The Best Things to Do in Banff for Non-Hikers

Banff National Park is known for its incredible hiking trails, but as a local, I can assure you that there are plenty of amazing things to do here that don’t involve hiking boots. While I still recommend taking in a short hike or two, I have so many other amazing things you can do around Banff if hiking isn’t your thing!

Whether you prefer soaking in jaw-dropping views from a gondola, paddling across turquoise lakes, enjoying a relaxing soak in the hot springs, or diving into the area’s rich culture and history, there’s truly something for everyone.

You don’t need to be a hiker to experience Banff’s breathtaking landscapes, wildlife, and outdoor adventures. From scenic drives and cultural experiences to wildlife encounters and adrenaline-pumping activities like whitewater rafting or via ferrata, this guide has you covered.

Here are my recommendations for the best things to do in Banff for non-hikers. Which ones will make it on your Banff itinerary?

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Scenic & Sightseeing Activities

1. Lake Minnewanka Boat Cruise

Lake Minnewanka is Banff National Park’s largest lake and offers an incredible way to experience the beauty of the Rockies from the water. A guided boat cruise is one of the best things to do at Lake Minnewanka. The Lake Minnewanka boat cruise takes you deep into the heart of the lake while sharing fascinating history about the submerged village that once stood here.

Along the way, you’ll see rugged cliffs, dense forests, and maybe even some local wildlife. This scenic and relaxing activity is perfect for families, couples, or anyone looking to enjoy Banff from a unique perspective.

2. Afternoon Tea at Banff Springs Hotel or Chateau Lake Louise

For a refined and relaxing experience, treat yourself to afternoon tea at the Fairmont Banff Springs or the Fairmont Chateau Lake Louise.

These historic hotels offer an elegant tea service featuring a selection of fine teas, delicate pastries, finger sandwiches PLUS those stunning mountain views. The experience is just as much about the ambiance as it is about the food.

Afternoon tea at either of these locations is a fantastic way to slow down and soak in Banff’s luxury and charm.

3. Banff Food Tour

For a delicious way to explore the town, join a Banff food tour and taste your way through local flavors and culinary history. Whether you are doing a walking food tour or a food experience at the Banff Springs hotel, you’ll get to sample signature dishes while learning about Banff’s history.

4. Walk Through the Banff Springs Hotel

Known as the “Castle in the Rockies,” the Fairmont Banff Springs Hotel is a historic landmark that is worth exploring, even if you’re not staying there. The grand hallways, stunning architecture, and breathtaking mountain views make for a unique experience.

You can take a self-guided tour, learn about the hotel’s fascinating history, or grab a drink at one of its elegant lounges. Many visitors enjoy stopping by the Rundle Bar or the Lookout Patio for cocktails and light bites with an incredible view. Whether you’re interested in history, architecture, or just a relaxing place to enjoy the scenery, this is a must-visit destination in Banff.

5. Walk the Bow River Trails

For an easy and scenic stroll, the Bow River Trails offer a beautiful way to explore Banff without needing to hike. The paved trails meander alongside the turquoise waters of the Bow River, offering stunning mountain views, lush forests, and peaceful picnic spots. This gentle walk is perfect for all ages and abilities.

Whether you start your walk in downtown Banff or from one of the many scenic points along the trail, it’s a fantastic way to experience Banff’s natural beauty at a relaxed pace. In the summer months, you can even experience Art in Nature. The path towards Bow Falls is peppered with art from local artists.

6. Ride the Banff Gondola

The Banff Gondola is one of the best ways to experience the Rocky Mountains without any strenuous activity. The gondola takes you to the top of Sulphur Mountain, where you’ll be rewarded with breathtaking 360-degree views of the surrounding peaks, valleys, and town of Banff below.

At the summit, you can explore the interactive discovery center, walk the scenic boardwalk to the Cosmic Ray Station, or enjoy a delicious meal with a view at Sky Bistro.

The gondola is a must-do activity in Banff, offering one of the best vantage points in the park.

7. Moraine Lake & Lake Louise Sightseeing Tour

Visit these two iconic Banff lakes in one visit. Start with a stop at Moraine Lake. Go to the top of the Rockpile trail for that stunning picture of the turquoise water and ten peaks.

