineral pools are set against a stunning mountain backdrop, so you can relax with amazing views.
The water is warm and soothing year-round, making it just as enjoyable in the freezing winter months as it is in summer evenings.
So, if you want to enjoy a glass of wine and relax your sore muscles after all the adventure, then do spend some time at the Banff Upper Hot Springs.
Book This: Banff: Gondola, Hot Spring and Three Lakes Tour
Hike in Banff National Park
Of course, one of the best things to do in Banff in summer is to go on a hike in the Banff National Park.
This is honestly a hiker’s paradise, with trails for every skill level.
One of my favorite hikes is Johnston Canyon, where you walk above rushing waterfalls, surrounded by cliffs and lush forests.
For stunning panoramic views, hike the Sulphur Mountain or Sunshine Meadows.
Believe me, there is no shortage of beautiful hiking trails that you can explore.
If you plan your visit in winter, then you can always go snowshoeing on these trails and enjoy this international city as a winter wonderland.
Book This: Banff National Park: 1-Hour Bow River Horseback Ride
Stroll Through Downtown
If you want a break from nature, then you can always go explore downtown Banff.
This area is filled with charming streets, boutique shops, cozy cafes, and art galleries.
You can head to the Banff Park Museum and the Whyte Museum to understand the town’s history and culture.
There are plenty of cafes and restaurants to enjoy a delicious meal here too. Plus, at night, the streets come alive with twinkling lights.
So, if you are looking for fun yet relaxing things to do in Banff, then take a stroll around downtown Banff.
Book This: Lake Louise & Moraine Lake Small Group Half Day Tour Banff
Experience Winter Sports
I personally feel Banff is a great place to visit during winter, as it gets completely covered in snow and looks like a winter wonderland.
There are plenty of skiing and snowboarding spots here, such as Mount Norquay and Lake Louise Ski Resort.
Beyond skiing, you can also go snowshoeing to explore forests in the snow or get into ice climbing to scale the frozen waterfalls.
For adrenaline junkies, there are several fun things to do in Banff, such as snowmobiling, ice skating, and more.
So, if you plan a visit in winter, don’t be scared because there is plenty to do here.
Book This: Banff: Lake Louise, Sunshine Village & Mt. Norquay Ski Tour
Book This: Banff: Columbia Icefield, Skywalk, Crowfoot Glacier, & Lakes
Catch Northern Lights
If you are looking for fun things to do in Banff in winter, then I would suggest you take a tour or plan to watch the northern lights from Banff.
Seeing the northern lights in Banff is pure magic.
One minute you’re staring at a starry sky, and the next, green and purple lights start dancing above the mountains.
You can catch the best sights around Lake Minnewanka or Vermilion Lakes, where it’s dark and quiet.
Make sure to bundle up and bring something warm to drink.
Trust me, it’s one of those experiences you’ll never forget if you’re lucky enough to catch it.
Book This: Banff or Moraine Lake: Night Tour with possible Stargazing
Book This: Banff National Park Sunset and Stars Walking Tour
Visit the Cave and Basin National Historic Site
The Cave and Basin is basically the birthplace of Canada’s national parks.
You will find a warm, steamy cave with a natural hot spring here that smells a little sulfurous.
However, what really awed me was the glow of the water under the rock ceiling.
There are boardwalks outside where you can explore more springs and take in those mountain views.
Pretty cool, right?
Book This: Banff: Gondola Cave Basin, Johnston Canyon & Lake Minnewanka
Book This: Banff: Mount Norquay 2.5 or 4-Hour Guided Via Ferrata Climb
Cascade of Time Garden
If you’re looking for a quiet little escape right in Banff, the Cascade of Time Garden is perfect.
It feels like stepping into a hidden fairytale with its stone pathways, blooming flowers, tiny waterfalls, and the mountains in the background.
In summer, the colors just pop, and it’s such a peaceful spot to wander or sit with a coffee.
After all the big adventures, it sure feels nice to just take a stroll in this garden and soak in some peace before you head out for hikes and exploration again.
Book This: Banff: Lake Minnewanka Cruise
Banff Essentials Packing List
Here are my tips on how to pack lightly. using a carry-on when traveling. And WHY it is almost a necessity!
This unisex RFID-blocking concealed travel pouch is lightweight and comes in several colors.
These RFID sleeves are another solution.
This Anker high-speed phone charging battery is the exact one I carry with me on all of my trips.
My daughter gifted me this FugeTek selfie stick and tripod setup for my birthday.
It is made of lightweight aluminum and is so easy to use.
I never leave home on a trip without a non-disposable water bottle.
Then this collapsible silicone foldable water bottle would work well for you as well.
This foldable water-resistant backpack would be great for a daily go-pack.
These quick-dry slip-on Aqua shoes will be useful when visiting spas or hot springs.
These men’s quick-dry trunks are essential.
For women, this one-strap one-piece bathing suit is amazing.
Consider bringing along quick-dry super-absorbent microfiber towels.
This wet-dry bag with handles is a good option.
These unisex polarized sunglasses come in many lens colors and frame designs and are extremely affordable, too.
If you like aviator-style sunglasses, these polarized aviators may interest you.
As an Amazon Affiliate, I earn from your qualifying purchases.
Where to Stay in Banff, Alberta
Fairmont Banff Springs – If you want the full “castle in the mountains” experience, then the Fairmont Banff Springs is iconic.
Spa, golf course, fine dining – you name it, they’ve got it all. Trust me, if you want a grand and luxurious stay, then this is the perfect choice for you!
Moose Hotel & Suites – Moose Hotel & Suites is right in downtown and is perfect if you want something that is within walking distance from the shops, cafes, and bars.
This hotel has a modern rustic vibe with lots of wood, cozy fireplaces, and a rooftop hot tub with killer mountain views.
HI Banff Alpine Centre (Hostel) – If you are on a budget or traveling solo, you can always opt for HI Banff Alpine Centre Hostel.
It’s affordable, has dorms and private rooms, and a friendly backpacker vibe.
There’s even a common lounge and pub where you can meet fellow travelers to explore the Banff National Park together.
Banff & Jasper: Best Stops on the Icefields Parkway