Where Should YOU Stay in Banff On Your First Visit
If you’re wondering where to stay in Banff, I have good news! Choosing the best hotel in Banff and area to stay for you and your family is much easier than choosing proper accommodation in a large city.
Although Banff National Park is one of the largest parks in Canada, the area where you can stay is quite limited, and it is important to know where the best places to stay are. So much of Banff is protected, meaning most of the accommodation options are in the Town of Banff. Outside of that, we will narrow down a few other exciting hubs.
Most visitors to Banff will likely stay somewhere in the Town of Banff and perhaps venture out of town for a few nights to visit Lake Louise or along the Bow Valley Parkway.
There is so much to explore around the park in the summer and winter before returning to your hotel for a quiet night amongst the trees, enjoying a campfire or a stroll on Banff Ave.
Unlike other similar articles, we won’t be discussing Calgary, Golden, or Invermere as an option for where to stay in Banff because, quite frankly, those destinations are pretty far from the town and will alter your vacation to the beautiful Canadian Rockies. Let’s dig into the best places to stay in Banff.
Where to Stay in Banff? Quick Answer
Where is the Most Luxurious Place to Stay? Fairmont Banff Springs is undoubtedly the most luxurious place to stay in the entire park. It’s absolutely magical in both the winter and summer, although I’m partial to winter and Christmas time when they have “Christmas at the Castle.”
Where is the Best Mid Range Place? Mount Royal Hotel provides excellent comfortable and modern rooms right on the main crosswalk of Banff.
Where to Stay With Air Conditioning? Moose Hotel & Suites. Air Conditioning is not common in the Rockies as it’s always pretty cool at night. If AC is important consider the Moose Hotel.
Where is the Most Unique Place to Stay? Baker Creek Mountain Resort is a romantic location on the Bow Valley Parkway. If you want to feel like you’re lost in a traditional log cabin this place is for you.
Where To Stay on a Lake in Banff? Fairmont Chateau Lake Louise There is truly no more iconic in Banff than here. If staying on a lakefront property is a must, at least one night here is ideal.
Where is the Best Pet-Friendly Place to Stay? The Rimrock Resort. A higher-end property that treats pets (and humans) like kings and queens. For a more affordable option, look into The Dorothy.
Where to Stay as a Family? The Hidden Ridge Resort is great if you want an entire apartment in Banff perfect for large groups and families.
The Best Places to Stay in Banff
Town of Banff
Your first main option when looking at where to stay in Banff is the actual town of Banff. The Town of Banff is located about 125.8 km west of Calgary. If driving from Calgary, you’ll pass the Town of Canmore and the pass the Parks Canada gates. After driving past pull-offs like Cascade Ponds and Two Jack Lake on your right hand side, you’ll quickly come up to the Town of Banff.
There are two exits off the Trans-Canada, which will take you to Banff Ave. Banff Ave is the main street in Banff and is where most of the hotel and accommodation options are located.
Staying on Banff Ave certainly has its perks. The ability to walk right out from your hotel and enjoy the lively Banff Ave in summer or winter is impressive. The whole town of Banff is entirely walkable, and if staying downtown, you won’t need your car at all to explore the town and places like Cascade Gardens and Bow Falls.
You’ll have everything you need for a great vacation in Banff, just steps away. The best Banff restaurants, cafes, and some fun attractions are nearby. I love the Mount Royal for the mid-range hotel option, as well as the Banff Caribou Lodge! There are also a few cheap hotels in Banff, like the Dorothy Motel, The Rundlestone Lodge, and the High Country Inn.
A few Downtown hotels are not located right on Banff Ave, but they are only a few streets back. For this, you will likely pay a slightly lower rate than staying right on Banff Ave.
**If it’s your first time in Banff, we think the Town of Banff is the best place to stay.
Staying in Banff
Pros
- Close to all the action
- You can get around Banff without a car with tours and the Roam Transit.
- Many Banff hotels have free parking
- Close to all the fabulous Banff restaurants
- Closer to Vermilion Lakes, Lake Minnewanka, Two Jack, and Canmore!
Cons
- It’s Expensive
- Busy, especially during the summer months.
- Not secluded.
Where to Stay in Downtown Banff
Elk + Avenue Hotel
Elk + Avenue Hotel is a great mid-range hotel right on Banff Avenue. It offers comfortable rooms, underground parking, and quick access to restaurants like Farm & Fire.
Mount Royal Hotel
The Mount Royal Hotel is another historic hotel that dates back to 1908 and is located right in the center of Banff. It has an ideal location so you have quick access to anything you could want in Banff. The historic building has a beautiful exterior that likely makes an appearance in thousands of photographs down Banff Ave of Cascade Mountain.
