As anyone who’s been to Banff before will tell you, the pictures and videos you see online just don’t do it justice! It really is one of the most beautiful places to visit in Canada. From rock climbing to horseback riding, many of the best things to do in Banff involve adventuring outside and enjoying the stunning views of the Rocky Mountains. However, Banff gets around 160 days of rain per year, with June being the rainiest month. So this article will explore the best indoor activities to enjoy in Banff on those rainy days, from museums and art galleries to indoor recreation and entertainment.

Key Takeaways

• Banff experiences around 160 days of rain per year, with June being the rainiest month.
• There are numerous indoor attractions in Banff to enjoy on rainy days, including museums, art galleries, and indoor recreation centers.
• The Banff Upper Hot Springs offer a relaxing experience, with mineral-rich waters and stunning mountain views.
• The Sally Borden Recreation Centre provides a variety of indoor activities like swimming, skating, and fitness classes.
• High Rollers Banff is a trendy bowling alley with a bar and delicious pizza options.

Embrace the Cozy Vibes at Banff Upper Hot Springs

On a rainy day in Banff, there’s no better place to unwind than the Banff Upper Hot Springs. These mineral-rich hot springs are a beloved local attraction, offering a serene and rejuvenating experience amidst the stunning mountain scenery. Just a 10-minute drive from downtown Banff, the Banff hot springs are less crowded when the weather isn’t ideal, making it the perfect opportunity to soak in the toasty waters and embrace the cozy vibes.

Soak in Mineral-Rich Waters for Ultimate Relaxation

The Banff Upper Hot Springs are open year-round, though they do close for one week annually in the fall for cleaning. Visitors can enjoy the therapeutic benefits of the mineral-rich hot springs while taking in the breathtaking views of the surrounding mountains. The entrance fee is $16.50 CAD and includes access to a locker, ensuring a comfortable and convenient experience.

Sally Borden Recreation Centre: An Indoor Adventure Playground

On rainy days in Banff, the Sally Borden Recreation Centre is the perfect indoor haven for adventure-seekers. This multi-purpose facility offers a wide range of activities to keep you entertained and active, all while staying dry and cozy.

One of the standout features of the Sally Borden is its 25-meter pool, perfect for swimming laps or simply relaxing in the hot tub. Fitness enthusiasts can take advantage of the fully-equipped fitness studio, where they can challenge themselves with a variety of workout equipment and group classes.

But the real gem of the Sally Borden is the indoor climbing gym. Catering to climbers of all skill levels, the gym features auto-belays, allowing solo adventurers to test their skills on the colorful rock walls. Whether you’re a seasoned climber or a beginner, this is the perfect opportunity to hone your technique and conquer new heights.

To refuel after all the indoor activities, the Sally Borden Recreation Centre boasts two on-site restaurants, offering a variety of delicious options to satisfy your appetite. And with adult day passes priced at just $20 CAD, it’s an affordable way to stay active and entertained on a rainy day in Banff.

So, if you’re looking to stay active and embrace the cozy vibes of Banff on a rainy day, be sure to visit the Sally Borden Recreation Centre. From swimming and fitness to rock climbing and dining, this indoor adventure playground has everything you need to make the most of your time in this picturesque mountain town.

Knock Down Pins and Sip Craft Brews at High Rollers Banff

On those rainy days in Banff, when the outdoors beckons but the weather keeps you indoors, High Rollers Banff is the perfect destination. This unique establishment combines a bowling alley, craft beer bar, and delicious pizza restaurant, making it a one-stop-shop for indoor entertainment.

A Bowling Alley with a Trendy Bar and Delicious Pizza

The bowling alley at High Rollers Banff features six lanes, allowing you and your group to engage in a friendly bowling competition. As you knock down those pins, you can sip on one of the 48 different craft beers on tap, each offering a unique flavor profile to explore. And no visit to High Rollers would be complete without indulging in their famous oversized pizza slices, perfect for sharing with your bowling crew.

Bowling lane rentals start at $49 CAD per hour on weekdays and $55 CAD on Saturdays, for a group of up to 8 people. Bowling shoes can be rented for an additional $6 CAD per person, ensuring you’re ready to take on the lanes in style.

Whether you’re a seasoned bowler or a newcomer to the sport, High Rollers Banff provides a fun and lively atmosphere to enjoy a rainy day in Banff. With its perfect blend of bowling, craft beer, and delectable pizza, it’s a must-visit destination for anyone looking to experience the best of indoor activities in this charming mountain town.

What are the best indoor activities in Banff for rainy days?

When the weather in Banff turns dreary, there’s no need to let the rain put a damper on your vacation. The charming mountain town offers a wealth of indoor activities perfect for rainy days. From relaxing at the Banff Upper Hot Springs to exploring the Sally Borden Recreation Centre’s rock climbing walls and fitness facilities, there’s something to keep everyone entertained.

For a unique experience, head to High Rollers Banff, where you can combine bowling with craft beer and delicious pizza. The trendy bowling alley is a great spot to spend a cozy afternoon indoors. And don’t miss the chance to ride the Banff Gondola for 360-degree views of the surrounding peaks, even on overcast days.

If you’re in the mood for some retail therapy, stroll along Banff Avenue and pop into the charming shops and boutiques. And for a deeper dive into the region’s history and culture, visit the Whyte Museum, which offers insights into the heritage of the Canadian Rockies.