Next visit Lake Louise, the lakeshore trail is perfect for an easy stroll. Marvel at this stunning backdrop of a mountain lake surrounded by mountain peaks and the Victoria Glacier.

With two hours at each lake, you’ll have time for a lakeshore walk, canoeing or just taking in the scenery.

8. Ride the Lake Louise Gondola

The Lake Louise Gondola offers an entirely different experience. This scenic chairlift or enclosed gondola ride takes you high above the valley, where you might even spot grizzly bears roaming below.

At the top, take in incredible views of Lake Louise, Victoria Glacier, and the surrounding peaks. There’s also a wildlife interpretive center where you can learn about the area’s rich ecosystem.

9. Mt. Norquay Chairlift & Lunch at Cliffhouse Bistro

The Mt. Norquay Sightseeing Chairlift is an open-air ride that is going to be quieter than any other gondola or chairlift. As you glide up the mountain, you’ll enjoy incredible panoramic views of the Bow Valley and the town of Banff below.

At the top, you’ll find Cliffhouse Bistro, a charming and historic restaurant perched on the side of the mountain. It’s the perfect spot to enjoy a delicious meal or coffee while taking in one of the best dining views in Banff.

10. Sunshine Meadows + Sunshine Gondola

Sunshine Meadows is one of the most picturesque alpine areas in Banff, and you don’t need to be a hiker to enjoy it. Take the Sunshine Gondola and the Standish Chairlift to the Standish Viewpoint, which offers breathtaking views of the surrounding peaks and three mountain lakes.

If you’re up for an easy hike, take the easy trail down to Rock Isle Lake, a beautiful and serene spot surrounded by alpine flowers in summer. This is one of the best ways to experience Banff’s high alpine scenery without a challenging hike.

The easiest way from here is to continue the trail down to the Sunshine Gondola, instead of hiking back up to the Standish viewpoint.

11. Take in Banff’s Best Viewpoints

While some of Banff’s best viewpoints require hiking, there are so many that don’t! From Surprise Corner’s iconic view of the Banff Springs Hotel to Bow Falls’ powerful rushing waters, Banff is filled with scenic viewpoints that require little to no walking.

Drive to Peyto Lake’s famous viewpoint, where the turquoise lake stretches beneath towering peaks. Visit Morant’s Curve, a postcard-perfect railway bend along the Bow Valley Parkway. These spots are some of the best places for photography and sightseeing in Banff.

12. Waterfall Chasing

Banff is home to spectacular waterfalls that are easy to access. Takakkaw Falls in Yoho National Park is one of Canada’s tallest waterfalls and can be reached with a short walk from the parking lot. Bow Falls, located near the Banff Springs Hotel, offers stunning cascades just minutes from downtown. Johnston Canyon’s Lower Falls is an easy and scenic walk, ideal for families or those looking for a relaxed outing.

13. Icefields Parkway Exploration

The Icefields Parkway is one of the most scenic drives in the world, offering breathtaking stops at Peyto Lake, Bow Lake, and the Columbia Icefields. This 230-km highway is a must-do for those looking to experience Banff’s rugged beauty from the comfort of a vehicle. Along the way, you’ll find incredible mountain landscapes, glaciers, and wildlife.

14. Columbia Icefields Adventure

Get out on the Athabasca Glacier with the Columbia Icefields Adventure. This experience includes a ride on the massive Ice Explorer vehicle, allowing you to step onto the glacier itself. It’s a once in a lifetime opportunity to stand on ancient ice and drink pure glacial water.

15. Helicopter Ride

For a breathtaking aerial perspective, take a scenic helicopter ride over Banff and the surrounding peaks. Soaring above the Rockies provides unparalleled views of remote glaciers, alpine lakes, and dramatic mountain landscapes. This is an unforgettable way to see the Canadian Rockies from a completely new vantage point.

Water-Based Activities

16. Canoeing from Banff Canoe Club

For a classic Banff experience, rent a canoe from the Banff Canoe Club and paddle along the Bow River or Vermilion Lakes. These waterways offer a serene and scenic way to experience Banff. Canoeing here is suitable for all skill levels, and rentals are readily available. Keep an eye out for wildlife like elk, beavers, and osprey along the shoreline as you paddle.

This is a perfect way to slow down and truly soak in the beauty of the area.

