Banff town at a glance
Banff is the main base in the national park. Shops, restaurants and hotels sit along Banff Avenue, and a number of viewpoints, historic sites and short walks are close by. The list below is a selection, not a ranking. It starts with the town centre, moves out to viewpoints near the Bow River, and ends with short walks and one photo stop.
Two details affect many plans in late October 2026. The Upper Hot Springs are closed for maintenance, and Banff Avenue is having its paving stones replaced in stages. Details are in the entries below.
In the centre (1 to 4)
History, museums and the river, all close to the main street.
1. Walk Banff Avenue
The main street is the centre of town. Since 13 October 2026 the paving stones are being replaced in stages. Expect some footpath detours and lane closures, but the town itself is not closed. Allow a little extra time when you cross it on foot.
2. Visit Cave and Basin
This is the historic site where Banff's hot springs story began, with exhibits and films. Adults pay CAD 10, seniors CAD 8.50, and visitors up to 17 enter free (2026). From 15 May to 15 October it is open daily from 9:30 a.m. to 5 p.m. From 16 October to 14 May it is open Thursday to Monday from 11 a.m. to 5 p.m. and closed Tuesday and Wednesday. It is also closed on 25 December. The bathing pool in town is the Upper Hot Springs, not Cave and Basin.
Hot springs guide →3. See the Banff Park Museum
The museum holds a historic natural history collection of mounted specimens. It is an indoor stop and does not replace seeing animals outdoors. Check the current opening hours and ticket price before you go.
4. Look at Bow Falls
Viewpoints and a riverside path near town let you see Bow Falls without a long walk.
Banff town tours and day trips
Guided experiences from Banff, from sightseeing and wildlife to day trips into the Rockies, with current prices and availability.
Viewpoints and outings (5 to 8)
Places for the views you came for.
5. Drive the Vermilion Lakes
Vermilion Lakes Drive is a scenic road of 4.3 km. Parking is limited at the first lake, so do not plan on a long stay at the busiest times.
6. Ride the Banff Gondola
The top station is at 2,281 m. A ticket is required, and the details are on the Banff Gondola page.
7. Relax at the Upper Hot Springs
This is a paid thermal bath. It is closed for maintenance from 13 October until early November 2026. Check the current status before you plan an evening there.
8. Take a boat on Lake Minnewanka
Boat trips and rental boats are offered at Lake Minnewanka, but not all year. Check the operator's season for your date. The lake trail beyond the Stewart Canyon Bridge has been closed since 16 September 2026 until further notice.
Short walks and a photo stop (9 to 12)
Easy time outdoors without a full-day plan.
9. Hike Tunnel Mountain
A summit walk close to town. The trail is about 2.4 km one way, with 260 m of climbing, and takes roughly 2 hours return.
10. Walk the Fenland Trail
A short loop through forest, about 2.1 km and 40 minutes.
11. Stop at Surprise Corner
This viewpoint is at the east end of Buffalo Street. It is also the start of the path to the hoodoos.
12. Photograph the Banff sign
Since 20 November 2025 the Banff sign stands on the hill next to the Train Station. Do not go to the old location on Norquay Road.
Parking and buses in town
The park pass does not cover town parking.
Town parking
The town charges daily from 8 a.m. to 8 p.m. The rate is CAD 12 per hour from May to October and CAD 7 per hour from November to April (2026). This is a municipal fee, and the national park pass does not cover it.
Train Station car park
The car park at 327 Railway Avenue has 500 spaces and is free. It is open daily from 6 a.m. to 11 p.m., for up to 9 hours per day, and allows motorhomes.
Roam buses
Local rides cost CAD 2 one way or CAD 5 for a day pass for adults (2026). Youth and seniors pay CAD 1 or CAD 2.50, and children up to 12 ride free. Route 1 goes to Sulphur Mountain, route 2 to Tunnel Mountain and the Fairmont, route 8X to Lake Louise and route 9 to Johnston Canyon. Pay with exact cash, since the driver has no change.
Banff town: frequently asked questions
How many things are there to do in Banff town?
This page lists 12 ideas: the centre, viewpoints near the river, boat trips and short walks. It is a selection, not a ranking.
Is Banff Avenue closed?
No. Since 13 October 2026 the paving stones are replaced in stages. You may meet footpath detours and lane closures, but the town is open.
Where can I park in Banff town for free?
The Train Station car park at 327 Railway Avenue is free. It has 500 spaces, is open from 6 a.m. to 11 p.m. and allows up to 9 hours per day. Motorhomes are allowed.
What does Cave and Basin cost?
Adults pay CAD 10, seniors CAD 8.50, and visitors up to 17 enter free (2026). It is closed on 25 December.
Where is the Banff sign?
The sign has been on the hill next to the Train Station since 20 November 2025. The old spot on Norquay Road no longer holds it.