4-Day Family Friendly Itinerary in Banff, Canada

Day 1: Exploring Banff

Banff, Canada

8:00 AM

Breakfast at Wild Flour Bakery

Start your day with fresh pastries and wholesome breakfast options at this cozy local bakery.
Located in downtown Banff, it's a short walk from most hotels.
CAD 30, 1 hour

9:30 AM

Banff National Park Admission

Purchase your pass and prepare to explore the stunning landscapes and wildlife of Banff National Park.
The park entrance is just a short drive from downtown.
CAD 20, 30 minutes

10:00 AM

Hiking at Tunnel Mountain

Embark on a family-friendly hike that offers breathtaking views of the town and surrounding mountains.
Access Tunnel Mountain trailhead via car, parking available on-site.
Free, 2 hours

12:30 PM

Lunch at The Maple Leaf

Enjoy Canadian cuisine with a family-friendly menu in the heart of Banff.
Head back to downtown Banff, a quick 5-minute drive.
CAD 100, 1.5 hours

2:00 PM

Banff Gondola Ride

Take a thrilling gondola ride to the summit of Sulphur Mountain for panoramic views.
The Gondola station is a short drive from downtown.
CAD 90, 2 hours

4:30 PM

Relax at Banff Upper Hot Springs

Unwind in the naturally heated mineral pools while enjoying the view of surrounding mountains.
Located a short drive from the Gondola.
CAD 40, 1.5 hours

6:00 PM

Dinner at Bear Street Tavern

Savor delicious wood-fired pizzas and family favorites in a relaxed atmosphere.
A brief 5-minute drive or a 10-minute walk from the Hot Springs.
CAD 80, 1.5 hours
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Day 2: Scenic Lake Louise

Lake Louise, Canada

8:00 AM

Breakfast at Lakeview Lounge

Enjoy breakfast with stunning views of Lake Louise at this picturesque spot.
Located at the Fairmont Chateau Lake Louise, you can drive there in about 45 minutes.
CAD 60, 1 hour

9:00 AM

Visit Lake Louise

Explore the turquoise waters and majestic mountain backdrop; take family photos and enjoy a leisurely stroll.
Follow signs to the lakefront parking lot.
Free, 2 hours

11:00 AM

Hiking to Lake Agnes Tea House

Enjoy a family hike along a scenic route to the renowned tea house for refreshments.
Start from the Lake Louise shore, heading toward the trail.
Free, 2 hours

1:00 PM

Lunch at Lake Agnes Tea House

Take a break to enjoy homemade soup and tea at this charming tea house.
Order at the counter and enjoy the mountain views.
CAD 50, 1 hour

2:00 PM

Visit the Lake Louise Visitor Centre

Learn about the ecosystems and history of the area through interactive displays.
Located near the lake, it's a quick walk from the tea house.
Free, 1 hour

3:30 PM

Moraine Lake Scenic Drive

Drive to Moraine Lake and soak in the breathtaking blue hues surrounded by the Valley of the Ten Peaks.
The drive takes about 30 minutes.
Free, 1 hour

5:00 PM

Dinner at The Post Hotel

Wrap up your day with a gourmet meal at this hotel’s renowned dining room.
Backtrack to Lake Louise for the meal, a 30-minute drive.
CAD 120, 1.5 hours
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Day 3: Adventuring in Canmore

Canmore, Canada

8:00 AM

Breakfast at Communitea Cafe

Fuel up with healthy breakfast options and amazing coffee at this local favorite.
Drive 20 minutes from Lake Louise via Highway 1.
CAD 50, 1 hour

9:30 AM

Explore Canmore Nordic Centre

Enjoy hiking or biking in this multi-use recreation area set against stunning mountain views.
Easily accessible via road signs from downtown Canmore.
Free, 2 hours

11:30 AM

Visit Canmore's Main Street

Stroll down the charming Main Street browsing shops and art galleries.
A short drive from the Nordic Centre.
Free, 1 hour

12:30 PM

Lunch at The Grizzly Paw Brewing Company

Enjoy tasty burgers and local craft beer at this family-friendly brewery.
Walking distance from Main Street, about 10 minutes.
CAD 80, 1.5 hours

2:00 PM

Canmore River Walk

Take a leisurely stroll along the scenic river path, great for family photos.
Access the trail right beside The Grizzly Paw.
Free, 1 hour

3:30 PM

Visit Canmore Museum & Geoscience Centre

Learn about the history and natural environment of the Bow Valley in this interactive museum.
A quick drive back into Canmore town.
CAD 20, 1 hour

5:00 PM

Dinner at The Trough

Indulge in locally sourced ingredients for a memorable dinner with your family.
Located in Canmore town, just 5 minutes from the museum.
CAD 100, 1.5 hours
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Day 4: Wildlife & Scenic Views

Banff, Canada

8:00 AM

Breakfast at The Squirrel Cafe

Enjoy a casual breakfast with delicious coffee and hearty options to start your day right.
A short drive back to Banff from Canmore.
CAD 40, 1 hour

9:30 AM

Visit the Banff Park Museum

Explore exhibits on the local wildlife and the natural history of Banff National Park.
Located downtown Banff, easy parking availability.
CAD 10, 1 hour

10:30 AM

Wildlife Viewing Loop

Embark on a scenic drive through areas known for wildlife spotting, like the Vermilion Lakes.
Follow the signs to the loop from downtown.
Free, 1.5 hours

12:00 PM

Lunch at Jasper Pizza Place

Grab delicious pizza perfect for the whole family after a morning of exploration.
Return to Banff for a short drive to the restaurant.
CAD 70, 1 hour

1:00 PM

Take a Stroll Along the Bow River

Relax and enjoy beautiful views along this peaceful river path, perfect for families.
Walk toward the Bow River’s banks from Jasper Pizza Place.
Free, 1.5 hours

3:00 PM

Shopping at Banff Avenue

Take some time for family shopping to find souvenirs and local crafts.
Stroll down Banff Avenue where shops are plentiful.
Variable, 1.5 hours

5:00 PM

Dinner at The Bison Restaurant

Conclude your Banff experience with a farm-to-table dinner featuring local and seasonal ingredients.
A few minutes’ walk from the shopping area.
CAD 110, 1.5 hours
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