17. Paddleboarding on Johnson Lake or Two Jack Lake

For those who love calm waters and incredible scenery, stand-up paddleboarding (SUP) on Johnson Lake or Two Jack Lake is an excellent option. These lakes are smaller and more sheltered, making them ideal for paddleboarding (Johnson Lake is ideal for beginners). On a calm morning, the crystal-clear water reflects the surrounding mountain peaks, creating a breathtaking backdrop.

Whether you want to paddle at a leisurely pace or get a light workout, SUP is a fun and accessible way to enjoy Banff’s lakes. Paddleboard rentals are available in Banff and Canmore.

18. Bow River Float

A relaxing float down the Bow River is one of the most peaceful ways to take in Banff’s stunning landscapes. Unlike whitewater rafting, this is a gentle, scenic float, perfect for families, couples, or anyone looking to unwind.

As you drift through the valley, you’ll be surrounded by towering peaks, dense forests, and the occasional wildlife sighting.

19. Kayak on Lake Minnewanka

If you prefer a more active experience on the water, kayaking on Lake Minnewanka is a fantastic way to explore Banff’s largest lake.

You can rent a kayak and venture out on your, just know that the lake can get extremely windy so this is for experienced paddlers only.

20. Canoe on Lake Louise, Moraine Lake, or Emerald Lake

For one of the most iconic experiences in Banff National Park, canoeing on Lake Louise, Moraine Lake, or Emerald Lake is a must. These glacier-fed lakes are world-famous for their stunning turquoise waters and breathtaking mountain backdrops. Rentals are available at all three lakes, allowing visitors to paddle out into the serene and pristine wilderness.

Be sure to arrive early, as canoe rentals are extremely popular and the line ups get long (especially at Lake Louise).

Cultural & Historical Experiences

21. Banff Museums

The Whyte Museum of the Canadian Rockies showcases local history, art, and Indigenous culture, featuring exhibits on mountaineering, wildlife, and early exploration.

The Buffalo Nations Luxton Museum focuses on the heritage of Indigenous peoples, displaying authentic artifacts, traditional clothing, and storytelling exhibits.

The Banff Park Museum National Historic Site showcases over 5,000 natural history specimens in a charming 1903 log building, offering a fascinating glimpse into Banff’s early wildlife and conservation efforts.

Another must-visit is the Cave & Basin National Historic Site, the birthplace of Canada’s national park system. Here, you can learn about Banff’s natural hot springs, conservation efforts, and even walk through the historic cave where it all began. These museums provide an excellent way to delve into Banff’s cultural heritage while staying indoors on a rainy day.

22. Yamnuska Wolfdog Sanctuary

The Yamnuska Wolfdog Sanctuary offers a unique and educational experience where visitors can observe and learn about wolfdogs. This sanctuary provides a safe home for rescued wolfdog while educating the public about conservation efforts.

Visitors can take a self-guided or interactive tour, where they’ll get up close to these incredible animals while learning about their behavior. This is an excellent experience for wildlife lovers looking to gain a deeper appreciation for wolves in a responsible and ethical setting.

23. Explore Banff’s History

Aside from visiting Banff’s museums, you can learn more about Banff’s fascinating past by exploring its historical sites. Lower Bankhead, an abandoned coal mining town near Lake Minnewanka, features interpretive signs and mining relics that tell the story of Banff’s early industrial days.

The Cave & Basin National Historic Site, beyond its significance in Canada’s park system, showcases historic thermal pools that were once used for therapeutic purposes.

You can also visit the Banff Park Museum and the historic Banff Railway Station, which played a pivotal role in opening the area to tourism in the early 20th century.

Relaxing & Leisurely Activities

24. Relax at the Banff Hot Springs

The Banff Upper Hot Springs offers a soothing and scenic way to unwind after a day of exploring. These natural mineral-rich waters provide stunning mountain views as you soak in the warm, therapeutic waters. The hot springs have been a popular attraction since the early days of Banff and remain one of the best places to relax in the national park. Arrive early to avoid crowds!

25. Shopping & Dining on Banff Avenue & Canmore’s Main Street

Banff and Canmore both offer vibrant shopping and dining experiences, perfect for those looking to explore local culture in a leisurely way. Stroll along Banff Avenue, where you’ll find outdoor gear shops, souvenir stores, art galleries, and local boutiques.

