WELCOME TO BANFF
Discover the best of Banff with Rocky Mountaineer’s recommended dining, attractions, and experiences.
Distances
GUEST CENTRES
If you need assistance during your stay, please visit one of our Rocky Mountaineer Guest Centres or contact our Guest Experience Centre at 1.800.653.4105.
Scan for Guest Centre hours and locations.
Please refer to your final travel documents for information about your itinerary, tours and add-ons.
QUICK FACTS
VISITOR CENTRE
The Banff Visitor Centre is located at 224 Banff Ave. National Parks Passes can be purchased here.
ROCKY MOUNTAINEER INSIDER’S TIP
“The Banff Farmers Market takes place every Wednesday from the end of May to October in Central Park. Stop by for a coffee, fresh fruit, or browse at the various local vendors.” Cassie Spencer, Guest Experience Manager
A National Park Pass is required when entering a national park in Canada. If you have booked a package with us, your parks pass may already be included in your travel documents.
WEATHER
Banff’s mountain setting brings cool mornings and crisp, fresh air, even in the summer. Sudden changes in weather are common, so dress in layers and keep a rain jacket handy.
DESTINATION GUIDE
ATTRACTIONS
Experience Banff’s must-see tourist attractions. Review your final travel documents for tours and activities already included with your journey.
9 Banff Park Museum National Historic Site – The oldest natural history museum in Western Canada. View more than 5,000 natural history specimens. 91 Banff Ave.
10 Cave and Basin National Historic Site – Experience the birthplace of Canada’s national parks and learn about the natural and cultural history of the mountains. 311 Cave Ave.
11 Banff Upper Hot Springs – Relax in the 100% natural mineral water outdoor pool among the peaks of the Rundle and Cascade Mountains. 1 Mountain Ave.
12 Mt. Norquay Sightseeing Chairlift – An open-air chairlift that ascends to more than 2,000 metres above sea level, offering views of Banff and alpine wildlife. Accessible by free shuttle. 2 Mt Norquay Rd.
EAT & DRINK
Banff’s dining scene consists of modern restaurants, historic dining rooms, and cozy local spots.
13 PARK Distillery Restaurant & Bar – A distillery, restaurant, and bar serving campfire-inspired fare and in-house distilled, small-batch glacier water spirits. ($$ – $$$) 219 Banff Ave.
14 Farm & Fire – Serving foods from local farmers and suppliers that are slow roasted and wood-fired to bring out the natural flavours. ($$ – $$$) 333 Banff Ave.
15 The Fat Ox – An intimate Alpine-inspired Italian restaurant serving handmade pasta, locally sourced meats and produce, and elevated Italian dishes. ($$$) 415 Banff Ave.
16 Eat the Castle Food Tour – Enjoy stories of history and architecture with small-group private access to one of the world’s most iconic hotels. Restaurants include the Rundle Bar, Grapes Cellar, 1888 Chop House, The Vermillion Room, and STOCK Food & Drink. ($$$$) 405 Spray Ave.
17 Sky Bistro – Enjoy a distinctly Canadian menu that features a handpicked selection of local meats, produce, and ingredients. An 8-minute ride on the Banff Gondola will take you to the restaurant. Reservations and admission tickets are required. ($$$) 100 Mountain Ave.
Due to high visitor numbers, we highly recommend making dinner reservations in advance of travel, with the exception of rail travel days as Rocky Mountaineer is occasionally subject to unforeseen delays, and arrival times cannot be guaranteed.
EXPLORE MORE
Make the most of your time in Banff with more sights and activities to explore around the region.
18 23 Spas & Wellness – Visit the Fairmont Banff Springs Spa, one of the top spa destinations in the world, or soak in the mountain views from the rooftop at the Meadow Spa and Pools. 405 Spray Ave. and 345 Banff Ave.
19 22 24 Walking Trails – Winding along the Bow River, this quiet trail can be followed North to the Fenland Trail for a forested interpretive loop or to the south for a viewpoint above the cascading Bow Falls. 110 Bear St.
20 Cascade of Time Gardens – Built nearly a century ago, these gardens are full of flowers, flowing ponds, and a picture-perfect view of Cascade Mountain. 101 Mountain Ave.
21 Surprise Corner Viewpoint – Named for its surprising views, Surprise Corner is a popular photo spot for views of the Fairmont Banff Springs Hotel and the Spray Valley. Located on the corner of Tunnel Mountain Dr. & Buffalo St.
25 Johnston Canyon – A well-maintained trail winding through evergreen forests. Suspended catwalks guide you to the picturesque lower waterfalls (2.7 km loop) and the dramatic upper falls (5.4 km loop). Bow Valley Pkwy., Improvement District No. 9.
SHOPPING
Browse around Banff Avenue and Bear Street for a wide selection of stores offering everything from mountain gear and fashion to Canadian crafts and keepsakes.
TRANSPORTATION
Explore the Banff townsite and the surrounding areas of Banff National Park with access to free public transit and commercial shuttles.
Roam Public Transit – Roam Public Transit provides multiple bus routes throughout the Banff and Lake Louise area to popular locations including Lake Louise, Johnston Canyon, Banff Gondola, Lake Minnewanka and more.
Taxis & Car Rentals – Taxis service the Banff area 24/7. Car rentals are available, but please note the Town of Banff does not have long term parking facilities. We recommend booking in advance.
Shuttles – Many hotels in Banff offer complimentary shuttles within the townsite. Inquire with your hotel. Free shuttles are also available to Lake Louise, Mt. Norquay, the Banff Gondola, and Moraine Lake.
LEARN MORE
For more information on Banff scan this QR code.
