This charming Alberta small town was shouted out among the places locals want to move to most
This little mountain town is as picturesque as it gets. Visiting gives you that "I just stepped into a postcard" feeling, and it's no surprise that people wish they could move here.
Narcity readers named this among the Alberta spots they would move to most, if they could live anywhere in the province. With streets lined with local shops and cute boutiques, and the backdrop of towering mountains — it makes sense.
Waking up to this view every day wouldn't hurt.
This town isn't exactly a secret, but it's deserving of the praise it gets. Banff is a hot-spot for tourists and Calgary locals alike, offering a quick getaway option that plops you in the thick of nature but with access to all the amenities you need. Summertime here is all about heading into the great outdoors that Banff National Park is known for (hello, bright blue mountain-wrapped lakes, tree-lines trails and breathtaking summits).
It's not just heart-pumping activities here though. It's also the scenic drives along the roads (especially the nearby Icefields Parkway, which connects Lake Louise with Jasper), which alone gives you some of the most spectacular views imaginable. Then there's just the drive-up spots like Lake Louise, that'll leave you breathless too.
Banff Upper hot springs is the answer to your stresses, where you can soak in some toasty mineral water and breathe in the fresh mountain air.
Banff has the small town vibes, but there's also a ton to do in town (the perk of being in a tourist destination). You've got bars, shops, restaurants, galleries and museums all downtown. Just spending time bopping around is fun here.
If you have more of a taste for adventure you can take your pick of tours. There's kayaking, boat cruises, whitewater rafting. horseback riding, and even a guided canyon tour where you rappel into a waterfall. You can check out all the tour options on the tourism website, but basically — adventure is knocking at the door here.
A good in-between for those who aren't ready for that kind of thrill but want some fun? Grab some scooters from the Banff Scooter Company and go on a self-guided tour of Banff.
You can see why people that visit this little town are convinced that it's the place to move to in Alberta (or at least to dream about).
Before you get going, check out our Responsible Travel Guide so you can be informed, be safe, be smart, and most of all, be respectful on your adventure.