Canmore’s Main Street has a charming, small-town feel with unique local shops and a thriving culinary scene. Stop for a delicious meal at a mountain-view restaurant or stop in one of the shops offers souvenirs made locally.

26. Take in a Sunrise or Sunset

Sunrise and sunset in Banff are worthwhile experiences, and you don’t have to hike to enjoy them. Vermilion Lakes is one of the best spots to watch the sunrise, as the water reflects the glowing peaks of Mount Rundle. Lake Minnewanka and Two Jack Lake also provide stunning sunset views, with the calm waters mirroring the dramatic evening sky.

Bring a camera or simply sit back and enjoy the peaceful transition of light over the Rocky Mountains.

27. Picnic at Johnson Lake or Cascade Ponds

For a relaxing outdoor meal, pack a picnic and head to Johnson Lake or Cascade Ponds. These scenic areas offer picnic tables, open grassy spaces, and stunning lakefront views. Johnson Lake is a local favorite for its calm waters and mountain backdrop, while Cascade Ponds provides a picturesque setting with wooden footbridges and wide-open picnic areas.

These are two of Banff’s best picnic spots that are great way to spend a peaceful afternoon in nature without having to venture far.

28. Cascade of Time Gardens

Tucked away near Banff’s downtown area, the Cascade of Time Gardens is a beautifully landscaped oasis with vibrant flowers, peaceful pathways, and charming stone terraces. This free attraction is perfect for a quiet stroll, photography, or simply enjoying the fresh mountain air.

It’s a hidden gem for those looking to slow down and enjoy Banff’s natural beauty in a tranquil setting.

29. Mountain Markets

For a taste of local life, visit the Banff Farmer’s Market or the Canmore Mountain Market, a weekly farmers’ market in each of the mountain towns featuring local produce, handmade crafts, and delicious food vendors.

It’s a great place to pick up unique souvenirs and experience the friendly community vibe of these charming towns.

30. Golf

Tee off with a breathtaking mountain backdrop at one of Banff’s scenic golf courses. The Fairmont Banff Springs Golf Course is world-famous for its stunning views and challenging design, offering an unforgettable golfing experience.

Canmore also has excellent golf courses, such as Stewart Creek and Silvertip, where players can enjoy pristine fairways and panoramic Rocky Mountain scenery. Whether you’re a seasoned golfer or just looking to play a relaxed round, Banff’s golf courses offer some of the most scenic tee-offs in the world.

31. Easy Walks Around Banff or Canmore

Not all outdoor experiences in Banff require hiking boots! There are plenty of easy, scenic walks in Banff and Canmore that allow you to enjoy the stunning landscapes at a relaxed pace. The Bow River Trails in Banff offer gentle riverside strolls with breathtaking views, while Canmore’s Policeman’s Creek Boardwalk provides a peaceful nature walk close to town.

If you’re looking for more ideas, check out our post on easy walking trails in Canmore or this post on hikes from the town of Banff (includes easy Banff walks).

32. Scenic Drives

For a breathtaking way to explore Banff without hiking, take a scenic drive along some of the park’s most iconic routes. The Icefields Parkway is a must-do, featuring jaw-dropping views of glaciers, turquoise lakes, and towering peaks. The Bow Valley Parkway offers a quieter alternative to the main highway, with stops at Johnston Canyon and Morant’s Curve.

These scenic drives in Banff provide some of the best roadside scenery in the world, allowing you to experience Banff’s beauty from the comfort of your car.

33. Spotting Wildlife

One of the most exciting non-hiking activities in Banff is wildlife spotting. The national park is home to bears, elk, deer, bighorn sheep, and more, and many of these animals can be seen right from the road. The Bow Valley Parkway, Lake Minnewanka area, and Icefields Parkway are some of the best places around Banff for spotting wildlife.

Remember to keep a safe distance and use binoculars for the best experience. Seeing Banff’s wild residents in their natural habitat is a magical experience that requires no hiking at all.

Adventurous Activities for Non-Hikers

34. Intro to Rock Climbing

If you’re looking to try something new and adventurous, introductory rock climbing experiences offer a safe way to challenge yourself. Guided climbs are available for beginners and provide instruction on basic climbing techniques, safety gear, and belaying. With expert guides ensuring a controlled environment, you’ll climb beginner-friendly routes while surrounded by stunning mountain views.

