Most outdoor enthusiasts and travelers have Banff, Canada, on their radar.
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This resort town is situated high in the Rocky Mountains (in Banff National Park) in the province of Alberta and is renowned for its alpine scenery. It’s got major ski resorts that are covered in fresh powder all winter long, plus stunning valleys with swimmable lakes that are perfect for summer adventures.
Regardless of the season, there’s something to do in Banff—and it probably involves a great view. From snowshoeing to horseback riding to dog sledding to hiking to swimming in the local hot springs, the fun never ends for intrepid, adventurous travelers.
Most stay inside Banff city limits, which usually means major restaurants and shops are within walking distance—or a short drive away, at the most. But with limited rooms in the small town, where should you stay? Are there a wide range of options, or just a few?
Here’s what to know about places to stay in Banff. Remember: Airbnbs and other short-term rentals aren’t allowed in the area, since it’s inside a national park on protected land.
Best places to stay in Banff
- The best boutique hotel just outside town: The Juniper Hotel & Bistro
- Great location near Banff: Banff Ptarmigan Inn
- A solid budget pick: Best Western Plus Banff International Lodge
- Beautiful décor & fresh concepts: Otter Hotel
- Great for big groups: Peaks Hotel and Suites
- Cozy lodge with spa features: Canalta Lodge
- Rooftop pools located in downtown Banff: Moose Hotel and Suites
- Classic wood features in a quaint boutique: Brewster Mountain Lodge
- Spa features at a more remote inn: Banff Inn
- Lovely lodge with balconies in all rooms: Banff Aspen Lodge
- Downtown hotel with modern design: Elk + Avenue Hotel
- Great location with killer prices: Mount Royal Hotel
- Fantastic hot tubs and pools, better views: Hotel Canoe & Suites
13 places to stay in Banff
The best boutique hotel just outside town: The Juniper Hotel & Bistro
With an on-site gourmet restaurant with a long cocktail list and panoramic views of the mountains from every room, The Juniper Hotel & Bistro delivers on simple wonders done right. The property also offers three-bedroom suites that are perfect for large families and groups. Just know that this hotel is located outside Banff’s main hub, putting you closer to the hiking trails and skiing slopes.
Great location near Banff: Banff Ptarmigan Inn
If you’d rather stay close to Banff without being in the center of town, book a room at the Ptarmigan Inn. The grounds are decked out in classic lodge-style trappings, from natural wood features to its warm lighting. Its location near town lets you walk to many attractions. Still, you’re close to hotspots like Bow Falls and the Cave and Basin National Park.
A solid budget pick: Best Western Plus Banff International Lodge
You’ve got everything you need from a budget stay at the Best Western… and then some. The property comes with an indoor swimming pool and hot tub, along with ski storage for winter trips. Some rooms also come with a spa bath, letting you unwind on your own time. Free underground (heated) parking is also available, which isn’t true for other places to stay in Banff.
Beautiful décor & fresh concepts: Otter Hotel
Looking for something special from your Banff hotel stay? Book a room at Otter Hotel. Rooms come with balconies with sweeping views, while the interiors are cozy, minimalist, and warm. The property also has a hot tub, electric car charging, bicycle storage, and luggage storage.
Great for larger groups: Peaks Hotel and Suites
You can find family rooms galore at Peaks Hotel and Suites. They’re great for families or other large groups that want to stay together. They also have communal spaces where you can kick back in a pack, from the outdoor fireplace to the steam room to the lounge. It’s also located right in the heart of Banff, letting you walk to nearby attractions.
Cozy lodge with spa features: Canalta Lodge
If you’re looking for a traditional lodge experience, Canalta Lodge should be on your radar. Complimentary breakfasts are offered, while the property also has its own coffee shop. The outdoor sauna and hut tub are great for soaking up mountain views while unwinding. Throughout, you’ll notice the warm accents of lodge decor, from wood features to gingham plaid. (Just note: there’s a full-service spa located nearby, but no full-service spa on the grounds.)
Rooftop pools located in downtown Banff: Moose Hotel and Suites
With two heated rooftop pools that are located in the heart of Banff, it’s hard to beat Moose Hotel and Suites for winter travel. The hotel also has an on-site spa, bar, and upscale Italian eatery. The spa has ten treatment rooms and its own separate, private hot pool. There’s even a fourth indoor pool on the fourth floor fitness center. Should I keep going? This is easily one of the coolest places to stay in Banff.
Classic wood features in a quaint boutique: Brewster Mountain Lodge
Intimate, cozy, and located right in downtown Banff, Brewster Mountain Lodge gives you the best of both worlds: a lodging that feels rustic with a location that’s full of action. The lodge’s history is on full display, from its family photos to its log cabin design features. The hotel also has on-site shops, ski storage, and a separate desk where you can book tours.
Spa features at a more remote inn: Banff Inn
Get off the beaten Banff path at Banff Inn. Located between the town and popular ski lodges, you’ve got the perfect place to kick back without all the noise and hustle. The property has an on-site restaurant and bar, along with ski and luggage storage facilities. There’s also a small indoor pool.
Lovely lodge with balconies in all rooms: Banff Aspen Lodge
All rooms come with a balcony or patio at Banff Aspen Lodge, letting you feel fully immersed in the outdoors while staying in town. Plus, the property has its own cafe and pool. Another perk is the on-site launderette, which makes it easy to wash your dirty items on longer trips.
Downtown hotel with modern design: Elk + Avenue Hotel
Simple, modern, and affordable, Elk + Avenue Hotel gives you a way to experience the wonders of Banff without going over-budget… and without skimping on amenities. There’s an indoor hot tub and sauna, along with luggage storage and a tour-focused concierge.
Great location with killer prices: Mount Royal Hotel
This fresh new concept puts you in the center of Banff at a chic location without ridiculously high room rates. The property includes a sauna and hot tub, along with a rooftop with stunning views. The front desk is equipped to offer ski and luggage storage, along with dry cleaning services. Guests also enjoy the shared lounge.
Fantastic hot tubs and pools, better views: Hotel Canoe & Suites
This grand hotel comes with a sauna, hot tub, and steam room, which is a hard combo to beat for winter adventurers. The property also offers an on-site restaurant that serves lunch and dinner, along with spots to grab a drink or coffee. Parking is also free. Similar to Peaks Hotel & Suites, you can book multi-room apartment-style suites, making this great for large groups and families.
