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7-Day Family Friendly Itinerary in Banff

Saturday, December 23: Arrival in Banff

Welcome to Banff! Start your family-friendly adventure by exploring the Banff Avenue, the main street bustling with shops and restaurants. In the morning, visit the Whyte Museum to learn about the town's history and culture. After a delicious lunch in one of the local eateries, head to the Banff Park Museum for a fascinating collection of wildlife exhibits. In the evening, take a relaxing walk around Bow Falls and enjoy the beautiful winter scenery.

  • Banff Avenue: Free, 2-3 hours
  • Whyte Museum: $15 per adult, $9 per child, 1-2 hours
  • Banff Park Museum: $5 per adult, $3 per child, 1-2 hours
  • Bow Falls: Free, 1 hour
Sunday, December 24: Lake Louise

Prepare for an unforgettable day at Lake Louise, a winter wonderland. In the morning, hit the slopes at Lake Louise Ski Resort, offering a range of terrain suitable for all skill levels. After a fun-filled morning of skiing or snowboarding, indulge in a delicious lunch at one of the resort's cozy restaurants. In the afternoon, take a short drive to Lake Louise and experience the breathtaking beauty of the frozen lake surrounded by snow-capped mountains. End the day with a serene sleigh ride around the lake.

  • Lake Louise Ski Resort: $100 per adult lift ticket, $50 per child, 4-5 hours
  • Lunch at Lake Louise Ski Resort: $15-20 per person, 1 hour
  • Visit Lake Louise: Free, 2-3 hours
  • Sleigh ride at Lake Louise: $50 per adult, $25 per child, 30 minutes
Monday, December 25: Christmas Day in Banff

Enjoy a festive Christmas Day in Banff with your family. Start the morning with a leisurely breakfast at a local café. In the afternoon, head to the Banff Gondola and soar to the top of Sulphur Mountain for panoramic views of the surrounding peaks. Take a stroll on the mountain's boardwalk and explore the interpretive center. Celebrate Christmas evening with a delicious holiday dinner at one of the town's many cozy restaurants.

  • Breakfast at a local café: $15-20 per person, 1 hour
  • Banff Gondola: $64 per adult, $32 per child, 2-3 hours
  • Holiday dinner: $30-50 per person, 2 hours
Tuesday, December 26: Johnston Canyon Ice Walk

Get ready for an exciting adventure in Johnston Canyon. In the morning, embark on a guided ice walk through the icy canyon, marveling at frozen waterfalls and unique ice formations. Learn about the fascinating natural history of the area from your knowledgeable guide. After the ice walk, warm up with some hot chocolate and snacks at the Johnston Canyon Resort. In the afternoon, relax and enjoy the amenities of your hotel or explore more of Banff's local attractions.

  • Johnston Canyon Ice Walk: $70 per adult, $45 per child, 3-4 hours
  • Hot chocolate and snacks at Johnston Canyon Resort: $10-15 per person, 1 hour
Wednesday, December 27: Banff Upper Hot Springs and Wildlife Spotting

Immerse yourself in relaxation and nature today. Start the morning with a visit to the Banff Upper Hot Springs, a picturesque outdoor hot spring with stunning mountain views. Soak in the warm mineral-rich waters and enjoy the tranquil atmosphere. Afterward, grab a quick lunch and embark on a wildlife spotting adventure in Banff National Park. Keep an eye out for elk, deer, bighorn sheep, and maybe even a glimpse of a majestic moose or bear!

  • Banff Upper Hot Springs: $8.30 per adult, $4.10 per child, 2 hours
  • Lunch: $15-20 per person, 1 hour
  • Wildlife spotting tour: $60 per adult, $35 per child, 2-3 hours
Thursday, December 28: Snowshoeing in Sunshine Meadows

Experience the winter beauty of Sunshine Meadows on a snowshoe adventure. In the morning, take a shuttle to the Sunshine Village ski resort and venture out on a guided snowshoeing tour. Explore the serene snowy landscapes and enjoy breathtaking views of the surrounding mountains. After the snowshoeing excursion, warm up with a hearty lunch at the resort. Spend the afternoon skiing or simply relaxing in the cozy lodge.

  • Snowshoeing tour: $80 per adult, $60 per child, 4-5 hours
  • Lunch at Sunshine Village: $15-25 per person, 1 hour
Friday, December 29: Ice Skating and Farewell

Make the most of your last day in Banff. In the morning, head to the Banff Community High School Ice Rink and have fun gliding on the ice with your family. After a joyful morning of skating, grab a delicious lunch at a nearby restaurant. In the afternoon, take a leisurely stroll along Tunnel Mountain Trail for stunning panoramic views of the town and mountains. Bid farewell to the picturesque town of Banff and cherish the wonderful memories made during your family-friendly trip.

  • Ice skating at Banff Community High School Ice Rink: $10 per person, 2 hours
  • Lunch: $15-20 per person, 1 hour
  • Tunnel Mountain Trail: Free, 1-2 hours

Hidden Gems and Local Favorites

Banff has plenty of hidden gems that are perfect for family-friendly exploration. A visit to the Cave and Basin National Historic Site offers a fascinating glimpse into the town's hot springs heritage. The Banff Park Museum is also worth a visit for its extensive collection of wildlife exhibits. For outdoor enthusiasts, the Fenland Trail provides a peaceful walk through a forested area, and the Banff Legacy Trail is a scenic biking route that connects Banff to Canmore. Don't forget to try some poutine, a Canadian favorite, at one of the local eateries!

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