If you’re planning a trip to Banff this summer with your family, you’ve probably already noticed one thing…
The hotel prices are wild.
$500 a night is basically the starting point. Most are closer to $700-$800.
And here’s the honest truth?
I’ve stayed in many of them… and they’re not worth that price.
But the good news is, there’s a much better way to do Banff.
And no, I’m not going to tell you to visit in the off-season. Summer is when most families can travel, the weather is beautiful, and the days are long.
So here’s exactly what I would do if I wanted the full Banff experience… without spending thousands on accommodation.
This post may contain affiliate links, which means I may earn a small commission if you book through them at no extra cost to you. I only recommend places I’d actually stay with my family.
Why I Wouldn’t Stay in Banff in the Summer
I was browsing accommodation options in Banff for this summer hoping to write a blog post recommending some great budget options for all of you. Unfortunately, I couldn’t find any budget options I’d actually recommend.
All of the hotels and motels are $600-$800 and up a night. And these are low to mid range places, actually not worth that much money at all. I’ve been going to Banff for 35 years and have stayed at many of these places, you would be disappointed if you paid that much to stay there.
Is Canmore a Better Option?
Now normally I’d suggest Canmore as a great alternative. It’s only 15 minutes from the town of Banff. It’s also a beautiful mountain town nestled in the Rockies but accommodation there over this summer is also very expensive.
Again, I tried to find any accommodation in the even $300-$400 range (which is still more than I like to pay) and it doesn’t exist. There are a few properties in the $500 range but most are $600-900.
Where I Would Stay Instead (And Why It Works)
Stay in Calgary. On the West side to be exact.
You’re about 1 hour and 15 minutes away, it’s a beautiful and very simple drive (literally one highway the entire way), and you can get accommodation in the summer for less than half the price.
If you’re flying in, you’ll already be landing in Calgary, so this just makes your plan even easier.
Calgary itself is a large city (over 1.5 million people), which means you’ll have far more hotel options, better availability, and much more reasonable prices.
It’s a great base for families, especially if you’re looking for space, convenience, and value. And if you do have some downtime, Calgary has plenty to offer as well.
And the reality is, if your goal is to experience Banff, you’re going to be spending your days in the mountains… not sitting in your hotel. You’re trading a short drive for hundreds of dollars in savings every night.
Here’s how staying in Banff vs. Calgary actually compares:
| Where should you stay? | Stay in Banff | Stay in Calgary |
|---|---|---|
| 💰 Price/night | $600–$800+ | $200–$300 |
| 🚗 Drive time | 0 min | ~1 hr 15 min |
| 🏔️ Mountain views | Yes | No (but you drive in daily) |
| 🏨 Hotel quality | Mid-range are overpriced | Better value for price |
| 👨👩👧👦 Family options | Expensive, especially for families of 5+ | More space + better options |
| 🍽️ Food costs | Can vary but less choice | More affordable options |
| 💡 Overall value | ❌ Not worth the price in the summer | ✅ Best value option |
Saving on accommodation is one of the biggest ways we keep our trips affordable. I share more of the exact strategies we use to travel more and spend less as a family here.
Best areas to stay in Calgary for a Banff trip
Now, are these the most charming areas to stay in Calgary? Not at all.
They’re safe, practical, and family-friendly, but I’m recommending them because they’ll get you to Banff quickly and easily. Many of these hotels also have pools, which is a big win with kids after a full day of exploring.
If your goal is to spend your time enjoying Banff, staying at one of these hotels works really well.
University District (My top pick for the best overall experience)
If you want the best balance of convenience, amenities, and a nicer overall feel, this would be my top choice.
The University District is a newer, thoughtfully designed area with great restaurants, a movie theatre, shops, and a really nice walkable layout. It feels much more like a place you’d actually want to spend time in at the end of the day.
It’s still very close to Highway 1, so getting to Banff is easy, and you’re only about 1 hour and 15–20 minutes from the park.
You’re also just minutes from Market Mall and not far from the Bow River and nearby green spaces.
If you’re looking for something that feels a bit more elevated while still being practical for a Banff trip, this is a great option.
Alt Hotel Calgary University District (sleeps up to 4) – This would be my top pick if you’re looking for something that feels a bit more elevated than the typical hotel options. It has a modern, boutique-style feel while still being very comfortable and family-friendly. It is a great choice if you want a space that feels a bit nicer to come back to after a full day in Banff.
One of the standout features here is the on-site dining. You’ve got Charcut Roast House (great for lunch or dinner, with a happy hour), Connie and John’s Pizza, and Terre Café all right there, which makes things really convenient at the end of a long day.
