Ultimate Summer Guide to Banff

Whether you're visiting Banff National Park for the first time or a seasoned local, here is everything you need to know to have one of the best summer experiences in Banff and Lake Louise. Banff National Park is known for its jaw-dropping peaks, snowy ice fields, and turquoise glacial lakes. It's the kind of destination that will leave you with memories that you'll keep coming back to. With so many hidden gems and things to do, here is a quick rundown on how to make the most of your time in this magical corner of the world.

Exploring the beautiful views and lakes at Banff Sunshine Meadows | Photo by Dan Evans

In Banff National Park, there are two locations to choose from, Banff and Lake Louise, with plenty of accommodation options. Each place offers its own charming atmosphere and experience.

Views down Banff Avenue | Photo by Jillian Tester

Banff

The beautiful town of Banff is nestled in the heart of the Canadian Rockies, and it's the perfect spot for adventure and fun. Whether you're a foodie, an art enthusiast, or just love trying new things, Banff has something for everyone. There are plenty of places to stay, from boutique hotels to the famous Canadian Castle (the Fairmont Banff Springs), you won't want to leave. When it comes to activities, you'll be spoilt for choice! From kayaking to paddleboarding and even exploring the park on e-bikes, there's no shortage of things to do.

Looking over the iconic turquoise lake, Lake Louise | Photo by Roam Creative

Lake Louise

The smaller of the two locations, Lake Louise, is named after - you guessed it, the iconic lake itself! With a cutesy village vibe, it offers a quieter and more intimate nature escape to its neighbour, Banff. With its delightful village atmosphere, a selection of restaurants, and relaxing accommodation options, you'll be fully surrounded by nothing but nature and mountains.

You'll never run out of things to do in Banff and Lake Louise. Whether you're a thrill seeker or looking for a more relaxed experience, there's something for every level of adventure seeker. From sightseeing gondolas and chairlifts to soaring to new heights at the Via Ferrata as well as cycling, paddleboarding, kayaking, lake cruises, or even horseback riding, there are so many experiences to try. The best part is you can easily rent summer activity gear from the SkiBig3 Adventure Hub to make memories that last a lifetime, right in downtown Banff.

Paddleboarding at Two Jack Lake | Photo by Jill Tester

Things to do:

• Banff Sunshine Meadows: Sightseeing and Hiking
• Lake Louise Gondola: Sightseeing and Hiking
• Mt. Norquay: Via Ferrata
• Paddle on pristine lakes
• Kayak on turquoise waters
• Explore the trails by e-bike
• Hiking
• Sightseeing
• Climbing
• Horseback Riding
• Banff Centre for Arts & Creativity
• Cave and Basin
• Whyte Museum

Get ready to embark on a culinary adventure in Banff and Lake Louise. From elegant fine dining to cosy bistros and lively bars, there's so much to choose from to tantalize those taste buds every day of your vacation. Here's a quick rundown of some of our favourite restaurants.

Enjoying a delicious lunch at the Rose & Crown Patio | Photo by ROAM Creative

Banff

• Bakeries, Coffee & Tea
  • Downtown Sally
  • Jolene's Tea House
  • STOCK
  • Whitebark Café
  • Wild Flour
• Casual Dining
  • Anejo: Mexican favourites and margaritas
  • Bluebird: Wood-fired steakhouse
  • Lupo: Italian restaurant and patio
  • Hello Sunshine: Sushi and karaoke
  • Nourish: Vegan friendly bistro
  • Shoku Izakaya: Japanese Pub
  • Bear Street Tavern: Signature pizzas and cast iron specialties
  • Cliffhouse Bistro: Modern bistro 7,000ft high
  • Chimney Corner: International dishes with mountain views
• Fine Dining
  • Chuck's Steakhouse: Alberta beef experience
  • The Vermillion Room: Classic favourites
  • La Terrazza: Apline elegance, Italian essence
  • Waldhaus Restaurant: Upscale Bavarian-style
  • Castello Italiana: Classy, seasonal Italian
• Bars & Breweries
  • Banff Ave Brewing Co.
  • Bar Moxy
  • Park Distillery
  • The Canadian Brewhouse
  • Three Bears
  • Rundle View Bar
     

Taking in the views of Lake Louise at The Whitehorn Bistro | Photo by Lake Louise Ski Resort

Lake Louise

• Bakeries, Coffee & Tea
  • Trailhead Café
  • Laggan's Mountain Bakery & Deli
  • Lake Agnes Tea House
  • The Guide's Pantry
• Casual Dining
  • Whitehorn Bistro: Mountain dining
  • Lake Louise Station Restaurant: Canadian cuisine
  • Lake Louise Village Grill & Bar: Veteran eatery with Canadian and Asian bites
  • Louiza: Elegant mediterranean-inspired
• Fine Dining
  • The Walliser Stube: Upscale dining room
  • Post Hotel Dining Room: Inventive cuisine with global flair
  • Fairview Bar & Restaurant: Canadian meals with views of Lake Louise
• Bars & Breweries
  • Lakeview Lounge
  • Alpine Social

The SkiBig3 app is your guide to Banff National Park for your summer and winter adventures. Download the app to check out all the must-know information during your stay.

Features:

• Paddleboard locations and safety
• Weather forecast
• Bus schedules
• Destination information
• And more!

Explore the three SkiBig3 resorts and experience Banff National Park in winter | Photo by Jillian Tester

Summer in Banff National Park is a vacation you'll never forget. But have you ever thought about visiting in winter? Winter is the off-peak time to visit so you can expect less crowds, and reduced rates but still the same beauty. Talk to our friendly reservation team today to start planning your trip or take a look at our Ski & Stay Package deals online. With flexible change and no-risk cancellation options, you may just see yourself coming back for a winter vacation!