This is a fantastic way to experience Banff’s rugged landscapes up close without needing prior climbing experience.

35. Canmore Cave Tours

For an adventure beneath the mountains, explore the fascinating underground world with a Canmore Cave Tour. The Rats Nest Cave will have you crawling, squeezing, and rappelling through a natural cave system. Unlike a typical walking cave tour, this experience requires helmets, headlamps, and a bit of courage as you navigate through limestone formations, ancient fossils, and underground chambers.

If you’re looking for a unique and unforgettable adventure, this is a must-try activity near Banff.

36. Scenic Bike Rides

Cycling is a fantastic way to explore Banff’s stunning scenery without hiking. The Legacy Trail is a paved multi-use path connecting Banff and Canmore, perfect for a scenic, leisurely ride. The Bow Valley Parkway offers an unforgettable cycling experience, with mountain views, wildlife encounters, and quiet roads during seasonal vehicle restrictions.

For those looking for a mix of biking and exploring, Sundance Canyon offers an easy ride followed by an optional short hike to a scenic canyon area. Bike rentals are available in Banff and Canmore.

For those who want to cover more ground with less effort, e-bike tours provide an excellent way to explore Banff’s landscapes.

37. ATV Tours

If you’re looking for an adrenaline-pumping way to explore the backcountry, an ATV tour is a thrilling option. Guided ATV tours take you through rugged mountain trails, river crossings, and scenic alpine meadows, offering an exciting way to experience the Canadian Rockies.

Tours are available outside Banff National Park, in areas where motorized vehicles are permitted. This is a great way to access remote landscapes that would otherwise be difficult to reach.

38. Whitewater Rafting

For those who love adventure on the water, whitewater rafting is an option in Kananaskis, near Golden or in Jasper National Park.

With thrilling rapids and stunning canyon scenery, this is one of the most exciting ways to experience the Canadian Rockies. Options range from family-friendly float trips to adrenaline-packed Class IV rapids, making it an activity that suits different levels of adventure seekers.

39. Via Ferrata at Mt. Norquay

If you want the thrill of rock climbing but with added safety, Via Ferrata at Mt. Norquay is the perfect adventure. This guided climbing experience uses fixed steel cables, ladders, and suspension bridges to guide you along the mountain’s cliffs.

With various difficulty levels available, beginners and experienced adventurers alike can enjoy the thrill of climbing with breathtaking views.

40. Canyoning

For a wet and wild adventure, canyoning is an unforgettable experience that involves rappelling down waterfalls, sliding through narrow gorges, and navigating natural rock formations.

Guided canyoning tours near Banff provide safe and thrilling excursions into hidden canyon landscapes, offering a unique mix of climbing, swimming, and scrambling. If you’re looking for an off-the-beaten-path adventure, this is an excellent choice.

Use code TravelBanff10 for 10% off your canyoning tour!

41. Mountain Biking

Banff and Canmore offer incredible mountain biking trails for all skill levels. Beginners can enjoy gentle, scenic trails like the Tunnel Mountain Loop, while advanced riders can tackle steep, technical routes in the Canmore Nordic Centre.

Whether you’re riding through lush forests, open meadows, or rocky ridges, mountain biking provides an exciting way to explore Banff’s wilderness without hiking.

42. Horseback Riding

Experience Banff’s wilderness like the early explorers by going on a horseback riding adventure. Guided tours take you along scenic forest trails, past rivers, and even to backcountry lodges.

Whether you choose a short one-hour ride or an all-day expedition, horseback riding offers a peaceful and immersive way to enjoy the Rocky Mountains. Banff Trail Riders offer some of the best tours for beginners and experienced riders alike.

43. Golden SkyBridge

For an unforgettable high-flying experience, visit the Golden SkyBridge, Canada’s highest suspension bridge, located just outside Banff in nearby Golden. This attraction features two suspension bridges spanning 426 feet above a deep canyon, offering spectacular views of the surrounding peaks and forests.

Thrill-seekers can also enjoy ziplining, a mountain coaster, and adventure courses at the site. It’s an ideal stop for those looking to combine breathtaking views with a bit of excitement.