Get into the holiday spirit with a quick family trip to Banff in the Canadian Rockies. We just returned from a magical weekend of fairy lights, marshmallow roasting, tubing, carols and brunch with the big man himself. Check out our top Christmas activities for kids in Banff below.
1. Float above the clouds on the Banff Gondola
The Banff Gondola’s free Mountaintop Christmas activities run through January 7, 2018. Book your lift tickets in advance to save 10%.
Kids will love the cookie decorating, writing letters to Santa, Disney’s Prep & Landing movie, meeting the big man in red, and the Christmas themed treasure hunt.
Parents will love sipping a glass of bubbly in Sky Bistro, while devouring epic views of six snow-capped mountain ranges. You’ll also appreciate that kids (ages 6-15) ride for free before 12:00 pm in winter, and toddlers (five and under) are always free.
2. Brunch with Santa & A Christmas Carol
Christmas at the Castle is in full swing at the Fairmont Banff Springs. We adored everything, from the beautifully decorated trees and delicious gingerbread resort replica, to our brunch with Santa followed by a live theatre production of the holiday classic A Christmas Carol.
Kids will love writing a letter to Santa AND receiving a hand written response delivered to their room; roasting marshmallows on the resort terrace; making crafts in the Kids @ the Castle centre; Christmas movie nights; and swimming in the outdoor hot pool.
Parents will love that the above mentioned activities are included in your room rate AND that un-parented Kids Club activities are available (additional fee).
Fun facts:
Resort guests receive 50% off A Christmas Carol tickets. Or, if you’re dining at one of the Fairmont’s restaurants you’ll enjoy a 25% discount on admission.
Alberta & Saskatchewan residents receive up to 30% off stays at the Fairmont Banff Springs. Contact us for details.
3. Tube Town at Mt. Norquay
For a screaming good time, head to Mount Norquay’s Tube Town. With speeds hitting up to 80 km per hour, I promise you’ll be laughing (ok squealing) the whole way down the hill. Kids must be at least four years old and 1.1 m (42”) tall to use the park.
Kids will love the pumping music, friendly attendants and the adrenalin rush.
Parents will love arriving safely at the bottom of the hill.
Prefer to ski – and for free? Head to the hill on Monday December 25th dressed up as Santa* (or an elf, reindeer or Mrs. Claus) and you can ski for free all day. *FULL costume required (just a Santa hat doesn’t qualify!).
4. The Moose – Our Top Hotel in downtown Banff
The Moose Hotel & Suites is an awesome new(ish) property on Banff Ave. Think boutique luxury, ideal for families. We stayed in the one-bedroom suite that has two queen beds and a double pullout. You’ll also find a mini-kitchen equipped with a microwave, sink and fridge for quick meals and snacks (or to keep your wine chilled).
Kids will love the all-you-can-eat ‘grill-your-own’ toast and jam bar, included with every breakfast at the onsite restaurant Pacini. The pool and outdoor hot pools are also a big hit.
Parents will love the Meadow Spa (signature pedicure is heavenly) with outdoor adults only hot pools and the fact that lattes and cappuccinos are just a $1 at Pacini on weekends. Insider tip: The Benny’s and veggie frittata are delish.
For more Christmas and New Year activities and events in Banff, check out the BanffLakeLouise.com.
