7-Day Adventure Trip to Banff for College Friends with Dining Highlights

Day 1: Arrival and Town Exploration

Banff, Canada on May 10, 2026

9:00am

Breakfast at Wild Flour Bakery

Start your day with fresh pastries and coffee at this popular bakery in Banff, known for its artisan breads and baked goods.
CAD15, 1h0m

10:30am

Banff Avenue Walk

Stroll through the main street of Banff with shops, galleries, and mountain views, getting familiar with the area.
Free, 2h0m

12:30pm

Lunch Break at Magpie & Stump

Enjoy a casual Mexican-inspired lunch with a laid-back atmosphere, ideal for a group of friends.
CAD20, 1h0m

2:00pm

Banff Park Museum

Visit this natural history museum to learn about the wildlife and environment of Banff National Park.
CAD10, 1h0m

4:00pm

Relax at Banff Central Park

Spend some time relaxing or playing casual sports at Banff Central Park.
Free, 1h30m

7:00pm

Dinner at The Bison Restaurant

Dine on locally sourced Canadian dishes in a rustic yet elegant setting, offering excellent options for groups.
CAD45, 1h30m
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Day 2: Lake Louise and Moraine Lake

Lake Louise, Canada on May 11, 2026

7:30am

Breakfast at The Royal Canadian Pancake House

Fuel up with hearty pancakes and breakfast classics before a day of outdoor adventure.
CAD18, 1h0m

9:00am

Visit Lake Louise

Explore the stunning turquoise waters and mountain backdrop of Lake Louise, walking along the lakeshore or renting a canoe.
Free for walking; Canoe rental CAD80/hour, 2h30m

12:00pm

Lunch at Lake Louise Village Grill & Bar

Casual dining with a variety of options including burgers, sandwiches, and local specialties.
CAD25, 1h0m

2:00pm

Moraine Lake Visit

Visit Moraine Lake, famous for its breathtaking views from the Rockpile Trail, open for hiking and photography.
Free parking (limited, up to CAD20 for overflow lots), 2h0m

6:00pm

Dinner at Post Hotel Dining Room

Experience fine dining at this upscale establishment featuring classic Canadian cuisine and an extensive wine list.
CAD60, 1h30m
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Day 3: Hiking and Sunshine Village

Banff, Canada on May 12, 2026

7:30am

Breakfast at Caffe Espresso

Grab coffee and light breakfast items like croissants or breakfast sandwiches before heading out.
CAD12, 45m

9:00am

Sunshine Village Gondola and Hiking

Take the gondola up to Sunshine Village for scenic hiking trails with panoramic views of the Rockies.
CAD64 (gondola ride), 4h0m

1:30pm

Lunch at Bear's Den Restaurant

Casual mountain fare at the top of Sunshine Village with great views and tasty comfort food.
CAD25, 1h0m

4:00pm

Return to Banff and Rest

Relax at your accommodation or explore nearby shops and cafes in Banff town.
Free, 2h0m

7:00pm

Dinner at Nourish Bistro

Enjoy a health-conscious menu with fresh, organic ingredients perfect for recharging after hiking.
CAD40, 1h30m
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Day 4: Canoeing and Bow River

Banff, Canada on May 13, 2026

8:00am

Breakfast at Evelyn's Coffee Bar

Start the day with specialty coffee and breakfast items like granola bowls or pastries.
CAD15, 45m

9:30am

Canoeing on Bow River

Rent canoes to explore the Bow River with scenic mountain views and peaceful surroundings.
CAD60/hour per canoe, 2h0m

12:00pm

Lunch at The Maple Leaf

Dine on Canadian-inspired dishes in a warm and inviting atmosphere downtown Banff.
CAD35, 1h0m

2:00pm

Banff Upper Hot Springs

Relax in naturally heated mineral waters with spectacular mountain views, open until 9pm.
CAD8.50, 2h0m

7:00pm

Dinner at Bear Street Tavern

Known for delicious pizzas and craft beers, this casual spot is great for groups.
CAD30, 1h30m
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Day 5: Johnston Canyon and Bow Falls

Banff, Canada on May 14, 2026

7:30am

Breakfast at Tooloulou's

Enjoy a hearty breakfast inspired by Cajun flavors to power your hike.
CAD20, 1h0m

9:00am

Hike Johnston Canyon

A popular hike with catwalks leading to waterfalls, about 5.4 km round trip and moderate difficulty.
Free, 3h0m

1:00pm

Lunch at Coyotes Southwestern Grill

Light southwestern cuisine with great lunch options in Banff town.
CAD25, 1h0m

3:00pm

Visit Bow Falls

Short walk to the scenic Bow Falls, a great photo spot near Banff town center.
Free, 1h0m

7:00pm

Dinner at Three Ravens Restaurant & Wine Bar

Upscale dining with spectacular views of the mountains and a diverse menu perfect for groups.
CAD50, 1h30m
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Day 6: Scenic Drives and Hot Springs

Banff, Canada on May 15, 2026

8:00am

Breakfast at Janet's Bakery & Bistro

Unwind with freshly baked goods and great coffee before the day’s drive.
CAD15, 1h0m

9:30am

Scenic Drive on Bow Valley Parkway

Enjoy wildlife spotting and stunning views along this 48 km drive from Banff to Lake Louise.
Free, 3h0m

1:00pm

Lunch at Laggan's Bistro

A cozy spot in the Banff Park Lodge for New Canadian cuisine and craft beers.
CAD30, 1h0m

3:00pm

Visit Banff Upper Hot Springs

Relax once more in the soothing mineral waters after a scenic day.
CAD8.50, 2h0m

7:00pm

Farewell Dinner at The Grizzly House

Splurge on a unique fondue experience with friends in a fun mountain lodge setting.
CAD55, 1h30m
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Day 7: Departure Day

Banff, Canada on May 16, 2026

8:00am

Breakfast at Your Accommodation or Local Cafe

Keep it light and easy with local coffee and pastries before packing and check-out.
CAD10, 1h0m

10:00am

Last-minute Shopping and Souvenir Hunting

Browse Banff shops for last-minute gifts and souvenirs before departure.
Varies, 1h0m

12:00pm

Head to Airport or Next Destination

Complete any checkouts and leave Banff with great memories.
Varies, N/A
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