The budget, 88-room Banff Voyager Inn was built back in 1964 and not much has changed since. Expect motel style, full of irregular stone tile, dated furniture, and spacious rooms with microwaves, mini-fridges, old appliances, and lots of natural light. The relative cleanliness and collection of features -- like an on-site restaurant, outdoor pool, bar with cheap drinks, liquor store, and big hot tub -- coupled with low rates, make it a popular spot for tour groups, business travelers, and anyone looking for the elusive Banff bargain. Freebies include Wi-Fi, covered parking, and a hot breakfast buffet that receives mixed reviews. If you can get past the wear and tear and retro vibe, this is one of the better bargains in Banff. Those looking to be closer to downtown may prefer the equally affordable and dated Bow View Lodge.
The budget, 88-room Banff Voyager Inn was built back in 1964 and not much has changed since. Expect motel style, full of irregular stone tile, dated furniture, and spacious rooms with microwaves, mini-fridges, old appliances, and lots of natural light. The relative cleanliness and collection of features -- like an on-site restaurant, outdoor pool, bar with cheap drinks, liquor store, and big hot tub -- coupled with low rates, make it a popular spot for tour groups, business travelers, and anyone looking for the elusive Banff bargain. Freebies include Wi-Fi, covered parking, and a hot breakfast buffet that receives mixed reviews. If you can get past the wear and tear and retro vibe, this is one of the better bargains in Banff. Those looking to be closer to downtown may prefer the equally affordable and dated Bow View Lodge.
The Juniper Hotel is an independently owned mid-range property with impressive panoramic views across the Trans-Canada Highway and pine forest all the way to Tunnel, Rundle, and Sulpher mountains. It's an ideal nature-nestled spot for folks wanting seclusion while still being a five-minute drive from Banff's town center. Juniper has a stylish, contemporary-vintage look -- especially compared to the many dated hotels in Banff -- though chalets are a bit more rustic. The Juniper Bistro, and its stunning patio views, are a favorite among guests and locals alike, and it's common to spot wildlife around the property or on the nearby trail. There are no hotels in the immediate area, but if you're looking for a slightly secluded spot with self-catering or more kid-friendly features, check out the Hidden Ridge Resort.
The Juniper Hotel is an independently owned mid-range property with impressive panoramic views across the Trans-Canada Highway and pine forest all the way to Tunnel, Rundle, and Sulpher mountains. It's an ideal nature-nestled spot for folks wanting seclusion while still being a five-minute drive from Banff's town center. Juniper has a stylish, contemporary-vintage look -- especially compared to the many dated hotels in Banff -- though chalets are a bit more rustic. The Juniper Bistro, and its stunning patio views, are a favorite among guests and locals alike, and it's common to spot wildlife around the property or on the nearby trail. There are no hotels in the immediate area, but if you're looking for a slightly secluded spot with self-catering or more kid-friendly features, check out the Hidden Ridge Resort.
Samesun Banff is a dorm-only backpacker hostel with an extremely walkable location right on Banff Avenue. It targets young, social travelers on a budget and is known for getting rowdy, though there are enforced quiet hours. Each room has an en-suite bathroom, gas fireplace, and lockers, and thanks to a clever design, even the 14-bed rooms don't feel too packed. This hostel gets a lot of traffic, especially in high season so there's noticeable wear and tear and upgrades can't always keep up with the crowds. The free breakfast with make-your-own pancakes, stocked kitchen, daily free (or cheap) activities, nightly specials at the bar, and bike/ski storage make this spot a good bargain. The town's only other hostel with a bar is the HI Banff Alpine Center, and it has a more natural setting.
Samesun Banff is a dorm-only backpacker hostel with an extremely walkable location right on Banff Avenue. It targets young, social travelers on a budget and is known for getting rowdy, though there are enforced quiet hours. Each room has an en-suite bathroom, gas fireplace, and lockers, and thanks to a clever design, even the 14-bed rooms don't feel too packed. This hostel gets a lot of traffic, especially in high season so there's noticeable wear and tear and upgrades can't always keep up with the crowds. The free breakfast with make-your-own pancakes, stocked kitchen, daily free (or cheap) activities, nightly specials at the bar, and bike/ski storage make this spot a good bargain. The town's only other hostel with a bar is the HI Banff Alpine Center, and it has a more natural setting.
After its huge 2016 renovation, the Elk + Avenue Hotel emerged as one of Banff's most modern and stylish hotels. Its cozy minimalist decor is a breath of fresh air compared to its other three-pearl competitors, though the prices here can get steep beyond standard rooms. The hotel's edge of downtown location is as close as you can get without being in the center, giving it a huge advantage. On the downside, there are no AC, room service, gym, or business center here, but guests will get access to the on-site tour company, the hot tub and sauna, a chic cocktail and sports lounge, and a restaurant that serves big meals. Expect free heated underground parking, fast Wi-Fi, and full-sized ski lockers (with locks). Those looking for more wellness facilities may prefer Banff Caribou Lodge & Spa.
