Top 15 Cool and Unusual Hotels in Banff 2023

Located amid the jaw-dropping Rockies, Banff is Canada’s oldest national park. It is famed for its dramatic beauty, with rippling turquoise tarns backdropped by snow-capped alpine meadows, and gorgeous hues created by effervescent colors popping through the winter haze.

Whether you spend your time hiking along a snow-dusted ridgeline canoeing across a placid glacial lake, or skiing in some of the world’s most eye-catching scenery, a trip to Banff is sure to leave you lost for words. 

Millions of adventure-seekers stay in Banff’s mesmerizing hotels year after year to delight in the picture-perfect activities on offer. From backcountry boutiques to awe-inspiring mountain lodges, here are the best cool and unusual hotels in Banff, Canada (in no particular order)...

Best For Great Location

Buffalo Mountain Lodge

Unique hotels in Banff

Buffalo Mountain Lodge - a tranquil mountain retreat1 Buffalo Mountain Lodge - a tranquil mountain retreat2

This peaceful retreat is set amid beautiful tall pines, situated on Tunnel Mountain. A unique mountain-style architecture houses the Buffalo Mountain Lodge, which boasts cosy fireplaces to kick back and relax after an invigorating hike or ski.

The lodge features 108 guestrooms, as well as an outdoor stainless steel hot tub, and several dining options which compound to make an ideal haven for a weekend getaway, wedding, or corporate retreat.

The rooms have fieldstone wood-burning fireplaces, plush bedding, LCD TVs, and Blu-ray players, while some feature balconies with sweeping mountain vistas. Each room has been exquisitely decorated to reflect the mountain lifestyle in Banff. 

Pros

Rooms with claw-foot tubs

Located on the slopes of Tunnel Mountain

Seasonal eatery with mountain-view patio

An outdoor stainless steel hot tub

Cons

No swimming pool

Cash is not accepted

No in-room coffee machine

Best For Cozy Cabins

Storm Mountain Lodge & Cabins

Storm Mountain Lodge & Cabins - a rustic-chic cabin Storm Mountain Lodge & Cabins - a rustic-chic cabin1 Storm Mountain Lodge & Cabins - a rustic-chic cabin2

Situated directly between Banff and Lake Louise, these private cabins at Storm Mountain offer unparalleled beauty in one of Canada’s most spectacular National Parks.

Originally constructed in 1922, the recent influx of visitors has seen brand new accommodations added to construct an idyllic hub for a romantic getaway, weekend retreat, or family vacation.

The lodge honours its connection to the natural surroundings through eco-conscious principals, and is self-sufficient for water whilst generating its own power.

A visit to Storm Mountain Lodge is to take a step away from the stresses of the city, and retreat to a simpler way of life without compromising on quality.  

Pros

Log cabins with furnished porches

Cabins with claw-foot tubs

Lounge with a stone fireplace

Free snowshoes and poles

Cons

No rollaway beds

Laundry service not available

Best For Indoor Swimming Pool

Royal Canadian Lodge

Royal Canadian Lodge - one of the most Instagrammable hotels in Banff Royal Canadian Lodge - one of the most Instagrammable hotels in Banff1 Royal Canadian Lodge - one of the most Instagrammable hotels in Banff2

Upon entrance to this luxury resort, you will be greeted by a beautiful stone fireplace and an amiable staff presence. This intimate Banff boutique hotel boasts 99 thoughtfully appointed guestrooms, which feature contemporary mountain-themed décor, and offer the comforts of home with a few extras that will turn you into a repeat guest in no time.

Situated less than a five-minute walk from downtown Banff, yet amid the grand surroundings of the Canadian Rocky Mountains, Royal Canadian Lodge is true alpine opulence at its finest.

The on-site Evergreen Restaurant is one of Banff’s best-kept secrets, and serves exceptional Canadian cuisine with an emphasis on regional and locally sourced ingredients.

To complete the day, the Grotto Spa invites you to unwind accompanied by the soothing sounds of water flowing peacefully over a rundle rock waterfall.