Moose Hotel and Suites
The Moose is our favorite hotel on Banff Avenue. It has extremely comfortable rooms, many with fireplaces and AC. However, what I love most about The Moose is its rooftop hot tubs and sauna. There’s likely no better place to relax with views of Cascade.
The Peaks
The Peaks is a new hotel that is easily one of the nicest and most modern places to stay in all of Banff. It’s located off Lynx St, just a few minutes’ walk from Banff Avenue. It has a more upscale vibe than many other hotels nearby.
Banff Caribou Lodge
The Banff Caribou Lodge is one of the best places to stay on a budget. Rooms here are basic, but comfortable. There are many amenities here, including a full-service spa, a jetted hot pool, steam room, fitness room, and bike rental service.
The Dorothy Motel
The Dorothy Motel is a newly renovated motel just outside of downtown Banff. It’s a boutique motel with simple rooms that are well set up to meet travelers’ needs. Pets are welcome at the hotel as they are provided a bed, food and water bowls, a take-home toy, and tasty treats.
Downtown Banff Outskirts
Some of the best places to stay in Banff aren’t actually on Banff Avenue. There are a few Banff hotels located on the outskirts of town. Most are still completely walkable to Banff Ave; it just may take a bit longer.
Staying on the outskirts of town means you’ll have more privacy and a little less noise on a lively Saturday night. Though it’s not to worry, nowhere in Banff is like a large city at night, and noise is never much of an issue.
The most notable hotel located on the outskirts of town is the famous Banff Springs Hotel (aka the Castle). Upon viewing, you can see why its location, which is in the trees and away from downtown, is perfect for it.
There is also the Juniper Hotel, which is conveniently located near Mount Norquay. The Juniper Hotel is not near Downtown Banff, but instead across the Trans Canada. It’s about a 25-minute walk to Banff Ave, or they offer a free shuttle. While it’s in a quieter location, it also sits over the highway, something to note during booking.
*If you are looking for a bit more of a private upscale experience that is still close to Downtown Banff, but far enough away from the summer crowds, the outskirts are the best place to stay for you.
Where to Stay on the Outskirts of Banff Ave
Banff Springs Hotel
When it comes to luxury hotels in Banff National Park, nothing is more iconic than the long-standing Banff Springs Hotel. It’s one of the best hotels in Banff and for good reason. When you glimpse this grand landmark for the first time, you’ll see why it’s known as The Castle of the Rockies. The hotel has seen guests from all over the world for more than 100 years, and to stay here is truly a bucket list experience.
Juniper Hotel
Juniper is relatively close to downtown Banff but not actually located Downtown. Juniper Hotel is about 2 kilometers from Banff Avenue and 6 kilometers from Mount Norquay Ski Resort. It is set on a hill, perched above the Trans-Canada highway, and surrounded by mountains. It’s ideal for those that have a car and want easy access to the highway.
Sulphur Mountain Area
Sulphur Mountain is near Downtown Banff but is across the Bow River Bridge and up a long, steep road. While you can walk to Banff Ave from Sulphur Mountain, it may be easier to take a car or the Roam Bus. Sulphur Mountain is the sight of the Banff Gondola and the Banff Hot Springs, two of the best things to do in Banff.
There is really only one Banff hotel near Sulphur Mountain, and that is the Rimrock Resort, which is easily one of the most luxurious hotels in the park. It’s a great option if you want easy access to the Town of Banff but want to stay a little bit away from the hustle and bustle. It’s family and pet-friendly and provides more affordable rates than Banff Springs.
*The Rimrock is one of the most romantic hotels in Banff and is recommended to those on an anniversary trip or honeymoon.
Where to Stay Near Sulphur Mountain?
The Rimrock
For a luxury stay, consider the Rimrock. Its interior decor, massive lobby, floor-to-ceiling windows, fantastic views, and wonderful service make the hotel stand out. Facilities at the resort include two restaurants, an indoor heated pool, hot tub, steam room, sauna, and fitness studio. When visiting, try Eden, the prestigious 5 Diamond Award-winning restaurant.
Tunnel Mountain Area
Tunnel Mountain is a small mountain right near the town of Banff. It’s a popular hike in the summer and winter and is well known for its ease and accessibility. There are a few accommodation options in the Tunnel Mountain area. All provide fantastic access to the Banff Golf Course and mountain bike trails in Banff, and of course, Tunnel Mountain.
