People travel from around the world to visit Banff National Park and the town of Banff itself. From sports enthusiasts looking to harness the unparalleled adventure potential of the mountains to sight-seers on the hunt for those glorious turquoise lakes they’ve seen in photos, there’s no question why people flock to the Canadian Rockies. 

A trip to Banff is wildly exciting and there are endless iconic things to do and see. But with all of the sights to see and places to experience, it can be overwhelming trying to narrow it down. Not to worry, we’ve got you covered. Below you’ll find a list of iconic destinations in and around the town of Banff. 

Note: Be sure to research conditions and closures before visiting any of the below destinations.



Lake Minnewanka

You simply haven’t been to Banff until you’ve explored Lake Minnewanka. This massive, sprawling glacial lake is 21 kilometres long and a whopping 142 metres deep. During the summer, you can take a scenic boat cruise on the lake. In fact, it’s the only lake in Banff National Park that allows the use of powerboats, so it’s a very unique experience. If you’d prefer to stay on land, there are tons of walking trails and picnic spots along the shore. In the winter, you can cross-country ski or snowshoe along the lake. It’s also one of the best places to view the northern lights when they’re out and about.



Banff Upper Hot Springs

Take a soothing soak in the hot, mineral-rich waters of Banff Upper Hot Springs. The hot spring was discovered in 1883 and while the original spring was natural, it has been commercially developed into a beautiful pool with jaw-dropping views of Banff for you to sit and relax year-round. Gaze across the valley at Mount Rundle and enjoy the relaxing mineral hot spring in one of the most beautiful destinations.



Cave and Basin National Historic Site

If you’re interested in the history of Banff National Park, the Cave and Basin is the perfect place to take a journey into the past. The creation of Banff National Park, the first national park in Canada, was sparked by the discovery of the Cave and Basin. The attraction is a thermal pool inside of a hidden cave. Visitors can enjoy a tour, interactive exhibits, short films, and awe-inspiring views of the Rocky Mountains. The natural phenomenon itself is a sight to behold, but the surrounding area is something pretty special, too.



Bow Falls

Banff National Park is known for having several absolutely stunning waterfalls. The thing is, some of them can be hard to access, especially in the winter. This isn’t the case for Bow Falls. You can drive right up to the viewpoint which is just steps from the parking lot. This beautiful waterfall is part of the Bow River and it’s an excellent place to take a lovely photo, have a little picnic, or kick off a hike or walk on a beautiful day.



Peyto Lake Panorama Overlook

If you’re in the mood for a hike with absolutely enchanting views, heading to the Peyto Lake viewpoint might be a perfect idea. Located near Lake Louise, this gorgeous lookout is located along a 2.4-kilometre loop trail. The lake is a vibrant turquoise colour and the viewpoint is suspended 2,000 metres above sea level. This is not a sight you will soon forget and it’s absolutely worth the hike. Though, it is best accessed in the late summer and early fall months when there is no snow on the ground. The trail is often quite busy but for good reason, the view just can’t be beat.

Lake Louise

You can’t take a trip to the Rocky Mountains without feasting your eyes on Lake Louise. The stunning, bright-blue lake is surrounded by rugged mountains and endless hiking trails for you to explore. You can skate on the lake in the winter and canoe in the summer to really get the full experience. On the Lake’s shore sits the iconic Chateau Lake Louise, a beautiful, historical hotel that is fit for royalty. You could explore this scenic area for days on end and maybe you should.



Johnston Canyon

Johnston Canyon is a remarkable area that was carved into the limestone by thousands of years of water erosion. You’ll walk between canyon walls, come across stunning waterfalls, immerse yourself in lush forests, and take in the views as you walk across the many bridges and walkways. There are a couple of different routes to choose from and the natural attraction offers a whole different experience at different times of the year. During the winter, the waterfalls from natural ice sculptures and during the summer you can watch them pour through the canyon in full force. This place is begging to be experienced.



Banff Gondola

Take a magic gondola ride to the top of Sulpher Mountain where you’ll find panoramic views of Banff National Park as well as a museum and a restaurant. With a sprawling boardwalk at the peak of the mountain, you can’t ask for better views. If you’re feeling adventurous, you can hike up Sulpher rather than take the gondola. But, who would say no to a gondola ride suspended above the Rocky Mountains?

Banff Springs Hotel

The word “iconic” does not suffice when describing the Banff Spring Hotel. The enchanting, castle-like hotel has been in Banff for over a century and it is nothing if not royal. Inside the hotel, you will find shops, restaurants, bars, a spa, a pool and hot tub, and so much more. Whether you’re staying at the hotel or simply exploring its grandeur, you will not be disappointed. During the holidays, this place is decorated from top to bottom and is the embodiment of holiday magic. You need to pay this historic price a visit next time you’re in Banff.

Bear Street

While this one may seem obvious, it still deserves a spot on your bucket list. Photos of one of Banff’s main streets, Bear Street, can be found all over the internet because it’s just that beautiful. Not only is it a treat for the eyes, but it’s also lined with incredible shopping, dining, and entertainment options to keep you entertained and fed all day long.