Family Adventure from Edmonton to Banff, Jasper, and Calgary: A 3-Day Rockies Exploration

Day 1: Explore Jasper

Edmonton to Jasper, Alberta, Canada on June 28, 2025

7:30am

Breakfast at Famoso Neapolitan Pizzeria, Edmonton

Start your day with delicious breakfast pizzas and family-friendly options before the road trip.
CAD30, 1h

8:30am

Drive from Edmonton to Jasper

Enjoy the scenic 4-hour drive (approx. 365 km) through Alberta's stunning landscapes en route to Jasper National Park.
Fuel Costs Approx. CAD60, 4h

12:30pm

Lunch at Jasper Brewing Co.

Relax and enjoy hearty, family-friendly meals including burgers and salads in a cozy brewery setting in Jasper town.
CAD80, 1h

2:00pm

Maligne Canyon Hike

Explore the spectacular limestone canyon with easy trails suitable for families, open daily from 8am to 8pm. The hike provides stunning views of waterfalls and rock formations.
Free, 2h

4:30pm

Visit Patricia Lake

Enjoy a peaceful lakeside walk and some paddle boating with rentals available in summer, a relaxing spot for the family.
Boat rental approx. CAD30, 1h30m

6:30pm

Dinner at The Raven Bistro

Dine at this popular Jasper spot offering eclectic dishes with local ingredients and a cozy atmosphere perfect for families.
CAD90, 1h30m

Day 2: Jasper to Banff Drive

Jasper to Banff, Alberta, Canada on June 29, 2025

7:30am

Breakfast at Bear's Paw Bakery, Jasper

Grab fresh pastries, coffee, and breakfast sandwiches to energize your day before a beautiful drive to Banff.
CAD40, 45m

8:30am

Drive Icefields Parkway to Banff

Take the breathtaking Icefields Parkway drive heading south to Banff. Stop at viewpoints like Athabasca Falls and the Columbia Icefield along the 3.5 hour journey.
Fuel Costs Approx. CAD50, 3h30m

12:00pm

Lunch at Glacier View Lodge

Dine with stunning views overlooking glaciers and mountains on the Icefields Parkway, a perfect family break spot.
CAD70, 1h

1:30pm

Arrive in Banff and Visit Banff Gondola

Ride the Banff Gondola up Sulphur Mountain for panoramic views of the Rockies. Suitable for all ages and open daily 8am-9pm in summer.
CAD120 (family pass), 2h

4:00pm

Explore Banff Avenue

Walk along Banff Avenue to discover shops, street performers and charming cafés while soaking in mountain town vibes.
Free, 1h

6:00pm

Dinner at The Maple Leaf

Enjoy Canadian classics and local cuisine with a family-friendly menu in a cozy downtown Banff setting.
CAD100, 1h30m

Day 3: Banff to Calgary Day Trip

Banff to Calgary and back, Alberta, Canada on June 30, 2025

7:30am

Breakfast at Wild Flour Bakery, Banff

Light and hearty breakfast options featuring fresh baked goods to start your travel day well.
CAD35, 45m

8:30am

Drive Banff to Calgary

Head east on the Trans-Canada Highway, approximately 1.5 hours for the 128 km drive to Calgary.
Fuel Costs Approx. CAD30, 1h30m

10:00am

Visit Calgary Zoo

Enjoy a family-friendly visit to the Calgary Zoo, home to over 1000 animals. Open daily 9am-5pm, great for children to learn and explore.
CAD82 (family pass), 2h

12:30pm

Lunch at The Beltliner

Casual spot offering burgers and comfort food with vegetarian options, perfect for families.
CAD60, 1h

2:00pm

Visit Calgary Tower

Take in 360-degree views of Calgary and the Rockies beyond from the observation deck. Open 10am-9pm.
CAD60 (family tickets), 1h

3:30pm

Drive back to Edmonton

Begin the approx. 3-hour drive (299 km) back home to Edmonton, concluding your memorable family trip.
Fuel Costs Approx. CAD60, 3h

7:00pm

Dinner suggestion: Order in or stop en route

After a long day, enjoy a relaxed dinner either at home or at a convenient eatery along the route back to Edmonton.
CAD50, 1h