Staying near Tunnel Mountain is an excellent alternative to Banff Ave. Like most other places, it’s still very possible to walk to Banff Ave in a short amount of time, but having a car will definitely make your life easier.
Up here, you can find a few resort communities like the Hidden Ridge Resort and one of the only hostels in Banff, the HI Banff Alpine Centre.
*Tunnel Mountain Resorts tend to be best for families as they often provide a larger space and a kitchen, and sometimes, you can score a great deal on accommodation here.
Where to Stay Near Tunnel Mountain?
Tunnel Mountain Resort
A great option for those seeking self-catering accommodations, as all rooms include at least a kitchenette. It sits just above downtown Banff on Tunnel Mountain in a quiet neighborhood. A walk into town is two kilometers down a large hill, but the hotel does supply a complimentary public bus pass.
Hidden Ridge Resort
Hidden Ridge Resort is great for groups and families. Each apartment-style room at the Hidden Ridge Resort includes a full kitchen, dining area wood burning fireplace, and balcony. It’s easy to see the appeal of this family-friendly Banff hotel.
Buffalo Mountain Lodge
Buffalo Mountain Lodge is a good mid-range option for those looking to be close to Tunnel Mountain. Each rustic room offers a wood-burning fireplace, balcony, and private bathroom.
Ski In/Ski Out in Banff
There are three ski resorts in Banff. Lake Louise Ski Resort, Banff Sunshine, and Mt. Norquay. The only ski-in/ski-out hotel in the whole park is located at Banff Sunshine. The Sunshine Mountain Lodge is a luxurious Banff hotel situated at the top of the Sunshine Gondola. Those staying up here might feel pretty secluded, which can be good or bad, depending on what you want!
Powderhounds can sleep in slumber here and look forward to getting first tracks on a beautiful Banff winter morning.
The Only Ski In/Ski Out in Banff
Sunshine Village Mountain Lodge
There is only one ski-in/ski-out accommodation option in all of Banff National Park. The honor lies at Sunshine Resort in the form of the Sunshine Mountain Lodge. If you want to stay at the base of a ski resort when you visit Banff in the winter this is your option!
Lake Louise Area
Lake Louise itself is one of the most iconic places to visit in Banff and all of Canada. It’s a beautiful sight to see, and visitors come from all over the world to see the bright blue colors of Lake Louise.
Located about 40 minutes away from the Town of Banff, Lake Louise is an excellent place to stay. There aren’t many hotel options here, and there is only one hotel option on Lake Louise herself.
The Fairmont Chateau Lake Louise is another iconic Fairmont property on Lake Louise and one of the best places to stay in Banff. However, to book a stay here, expect to pay top dollar for location, especially during peak summer when the rates can go as high as $1500 a night.
There are a few other hotels near Lake Louise on Lake Louise Drive that offer close access to the lake but at a fraction of the cost of the Fairmont. The Paradise Lodge Bungalows, and the Lake Louise Inn are good options.
*Staying in Lake Louise over Banff is such a tough decision, so we wrote an entire article to help you decide.
Staying in Lake Louise
Pros
- More exclusive accommodation options/more special
- Quieter, especially at night and the further away you get from the lake
- Easier parking near Lake Louise
- Closer to Moraine Lake
- Closer to the Icefields Parkway, Lake Louise Ski Resort, Bow Lake, Peyto Lake
Cons
- Expensive and books up faster.
- No exclusive Lake Louise access
- Few restaurant options
- Few hotel options
- Non-existent nightlife and shopping
Where to Stay in Lake Louise?
Fairmont Chateau Lake Louise
The Fairmont Chateau Lake Louise is the only property to stay at actually on Lake Louise. It’s an iconic property, although, be forewarned, this is easily the most expensive place to stay in Banff. You’re paying for the location here because there are no rooms to write home about and you will be nickle and dimed for everything.
Paradise Lodge and Bungalows
Paradise Lodge and Bungalows may be the best hotel near Lake Louise. While not directly on the lake it is only a 500-meter walk from the lake. Rooms, cabins, and apartments here have character and offer a comfortable stay with kitchens in several suites. Paradise Lodge is only operational during the summer months.
Lake Louise Inn
The Lake Louise Inn offers some of the best value for a traditional hotel in Lake Louise. It’s located in the Lake Louise village and features an onsite restaurant, pool, fitness center, outdoor grills, and free shuttle to the ski resort in the winter.
The Post
Situated on the Bow River, this 4-star hotel has served guests since the 1940s. Here, you can expect wonderful service in an ideal setting near Lake Louise Village. The lodge features plenty of woodwork, classic mountain decor, a massive wine cellar, a fireside lounge, a library, and a full-service spa.
