Banff is known as one of the most sought after tourist spots in Canada and the best place to experience both winter and summer activities within North America.
When I had my first vacation in Banff, I knew that this place will offer a lot of excitement and fun moments I need to share with everyone.
Below are the list of things you should do while staying in Banff.
1. Visit Lake Louise and Moraine Lake
Lake Louise and Moraine Lake is located in Banff National Park and is well known for its glacier-fed and turquoise water appearance.
During the winter, its beauty would make you feel like you are in a fairy wonderland filled with crystal snow and high avalanche.
While in the summer, you would expect a paradise showcasing the most vibrant blue water coming from the mountainside.
At Lake Louise, you will also enjoy the world class Fairmont Chateau Lake Louise, which is known for its 539 hotel rooms and castle-like structure.
2. Take a Ride on the Banff Gondola
It was my first time riding a gondola or a cable car to see the top of the mountain and it felt surreal.
Banff Gondola will take you to another level of adventure by experiencing the 6 Canadian Rockies in one day.
The incredible view of the Sulfur Mountain, Lake Louise, the Bow Valley and Downtown Banff are also one of the many reasons why you should take this trip.
3. Meet a Grizzly Bear and some wild-life animals
While we are heading to Lake Louise, I surprisingly screamed telling our guide that I saw a Grizzly Bear. Everyone in our minibus were so excited and our guide had turned the car and we were all happy seeing the chubby bear.
The Grizzly Bear, deer, moose, horses and some other wild-life animals are dwelling within the Banff National Park which one could see with a guided tour or an individual or group visit.
4. Ski at the Sunshine Village
If you want more adventure, the Sunshine Village is the right spot for you.
Known as one of the famous ski resorts in Banff, the Village had first introduced snowboarding in Canada and eventually evolves in skiing tracks for beginners who would want to do off-piste and backcountry skiing.
5. Shop at the Banff Town
Banff is not only a place for sight-seeing nature and fun adventure but also it has a little touch of city-like when it comes to shopping.
I had stayed in Banff for days and I found each store unique and cute. I believe there is no stiff competition as to the product offerings for each local stores which is nice to see.
6. Eat to one of the Local Restaurants
During my visit in Banff, I tried the Grizzly House and I am so happy for the kindness and service of the staffs and of course the delicious meal I ordered.
The said restaurant is popular for its fondue and exotic meats. And surely, you will enjoy their happy hour drinks and wine.
Other best places to dine are Ticino, the Maple Leaf, The Bison and Saltlik.
7. Walk in the morning at the Banff Avenue
This is my favourite thing to do in Banff. During my visit, I always woke up at 6:30 in the morning and would have a 30 minutes to 1 hour walk at the Banff Avenue to Castle Garden.
It felt so peaceful and serene while seeing the sunrays kissing the mountains.
I will never get tired of doing this when I visit Banff again.
8. Enjoy the Night Life in Banff Town
Enjoy the nature in the morning and the humour of people in the evening.
Banff is not only a place for nature seeker but also for those who like to party and have some night adventures.
During my visit, I went to a bar, but not the one with a party, just a sushi bar. It’s funny because there are lots of cool places to go in Banff in the evening, like the Hondo Lounge, Dancing Sasquatch and the Storm Cellar but I ended up in a Japanese restaurant enjoying the bonfire while watching the moon and stars.
9. Take a Road Trip
The mountain views in Banff are so magnificent and stunning.
Whether you are in a group, or with your family, friends or a solo traveler, for sure you will enjoy the ride going to Banff from Canmore or Yoho and Jasper.
10. Experience Some of the Iconic Structure and Culture of Banff
I was honestly astonished when I first saw Banff as it reminds me of the towns in Switzerland which I only seen in pictures and through browsing.
How it was structured really amazed me and knowing its little history and culture totally add up value to my journey.
