I love Banff. Located in the Canadian Rockies, it’s the ideal place for skiing, snowboarding and all other winter activities. What do you do though, if you have the grace of a flamingo when put on a pair of skis? Well, being a Floridian that was born and raised in the Caribbean, I don’t fair well trying to be mobile in the snow. Here are a few of my favorite things to do in Banff that have nothing to do with snow.

Eating

There are many wonderful restaurants in Banff from the casual and affordable to the exquisite and  expensive. These nachos were affordable and came from one of our favorite casual places in Banff called Nourish. Eating our way through any city is always a fun way to see what a place is all about and Banff has a little something for every appetite.

Drinking

Drinking is a fun way to pass time on any vacation. We happened to be huge fans of craft beer and always make a stop at the Banff Ave. Brewing Co. They have a wide selection of brews on tap and you can get anything from a sampler to a growler to quench your thirst. Their food is amazing as well so this is a two-for-one tip. :)

Shopping

I am not a huge fan of shopping, but when my mom comes to visit me wherever we are, shopping becomes mandatory. She loved shopping in Banff at all of the little boutique stores and probably loved having me around to carry all of her purchases. It’s okay though, I always get paid in beer so that keeps me happy and Banff does have some cute places for buying all kinds of wonderful souvenirs.

Hiking

While I don’t like shopping, I thoroughly enjoy hiking. Banff has some of the most beautiful scenery that I have ever come across and they have trails that range from quick and easy to long and intense. I don’t really mind the cold or the rain when hiking here because I am always rewarded with views like this one.

Swimming

In all honesty, this tip is a little bit of cheating on my part. The Banff Hot Springs isn’t the place for swimming. It is more of a place to float around in the warm water like a Florida manatee. I love the hot springs after a long hike or a painful day down the slopes. It’s the perfect way to unwind and destress.

Banff is one of my absolute favorite places in this world and if you ever have the opportunity to visit, jump on it! The mountain air and friendly folks in this town will have you feeling reenergized and ready to tackle the world after your vacation.

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