No matter your indoor activity of choice, Banff has plenty of ways to make the most of a rainy day. So embrace the cozy vibes and enjoy all that this mountain town has to offer, even when the weather isn’t cooperating.

Soar Above the Clouds on the Banff Gondola

If you’re looking for an indoor activity that offers stunning 360-degree views of Banff and the Rocky Mountains, the Banff Gondola is a must-visit. This iconic attraction whisks visitors up Sulphur Mountain in enclosed gondola cars, protecting you from the elements while delivering a breathtaking experience.

Enjoy 360-Degree Views from the Summit

The Banff Gondola’s 8-minute journey covers a distance of approximately 1 mile, starting from the Lower Terminal at 5,194 feet above sea level and reaching the Upper Terminal at 7,486 feet. Once at the top, you’ll be rewarded with panoramic vistas that stretch as far as the eye can see, even if the clouds are rolling in below.

The summit also offers a range of indoor attractions to explore, including the Banff Interpretive Centre, the Above Banff Theatre, and the Sky Bistro restaurant. Whether you’re looking to learn about the local geology and wildlife or simply relax with a meal and a view, the Banff Gondola has something for everyone.

Tickets for the Banff Gondola range from $59-$72 CAD for adults and $37-$45 CAD for kids, with discounts available for booking in advance. To avoid the crowds, the best times to visit are before 12 PM or after 5 PM. And don’t forget to check the schedule, as the Gondola typically assigns a 2-hour window for descending during peak tourist season.

So if you’re looking for an indoor activity that offers stunning views of the Banff landscape, the Banff Gondola is the perfect choice. Soar above the clouds and take in the breathtaking scenery from the summit of Sulphur Mountain.

Indulge in Retail Therapy on Banff Avenue

When the rain starts to fall, one of the best indoor activities in Banff is simply strolling along Banff Avenue and indulging in some retail therapy. This iconic street is lined with a variety of shops, from Banff souvenir shops selling kitschy Canadiana to high-end boutiques and artisan galleries. Visitors can browse for unique gifts, treat themselves to handmade soaps and candles, or satisfy their sweet tooth at places like COWS ice cream. Popping in and out of the stores is a great way to stay dry and discover some of Banff’s local businesses.

One of the recent additions to the shopping in Banff scene is the newly renovated Canalta Lodge. After a $5 million upgrade, this hotel now offers a range of amenities, including three pools, a barrel sauna, and a cozy bar called “The Happy Camper.” Conveniently located just a 10-minute walk from the start of Banff Avenue, the Canalta Lodge provides the perfect home base for a day of retail therapy Banff.

With so many unique shops and boutiques to explore, Banff Avenue is the perfect destination for a rainy day spent indulging in some retail therapy Banff. Whether you’re searching for the perfect souvenir or simply enjoying the cozy atmosphere, this vibrant street offers a delightful indoor adventure.

Cruise the Scenic Bow Valley Parkway

If the rain eases up a bit during your visit to Banff, taking a scenic drive along the Bow Valley Parkway is a wonderful way to enjoy the area’s natural beauty, even on a cloudy day. This 50-kilometer parkway runs parallel to the Trans-Canada Highway, offering stunning vistas of the Rocky Mountains. The drive to Lake Louise takes about an hour, and the parkway provides opportunities to stop and admire views like Morant’s Curve.

A Picturesque Drive to Lake Louise

While the weather may not cooperate for outdoor adventures, the Bow Valley Parkway allows visitors to experience Banff’s phenomenal landscapes from the comfort of their car. Along the way, you can stop at various pullouts and viewpoints to snap photos of the rugged peaks, crystalline lakes, and lush forests that characterize this scenic region. With a rental vehicle, you can explore the Bow Valley Parkway at your own pace and truly appreciate the beauty of Banff National Park, even on a rainy day.

Whether you’re seeking a leisurely drive or a chance to stop and explore the Bow Valley Parkway’s many viewpoints, this scenic route is a must-do for any visitor to Banff, even on a rainy day. By taking this picturesque drive, you can still immerse yourself in the natural beauty of the Canadian Rockies and make the most of your time in this stunning region.

Uncover Banff’s History at the Whyte Museum

For a deeper dive into Banff’s cultural heritage, the Whyte Museum in downtown Banff is an excellent indoor rainy day option. The museum’s collections, programs, and exhibitions explore the history and artistic traditions of the Canadian Rockies. Visitors can learn about the people, places, and events that have shaped this iconic mountain region over the years. As an indoor attraction, the Whyte Museum provides a chance to escape the rain while discovering the fascinating stories of Banff’s past.

The museum’s Heritage Gallery shares Canadian Rockies history through an impressive array of art, artifacts, archives, and library materials. Highlights include the Treasures Within exhibit, which celebrates 50 years of collecting by Peter Whyte and Catharine Robb Whyte, and the upcoming Bison Legacy exhibition by Dwayne Harty exploring the connection between humans and bison. Whether you’re interested in Banff’s history, art, or natural wonders, the Whyte Museum offers a wealth of indoor experiences to enjoy on a rainy day.

As one of Banff’s top indoor attractions, the Whyte Museum is an ideal destination for learning about the region’s rich heritage and cultural legacy. From historic exhibits to contemporary art installations, there’s something to captivate visitors of all ages and interests, making it a must-visit during your Banff adventure.