Pros

Direct access to the garden terrace

A whirlpool and steam room

Kids 17 and under stay free

Swish spa with mineral pool

Cons

Slightly costly

Breakfast not included

Slightly dark rooms

Best For Unique Stay

Mount Royal Hotel

Mount Royal Hotel - an upscale and elegant place to stay in Banff1 Mount Royal Hotel - an upscale and elegant place to stay in Banff2

This reimagined Banff boutique seamlessly blends a heritage mountain influence with a contemporary interior design, and an intimate involvement in the life of the town and region.

Surrounded by the graceful cafés and nightlife of Banff Avenue, here you will enjoy effortless access to world-class natural attractions and year-round adventure activities.

A mountain-chic style approach to luxury is promised to elevate your Rockies experience, and you can return from your adventures to a blissful soak in a rooftop hot tub, graced by majestic views.

The Cascade Lounge welcomes you to a new way to après, where you can share stories with like-minded adventurists complemented by hand-crafted cocktails, craft beers, and shareable plates.

Pros

Relaxed rooms with mountain views

Canadian restaurant with communal tables

Cozy lounge with a fireplace

Sleek hot tub and a sauna

Cons

Breakfast not included

No in-room microwave

Pets not allowed

Best For Pet-friendly Accommodation

Canalta Lodge

Canalta Lodge - a casual and unusual hotel Canalta Lodge - a casual and unusual hotel1 Canalta Lodge - a casual and unusual hotel2

Bringing the very best of Banff to your doorstep, this ‘home away from home’ is set at the base of Canada’s most majestic backcountry, offering an authentic taste of mountain life.

Providing a courtyard with hot tubs offering soul-replenishing vibes, a stay here will welcome you to feel at the heart of the action, supported by first-rate personalized service.

The guestrooms boast state-of-the-art amenities to ensure your stay is as comfortable as it is inspiring. If you are in the mood to immerse yourself in emerald lakes, soaring mountains, or simply a little more downtime, the lodge’s local experts can help chart your epic adventure.

Pros

Rooms featuring rustic wood trim

Hot breakfast is complimentary

Bicycle rental and ski lockers

Courtyard hot tubs offering soulful vibes

Cons

Can be pricey

Some small rooms

Limited breakfast menu

Best For Families

Peaks Hotel and Suites

Peaks Hotel and Suites - a quirky-chic hotel1 Peaks Hotel and Suites - a quirky-chic hotel1 Peaks Hotel and Suites - a quirky-chic hotel2

A peaceful reprieve from inner city life, Peaks Hotel’s prime location offers a unique balance of serene comfort and quaint ambiance.

A newfound connection to both the outdoors and each other can be found at this all-encompassing getaway, situated amid the exciting artery of one of Banff’s most renowned pedestrian-friendly streets.

An exclusive collection of rooms offers you a distinct Banff experience – You can choose between four levels of luxury, ranging from standard and junior suites to loft and summit floor suites.

All boast glorious mountain views that will steer you away from the stresses of everyday life as you become totally engrossed in the thrill of adventure.

Pros

Lounge with a stone fireplace

An Italian restaurant and grill

Steam Room for relaxation

Horse riding and cycling offsite

Cons

No complimentary breakfast

Pets not allowed

No microwave in rooms

Best For Breakfast

Holiday Lodge Bed and Breakfast

Holiday Lodge Bed and Breakfast - a cozy B&B Holiday Lodge Bed and Breakfast - a cozy B&B1

An excellent choice for the adventure seeker in pursuit of a quiet spot of requiescence, a harmonious combination of trendsetting amenities and a charming environment is perfectly nurtured at this vibrant Banff getaway.

Here, guests can take advantage of high-end barbeque facilities, as well as free parking. Bespoke in-room embellishments add a historic flair to the sleeping arrangements, where guests are welcomed to develop a deep connection with the surrounding area.

The rooms are dotted with striking artwork paying homage to some of the beautiful animals which have graced the surrounding area, and an old-fashioned yet trendy dining area is provided to echo a cabin-like ambiance.

