You’ll fly into Calgary International Airport (YYC).
There are two daily direct flights from New York City to Calgary. Air Canada departs EWR at 2:00 PM and arrives in Calgary at 5:15 PM. WestJet departs JFK at 5:35 PM and arrives at 9:10 PM. For the return, Air Canada departs Calgary at 6:20 AM and arrives at EWR at 1:05 PM. WestJet departs Calgary at 9:55 AM and arrives at JFK at 4:42 PM.
When we visited, we flew into Calgary and landed at 9:10 PM, so we decided to stay the night in Calgary. In the morning, we rented a car and drove out to Banff— the sunrise drive was absolutely beautiful (sunrise in Banff is just before 8 AM, so you don’t have to wake up too early!). If you'd prefer to head straight to Banff from the airport, we also have a discount code for the Banff Airporter, which offers private and semi-private shuttle service from Calgary to Banff. It's a great way to avoid the winter drive if that’s a concern. Please head to the "Travel" section of this website for more details.
We recommend staying around 4 days to fully enjoy Banff National Park. We’d love for everyone to join us on Friday before the wedding for welcome drinks!
We'd suggest a later flight Monday, but if you can't do that we stayed in Calgary the night before our flight and drove to the airport in the morning. It worked out great.
It may be winter, but we are still trying to avoid any cold feet at our wedding! Please dress warm for cold temperatures and snow. Prepare to bundle up and dress warm with heavy coats and multiple layers. We recommend checking the weather the week of your trip, so that you can prepare accordingly for the winter temperatures. Some items to consider packing include: gloves, winter hats/beanies, insulated/wool jackets, thick socks, scarves/gators, winter boots, ski gear, earmuffs/headbands and chapstick/lip gloss.
We suggest booking any dinner reservations on OpenTable or with your hotel concierge beforehand. For lunch, most places will accept walk-in's.
Rundle Bar: Located at the Fairmont Banff Springs, an impressive bar and lounge where expert mixologists serve cocktails and small bites. * Check out the secret speakeasy behind the bookcase. Afternoon Tea At Rundle Bar: Located in the Fairmont’s Rundle Bar, a high tea experience, inclusive of fluffy scones, pastries and finger sandwiches, served on an elegant tiered tea stand. Book your reservation beforehand. The Vermillion Room: Located at the Fairmont Banff Springs, a delicious brasserie with a bustling atmosphere and a menu to delight in. Hello Sunshine: Located in Banff town, a trendy Japanese restaurant featuring sushi, maki rolls, nigiri, Japanese bites, and ramen. Lupo: Located in Banff town, an upscale Italian dining spot serving pizza, pasta, carne, vino, and more. Park Distillery: Located in Banff town, a restaurant and working distillery, serving campfire-inspired cuisine and glacier water spirits made in house. Mary’s Popcorn Shop: Located in town on Banff Avenue, grab-and-go gourmet popcorn, perfect for snacking Bluebird: Located in Banff town, a wood-fired steakhouse specializing in fondue and prime rib of beef with classic boozy cocktails and comfort foods to fit the mood. Three Bears: Located in Banff town, a modern and lively brewery with a menu full of comfort food Rose & Crown OR St Jame’s Gate Irish Pub: Located in Banff town, casual pubs with live music Lakeview Lounge: (For those traveling to Lake Louise) at the Fairmont Château, a charming restaurant and bar with stunning views