Banff > Our Suggestions > First Time

First Time Here

Must See & Do
Take a stroll along the Bow River interpretive trail to the Bow Falls. Visit the Whyte Museum (current exhibition is outstanding - Group of Seven to Tako Tanabe). Ride up the Banff Gondola to see spectacular scenery and wildlife. Take a wander around the historical Fairmont Banff Springs Hotel, don't miss the medieval Mount Stephan hall.

Try to See & Do
Walk along the short Marsh Trail at the Cave and Basin, a winding boardwalk though a unique and sensitive hot springs ecosystem, great bird watching. Take in a performance at the world class arts venue the Banff Centre, book yourself onto a Banff Tour with Brewster, a fantastic way to see the area with experienced guides. Go for a dip at the Banff Upper Hot Springs or visit the Buffalo Nations Luxton Museum, a great look into the native cultures of the area, they have a wonderful gift shop.

Outside Banff
Hike in the high alpine at Sunshine Meadows to see a plethora of stunning wildflowers. Take a rafting tour, hike up Johnston Canyon, a gorgeous deep canyon with an excellent interpretive trail – grab an ice cream from the little hut at the start of the trail. Visit the famous hamlet of Lake Louise, wander around the lake trail to the trail head for the Plain of Six Glaciers Tea House - a very rewarding hike with some of the best scenery in the Rockies. An absolute must is a ride on Brewster's Ice Explorer on the Icefields Parkway half way to Jasper, this is a once in a life time experience.