West Calgary (Best for quickest access to Banff)
This area sits right on the edge of the city, making it the fastest and easiest way to get onto Hwy 1 and head straight to Banff.
You’re right across from Canada Olympic Park (Winsport), close to the Calgary Farmer’s Market, and just minutes from the Bow River for an easy walk. You’re also near Bowness Park, one of Calgary’s most beautiful green spaces.
Market Mall is nearby as well, which is great for shopping at popular stores, and it’s home to Decathlon, an excellent all-sports store where you can pick up any outdoor clothing or gear you might need (or forgot to pack).
It’s not the most central or walkable part of Calgary, but it’s incredibly practical and a great base for families.
Sandman Hotel & Suites Calgary West (sleeps up to 4) – A great option that’s right on the West end of Calgary to get you to Banff as soon as possible. This hotel has a pool for the kids and is right across the street from Canada Olympic Park and Calgary’s Farmer’s Market is also just a few minutes drive away. The room has 1 King bed and 2 Single beds and is a great price for summer!
Four Points by Sheraton Hotel & Suites Calgary West (sleeps up to 5) – right on the edge of the city (near where I live!) is the Four Points Hotel. This one sleeps 5 with 2 Queen beds and a double sofa bed. Kids will love the pool and waterslide. And this hotel is right across the street from Winsport – Canada Olympic Park. There are lots of fun activities to do there in the summer as well such as: mini golf, mountain biking and downhill karting. Check the Winsport website for more details.
NW Calgary (Great value and still very convenient)
This area is conveniently located just off Highway 1 (Trans-Canada), making it an easy and straightforward drive out to Banff. It adds just under 10 minutes compared to staying on the west edge of the city, but it’s still a very practical option.
It’s also steps from the Banff Trail C-Train station, so if you want to head downtown, you can be there in about 10–15 minutes without needing to drive.
You’re also very close to Market Mall (about 8 minutes away) and the University District (about 6 minutes), which has some great restaurants, a movie theatre, and a really nice walkable area.
There are several restaurants within walking distance, mostly casual chain options like McDonald’s, Denny’s, and Dairy Queen. Nothing fancy, but easy and convenient, especially with kids.
If you’re looking for something a bit more interesting, you’re just a short drive away from plenty of great local spots.
Best Western Plus Village Park Inn (sleeps up to 4) – Great reviews and just off Hwy 1, this hotel has a pool and free breakfast to get you on the road faster and enjoying Banff.
Aloft Calgary University (sleeps up to 4) – Another hotel just off Hwy 1 and has a pool and a buffet breakfast with really good reviews and on-site car rental. I see prices at under $200 CAD for mid-July which is solid savings for your Banff trip!
Holiday Inn Express & Suites Calgary NW (sleeps up to 5) – includes a pool with a big waterslide and free breakfast. Come back after a long day in Banff, set the kids up at the pool, tire them out and go to bed. Just off Hwy 1, very easy to navigate to Banff. Sleeps up to 5 with 2 Queen beds and a double sofa bed.
Want to see more hotel options in Calgary?
Use the map below to browse availability, compare prices, and find something that fits your dates and budget.
What this actually looks like
Staying in Calgary doesn’t mean you’re missing out on anything.
You’re still driving into the mountains, spending full days in Banff, and seeing everything you came for. You’re just choosing to sleep somewhere more affordable.
Start your morning fueling up for breakfast at your hotel or stop in Canmore for breakfast on your way to Banff. Simply get onto Hwy1 and follow it all the way to Banff.
Now remember, this summer you don’t have to pay to enter Banff National Park thanks to the Canada Strong Pass – whoo! – so even more money saved!
When you get to Banff we always park at the Banff Train station – it’s free for up to 9 hours and just a short walk into the main area of town. You can even park your motorhome or RV there.
Explore Banff/Lake Louise for the day, even enjoy dinner in Banff (save money and eat at Happy Hour!) and head back to your Calgary hotel in the evening.
Repeat the next day!
Same experience.
Way less money.
This is exactly the kind of decision that makes a huge difference when planning a trip. If you’re trying to travel without going into debt, I share how we approach budgeting for family travel here.
Is Staying in Calgary worth it?
If your goal is to experience Banff, hike, explore, and spend your days in the mountains…
Then where you sleep doesn’t matter as much as you think.
Staying in Calgary lets you:
- save hundreds (or even thousands) on your trip
- still experience everything Banff has to offer
- and stretch your travel budget further
You’re not giving up the Banff experience…
you’re just choosing a smarter place to sleep!
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- How to Visit Banff on a Budget (Where I’d Stay Instead of Banff Hotels)
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