Is Banff a good family destination? Is it suitable for kids? To answer these questions straight away: yes! Actually, Banff should be at the top of your list. It is the perfect place to create lifelong memories with your family. In this post, I’ll explain why.
I get it; when you’re going on a holiday with your (little) kids, you want to make sure you’re going to a fun destination with many kid-friendly amenities that is also safe.
The good news: Banff ticks all the boxes. So now we’ve taken that out of the way, let’s have a look at everything the park has to offer for families.
Reasons for A Family Holiday in Banff
So many destinations to choose from, so you might wonder, why Banff? What’s so great about this place? Here are 9 reasons why:
1. There is something for everyone in Banff, whether you’re looking for adventure or relaxation. You’ll find plenty to do in Banff, regardless of your family’s interests.
2. The natural beauty of Banff is second to none. From the stunning mountains to the glistening lakes, there is no shortage of sights to see. No matter how long you stay, you’ll never be able to see ‘all’ the park’s beauty.
3. Banff is home to some of the best cuisine in Canada! The town of Banff has about 100 restaurants to choose from. And then there are many more in the hamlet of Lake Louise.
You’ll be able to find something to please everyone’s taste buds. Whether you’re looking for a quick bite or a leisurely meal, you’re sure to find something to your liking.
4. The town of Banff is incredibly charming. Stroll down the main street and explore the unique shops and boutiques. The town of Banff is lovely. It is the perfect place to start your exploration of Banff National Park. Its quaint shops and restaurants make it the ideal place to spend a day or two.
5. There are endless opportunities for outdoor activities in Banff. Hiking, biking, canoeing, fishing, boating, canoeing, rafting, climbing, via ferrata, snowshoeing, skiing, skating, sledding, the list goes on! Many tour operators offer programs for kids as well.
6. Banff is the perfect place to unwind and relax. Plenty of spas and resorts help you unwind after a long day of exploring. Whether you’re looking for a rustic cabin or a luxurious hotel, you’ll find accommodations to suit your needs in Banff.
7. Banff, Canada’s oldest national park, is rich in history. There are plenty of opportunities to learn about the park and its surroundings, and a great place to learn more about Canadian history and culture. There are numerous museums and historical sites to explore.
8. The wildlife is amazing, as Banff National Park is home to a wide variety of wildlife, including elk, bighorn sheep, bears, eagles, wolves, mountain goats, moose and buffalo. Spotting wildlife is one of the most popular activities for visitors to the park.
9. Banff’s people are friendly. They are known for their hospitality. You’re sure to feel right at home during your stay.
What to Take into Account for a Family Holiday in Banff?
When it comes to planning a family holiday, there are many different things you need to take into account to ensure that everyone in the family has a good time.
However, if you consider Banff your next family holiday destination, you will be pleased to know that several different activities and attractions are perfect for a family outing.
Here are just a few things you should keep in mind when planning a family holiday in Banff:
One of the first things you need to consider when planning a family holiday in Banff is accommodation.
Several hotels and resorts are located in Banff National Park, so you should be able to find a suitable one for your family’s needs. There are also several camping sites within the park, so if you are looking for a more rustic experience, this is definitely an option.
Regarding activities, there is no shortage of things to do in Banff National Park. If you want something to do during the day, you can go for a hike, horseback riding, cycling, take a plunge in the Banff Hot Springs and do many other activities.
Several different tour companies offer various tours. In the evening, you can enjoy a meal at one of the many restaurants in Banff, or you can go for a walk around the town to take in the sights and sounds.
No matter what you are looking for in a family holiday, Banff National Park is sure to have something to offer.
How to Prepare for a Family Holiday in Banff
Whether planning your first trip to Banff National Park or a seasoned veteran, a little preparation goes a long way in making the most of your family holiday. Following the tips below, you’ll have a wonderful family holiday in Banff National Park.
Here are a few tips on how to get ready for a vacation in Banff:
– Choose the right time of the year: Banff is busiest in July and August, so if you’re looking to avoid the crowds, consider visiting in the shoulder seasons of May/June or September/October.
Not only will you have the park practically to yourselves, but you’ll also find lower prices on accommodation and activities. Of course, there are also downsides to these months. The weather will be colder, and in May, most lakes are still frozen over.
– Pack for the weather: Banff’s weather can be notoriously changeable, so pack plenty of layers. Even in summer, days can start warm and sunny but quickly turn cool and wet.
– Know your activity level: Banff offers endless opportunities for outdoor adventure, but it’s essential to know your limits. If you’re not used to hiking at high altitudes, stick to shorter trails and plan for plenty of rest breaks. And if you have young children, be aware that strollers are not allowed on most hiking trails.
– Choose accommodation wisely: It’s crucial to pick a place that’s right for your family. If you’re looking for convenience, choose a hotel or resort in the town of Banff. With so many accommodation options in Banff, you should be able to find the right hotel for your family.