Pros

Warm and welcoming vibes

Daily full continental breakfast

High-end BBQ facilities for guests

Striking artwork of animals

Cons

Slightly noise at times

No ventilation in bathrooms

Rooms can be small

Best For Panoramic Views

Moose Hotel and Suites

Moose Hotel and Suites - a stylish hotel Moose Hotel and Suites - a stylish hotel2

Designed with alpine elegance in mind, Moose Hotel is comprised of warm & rich natural materials, with on-site amenities which include the Meadow Spa and hot tubs with mountain views.

The hotel’s exceptional collection of indoor and outdoor swimming pools brings the majesty of the glorious Rockies right to you, as you kick back and soak up the natural landscape.

Boasting a combination of one-, and two-bedroom suites, a blissful night’s sleep will be complemented by plush bedding and quaint, unfussy décor. Guests can come together for a delicious feast at Pacini Italian Restaurant, which serves authentic flavours amid a warm, friendly ambiance. 

Pros

Relaxed rooms with mountain views

Indoor and 3 outdoor hot pools

Hiking Trails and Cycling

A spa with hot tub and sauna

Cons

No cribs available

Paid laundry service

No microwave

Best For Boutique Style Accommodation

Beaujolais Boutique B&B at Thea's House

Beaujolais Boutique B&B at Thea's House - a polished B&B Beaujolais Boutique B&B at Thea's House - a polished B&B1 Beaujolais Boutique B&B at Thea's House - a polished B&B2

Dive right into the heart of an authentic and dynamic community at Thea’s House, where a distinctive old-world charm is blended with the luxury and amenities of an enchanting boutique haven.

Pine vaulted ceilings, fir flooring, and antique furniture ornate this intimate accommodation experience, where all rooms offer striking décor and balconies with mountain panoramas.

Your in-room comfort will be elevated by the gentle dancing of fireplace flames, and sumptuous bedding. The guest lounge boasts 25ft floor-to-ceiling windows with awe-inspiring views of Mount Norquay, where guests can congregate and help themselves to complimentary tea and coffee.

Beaujolais Boutique B&B at Thea’s House is a spot which truly celebrates heritage, and lives and breathes mountain culture.

Pros

Views of the Canadian Rockies

Hot breakfast with mountain views

Warm rooms with fireplaces

Onsite skiing and bicycle rental

Cons

Smoking is not allowed

No laundry service onsite

Pets not allowed

Best For Rooms with Balconies

Sunshine Mountain Lodge

Sunshine Mountain Lodge - an unique boutique hotel Sunshine Mountain Lodge - an unique boutique hotel1 Sunshine Mountain Lodge - an unique boutique hotel2

Nestled within the majestic peaks of Banff National Park, Sunshine Mountain Lodge is your luxury base camp for both summer and winter adventures.

The high alpine meadows engross you in uninterrupted mountain fascination, while the effortless access to the slopes provides an air of unmatched convenience.

Ranging from affordable, intimate rooms to spectacular, sprawling suites, all of the guestrooms are decorated in a rustic mountain theme, and are enhanced with luxury touches to ensure an optimum pampering experience.

Your sleep will be graced with gorgeous views of a sky full of stars, while your overall experience will be enhanced by access to the region’s largest hot tub.

Pros

Private balconies with mountain views

Casual restaurants and a sports bar

Jukebox and arcade games

Lift tickets for skiing and snowboarding

Cons

Slow restaurant service

No fridge

No air-conditioning

Best For Luxury

Rimrock Resort Hotel

Rimrock Resort Hotel - a cool and trendy hotel Rimrock Resort Hotel - a cool and trendy hotel1 Rimrock Resort Hotel - a cool and trendy hotel2

Embodying a genuine desire to put a smile on your face, the dedicated team at Rimrock Resort Hotel is bound by a great passion for the Canadian Rockies.

In the guestrooms, a radiant contrast between the light tones of the walls and the dark wood flooring adds a stylish flair, enhanced by quirky, old-fashioned bed frames.

Opulent seating areas feature in certain suites, offering a soothing lavishness framed by snow-peaked Mountains and lush greenery.