Moraine Lake Area
There is only one place to stay at the famous Moraine Lake and it books up fast. The Moraine Lake Lodge is only open from June to October (when Parks Canada opens and closes access to Moraine Lake).
It’s not a vast place, meaning if you want to stay at Lake Moraine herself and be one of the first people to see it every morning and last to say goodnight to the lake, it’s best to book as soon as you can. The good news is that guests of the Moraine Lake Lodge get free access to their rental canoes.
Where to Stay at Moraine Lake?
Moraine Lake Lodge
Moraine Lake Lodge may be set in the most scenic setting for a lodge in the entire world on the shores of Moraine Lake. This is the only place to stay on the lake, so if that is your goal while visiting, you need to book it here. Since this is the only place to stay on Moraine Lake, you’ll have to book your room well in advance.
The Bow Valley Parkway
The Bow Valley Parkway, or the “1A,” is a scenic alternative to TransCanada. It runs from Banff to Lake Louise and provides many sightseeing opportunities in the winter and summer.
There are a few places to stay along the parkway, including the Castle Mountain Chalets, Johnston Canyon Lodge & Bungalows, and Baker Creek Resort. If you can score a booking at any of these places consider yourself lucky as they all offer a very unique experience in the park.
*Staying on the Bow Valley Parkway means you are far from the crowds and noise of Banff Avenue. Which makes a difference during the crazy summer months. In return for being removed, you get peace and quiet deep in the wilderness. This option is best for those who don’t care about nightlife or eating at all the restaurants in town, but rather for those after a laid back cabin experience.
Staying on the Bow Valley Parkway
Pros
- More Exclusive.
- Quiet
- Perfect if you want a cabin experience.
- Pet Friendly!
- Great self-catering options
- Closer to Johnston Canyon and Morant’s Curve.
- Still close to Lake Louise.
- Great biking off the Parkway
Cons
- Far from Downtown Banff
- Must have own transport
- Few to no restaurant options.
- Non-existent nightlife and shopping
Where to Stay on the Bow Valley Parkway?
Baker Creek Mountain Resort
Baker Creek Mountain Resort is my favorite place to stay in the entire park. Here, you’ll get a true Canadian backcountry experience surrounded by stunning mountain scenery and vast wilderness. Baker Creek is less of a “hotel” and more cabins. Enjoy a roaring fire under the night sky with access to outdoor fire pits.
Johnston Canyon Bungalows
Johnston Canyon Bungalows has been family-owned since 1926 and is located right at the start of Johnston Canyon. They have 42 cabins that vary in size and room amenities. Most of the bungalows have a large open bedroom, porch area, wood-burning fireplace, as well as luxury amenities like a flat-screen tv, bridge, and bathrobes.
Castle Mountain Chalets
Castle Mountain Chalets is located in Castle Junction, just a 20-minute drive away from Lake Louise on the Bow Valley Parkway. It’s a secluded little spot to book if you want to be more self-sufficient on your trip as cabins have full kitchens and cozy fireplaces.
Icefields Parkway
There aren’t many places to stay along the Icefields Parkway besides a few campgrounds and hostels. However, if you can score a night or two at one of the few places on offer, you won’t be disappointed. Below are where we would recommend you book along the Banff portion of the parkway. For more, check out the best hotels on the Icefields Parkway. Most accommodation options along the Icefields Parkway are only operational in the summer.
Glacier View Lodge
This lodge sits right on the Banff/Jasper border at the Glacier Discovery Center. You’re unlikely to find a better view from a hotel unless you’re sitting atop Mount Athabasca herself. This hotel is often booked, and we recommend booking as soon as possible to avoid disappointment.
The Lodge at Bow Lake
This incredible lodge sits on the shores of Bow Lake in a historic century old building started by one of the pioneers of tourism in the Canadian Rockies – Jimmy Simpson. Under the new ownership, the previous Num-Ti-Jah-Lodge underwent some much-needed renovation and has now reopened as the Lodge at Bow Lake. Head here for a luxury lodge experience with full board (and wonderful food!
Banff Backcountry
There aren’t many accommodation options in the Banff backcountry that don’t include camping. So these places are very special, and require adequate planning.
However, we like the vibe of the Banff cabins you can get. Deep in the Alberta mountains and nestled away from everyday life are Sundance Lodge, Halfway Lodge, and Skoki Lodge. All require a trek to get to, but if you’re up for an adventure, it’s sure to be one of the best times of your life!
Where to Stay in the Backcountry?
