The vista on display below the torrent of Bow Falls exemplifies the wild diversity of the Rockies. Rocky canyon turns to rushing falls and then to serene river, gliding off down the Bow Valley. The setting is one made famous by Marilyn Monroe in the 1953 film The River of No Return, and it’s no less dramatic today. Follow the Bow Falls trail for a view from above the cascading waters or sit on the rocky river shore and watch rafting trips take off into the calm waters below the falls.

The Banff Gondola takes guests on an eight minute journey to the summit of Sulphur Mountain in a modern, fully-enclosed four passenger gondola cabin.

Surprise Corner is a spectacular viewpoint of the Fairmont Banff Springs Hotel and the Spray Valley. It is easily one of the most famous photo spots in Banff. “The Castle of the Rockies” sits at the base of Sulphur Mountain with the roaring Bow Falls in the foreground. Since it’s only a few minutes outside of town along Tunnel Mountain Road, it’s an easy stop for visitors to Banff. The view is, without a doubt, one of the most iconic places to snap a picture in Banff. Most visitors are likely familiar with the view, as the iconic scene is often shared across social media and used for marketing purposes. That being said, a photo rarely conveys the scale and beauty like witnessing the natural setting in person.

The vibrant downtown streets are filled with unique restaurants, cafés, bars and stores that encapsulate the friendly, local vibe that makes it so hard to leave. Nestled deep in the rugged mountains, Banff is enveloped by dazzling snow-covered peaks and stunning natural phenomenon on all sides, offering a perfect mix of culture, nature and wildlife. The list of things to do in Banff is both varied and endless. If you’re only there for a day or two—fear not—we’ve got you covered! These are our suggestions of what to explore in downtown Banff that will leave you feeling rejuvenated yet hungry for more.

Situated just minutes from the town of Banff, Cascade Ponds is a popular picnic and walking area at the base of Cascade Mountain. A network of small bridges connects several ponds, creating easy loops with stunning reflections of the surrounding peaks. It’s a favorite spot for families and photographers, especially in early morning or evening light when the water is calm and mirror-like.

Metal catwalks are built into the canyon walls, allowing visitors to safely walk over rushing waters and appreciate the steep, rocky walls and cascading creek. The Johnston Canyon Hike is one of Banff National Park's most popular and rewarding hiking experiences. It offers dramatic canyon views, waterfalls, forests, and a cave where you can go into and be amazed by waterfalls.