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10 Overall Closest Attractions & Activities
Fairmont Banff Springs Hotel
(Attractions & Activities - Sightseeing)
405 Spray Ave, Banff  T1L 1J4 • 403-762-2211
Distance: ~0 m *
        Description: Built in 1888 to accommodate Victorian tourists who came to visit the area's hot springs, this spectacular hotel was the world's largest when it opened. Built and furnished to resemble a Scottish castle, it was designed by Bruce Price, a New York architect, at the urging of William Van Horne, General Manager of Canadian Pacific Railways. The hotel, which is known as "Canada's Castle in the Rockies," remains as Banff's signature property and, following renovations begun in 1999, is still one of the most beautiful hotels in Canada. Day visitors are permitted to enjoy its restaurants, shops, and spa.
        User Rating: 10 / 10
       

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Walter Phillips Gallery
(Attractions & Activities - Museums)
107 Tunnel Mtn Rd Banff Centre for the Arts, Banff  T1L 1H5 • 403-762-6281
Distance: ~0.622 km *
        Description: This spare, intimate space, located on the grounds of the Banff Centre for the Arts, is home to a variety of exhibitions throughout the year. A substantial permanent collection is also available, much of which is displayed throughout the campus. Dedicated to contemporary art, the gallery represents national and international artists. In addition to the exhibitions, there are also lectures and other events that help to elucidate and inform the issues that the art addresses. Video and performance art are cultivated, along with more traditional media, such as photography, painting and sculpture.
       

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Canada Place
(Attractions & Activities - Museums)
101 Mountain Ave, Banff  T1L 1K2 • 403-760-1338
Distance: ~0.716 km *
        Description: Canada Place is a multi-faceted attraction with wide appeal. For the history buff, there are exhibits detailing Canadian culture and achievements, plus the fascinating Siksika Nation Interpretive Centre. For nature fans, there's beautiful Cascade Gardens where the view extends well beyond the colorful borders to include the mountains beyond. You'll also find Banff National Park administration building here.
       

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Upper Hot Springs
(Attractions & Activities - Parks)
101 Mountain Ave Sulphur Mountain, Banff  T0E 1E0 • 403-762-1515 • 800-767-1611
Distance: ~0.717 km *
        Description: Just a brief drive south of town, these thermal springs draw bathers year-round to their warm, soothing waters. The complex, which was renovated in 1996, has attracted visitors since the 1880s and now boasts modern facilities, including a large outdoor pool, a wading pool, and an indoor spa. Several shops and a cafe are available as well. If you're ambitious, you can hike from town to the site over somewhat steep terrain. If not, simply enjoy the incredible vista from the comfort of the pool.
       

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Buffalo Nations Luxton Museum
(Attractions & Activities - Museums)
1 Birch Ave, Banff  T1L 1A8 • 403-762-2388
Distance: ~0.865 km *
        Description: Commemorating the contributions and presence of native Americans in the area, this museum has been in operation since 1952. Named for a local shopkeeper and friend of the Indians, the facility maintains displays on hunting, culture, and domestic activities. Clothing, a teepee, and quilts are among the many items available for perusal. A gift shop offers related merchandise, showcasing the heritage of a society who lived close to nature in a time before Europeans inhabited Canada's western plains and mountains.
       

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Cave and Basin National Historic Site
(Attractions & Activities - Parks)
311 Cave Ave, Banff  T1L 1K2 • 403-762-1566
Distance: ~0.894 km *
        Description: First discovered in 1883 by railroad workers, this underground spring is the reason that Banff and the Banff National Park exist today. Wealthy Victorians flocked to take the heated waters, believing the mineral-infused springs to be healing and therapeutic. The town was created around the site, and the springs operated until 1976. They were restored and reopened in 1985 for the centennial celebration of the park and have been open ever since. Although bathing in the pool is no longer permitted, visitors may explore the area via trails and informational displays. A fascinating excursion and a great attraction for kids and adults alike.
       

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Banff Park Museum
(Attractions & Activities - Museums)
91 Banff Ave, Banff  T1L 1J4 • 403-762-1558
Distance: ~0.925 km *
        Description: Set in a rustic pagoda near the Bow River, this museum dates from the turn of the last century. It houses a collection of native creatures that have been stuffed and mounted for display. Most of the specimens date from 1890 to 1930 and were acquired when hunting was permitted in the area. The museum, which has the distinction of being western Canada's oldest natural history museum, provides a glimpse of both the diversity of the Rockies and the Victorian conception of a wilderness. A reading room and a hands-on discovery room for children are also part of the complex.
       

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Warner Guiding and Outfitting / Trail Rider Store
(Attractions & Activities - Tours and Excursions)
132 Banff Ave, Banff  T1L 1C1 • 403-762-4551 • 800-661-8352
Distance: ~1.012 km *
        Description: For all things Western, this shop is a sure winner. If it's cowboy hats, boots or clothing you're in the market for, the best selection in town is right here. And if dressing the part isn't quite good enough, you can arrange a horseback riding trip here as well. Whether you just want a quick jaunt around town, a full-day tour ending with an outdoor barbecue, or an overnight camping trip, Warner can accommodate. Tours depart either from Warner Stables in Banff or Spray River Corrals in Canmore. They can also arrange cross country skiing trips and carriage rides.
        User Rating: 9.75 / 10
       

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Self Guided Historical Walking Tour
(Attractions & Activities - Sightseeing)
110 Bear St, Banff  T1L 1A1 • 403-762-1251 • 403-762-1200
Distance: ~1.070 km *
        Description: From its founding in the late 19th century to its status as a Victorian (and now modern-day) resort, Banff has enjoyed a relatively short but fascinating history. The Banff Heritage Corporation has taken note of many structures and sites that played a major role in the town's heritage and included them in a historical tour. They include several private residences, the Canadian Pacific Railway station, and the Cave and Basin hot springs site. The entire walk runs about an hour-and-a-half but can be altered at your discretion. For a brochure outlining the route, visit the organization's Town Hall office (address listed above).
       

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Whyte Museum of the Canadian Rockies
(Attractions & Activities - Museums)
111 Bear St, Banff  T1L 1A3 • 403-762-2291
Distance: ~1.070 km *
        Description: Instituted in 1968 to house materials conserving the heritage of the Rockies, this museum is now one of Banff's best and most comprehensive. With extensive collections of literature and art, the Whyte Museum houses thousands of items, including journals, oral histories, photographs, and artifacts relating to mountain climbing and exploration in general. The exhibitions provide a fascinating insight into the history of the region, as do the log structures on the grounds. Art displays change regularly, and the archives are open for public research and interest.
       

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  See Directions for actual "travel distances."
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