After its huge 2016 renovation, the Elk + Avenue Hotel emerged as one of Banff's most modern and stylish hotels. Its cozy minimalist decor is a breath of fresh air compared to its other three-pearl competitors, though the prices here can get steep beyond standard rooms. The hotel's edge of downtown location is as close as you can get without being in the center, giving it a huge advantage. On the downside, there are no AC, room service, gym, or business center here, but guests will get access to the on-site tour company, the hot tub and sauna, a chic cocktail and sports lounge, and a restaurant that serves big meals. Expect free heated underground parking, fast Wi-Fi, and full-sized ski lockers (with locks). Those looking for more wellness facilities may prefer Banff Caribou Lodge & Spa.
A 20-minute walk from downtown, the mid-range Rundlestone Lodge is on the eastern edge of town near several of the area's budget properties. Nature-themed decor and lots of knotted pine wood throughout give this spot a comfortable lodge vibe, though some aspects, like the bathrooms, skew dated. The 98 guest rooms here have AC, flat-screen TVs with DVD players, coffeemakers, kettles, and free Wi-Fi, and some feature whirlpool tubs and balconies. Highlights among features include an on-site steakhouse that serves a generous breakfast buffet for an extra charge, and an indoor lap pool and whirlpool in a light-filled space. For about the same rates, you can book next door at the Caribou Lodge & Spa, though the guest rooms will be noticeably smaller.
A 20-minute walk from downtown, the mid-range Rundlestone Lodge is on the eastern edge of town near several of the area's budget properties. Nature-themed decor and lots of knotted pine wood throughout give this spot a comfortable lodge vibe, though some aspects, like the bathrooms, skew dated. The 98 guest rooms here have AC, flat-screen TVs with DVD players, coffeemakers, kettles, and free Wi-Fi, and some feature whirlpool tubs and balconies. Highlights among features include an on-site steakhouse that serves a generous breakfast buffet for an extra charge, and an indoor lap pool and whirlpool in a light-filled space. For about the same rates, you can book next door at the Caribou Lodge & Spa, though the guest rooms will be noticeably smaller.
The upscale Fairmont Banff Springs is an iconic 764-room hotel in a semi-secluded location on the edge of Banff. Its rich history makes it a town landmark and UNESCO World Heritage Site and it's popular for its large castle-like appearance. Rooms are contemporary and modest, outfitted with attractive, albeit generic, decor and less features than expected. All rooms come with flat-screen TVs, shower/tub combos, and floor-to-ceiling windows, though AC is not guaranteed. Guests can eat and drink their way through 13 food and drink venues, soak in the spa's mineral pools, lounge by one of the three pools, or get sweaty in the state-of-the-art gym. Wi-Fi and a basic kids' club are free, but fees apply for pets, and rentals for bikes or ice skates. There's really no comparison, but the elegant Rimrock Resort Hotel has cheaper rates.
The upscale Fairmont Banff Springs is an iconic 764-room hotel in a semi-secluded location on the edge of Banff. Its rich history makes it a town landmark and UNESCO World Heritage Site and it's popular for its large castle-like appearance. Rooms are contemporary and modest, outfitted with attractive, albeit generic, decor and less features than expected. All rooms come with flat-screen TVs, shower/tub combos, and floor-to-ceiling windows, though AC is not guaranteed. Guests can eat and drink their way through 13 food and drink venues, soak in the spa's mineral pools, lounge by one of the three pools, or get sweaty in the state-of-the-art gym. Wi-Fi and a basic kids' club are free, but fees apply for pets, and rentals for bikes or ice skates. There's really no comparison, but the elegant Rimrock Resort Hotel has cheaper rates.
The three-and-a-half-pearl Buffaloberry Bed and Breakfast is an ultra-charming boutique popular with couples. Located a block from Banff Avenue on a residential corner, this quiet spot is still within a 10-minute walk from the action of central downtown. There are only four rooms here, all individually decorated and comfortably styled with big beds, soft carpet, bathrobes and slippers, flat-screen TVs, and modern bathrooms. Wi-Fi and parking are free, along with a gourmet two-course breakfast, afternoon tea snack, water and soda, and evening nightcaps. There's limited public space here, meaning guests are left to either keep private in their room or mingle with other guests by the fireplace or on the patio. Travelers looking for a more traditional hotel stay should check out the Fox and Suites, though it lacks the great breakfast and in-room AC.
The three-and-a-half-pearl Buffaloberry Bed and Breakfast is an ultra-charming boutique popular with couples. Located a block from Banff Avenue on a residential corner, this quiet spot is still within a 10-minute walk from the action of central downtown. There are only four rooms here, all individually decorated and comfortably styled with big beds, soft carpet, bathrobes and slippers, flat-screen TVs, and modern bathrooms. Wi-Fi and parking are free, along with a gourmet two-course breakfast, afternoon tea snack, water and soda, and evening nightcaps. There's limited public space here, meaning guests are left to either keep private in their room or mingle with other guests by the fireplace or on the patio. Travelers looking for a more traditional hotel stay should check out the Fox and Suites, though it lacks the great breakfast and in-room AC.
