welcome to banff
come enjoy Iconic mountain views.
get active in banff
Adventures That Welcome Everyone.
Banff is more than a postcard-perfect mountain town. It’s a vibrant, inclusive destination where 2SLGBTQIA+ visitors can feel welcomed, safe, and genuinely at ease. Whether you’re visiting for Banff Pride, travelling solo, or exploring with friends and chosen family, there’s something memorable waiting around every corner.
Insider Tip: Most trails and attractions are accessible via public transit or by foot from downtown.
food, drinks
& queer nightlife
Banff’s food scene punches above its weight for a small mountain town, with everything from casual comfort food and après-ski bites to elevated dining and locally inspired menus. You’ll find craft cocktails, solid breweries, and cozy patios that make it easy to settle in after a day outside.
Queer nightlife in Banff is smaller and more low-key, but there’s a welcoming, inclusive community vibe, especially during events, festivals, and Pride celebrations, where local bars and spaces come alive.
some of our favourites:
Bluebird is one of our favourite brunch spots, known for its cozy seating and reliably great start to the day.
PARK Distillery is a go-to for cocktails, serving up camp-inspired drinks in a lively space right in the heart of Banff.
getting around banff
no car? no problem!
Banff is one of Canada’s most walkable mountain towns, and exploring without a car is not only easy, it’s part of the experience.
Roam Transit runs year-round, connecting visitors to major attractions, trailheads, and nearby communities like Lake Louise and Canmore. Heading to Moraine Lake or Lake Louise? Parks Canada shuttles make it simple to explore some of the Rockies’ most iconic spots without the stress of parking or driving.
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Roam Public Transit provide multiple bus routes to popular locations including Lake Louise, Johnston Canyon, Banff Gondola, Lake Minnewanka and more.
Roam Transit's core routes operate year round and additional seasonal routes are added in the summer months.
Visit the Roam Public Transit website for fares and route schedules.
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Multiple shuttle services make it easy to get around Banff National Park year-round, with seasonal routes connecting key attractions, ski areas, and trailheads.
Summer
In summer, Parks Canada shuttles connect Banff to Lake Louise and Moraine Lake from the Park & Ride, with additional private shuttle options from Lake Louise and surrounding operators offering flexible departures. Book your shuttle tickets in advance to guarantee your spot.Free seasonal shuttles also run to the Banff Gondola, Mt. Norquay, and Sunshine Meadows, making it simple to access major sightseeing and hiking areas without a car.
Winter
Ski shuttles run daily between Banff, Lake Louise, Mt. Norquay, and Sunshine Village, with free access for lift ticket holders or tri-area passes. -
There’s no better way to experience Banff than getting out of the car and onto the trails. From easy, scenic walks right in downtown to longer hikes, there are plenty of options for all levels.
Cycling is just as rewarding, with paved roads and off-road routes that let you explore the park’s mountains, rivers, and valleys at your own pace.
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Parking is limited in the downtown core, and visitors are encouraged to use long-stay parking options and transit whenever possible.
Train Station Public Parking Lot
Free parking for up to 9 hours
Less than a 10‑minute walk to downtown Banff
Ideal for day visitors and cyclists accessing the Bow Valley Parkway
getting to banff
find your
home base
for adventure.
The town of Banff is nestled in the heart of Banff National Park, Canada’s first national park and one of five national parks in the Canadian Rockies, making it a bucket-list destination for lots of travellers wordlwide.
