Things To Do

Google Maps - Banff Favorites

See all of our favorite things in Banff mapped out with notes!

Explore Downtown Banff

Downtown Banff has lots to offer! Walk down Banff Ave, stop at cute boutiques, galleries and cafes or walk along the Bow River. Rent a bike or canoe!

Lake Louise

Lake Louise (and Moraine Lake below) are stunning and the top 2 most gorgeous, iconic lakes in Banff. That being said, there are TONS of other lakes that are also beautiful and these two require advance preparation and shuttles. Parking is extremely limited at Lake Louise and will most likely require the need for shuttle. There is an official Parks Canada shuttle service that is the most affordable and books up the quickest. There are also other private shuttle companies that are more expensive and therefore more available.

Moraine Lake

There is absolutely no parking at Lake Moraine and you must take a shuttle to get there, but it is absolutely beautiful here. You can book a 2 stop shuttle that stops at both Lake Louise and Lake Moraine.

Canmore

Canmore is just 20 minutes from Banff (closer to Calgary), has the same stunning Rockies views, great boutiques, galleries, hiking trails and breweries, and a more laid-back local vibe. While we don't recommend staying in Canmore for our wedding due to unpredictable traffic, we love Canmore and would highly recommend staying here if you extend before our after our wedding (or stopping on the way in or out of Banff)

Hiking (See our AllTrails top hikes)

Canoeing

We love canoeing in Banff and try to canoe on every lake! There are several options for canoeing including in the city of Banff and at Lake Minnewanka, Lake Moraine, Lake Louise or Emerald lake

Saturday Daytime Ideas

1. Plan a visit to Lake Louise + Lake Moraine 2. Drive north and explore whatever looks nice to you! Emerald and Peyto lakes are a bit of a farther driver but also very beautiful. In particular on the drive to Peyto lake there are many other beautiful lakes to stop at along the way! A great way to spend the day is to pack a car with towels, swimsuits and snacks and have a lovely day with stops for hikes, freezing swims & ice cream 3. Explore the city of Banff and closer lakes such as Lake Minnewanka 4. Explore the city of Canmore and do a short hike to the beautiful Grassi lakes