Banff is a small mountain town located in the Canadian Rockies, nestled between Lake Louise and Mount Norquay. It's a popular holiday resort town with stunning views of the mountains and beautiful natural scenery. The town is well-known for its outdoor activities like skiing, snowboarding and snowshoeing, as well as for its lively nightlife. It’s a great place for a romantic first date!
1. Banff parks and places for a walk on a first date
Take a romantic stroll with your date through Johnston Canyon and enjoy incredible views of the limestone canyon walls and rushing waterfalls. Enjoy a leisurely walk along the banks of the Bow River and stop at one of the many park benches and picnic areas, or take a self-guided tour of the Cave & Basin National Historic Site. For a more adventurous hike, head up to Sulphur Mountain to enjoy the 360-degree views of the valley.
2. Places for a coffee date in Banff
Enjoy a cup of coffee with your date at Wild Flour Bakery, where you can sample their freshly baked goods, or grab a hot cup of joe at Bear Street Tavern for some people-watching. For a more intimate setting, head over to Truffle Pigs Café, where you can share one of the many delicious breakfast dishes and drink in the cozy atmosphere.
3. Banff galleries, museums and exhibitions to visit on a date
Take your date on a tour through the Whyte Museum, where you can explore the history of the Canadian Rockies through a variety of interactive exhibits, or enjoy a cultural experience at the Buffalo Nations Luxton Museum and learn about the cultural heritage of the First Nations people who have lived in the area for centuries. For art lovers, there's the Walter Phillips Art Gallery and the Banff Centre Gallery, both of which feature works by local and international artists.
4. Live music and entertainment to invite your date to in Banff
Head to the Rose & Crown Pub and listen to some live folk or traditional music while you enjoy a few drinks. Head to the Ugly Bug or the Dancing Sasquatch to watch local bands and DJs perform, or take your date to one of the many movie theatres in town.
5. Banff pubs, bars or restaurants for a first date drink or food
For a romantic dinner date, try one of the many fine-dining restaurants in Banff such as the Grizzly House, the Bison Restaurant or the Maple Leaf Grill. If you're looking for more casual fare, there are plenty of pubs and bars to choose from, like the Elk and Oarsman or the Skogan’s Saloon.
6. Other date ideas to try in Banff
If you're looking for some adventure on your first date, take a trip to the Cave and Basin hot springs or head up to Mount Norquay to go snowshoeing in the winter months. For a unique experience, you can also take a horse-drawn sleigh ride through the stunning wilderness of the Canadian Rockies. If you're both feeling particularly daring, try your luck at White Water Rafting on the Bow River or take a zipline tour for some incredible views!
