10 Best Things to Do in Banff for First-Time Visitors

Location: Banff, Alberta

Banff is one of those places that feels almost unreal the moment you arrive. Surrounded by dramatic peaks, turquoise lakes, and endless outdoor adventures, it is easy to see why so many travelers consider it a bucket list destination.

If you are planning a trip, this guide covers the best things to do in Banff so you can make the most of your time in the Canadian Rockies.

The 10 Best Things to do in Banff

1. Marvel at Lake Louise

No list of the best things to do in Banff would be complete without Lake Louise. The vibrant turquoise water set against snow-covered mountains creates one of the most iconic views in Canada. It does get crowded, especially in peak season, so plan to arrive early in the morning.

Take a leisurely stroll along the shore or head up to the historic tea house. The hike to the Lake Agnes Tea House is steep and will take about 1-2 hours depending on your speed. A long line will form the closer you get to lunch time, but it is all worth it for a pot of their tea and apple crumble. Note: bring cash, because their credit card machine is frequently down.

After your hike, you can rent a canoe to explore the area by water. The surrounding look like a Bob Ross painting and make for a peaceful paddle. But brace yourself, this activity has become quite pricey! Canoes now cost $145/ hour.

2. Get an adrenaline rush on the Via Ferratta

If you are looking for something more adventurous, the Via Ferrata is one of the most exciting things to do in Banff. This guided climbing experience lets you scale cliffs while safely secured to a cable system.

You will cross suspension bridges, climb rock faces, and take in incredible views of the surrounding mountains. Even if heights are not your favorite, this is surprisingly doable and incredibly rewarding.

3. Watch the sunrise over Moraine Lake

Moraine Lake, with its stunning turquoise waters, is another must-see in the area. It’s a bit less crowded than Lake Louise and, in my humble opinion, more spectacular. Hike around the lake or simply take in the view from the shore.

You have to take a shuttle to reach the lake. We went an hour before sunrise and hiked up the Rockpile Trail which only took about 20 minutes. Bring a flashlight or a headlamp since it will be dark, and expect to share the moment with lots of photographers lining up for that perfect shot. Find a spot and settle in for the show that nature is puts on.

If you visit in late September, the nearby Larch Valley Trail is incredible when the trees turn golden. The hike is challenging with steady elevation, but the views are unforgettable.

You can also canoe on Moraine Lake and it is a bit cheaper that Lake Louise.

4. Ride the Banff Gondola

For sweeping views without the hike, take a ride on the Banff Gondola. It carries you to the top of Sulphur Mountain, where you will find panoramic views in every direction.

Sunset is an especially beautiful time to go, and it is one of the easiest ways to take in the scale of the Rockies.

5. Explore the Town of Banff

Spending time in town is one of the more relaxed things to do in Banff. Banff Avenue is lined with shops, galleries, and restaurants, making it a great place to wander.

We loved dining at Farm & Fire, where the menu is designed for sharing and features fresh, locally inspired dishes. It is a great option for families.

6. Go Wildlife Watching

Wildlife spotting is one of the most exciting parts of visiting Banff. Keep an eye out for elk, bighorn sheep, and even bears while exploring the park.

Always keep a safe distance and carry bear spray when hiking. Many visitors also wear bells to avoid surprising animals on the trail.

7. Relax at the Banff Upper Hot Springs

After a long day outdoors, soaking in the Banff Upper Hot Springs is one of the most relaxing things to do in Banff. The warm mineral water and mountain views make it the perfect way to unwind.

8. Drive the Icefields Parkway

The Icefields Parkway is often called one of the most beautiful drives in the world, and it is easy to see why. This scenic route connects Banff to Jasper and is filled with glaciers, waterfalls, and incredible viewpoints.

Take your time and plan for stops along the way. It is not just a drive, it is an experience.

9. Stargazing in the Dark Sky Preserve

Banff National Park is a designated Dark Sky Preserve, which makes it one of the best places for stargazing. On clear nights, you can see the Milky Way stretching across the sky.

If you are lucky, you might even catch the Northern Lights, which is truly unforgettable.

10. Visit Canmore

Canmore offers stunning mountain views and a welcoming atmosphere. With a vibrant outdoor scene and a charming downtown, I actually preferred Canmore to Banff.

I found the shops in downtown Banff very touristy and over-priced while Canmore had really nice boutiques. The hotels in Banff are extremely expensive while Canmore was more affordable and equally as nice.

Final thoughts

Banff is a destination that delivers at every turn. Whether you are hiking to alpine lakes, spotting wildlife, or simply taking in the views, these are truly the best things to do in Banff for creating lasting memories.