Banff Tourist Attractions, Sightseeing and Landmarks

(Banff, Alberta - AB, Canada)

The Banff townsite may only be a fairly small village, but each year Banff's numerous tourist attractions are explored by several million visitors to the area.

Famous for its mountains, stunning countryside and host of scenic landmarks, Banff's natural tourist attractions are best viewed on the high Banff Sulphur Mountain Gondola, or alternatively, on a relaxing guided rafting tour along the Bow River.

One of the main tourist attractions in the Banff area, the Upper Hot Springs is another natural wonder, consisting of hot sulphur pools where both locals and visitors to Banff enjoy bathing throughout the year. The Banff Center, along Tunnel Mountain Drive, is a major visual arts center and regularly features many seasonal attractions, including concerts, exhibitions and festivals.

Banff Sulphur Mountain Gondola

Address: Hot Springs Road, Banff, Alberta (AB), T0L 0C0, Canada
Tel: +1 403 762 2523
Lying on the outskirts of the town, the Banff Sulphur Mountain Gondola is one of the area's most appealing attractions. Offering superb views of the Rockies and surrounding countryside, the gondola cable car rides are reasonably priced, and being fully enclosed in glass, affords endless photo opportunities. The Banff Sulphur Mountain Gondola travels to the top of the 2,300-meter / 7,545-foot Sulphur Mountain, which features an observation deck, restaurant, historic weather station and gift shop, where souvenirs of the area can be purchased. A hiking trail up the eastern side of the mountain is available for those feeling energetic.
Open hours: daily, seasonal variations
Admission: charge, discounts for children

Lake Minnewanka

Address: Banff, Alberta (AB), T1L 1B9, Canada
Boat tours of Lake Minnewanka are always in demand and offer superb views of the mountainous Banff National Park scenery. Close to the town, Lake Minnewanka is a peaceful spot, known for its high concentration of local wildlife. A number of different boat trips are available, including a fishing package.
Open hours: May to September, daily - 10:30 to 19:00; October - 10:00 to 17:00
Admission: charge

Rafting River Tours

Address: Wolf Street, Banff, Alberta (AB), T0L 0C0, Canada
Tel: +1 403 762 3632
Rafting river tours along the Bow River have long been popular and last up to two hours. Passing many outstanding landmarks, such as the Bow Falls and Tunnel Mountain, these tours are led by experienced guides and are generally fairly relaxed in pace. For more exciting white-water rafting, regular trips are available throughout the summer along the Kicking Horse River and include fast rapids and strong currents. Canoes and kayaks are also available for hire in and around Banff.
Open hours: seasonal variations, weather dependent
Admission: charge, discounts for children

Upper Hot Springs

Address: Mountain Avenue, Banff, Alberta (AB), T0L 0C0, Canada
Tel: +1 403 762 1515
The perfect attraction on a cold day, Upper Hot Springs are naturally steaming hot sulphur pools suitable for bathing. Situated on the southern side of Banff's downtown district, the springs stand alongside some of the most beautiful mountains and landscape in the whole of Canada. Attractions at the Upper Hot Springs include impressive views, spa facilities, a shop area and refreshments.
Open hours: May to October, daily - 09:00 to 23:00; November to April, Sunday to Thursday - 10:00 to 22:00, Friday and Saturday - 10:00 to 23:00
Admission: charge