When the Stampede is over and you’re all patio-beered out; when the campgrounds are full and you’re itching for a view that’ll take your breath away, there’s no better place to spend a day or a weekend than our neighbouring mountain town! Need a little help building the perfect itinerary? Here are 10 of the most magical things you can do in Banff this summer!
RENT A SCOOTER AND CRUISE BANFF
Travelling is still frowned upon – so that ‘Eurotrip’ you may have been planning, where you hop on a scooter and tour the cobblestone streets will have to wait. Instead, rev a two-wheeler and cruise Alberta’s favourite national park! Check out the link above for more information!
When: Offered until September 15th
Where: 327 Railway Avenue, Banff, AB
Time: 9 am – 8 pm
Cost: $45/hr
Instagram: @banffscootercompany
TAKE A BOOZE CRUISE OF LAKE MINNEWANKA
We’ve long said that the best way to experience the Rockies is with a drink in your hand and the wind through your hair. This month, check out one of the area’s coolest (and most delicious) experiences Pursuit’s Beer Voyage – a 90-minute scenic ride across the blue waters of Minnewanka where guests are encouraged to sip on craft beer while the sun goes down.
When: Offered until September 26th
Where: Lake Minnewanka – Directions here
Cost: $46 +
Instagram: @pursuitbanffjasper
ATTEND BANFF’S SUNSET FESTIVAL
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We’ve all seen Banff from the ground, but have you watched the sunset over the mountain town from above? If your answer is no – this summer you should absolutely change that! Located on Sulpher Mountain, this entire experience is a 10 from start to finish. First, board the tram and ride it to the top, then grab and a brew while listening to live music and taking in the spectacular 360 view of the most beautiful place in Alberta.
When: Until September 9th
Where: 1 Mountain Avenue, Banff
Time: 5:30 pm – 9 pm
Cost: $45+
Instagram: @BanffGondola
CONQUER THE MOUNTAINS (AND YOUR FEAR OF HEIGHTS)
Unless your absolutely terrified of heights, there’s a pretty good chance you’ve looked at a mountain and thought “yeah, I’d like to climb that,” and guess what? You can! No matter your skill level, you can join an experienced team of certified climbing instructors in the beautiful backcountry for a full day of repelling, swinging and, of course, climbing!
When: See dates above
Where: Suite 200 – 50 Lincoln Park
Cost: $510+
Instagram: @yamnuskamountainadventures
TAKE AN OPEN-TOP TOUR OF BANFF
Anyone who has lived in Calgary for a while has likely seen Banff in every light, in every season from every angle… except one! This summer, feel that sun on your face and the wind through your hair by taking an Open-Top Tour of Alberta’s favourite mountain town in a vintage-style coach.
When: Until October 11th
Where: See locations here
Time: See times here
Cost: $45+
DINE LIKE ROYALTY IN FAIRMONT BANFF’S 360° DOME
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This summer, indulge outdoors in Fairmont’s new 360° Dome dining room – an unbeatable private venue with unreal food and a spectacular view. Located on their Upper Garden Terrace, the dome will feature a gourmet brunch, afternoon charcuterie, and an extravagant 5-course menu. Check out the pricing above!
When: Year-round
Where: 405 Spray Avenue Banff, AB
Time: See times above
Cost: $125+
Instagram: @Fairmontbanff
TAKE A TOUR OF ALBERTA’S MOST BEAUTIFUL PLACES WITH A PRO PHOTOGRAPHER
Ever look at your Instagram and wonder “where the heck did so-and-so take that photo? This Summer, join locally-based photographer, Mike Maciaszek on a 7-hour tour across the Rocky Mountains where he’ll take photos of you and your family or friends along the way!
When: See dates here
Where: Various locations
Time: Various times
Cost: $50+
Instagram: @experience_alberta_with_mike
TAKE A BANFF CAVE TOUR
A Banff Adventures Grotto Tour is maybe the most unique (and also the most terrifying) way to experience Alberta’s Rockies. On this tour, you’ll embark on a one-of-a-kind, 4 to 6 km adventure through the caverns below Alberta’s Bow Valley and learn about our province’s natural history, so we hope you’re not claustrophobic!
When: Tours throughout the summer
Where:211 Bear Street – Banff, Alberta
Cost: $135 +
Instagram: @BanffAdventures
GO WHITE WOLF RAFTING
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Adrenaline junkies! Are you ready to take the ride of a lifetime? This summer, buckle into your life jacket and grip a paddle for dear life as you ride the wild Kanaskis rapids through the mountains with an experienced guide. It doesn’t get cooler than this!
When: Until September
Where: 109 – 829 10th Street, Banff
Time: 9 am
Cost: $110
Instagram: @whitewolfrafting
Well, there you have it, Alberta. 10 things to do in the mountains this summer. Which ones will you hit first?! Let us know in the comments!
