From The Fairmont Banff Springs Best Nearby Sightseeing (Attractions & Activities) (10 Overall Closest) Metro: Banff, AB Fairmont Banff Springs Hotel (Attractions & Activities - Sightseeing) 405 Spray Ave, Banff  AB  T1L 1J4 • 403-762-2211 Distance: ~165 m User Rating: 10 / 10         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. Cave and Basin National Historic Site (Attractions & Activities - Sightseeing) 311 Cave Ave, Banff  AB  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. Heritage Walking Tour (Attractions & Activities - Sightseeing) 110 Bear St, Banff  AB  T1L 1A1 • 403-762-1251 • 403-762-1200 Distance: ~1.062 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). Bankhead (Attractions & Activities - Sightseeing) Lake Minnewanka Rd 5 miles outside town, Banff  AB  T1L 1K2 • 403-762-1557 • 403-762-1500 Distance: ~14054.211 km         Description: Once the site of a bustling coal industry, this town was established at the turn of the last century. When the coal market faltered, the buildings were torn down or moved to neighboring towns. Today, the foundations and remnants of these buildings still exist, and the parks service has created trails throughout the area and set up plaques detailing the structures left behind. Exhibits in the former Transformer Building provide a history of the place and discuss the mining industry and the short-lived town that existed here for 20 years. Slowly being shaped by the forces of nature, the ghost town is now a fascinating visit for those who love history. Castle Mountain (Attractions & Activities - Sightseeing) Banff National Park  AB  T1L 1K2 • 403-762-1550 Distance: ~14054.211 km         Description: This spectacular rock formation immediately catches your eye as you drive along the Parkway. The towering spires bring to mind a fortified castle, as they did for early explorers, who named the mountain after its imposing presence. For a time from the 1940s to the 1970s, the formation was called Eisenhower Mountain in tribute to Dwight D. Eisenhower's role in WWII. After an outcry from local inhabitants, the name was changed, and Eisenhower Mountain came to refer only to a particular peak. Copyright ©2001 10Best Inc. All rights reserved.