Sundance Lodge
One of the most iconic backcountry lodges in Banff, though it doesn’t come cheap and requires some legwork to get back here!
Halfway Lodge (Only accessible via horseback in the summer)
Truly one of the most unique cabins we have ever stayed in. You’ll have to book a horseback trip back here with Banff Trail Riders to experience it!
Alternatives to Staying in Banff
If you don’t mind staying outside of Banff, a few options are available. Fortunately, most of these destinations are more affordable than staying in Banff, and they are still in the mountains or very close (like in Cochrane).
Canmore: Canmore is the town right next to Banff National Park. It’s located closer to Calgary and Kananaskis. In my opinion, it’s just as beautiful as the town of Banff, if not prettier, but you are further away from the major sights like Lake Louise and Moraine Lake. Canmore has a great downtown and restaurant scene, and new accommodation options are popping up all over town. My favorite place to stay in Canmore is The Malcolm Hotel, but you can see the best places to stay in Canmore.
Golden: Golden is about an hour’s drive from Lake Louise and is an excellent option if you plan to hang out more in Yoho National Park, see Emerald Lake, and hike the Iceline Trail. It’s a cute little town and provides exceptionally close access to the Kicking Horse Ski Resort. There are less accommodation restrictions in Golden, meaning you can often find some very unique Golden cabins.
Cochrane: Cochrane is not located in the mountains, but it’s not far from Kananaskis Country. It’s only a 40-minute drive to Canmore and 15 minutes further to Banff. Because of its location at the “foothills of the Rockies,” it’s incredibly affordable! However, we wouldn’t recommend it to most visitors as it will change the vibe of the whole trip and is much further from the mountains.
Field: Field, just over the border in British Columbia is a small village located in Yoho National Park between Lake Louise and Golden. There’s not much here in the terms of accommodation, or…anything else! However if you plan on exploring Yoho and Lake Louise more in depth it is a good option that is often more moderately priced than Banff National Park. If you choose to stay near Field we highly recommend Cathedral Mountain Lodge near Tak Falls, or Emerald Lake Lodge at Emerald Lake.
Plan Your Trip to the Canadian Rockies
- We now have an interactive map! With over 300 stops around the Canadian Rockies, our personal map is your one stop shop to an epic trip here.
- Recommended Experiences: There are many things to do in the Rockies, but our top recommendation is the Banff Gondola – a must do experience! Want to get up close and personal with a glacier? We cannot recommend this Icewalks tour enough!
- Planning your visit to Moraine Lake and don’t want to deal with the Parks shuttles? We recommend using Moraine Lake Bus Company or booking this Radventures tour!
- Hotels in the Rockies: There are many places to stay, from luxury hotels to wilderness cabins. See all our favorites here.
- Get Around: We suggest renting a car to get around. You can search for rental cars on Rentalcars.com. For a campervan trip, you can check prices and compare on Outdoorsy.
- We can help you plan your 2025 trip to Western Canada! If you’re feeling overwhelmed by planning we can assist! We’ll PERSONALLY go over your itinerary, hop on a 1 on 1 phone call, or create a bespoke itinerary just for you! See our services here.
New in 2025! We just released our local guide to the Canadian Rockies! Discover 300+ hidden gems, hikes, and cabins not found in your typical guidebook. We built this after years of living here and are so excited that we are extending our 15% off offer until May 15th. Use code MAY15 at checkout!
THIS is, by far, the most complete blog about visiting the Banff area, EVER.
A resident of Calgary since 1983 (when Banff was simpler), and still visits Banff “occasionally” by bus; I still learned quite a bit from the blog.
Thanks for being so thorough.
To visitors: This is THE guide; forget all the other sunny publicity pamphlets put out by travel agencies and others.
The blog says it like it is, warts and all.
This is a wonderfully informative and beautiful blog! Well Done! My big question – we are hoping to visit Banff/Lake Louise/Jasper in 2025. I cannot find any helpful information about the scorched areas of Jasper National Park, other than 1/3 of the town has burned. We were actually planning to stay at Mount Robson Inn, which is no more. What do you recommend for lodging? While driving toward Jasper, are there burned areas along the Parkway? Have some of the popular areas for tourists near Jasper burned? We don’t know what to expect or how to plan that part of the trip. Please help or advise us where to find such information. Thank you so much!
I would recommend Patricia Lake Bungalows or Pyramid Lake Lodge as they have not suffered wildfire damage. There are areas along the Parkway that have been affected. It’s best to stay up to date on Parks Canada for what is open and closed. https://parks.canada.ca/pn-np/ab/jasper/visit/ouvert-fermee-open-closed