Parking in Banff can be tough, especially in the summer. Luckily, Banff is a very walkable place. And, with public transit and a number of free shuttles, it's easy to leave your car behind and see it all! Here's what you need to know about parking in Banff.
Most public parking within the Banff townsite requires payment year-round. Free short-term parking is available in select locations, including along Bow Avenue, level one of the Bear St. Parkade and at the Banff Train Station.
All visitors also require a Park Pass, which can be purchased at the Banff National Park gates as you enter on the highway, at a Parks Canada Visitor Information Centre or online ahead of time. Learn more
Visitors can download a parking app before their arrival to pay through their phones or by using one of the new pay station on the street. Learn more
Time limit for public parking is up to nine hours. Be sure you're in the appropriate place before you set off on your adventure.
The largest parking lots in Banff are the Bear Street parkade (which has indoor above ground parking), on Beaver Street, at the Fenlands Recreation Centre and at the Banff Train Station.
If you're coming to Banff in an RV, you're options are a bit more limited. While there are no RV spots in downtown Banff, you will find RV parking at the Banff Train Station, just an eight-minute walk from Banff Avenue.
Don't waste time driving around and around. The Banff Now page from Parks Canada has real-time parking information and availability as well as up-to-date traffic information. And BanffParking.ca is a mobile site that also has live updates on parking availability at the major lots. Save time by checking it out before you drive around and around looking for a spot!
Next time you're coming to Banff, do a bit of research ahead of time about parking and passes, and get straight to adventuring!
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