Planning your exploration of the Canadian Rockies can involve not just booking activities, but booking reservations, too!
With our adventure pairings, you'll get the best of both worlds — convenient dining recommendations near some of Banff's best attractions. Whether you’re looking to wine and dine, find a new culinary adventure or just hoping to fuel up, we’ve got a pairing for you.
Here are four Banff dining and adventure pairings to provide you with an exciting (and delicious) time in the mountains.
Get ready to soar, explore and dine nearly 2,300 metres above sea level. On top of Sulphur Mountain sits Sky Bistro, a dining sanctuary in the sky. The best part? Your ride to the bistro is aboard the Banff Gondola, where you can enjoy breathtaking views on your way up and more adventure at the summit. Explore the Above Banff Interpretive Centre and Theatre to get to know the history of this iconic landmark. Plus, walk the Sulphur Mountain boardwalk to Sanson’s Peak and the Cosmic Ray Station for even more sky-high viewpoints.
Once you’re ready to dine, head to Sky Bistro for unique and fresh dishes made with ingredients from local producers, plus a view that’s hard to beat. This pairing is no secret — the acclaimed mountaintop dining experience has received rave reviews and recognition for years, including a spot on OpenTable's Top 100 Restaurants List.
TIP: Reservations fill up fast at Sky Bistro! Be sure to book your table and your Banff Gondola admission in advance.
If you’re looking for a day that dives into the legendary history — and flavours — of Banff, then look no further than this pairing. Aboard Open Top Touring, visitors ride through the mountain town and surrounding park in vintage-inspired vehicles with a fully open roof (weather permitting). In a 90-minute tour, you’ll see sights like Surprise Corner, Mount Norquay Viewpoint and more, and learn about what makes Banff so special from expert tour guides.
After learning about the trailblazers who helped make this iconic destination what it is, explore a menu inspired by them. Located inside the Mount Royal Hotel, Brazen is a delicious homage to the mountaineers and explorers that once called this place home. It’s the best post-adventure restaurant to finish off your historic day.
TIP: Book an afternoon tour, then head to happy hour at Brazen from 4 to 6 p.m. for specials on cocktails and tasty snack plates.
Travellers are often looking for a great view, and some of Banff’s best are at the tops of mountains. One of the most popular (and shortest) ways to experience gorgeous landscapes is atop Tunnel Mountain. Only 15 minutes from downtown, this out-and-back, five kilometres hike (with a 260 metre elevation gain) is perfect for getting to know beautiful Banff. Depending on how many times you choose to stop for the views — or to catch your breath — the entire experience should take around two hours.
After you feel the burn, head back into town to taste the fire-roasted flavours of a local gem. Farm & Fire boasts a wood-fired menu that’s sure to hit the spot. Our favourite? Any of the signature pizzas, especially post-hike.
TIP: If you’re looking for a less strenuous walk, head over to Fenland Trail, a gentle two-kilometre loop through the forest with almost no elevation gain.
Just 14 kilometres outside Banff is beautiful Lake Minnewanka, an unbeatable spot to enjoy the fresh mountain air and natural scenery. Take to the lake aboard a Lake Minnewanka Cruise and get the inside scoop from knowledgeable tour guides. Or, enjoy a little solitude on a kayak, canoe or motorboat rental. Besides the chance to see Banff from a new perspective and enjoy the waters to your heart's content, shoreside offerings are what complete this delicious adventure pairing.
A day on the lake and ice cream is an unbeatable combo, so once you’re back on land, pick up a cone of your choosing at the Black Anchor Snack Shop (or if you just can’t wait, have one before you depart).
TIP: If your group is 18+ and you’re more interested in a cold beer than an ice cream cone, you can book the Beer Voyage tour to enjoy local brews on board.
There’s plenty more to experience and eat in Banff. Start your adventure and create your own during your next visit.
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