Things to do in Banff with kids – family friendly itinerary

Banff is one of those magical destinations that feels like it was designed for families. With turquoise lakes,
mountain trails, and so many kid-friendly activities, it’s no wonder Banff National Park is a bucket-list trip for so
many. If you’re wondering how to make the most of your time here with little ones in tow, this guide will walk you
through exactly how we spent our days — including tips on where to eat, hike, and play to keep everyone happy.

Hiking the Lake Agnes trail with kids

After soaking in the view from the lakeshore, we started the Lake Agnes Trail hike. This 4.6-mile roundtrip trail is a
great option for families. Our 4-year-old was able to hike about half of it before hopping into our Osprey child carrier
backpack. The trail is well maintained and the views just keep getting better as you climb.
About two-thirds of the way up, we stopped at Mirror Lake for a snack break and to let the kids play near the
water. From there, it’s a short push to Lake Agnes and its charming tea house. You can grab tea and biscuits, but
we skipped the tea since it was a warm day.

The hike back down was just as beautiful, and by the time we reached the base, everyone had worked up an
appetite. We had lunch at the Lakeview Lounge at the Fairmont Chateau Lake Louise. I made reservations a
month in advance, and it was worth every bit of planning — the food and the view were perfect.

Evening at the Moose Hotel & Suites

We stayed at the Moose Hotel and Suites in Banff, and after a day of hiking, the kids loved splashing around in
the pool. The rooftop hot tub has mountain views that make you feel like you’re in a postcard and don’t forget to stop by the the sauna. Perfect end to the day.

Bow Lake & Peyto Lake lookout

After Moraine Lake, we kept driving through Banff National Park and made a spontaneous stop at Bow Lake. This
was one of our favorite discoveries because it was quiet and perfect for letting the kids wade in the water and climb
around on the rocks. Next, we drove to Peyto Lake Lookout, which is a short walk from the parking lot. The lookout is very popular, so
be prepared for crowds if you go in the afternoon. The views, however, are absolutely worth it.

Dinner at Waldhaus in Banff

Back in Banff, we ended the day with dinner at the Waldhaus Restaurant on the Fairmont property. The giant beer
steins and cheese fondue made this meal a highlight for the adults — and the kids loved being able to try a little of
everything.

Picnic on the rock shore of the lake Minnewanka

After the cruise, we had a picnic lunch by the lake. Our 4-year-old was thrilled to eat peanut butter straight out of
the jar with a spoon — a core memory for sure. Cole and I had so much fun taking in the beatiful views and watching the kiddos play on the rocks with both the lake and mountains set as a backdrop behind them.

Exploring things to do in downtown Banff

That afternoon, we strolled through Banff Avenue, stopping at Three Bears Brewery for pizza and beer (highly
recommend!) and finishing with ice cream at COWS — a must-stop for families with a sweet tooth.
The rest of the evening was spent enjoying the hotel pool and hot tub. Sometimes the best family moments are the
simplest ones.

Waterfalls, hikes, lunch and final thoughts

At the end of the hike, we treated ourselves to lunch at the Johnston Canyon Bistro, which is located right next to
the trailhead. Great food and a perfect way to refuel before heading back to town.

Banff is one of the most family-friendly destinations we’ve ever visited. Between the stunning natural beauty, kid-
friendly activities, and amazing food, it’s a trip we’ll be talking about for years. Whether you’re planning to hike,
canoe, or just relax and take in the views, Banff has something for every age group.
If you’re looking for things to do in Banff with kids, this itinerary is a perfect mix of adventure and relaxation. It will
leave everyone — parents included — happy and tired in the best way possible.