The romantically rustic, upper-middle-range Buffalo Mountain Lodge is a popular pick with couples visiting Banff. The 108 rooms have comfy beds, feather pillows and duvets, flat-screen TVs, L' Occitane toiletries, and either kitchenettes or balconies. Upgraded bathrooms have clawfoot tubs, though the heated tile floors and lovely mountain views are only in Premiere Rooms. There's no AC here and rooms can get stuffy in the summer, while wood-burning stone fireplaces (with free firewood) help keep them warm in winter. The excellent restaurant, which invented Canadian Rockies cuisine, is known for its wine list and exotic game dishes -- even at breakfast. In addition to meeting rooms and an outdoor hot tub, there are several freebies, including Wi-Fi, an on-demand shuttle, and bike rental. For more kid-based amenities, check out the nearby condo-style Hidden Ridge Resort.
The romantically rustic, upper-middle-range Buffalo Mountain Lodge is a popular pick with couples visiting Banff. The 108 rooms have comfy beds, feather pillows and duvets, flat-screen TVs, L' Occitane toiletries, and either kitchenettes or balconies. Upgraded bathrooms have clawfoot tubs, though the heated tile floors and lovely mountain views are only in Premiere Rooms. There's no AC here and rooms can get stuffy in the summer, while wood-burning stone fireplaces (with free firewood) help keep them warm in winter. The excellent restaurant, which invented Canadian Rockies cuisine, is known for its wine list and exotic game dishes -- even at breakfast. In addition to meeting rooms and an outdoor hot tub, there are several freebies, including Wi-Fi, an on-demand shuttle, and bike rental. For more kid-based amenities, check out the nearby condo-style Hidden Ridge Resort.
Douglas Fir Resort & Chalets is one of the town's older properties and it shows. The 130 rooms have tired furniture from decades past, and chalets are downright rustic. Still, it sees a lot of repeat guests and is a favorite among younger families with kids, thanks to the full-sized kitchens, indoor water park pool area (free for guests), and impressive indoor kids' play zone. The huge self-catering units can sleep up to 10, making this spot an excellent value. An on-site convenience store, laundromat, and liquor store that will deliver to your room make it easier to be a 20-minute walk from the main action on Banff Avenue. Free Wi-Fi and bus passes, cozy wood-burning fireplaces, and big plug-n-play flat-screen TVs are additional perks. Folks looking for a more secluded location may want to check out the rates at Hidden Ridge Resort.
Douglas Fir Resort & Chalets is one of the town's older properties and it shows. The 130 rooms have tired furniture from decades past, and chalets are downright rustic. Still, it sees a lot of repeat guests and is a favorite among younger families with kids, thanks to the full-sized kitchens, indoor water park pool area (free for guests), and impressive indoor kids' play zone. The huge self-catering units can sleep up to 10, making this spot an excellent value. An on-site convenience store, laundromat, and liquor store that will deliver to your room make it easier to be a 20-minute walk from the main action on Banff Avenue. Free Wi-Fi and bus passes, cozy wood-burning fireplaces, and big plug-n-play flat-screen TVs are additional perks. Folks looking for a more secluded location may want to check out the rates at Hidden Ridge Resort.
The three-pearl, 169-room Banff Rocky Mountain Resort was built to help with guest overflow for the 1988 Calgary Olympics. However, while its out-of-town location next to the freeway may have been ideal then, it feels unnecessarily far for some Banff tourists. Split across two sections, this is a large pet-friendly property full of pine trees and mostly dated rooms with full kitchens but no AC. Few spaces feel contemporary outside of the lobby restaurant and Wolf rooms. Rare on-site features include several sports courts and organized activities, plus there are a dingy indoor pool area with a sauna and play space, and an outdoor hot tub with loungers and barbecue area. Expect free Wi-Fi, lot parking, and shuttles into town every two hours. It's worth considering the similar Douglas Fir Resort & Chalets, set farther up Tunnel Mountain.
The three-pearl, 169-room Banff Rocky Mountain Resort was built to help with guest overflow for the 1988 Calgary Olympics. However, while its out-of-town location next to the freeway may have been ideal then, it feels unnecessarily far for some Banff tourists. Split across two sections, this is a large pet-friendly property full of pine trees and mostly dated rooms with full kitchens but no AC. Few spaces feel contemporary outside of the lobby restaurant and Wolf rooms. Rare on-site features include several sports courts and organized activities, plus there are a dingy indoor pool area with a sauna and play space, and an outdoor hot tub with loungers and barbecue area. Expect free Wi-Fi, lot parking, and shuttles into town every two hours. It's worth considering the similar Douglas Fir Resort & Chalets, set farther up Tunnel Mountain.