The Top 5 Reasons to Visit Banff, Alberta Now
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Nestled high in the Canadian Rockies within Banff National Park, Banff has been inspiring storytellers since 1883 as one of the world’s most breath-taking mountain destinations. For centuries, Banff and Lake Louise have inspired people with their spectacular natural beauty. They are places steeped in legendary tales of adventure, exploration, and myth.
Source: Banff & Lake Louise Tourism
Flanked on all sides by towering mountains, the downtown Banff is alive with adventure and opportunities to experience wonder. The vibrant streets of downtown are lined with must-visit restaurants, bars and shops, as well as a number of incredible art galleries and museums. With a diverse range of activities for all ages, abilities and interests, every season here is sure to inspire unforgettable experiences. These are the top five reasons why Banff, Alberta should be on your bucket list.
1. THE CUISINE & COCKTAILS
Welcome to Bluebird. A wood-fired steakhouse inspired by mountain chalets and a love for cocktails and dinner parties. For your artisanal cocktail fix, we recommend trying the Rhubarb Negroni—concocted with rhubarb-infused Park alpine dry gin, Campari, and vermouth or give the Bluebird Colada a try with Park chili vodka, fresh pineapple, guava and lime, topped with coconut foam.
Specializing in prime rib of beef and comfort foods to fit the mood, Bluebird is the premier steak house to unwind after a day in the Banff wilderness. Jumpstart your morning with breakfast classics like the Croque Madam or Build-Your-Own-Brunch. Later in the day, settle in by the fire or relax on their patio with a smorgasbord of tasty shared plates like Smoked Cheddar & Potato Doughnuts and Spicy Pineapple Baby Back Ribs. Known for their perfection of Prime Rib—enjoy roasted prime rib of Alberta beef with au jus and horseradish cream is served nightly. As a wood-fired steakhouse they play with fire to create a smoky, perfectly charred cut every time.
Take the time to indulge your sweet tooth and enjoy one of many decadent desserts such as Chocolate Hazelnut Mille-Fueille with vanilla cream chiboust, berries, and puff pastry or Hearth Roasted Pineapple Eton Mess with vanilla syrup pineapple, coconut tuile and meringue.
2. THE ART
Whether spoken, written, or illustrated with paint and pixels, discover the many unique voices and stories of Banff and Lake Louise. There are a number of fantastic galleries, heritage spaces and exhibits you can explore to learn more about the culture of this special place.
Source: Banff & Lake Louise Tourism
The galleries in Banff and Lake Louise showcase the incredible work of our many local artists and are a wonderful opportunity to immerse yourself in the art and culture of the area. For those on the hunt for the perfect piece to add to their personal collection, there are a number of galleries and shops where you can find that special work of art to commemorate your trip.
3. THE SHOPPING
Slow down and take some time to appreciate the town setting and local stores by shopping in Banff and Lake Louise. As you wander the lively streets and soak in the views, you’ll find a wide variety of shops from big brand clothing and technical outerwear to local art and genuine Canadian goods.
Source: Banff & Lake Louise Tourism
Whether you’re on the hunt for that perfect souvenir for yourself or gifts for everyone on your list, you’re sure to find it here.
4. THE GARDENS
The Cascades Of Time Gardens are a little oasis just minutes walking distance from downtown Banff. The enchanting stone pathways of Banff’s very own secret garden wind through terraced gardens brimming with vibrant flowers, cascading ponds and wooden gazebos polished by the hands of time. The gardens are terraced into the hillside with pathways and rock steps that lead through trees and flower beds. Several gazebos and sitting shelters make a great refuge from the sun on a hot summer day.
Source: Banff & Lake Louise Tourism
The gardens are missed by many tourists because they are tucked behind Parks Canada Administration Office, a historic circa 1935 stone structure. An iconic view that can be seen on many postcards is taken from the front of the parks building. This spot offers a great sight line looking down Banff Avenue towards Cascade Mountain towering at the end of it. Peak blooming season runs late May to early September, but you can enjoy a stroll through the grounds during other months when it’s not fully snowbound. Admission to the gardens is free.
5. THE LAKES
When it seems like you can’t climb any higher along the dramatic Icefields Parkway, you’ll round a corner and discover breathtaking Bow Lake. High above the lake, the Bow Glacier ebbs and flows with infinite patience, forming the headwaters that flow down the Bow River to Banff and beyond. For over 10,000 years, the deep waters of Lake Minnewanka have held the respect and high regard of those who have visited and lived upon its wild shores. Known to the Stoney Nakoda First Nations people as Minn-waki or “Lake of the Spirits,” the lakeshore holds archeological sites with documented artifacts from as long as 14,000 years ago.
The waters of Moraine Lake seem like they have been poured straight from the heavens into the Valley of the Ten Peaks. Piles of boulders have been seemingly dropped by the hands of giants, forming miniature mountains near the lakeshore. The ambience at Peyto Lake lookout is one of collective awe and appreciation. Made the short walk through a sub-alpine forest, and head for the vista overlooking the lake known around the world in photographs. And of course, last but not least, the vivid turquoise waters to the soaring peaks encircling the lake, Lake Louise is a stunning mountain setting. Begin with the lakeshore trail along the water, pausing to take in a tall waterfall and fearless rock climbers. Glacial creeks converge at the far end of the lake, and every shade of blue imaginable melds together just beyond the shoreline.
WHERE TO STAY IN BANFF, ALBERTA, CANADA
Welcome to Banff’s newest peak—a soaring mountain escape, Peaks Hotel and Suites is a newfound sense of connection to you and the outdoors. Just a few steps over quaint cobblestone and you’ll be in the middle of it all. Located less than a minute walk from downtown, this Banff hotels offers a quiet reprieve from the hustle and bustle of your everyday life. Unwind and warm up after a busy day exploring in front of their impressive stone fireplace located in the Living Room.
