5-Day Family-Friendly Nature and Rail Adventure in the Canadian Rockies

Day 1: Arrival & Exploration

Calgary, Canada

9:00AM

Breakfast at OEB Breakfast Co.

Start your adventure with a delicious breakfast sampling local Canadian flavors at this beloved local eatery.
Located in downtown Calgary, OEB is easily accessible by taxi or public transport.
CAN$30, 1 hour

10:30AM

Visit Calgary Zoo

Explore the expansive Calgary Zoo, known for its amazing animal habitats and interactive exhibits that both adults and kids will enjoy.
From OEB, head south by taxi or take public transport (route 1).
CAN$80 for a family of four, 3 hours

2:00PM

Lunch at The Bow

Grab lunch at The Bow's Sky Garden and enjoy stunning views of the city’s skyline amidst a relaxing atmosphere.
A short taxi ride from Calgary Zoo.
CAN$60, 1 hour

3:30PM

Departure for Banff via Train

Experience the scenic views while taking a train ride to Banff; observe majestic mountains and playful wildlife along the route.
Board the train at Calgary's Downtown Train Station.
CAN$120 for a family of four, 2 hours

6:00PM

Dinner at The Maple Leaf

Savor a delightful family dinner featuring Canadian cuisine, with options ranging from steak to fresh seafood.
The restaurant is a short walk from your hotel in Banff.
CAN$100, 1.5 hours
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Day 2: Nature Hikes & Wildlife

Banff, Canada

8:00AM

Breakfast at The Crêperie de Banff

Enjoy a hearty breakfast of freshly made crêpes with a variety of fillings that kids will love!
Located conveniently on Banff Avenue.
CAN$40, 1 hour

9:30AM

Visit Banff National Park

Explore stunning trails in Banff National Park as you spot breathtaking scenery and diverse wildlife.
Accessible via shuttle from downtown Banff.
CAN$0 (Entry fee covered by park pass), 4 hours

2:00PM

Lunch at the View Restaurant

Refuel with lunch at this restaurant, which offers beautiful views of the mountains while you dine.
Located at the top of the gondola, enjoy the ride up for scenic vistas.
CAN$80, 1.5 hours

3:30PM

Banff Gondola Ride

Take a thrilling gondola ride to the top of Sulphur Mountain, enjoying panoramic views of the Rockies.
The gondola station is located near the restaurant.
CAN$100 for a family of four, 2 hours

6:00PM

Dinner at Banff Ave Brewing Co.

An informal family-friendly spot with great craft beer and tasty pizzas that make for a satisfying dinner.
A short walk from the gondola station.
CAN$70, 1.5 hours
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Day 3: Explore Lakes & Mountains

Lake Louise, Canada

7:30AM

Breakfast at Château Lake Louise

Indulge in a luxurious breakfast buffet at this iconic hotel offering stunning views of Lake Louise.
Take a shuttle from Banff to Lake Louise, which takes about 45 minutes.
CAN$120 for a family of four, 1 hour

9:00AM

Hiking the Lake Agnes Trail

Embark on a family-friendly hike along the Lake Agnes Trail, where you will find a teahouse and beautiful mountain views along the way.
Access the trailhead from the Chateau's lake shore.
CAN$0 (Entry fee covered by park pass), 3 hours

12:30PM

Lunch at Lake Agnes Teahouse

Stop for a delightful lunch at the historic teahouse, enjoying locally sourced snacks with beautiful lake views.
Located at the end of the Lake Agnes Trail.
CAN$50, 1 hour

2:00PM

Visit Moraine Lake

Head over to Moraine Lake for afternoon exploration and photo opportunities, famous for its turquoise blue waters and stunning mountain backdrop.
Take a shuttle from Lake Agnes area, about 15 minutes.
CAN$0 (Entry fee covered by park pass), 2 hours

4:30PM

Return to Banff for Dinner

Travel back to Banff by shuttle to unwind before dinner.
Shuttle service available back to Banff.
CAN$40 for a family of four, 1 hour

6:00PM

Dinner at The Bison Restaurant

Enjoy farm-to-table dining at this local favorite, offering a cozy atmosphere and hearty meals.
Located in downtown Banff.
CAN$90, 1.5 hours
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Day 4: Scenic Train Journey

Jasper, Canada

8:00AM

Breakfast at Soulja's Grill

Kick off your day with a scrumptious breakfast served with friendly service and cheerful ambiance.
Located in Banff, a short walk from your hotel.
CAN$50, 1 hour

9:30AM

Train journey from Banff to Jasper

Take a stunning train ride through the Canadian Rockies to Jasper while enjoying incredible scenic views.
Board at the Banff Train Station.
CAN$200 for a family of four, 4.5 hours

2:00PM

Lunch on Board

Enjoy a packed lunch as you marvel at the breathtaking scenery passing by your window.
Lunch can be pre-ordered with your train tickets.
CAN$60, 1 hour

3:30PM

Arrive in Jasper and Visit Jasper National Park

Once in Jasper, step into the wild and explore Jasper National Park, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, known for its vast landscapes.
Jasper National Park is a short taxi or shuttle ride from the train station.
CAN$0 (Entry fee covered by park pass), 2.5 hours

6:30PM

Dinner at Jasper Pizza Place

Enjoy a family-friendly meal with a variety of pizzas and local beer options at this cozy restaurant.
A short walk from your hotel in Jasper.
CAN$80, 1.5 hours
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Day 5: Final Nature Adventures

Edmonton, Canada

8:00AM

Breakfast at Bean Scene Coffee House

Start your final day with freshly brewed coffee and a selection of pastries attractive to both kids and parents.
Located in Jasper, a short walk from your hotel.
CAN$30, 1 hour

9:30AM

Visit Maligne Lake

Take a scenic drive to Maligne Lake, famous for its deep blue waters and stunning mountain scenery, perfect for a relaxing morning.
Rent a vehicle or take a guided tour from Jasper.
CAN$50 for gas and parking, 2 hours

11:30AM

Lunch at the Maligne Lake Café

Gather at the café for a delightful lunch with views of the lake, featuring local dishes.
Located at the Maligne Lake visitor center.
CAN$70, 1 hour

1:00PM

Drive to Edmonton

Make your way to Edmonton for the final leg of your journey, filled with beautiful landscapes and forests along the route.
A 3-hour drive southeast from Jasper.
CAN$40 for gas, 3 hours

4:00PM

Explore West Edmonton Mall

Spend the afternoon at the West Edmonton Mall, where the kids will love the amusement park, water park, and numerous shops.
Located in Edmonton, follow signs to the mall.
CAN$20 for parking, 3 hours

7:00PM

Farewell Dinner at Jack's Grill

Conclude your adventure with a farewell dinner at Jack's Grill, featuring mouth-watering steaks and a perfect end to your trip.
Nearby the West Edmonton Mall.
CAN$150, 2 hours
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