Things to do in Banff

Find and book activities, attractions and tours

A valley with a town, mountains, and a river.
A lake with a forest and a mountain in the background.
A mountain town with autumn trees, a prominent mountain in the background, and a pedestrian crossing.
A calm lake with a wooden dock, surrounded by a forest and a mountain in the background.
A historic stone building with multiple windows and a central tower.

Banff Attractions

It's not difficult to find fun things to see and do in Banff. Brush up on the area's history and check out the best sights in this charming city. Sort out your must-do list now so you're raring to go once you arrive.

Find out what makes Banff tick with some of the most popular tours & day trips. Check out our top {595 fun activities in Banff fun activities in Banff}, and rest easy knowing that we offer free cancellation and no added fees.

Things to do

2025 Winner-Lake Louise Moraine Lake Johnston Canyon Banff Town

2025 Winner-Lake Louise Moraine Lake Johnston Canyon Banff Town

$72
per adult
96% of travellers recommend
2025 Winner-Lake Louise Moraine Lake Johnston Canyon Banff Town
Lake Louise Moraine Lake Emerald Lake Yoho Banff National Park

Lake Louise Moraine Lake Emerald Lake Yoho Banff National Park

$72
per adult
98% of travellers recommend
Lake Louise Moraine Lake Emerald Lake Yoho Banff National Park
Banff Gondola Admission Ticket

Banff Gondola Admission Ticket

$68
per adult
96% of travellers recommend
Banff Gondola Admission Ticket
Canmore/Banff: Lake Louise & Moraine Half Day Shuttle Tour

Banff Lake Louise & Moraine Lake 1.5hr Half Day Shuttle Tour

$62
per adult
Banff Lake Louise & Moraine Lake 1.5hr Half Day Shuttle Tour
Lake Louise,Moraine Lake,Emerald Lake Day Trip from Banff/Calgary

Lake Louise,Moraine Lake,Emerald Lake Day Trip from Banff/Calgary

$79
per adult
100% of travellers recommend
Lake Louise,Moraine Lake,Emerald Lake Day Trip from Banff/Calgary
Lake Louise, Moraine Lake, Banff Tour from Calgary/Canmore/Banff

Lake Louise, Moraine Lake, Banff Tour from Calgary/Canmore/Banff

$96
per adult
98% of travellers recommend
Lake Louise, Moraine Lake, Banff Tour from Calgary/Canmore/Banff
Lake Louise, Moraine, Emerald & Johnston Canyon VIP Tour

Lake Louise, Moraine, Emerald & Johnston Canyon VIP Tour

$60
per adult
80% of travellers recommend
Lake Louise, Moraine, Emerald & Johnston Canyon VIP Tour
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Banff must see attractions

1. Banff Gondola

Some of the best views in the Canadian Rockies can be enjoyed from the top of Sulphur Mountain. Take the Banff Gondola to the summit. The eight-minute ride offers spectacular views from a glass-enclosed cabin. The Summit Complex at the end of the gondola ride has restaurants, a gift shop and multiple viewing platforms. Look out over six different mountain ranges, through valleys and down onto the town of Banff.
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A cable car ascending a snow-capped mountain with a clear blue sky.

2. Upper Hot Springs

Upper Hot Springs is a thermal pool within the gorgeous landscapes of Banff National Park. Come here to relax in the geothermally heated and bubbling mineral water that flows from the Earth’s crust through the Sulphur Mountain Thrust Fault. Marvel at panoramic views of the Rocky Mountains as the therapeutic water cleanses and soothes your body. Have a scenic picnic or eat at the café at Upper Hot Springs.
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A swimming pool surrounded by stone buildings and trees.

3. Mount Norquay Ski Resort

Alberta shines at the Norquay Ski Resort. Vacation at Banff Mount Norquay to discover that it isn't only about Noquay skiing. Get set for snowboarding and tubing adventures as well. Whether you have ventured out by yourself, have decided to take a couple's getaway, or want fun for the whole family, Norquay will give you the time of your life.
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A wooden welcome sign for Norway with a snowy mountain backdrop.

4. Cave and Basin National Historic Site

To see the famous hot springs that inspired the creation of Banff National Park, visit Cave and Basin National Historic Site. Enjoy mountain views from dedicated platforms and hike along the boardwalk to watch hot water bubble to the surface. From hiking trails to picnic areas and expert guides, the site offers an exciting day in nature with plenty of opportunities to learn about Canada’s national parks.
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A gazebo with a red roof, a flagpole with a flag, and a mountainous landscape with autumn trees.

5. Vermilion Lakes

Appreciate the serenity and natural beauty of the Vermilion Lakes. This chain of three lakes and verdant marshland is an ideal place to escape the busy tourist activity of Banff. Vermilion Lakes have drawn people for almost 11,000 years. Today, the area is a popular area to canoe, hike, view soaring mountains, picnic along the waterfront and spot wildlife.
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A lake surrounded by autumn foliage and mountains.

