Curator’s statement
Banff is a fantastic location, a photographer's dream, with it's gleaming turquoise water and mountain backdrop. I took a solo trip to Banff for my birthday in August and absolutely fell in love with the beauty of this destination. It just had that calming feeling of being somewhere so beautiful that makes you take a step back and really appreciate life, our beautiful planet, and feel a sense of peace. You could travel to Banff to simply relax and enjoy the beautiful scenery or engage in more active adventures such as hikes, horseback rides, or a canoe tour.
The Fora Difference
Book with Katie to access exclusive perks and experiences on your trip.
Killer perks
Free upgrades, spa credits and more—we got you
Personalized recs
Customized travel planning for your style
Insider knowledge
Expert advice from people who’ve actually been there
Where to stay in Banff
Unlock perks by contacting Katie to book your trip.
Things to do in Banff
Take a one hour bow river horseback ride through Banff National Park to the natural sulfur springs.
Hike the Plain of Six Glaciers Trail - this is a 9.1 mile out-and-back trail near Lake Louise, Alberta. I would only recommend this if you are in good physical shape, but the views are stunning and you will get some phenomenal photos.
Take a Banff National Park Big Canoe Tour.
Take a Covered Wagon Ride in Banff with Western Cookout. This is a great family activity for all ages with a yummy BBQ meal.
For the real adventure seekers, try a canyoning tour at Heart Creek Canyon where you will learn how to rope rappel.
Take in the views of Sunshine Village with a gondola and chairlift ticket combo at a premier ski destination. Another great family activity.
If you are a real thrill seeker, take a small group Via Ferrata climbing tour.
Day Trips
Banff & The Icefields Parkway - a small group full day adventure to the Banff and Jasper national parks' highlights to Peyto Lake, Mistaya Canyon, and the Columbia Icefield.
A helicopter tour over the Canadian Rockies. If you've never done a helicopter tour, this would be a fantastic location to try one.
Places to eat & drink in Banff
Try some seasonal Canadian cuisine for dinner at The Bison Restaurant.
Enjoy a cocktail or a small plate outside at the Block Kitchen + Bar.
For a delicious steak dinner, try Chuck's Steakhouse & Patio.
Grab your morning coffee at the Whitebark Cafe.
Travel Advisor
Katie Anderson
Get in touch with Katie
Did you like this guide? Reach out to customize and book your own experience. Or, just to chat about travel in general.
You can normally expect a response from Katie within a business day or so. You’ll also be subscribed to our travel newsletter (you can unsubscribe at any time).
Looking for more travel inspiration? Check out my guide, A Couples Escape to Maui.
This guide is part of our ongoing series on travel to Canada.