Visiting Banff

Banff National Park

Canada’s first national park is about 1 ^1/2 hours’ drive west of Calgary, Alberta, Canada. From Banff’s humble beginnings as a 26 square kilometre hot springs reserve, Banff National Park now consists of 6,641 square kilometres of unparalleled mountain scenery nestled in the heart of the magnificent Canadian Rockies.

Each year, millions of visitors come to Banff to marvel at the emerald waters of Lake Louise, walk amongst the flower-filled heavens at Sunshine Meadows, and drive beneath the towering jagged peaks lining the Icefields Parkway. Snow-capped peaks, glistening glaciers and sweeping vistas are just one part of the allure of Banff National Park.

You can enjoy all the comforts of home in the town of Banff and the village of Lake Louise, or step out into the wilderness and the home of some of North America’s wildest creatures, including grizzly bears, caribou and wolves.

Attractions, Events, Nightlife and Restaurants

The hotel website features an excellent overview of attractions section by “closest to the hotel”, great views, museums, parks, sightseeing, skiing and tours & excursions. Take a look.

Shopping

When it’s time for a break from the action, treat yourself to renowned Banff Lake Louise shopping. Take home some Canadian smoked salmon, maple-flavored candy, or freshly roasted gourmet coffee. Find the latest cycling, hiking or fishing equipment, accessories and high-tech outdoor clothing at shops that have been owned by local families for decades.

Art galleries, museums and book stores are great places to find a historically interesting keepsake. And if you really want to take home a souvenir of your visit, but you’re on a budget, try the “dollar store.” You’re sure to love shopping in Banff or Lake Louise.

Usually following typical opening hours in Canada, shopping centers and stores in the Banff townsite open from 09:00 to 18:00 throughout the week, although a number open as early as 08:00 and may remain open until as late as 22:00. The majority of Banff's shops and shopping centers are open on weekends, while Sunday trading hours may be shorter at some stores.

Throughout the country you are only able to purchase alcohol from stores run by the local government, although in the province of Alberta, many privately owned stores are allowed to sell a range of alcohol. The current legal drinking age in Alberta is 18 years. Smoking is now banned at many venues in Banff, including public travel and restaurants.