Recommended things to do in Banff

Number of things to do
595
Cheapest thing to do on Expedia
Smartphone Audio Driving Tour between Banff and Calgary: $8
Top 5 things to do
Under $25
With kids

What to do in Banff

Free Things to Do in Banff

There's no need to dig deep into your pockets in Banff. The following won't cost a thing.

Minnewanka Loop / Lake Johnson - Take things at a slower pace and enjoy a little time out near the water.

Banff Legacy Trail - Relax and let the natural surrounds here restore your mind.

Things to Do in Banff with Kids

You'll find loads of fun things to do with your kids in and around Banff. Keep the crew entertained with our family friendly experiences.

 

Looking for sports, concerts, or theater events in Banff? Search event tickets to see what's happening today, or to plan what to do this weekend!

 

 

Stay near popular Banff attractions

A cable car ascending a snow-capped mountain with a clear blue sky.
Photo by Banff Lake Louise Tourism
Open Photo by Banff Lake Louise Tourism

Banff Gondola

9.4/10 (7,827 reviews)
Ride the Banff Gondola to Sulphur Mountain's summit for breathtaking 360-degree views of the Canadian Rockies. Explore the ridgetop boardwalk to Sanson's Peak and dine at Sky Bistro with mountain vistas below.
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Where to stay in Banff

Find the best Banff areas and neighborhoods for the activities you enjoy most. Learn more about Banff
Learn more about Banff
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Photo by Ewa MK
Open Photo by Ewa MK

Tunnel Mountain District

While Tunnel Mountain District isn't home to many top sights, Banff Springs Golf Club and Tunnel Mountain are some notable places to visit nearby.

A snow-covered mountain range with a town illuminated by lights in the valley below.

Sulphur Mountain District

If you're spending some time in Sulphur Mountain District, Upper Hot Springs and Sulphur Mountain are top sights worth seeing.

A mountain town street with shops, a speed limit sign, and snow-capped mountains in the background.

Downtown District

While visiting Downtown District, you might make a stop by sights like Bow River and Canada House Gallery.

A turquoise lake surrounded by rugged mountains and dense forests.

Uptown District

While Uptown District isn't home to many top sights, Tunnel Mountain and Canada House Gallery are some notable places to visit nearby.

A modern building complex with a mountain backdrop.

Banff Centre District

If you're spending some time in Banff Centre District, Bow River and Jenny Belzberg Theatre are top sights worth seeing.

 

Looking for fun things to do nearby? Check things to do near me to find and book the best things to do, fun activities, and top attractions wherever you happen to be.

 

 

Popular day trips from Banff

A mountain lake surrounded by snow-capped peaks and dense forests.

Lake Louise

A street with wooden buildings and a mountain range in the background.

Canmore

A river winding through a valley with a railway track alongside it.

Radium Hot Springs

A hydroelectric dam with a large water reservoir and a mountain backdrop.

Exshaw

A snow-covered mountain range with a clear sky.

Kananaskis

A city skyline with modern skyscrapers and a unique satellite dish-shaped building in the foreground.

Calgary

A mountain range with snow-capped peaks and a forested foreground.

Dead Man's Flats

A lake with mountains in the background and a bridge over the water.

Seebe

Frequently asked questions

Is Banff worth visiting?
Providing a mix of golfing and hiking, there are many things to do in Banff. When you're here, visit Banff Gondola, a top attraction in the area.
How do I spend a day in Banff?
Upper Hot Springs and Bow Falls are two great places to begin your vacation adventures. Remember to check out the dining and retail options in Banff while you're here too.
What is the top tourist attraction in Banff?
The top tourist attraction in Banff is Banff Gondola, so make sure to include it on your agenda.
Is three days enough to stay in Banff?
Three days in Banff is plenty of time to enjoy the city's major attractions. Many guests spend two days on average. Banff Gondola, Upper Hot Springs and Banff National Park Information Centre are among the top-rated sights. Like to see more? Hang around a while longer to visit nearby hotspots such as Canmore.
Is Banff a walkable city?
It all depends on what you want to do and see in Banff. Several attractions, including Banff Gondola and Upper Hot Springs, are accessible on foot. If you're up for a stroll through some of Banff's best neighborhoods, Uptown District is 0.4 miles away from downtown, while Downtown District is 0.1 miles away from the city center and also within walking distance.
What are some activities to do in Banff with kids?
Deciding what to do in Banff with kids is easier than ever. Whether you're getting away with little ones or teenagers, there are plenty of family-friendly tours and attractions to keep everyone happy here.

What to do in Banff for adults?
Adults of all ages will find plenty of things to do in Banff. Whether you're into art, history, outdoor activities or just love exploring new destinations, there's something here for everyone.
Are there free things to do in Banff?
From relaxing in parks to strolling around exciting neighborhoods, it's easy to find free things to do in Banff. If you need inspiration, ask a local tour guide for some tips. Banff National Park Information Centre is a great spot for anyone planning to save on their sightseeing adventures.

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