How to Travel to Banff With Your Family?
Getting to Banff with your family is easy – there are several transportation options available. You can fly into Calgary International Airport and then take a short drive to Banff by rental car, or book one of the many shuttle services.
If you want to know more about transportation options I recommend reading the post The Ulimate Guide to Banff Town.
Or, you can take the train – the luxurious Rocky Mountaineer stops in Banff. Once you’re in Banff, you can take a bus (Roam Public Transit) or a taxi.
However, both options have their limitations, so you’d better rent a car in town. Because without one, your mobility will be constrained.
What Family Restaurants Are Worth Visiting?
If you’re planning a family holiday in Banff or Lake Louise, you’ll want to ensure you’re eating at the right restaurants. Here are some of the best restaurants for families in Banff and Lake Louise:
Banff
1. The Fairmont Banff Springs Hotel is an excellent option for families. The hotel has several restaurants to choose from, so you can find something that everyone in your family will enjoy. The hotel is also located in a beautiful setting, so you can enjoy the scenery while you eat.
2. If you’re looking for a more casual dining experience, the Keg Steakhouse & Bar is a great option. The Keg is a popular chain, so you can be sure that the food will be good. The atmosphere is relaxed, and the prices are reasonable.
3. The Rimrock Resort Hotel is an excellent option if you’re looking for a fine dining experience. The hotel has several restaurants to choose from, so you can find something that everyone in your family will enjoy.
4. Coyotes Southwestern Grill offers another excellent option for dining in downtown Banff in a relaxing atmosphere. They have a varied menu that should satisfy everyone in your family.
5. If you’re visiting Banff with kids, the Bear Street Tavern is a good option. They also have a kids’ menu to satisfy your little ones. Their nachos are particularly popular.
6. If you want to ensure your kids will leave the restaurant satisfied, visiting the Old Spaghetti Factory might be a good idea. It’s a very large place in the Cascade Mall in downtown Banff, with several options on the kids’ menu.
Lake Louise
1. If you’re staying in Lake Louise, the local Fairmont Château Lake Louise rivals its counterpart in Banff. This hotel also has several restaurants to choose from, and its setting at the lakeshore is unbeatable.
2. A little more casual is dining at the Baker Creek Bistro. The place has something for everyone. Combined with its stunning log cabin interior, it’s the perfect family restaurant providing a cozy, western ambiance.
If you want to read everything about dining in the park, read The Ultimate Overview of Restaurants in Banff.
Babysitting Facilities in Banff
If you’re visiting the park with tiny kids, you might want to know about babysitting facilities in the park.
My Hotel Sitter is one of your options. This Calgary-based company also offers its hotel babysitting services in Banff. You can hire them per hour or even for a full day (8 hours). They are fully accredited and licensed.
Childcare Connection Banff is an affiliate of West Childcare Connection in Vancouver, BC. This company also offers hotel babysitting services. They also provide group childcare for weddings, conferences and Christmas parties. Just like My Hotel Sitter this company is fully accredited and licensed.
When visiting Banff National Park to go skiing, you can also bring your little ones to the daycare facility of the Lake Louise and Sunshine Village ski resorts. They both have fully accredited and licensed daycare, and they operate daily.
Unfortunately, there are no childcare services at the ski resort Norquay Mountain.
Visiting Banff with a baby? Click the link to read about te pros and cons.
Hotels with Childcare Facilities in Banff and Lake Louise
When traveling with young children, finding a hotel that can accommodate your family’s needs is essential. In Banff and Lake Louise, several great hotels are perfect for families.
In Banff, the Peaks Hotel & Suites, the Fairmont Banff Springs Hotel, the Rimrock Resort Hotel and the Bow View Lodge offer childcare or babysitting.
In Lake Louise, you’ll find childcare facilities in the Fairmont Château Lake Louise hotel.
This kind of service may be provided by more hotels in the park. However, if the hotel you booked doesn’t offer this service, you can always use one of the aforementioned in-room babysitting services.
If you want to read everything about lodging in the park, read The Ultimate Overview of Hotels in Banff National Park.
Playgrounds in Banff and Lake Louise
While Banff is about visiting and enjoying the outdoors, little kids need to be able to play. The town of Banff has four playgrounds. The hamlet of Lake Louise has one. Below, you’ll find a list of the playgrounds and their locations.
BANFF
- Central Park Playground, next to 91 Banff Avenue, Banff
- Banff Rotary Playground, corner of Banff Avenue and Badger Street
- Recreation Grounds Playground, Birch Drive; both for toddlers and older kids, including a large climbing rock
- Banff Elementary Playground, 325 Squirrel Street
LAKE LOUISE
- Lake Louise Sport and Recreation Centre, 103 Village Road
You’ll find the playgrounds mentioned above pinned on the map below.
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