Looking for the perfect winter family getaway in Banff? Buffalo Mountain Lodge—nestled on scenic Tunnel Mountain just minutes from downtown—offers the ideal mix of adventure, relaxation, and cozy mountain charm. With crackling in-room fireplaces, family-friendly dining at The Prow, and easy access to Banff’s best winter attractions, it’s a home base designed for making lifelong memories
Day One: Arrive, Dine, and Unwind
4:00 PM – Check-In
Settle into your inviting mountain retreat featuring wood-burning fireplaces and stunning alpine views.
6:00 PM – Family Dinner at The Prow
Kick off your stay with dinner at The Prow Food & Drink, Buffalo Mountain Lodge’s signature restaurant. Savor elevated Rocky Mountain cuisine—from bison short ribs to shareable small plates—while kids enjoy their own dedicated menu.
8:00 PM – Outdoor Hot Tub
After dinner, unwind in the outdoor stainless-steel hot tub as the stars glimmer above the snow-covered peaks.
Day Two: Ice Walks, Skating, and Family Fun
8:00 AM – Summit Breakfast To-Go
Pick up a hearty breakfast at the front desk to fuel your family adventure. Ensure to pre-order by 8 PM the evening prior.
9:00 AM – Johnston Canyon Ice Walk
Join Discover Banff Tours for a guided ice walk through Johnston Canyon, one of Banff National Park’s most magical winter attractions. Follow steel catwalks along frozen waterfalls and glittering ice formations—an unforgettable experience for all ages.
1:00 PM – Lunch at The Prow
Return to the lodge for a relaxed lunch before an afternoon of skating.
3:00 PM – Skating at Fenlands Outdoor Rink
Located just 10 minutes from the lodge, The Fenlands offers a 5,000-square-foot outdoor rink surrounded by mountain scenery. Skate rentals, warming areas, and concessions make it a fun and easy afternoon activity for families.
6:00 PM – Dinner in Downtown Banff
Explore local favorites such as:
The Maple Leaf for classic Canadian fare
LUPO Italian Ristorante for handmade pastas
Bear Street Tavern for family-friendly pizzas and cast iron specialties
8:00 PM – Firepit & Hot Tub at Buffalo Mountain Lodge
End your day with cozy family time by the firepit—or another soak in the lodge’s hot tub before bedtime.
Day Three: Snow Tubing, Shopping, and Mountaintop Dining
8:00 AM – Breakfast at The Prow
Fuel up with breakfast classics like buttermilk pancakes or the Mixed Grill.
10:00 AM – Snow Tubing at Mount Norquay
Just a short 30-minute drive away, Mount Norquay’s tubing park offers Alberta’s longest lanes for an exhilarating family activity that’s fun for kids and adults alike.
12:00 PM – Lunch in Banff
Enjoy one of these family-friendly restaurants:
Balkan Restaurant for Greek cuisine
Block Kitchen + Bar for shareable small plates
Nourish Bistro for vegan and vegetarian options
Park Distillery for campfire-inspired meals and locally made spirits
2:00 PM – Family Shopping in Downtown Banff
Browse fun stops like:
The Spirit of Christmas – holiday magic year-round
Banff Candy Store – for sweet treats
Cows Ice Cream – for dessert and quirky souvenirs
All in the Wild Gallery – wildlife photography and art
Banff Trading Post – the perfect souvenir shop
6:00 PM – Banff Gondola Sky Bistro Dinner
Ride the Banff Gondola to the top of Sulphur Mountain for an unforgettable dinner at Sky Bistro. Enjoy breathtaking views of the Rockies while savoring mountain-inspired dishes in an elevated alpine setting.
Day Four: Farewell with a View
8:00 AM – Breakfast at The Prow
Enjoy one last family meal together before your morning hike.
9:30 AM – Tunnel Mountain Hike (4.8 km)
Just five minutes from the lodge, this family-friendly trail rewards you with sweeping views of Banff and the Bow Valley. Don’t forget your ice cleats!
11:00 AM – Check-Out
Depart Buffalo Mountain Lodge with hearts full of memories and a promise to return.
Why Families Love Buffalo Mountain Lodge
Central yet secluded location on Tunnel Mountain
Family-friendly dining at The Prow Food & Drink
Spacious rooms with in-room fireplaces
Outdoor hot tub and firepit
Complimentary parking and easy access to attractions
Cozy ambiance perfect for reconnecting together
Plan Your Family’s Winter Getaway
From skating and tubing to hot springs and fireside dining, Banff is a winter playground for families—and Buffalo Mountain Lodge is your perfect mountain home.