A luxury spa and fine dining experiences provide a touch of class to this grand property, and an unparalleled location steps from the Banff gondola means you are constantly at the heart of the action.

Pros

Balconies with valley or mountain views

Indoor pool

Hot tub and a sauna

Wood-paneled cocktail lounges

Refined restaurants and regal lobby

Cons

No outdoor pool

Distant from city center

Inadequate soundproofing

Best For Onsite Dining

The Juniper Hotel & Bistro

The Juniper Hotel & Bistro - a scenic and charming hotel The Juniper Hotel & Bistro - a scenic and charming hotel1 The Juniper Hotel & Bistro - a scenic and charming hotel2

Surrounded by sweeping views of the Bow Valley, warm hospitality and naturally uplifting experiences welcome you at The Juniper Hotel & Bistro.

The stunning hotel is independently owned and operated, striving to do its bit for the planet. Bright, comfortable guestrooms await you after a day of adventuring in the fresh landscape of Banff National Park.

You can choose from a cosy standard room oriented to the deep greens of the forest, or a deluxe room where you will be encapsulated by memorable valley views.

Further options include cabin rooms which are designed to put you in the heart of nature. You can join other adventurists in the on-site lounge, where unparalleled vistas of soaring peaks and shimmering lakes provide the perfect backdrop to your delicious dining and drinking experiences.

Pros

Loft rooms with balconies and decks

Feature fireplaces and whirlpool tubs

Bistro with panoramic landscape vistas

Ski pass vendor and bicycle rental

Cons

No microwave in rooms

Slow internet

No swimming pool

Best For Spa and Wellness Services

Fairmont Banff Springs

Fairmont Banff Springs - a historic 19th-century hotel Fairmont Banff Springs - a historic 19th-century hotel1 Fairmont Banff Springs - a historic 19th-century hotel2

A year-round luxury lodge, Fairmont Banff Springs offers all the amenities of a world-class resort, and the blissful surroundings of one of the world’s most cherished National Parks.

Standing as a landmark in the picturesque alpine town of Banff, the legendary hospitality and optimum access to the slopes attract returning visitors year upon year.

Its 745 guestrooms evoke an unrivalled sense of splendour, with sweeping Alberta Mountain views and trendsetting amenities complemented by attentive, personalized service.

Here, you can enjoy the excitement of a championship golf course, the European-style Willow Stream Spa, and authentic dining experiences across 12 acclaimed restaurants.

Pros

Rooms with whirlpool bath and terrace

Indoor and outdoor swimming pools

Includes 7 restaurants and 2 bars

Shuttle service to nearby ski resorts

Spa has 27 treatment areas

Cons

Paid parking

Paid internet connection

Some small rooms

Best For Onsite Sauna

Fox Hotel and Suites

Fox Hotel and Suites - a modern and laid-back hotel Fox Hotel and Suites - a modern and laid-back hotel2

Girdled by breathtaking scenery and situated in close proximity to a number of Banff’s alluring sites, the cosy guestrooms of Fox Hotel sport a myriad of amenities to offer comfort and convenience.

Signature bedding equipped with pillow-top mattresses, and high-tech in-room entertainment solutions go hand in hand in the brightly coloured, minimalist accommodations, which evoke an air of luxury.

A casual bar and lounge offers a great melting pot of cultures, where visitors from around the world come to share stories and explorative tips. 

A top-notch health club and soothing spa tub, as well as a welcoming lobby replete with a crackling fireplace, further enhance the hospitality experience at this graceful, cabin-like property. 

Pros

Sleeping lofts and private balconies

An à la carte menu breakfast

Relaxed restaurant with private dining

Grotto-inspired indoor pool and sauna

Cons

Extra beds not available

No in-room jacuzzi

No coffeemaker

Best For Budget-friendly Stay

The Poplar Inn

The Poplar Inn - a historical inn The Poplar Inn - a historical inn1 The Poplar Inn - a historical inn2

This elegant Victorian-style house has nurtured a unique atmosphere through generations of family ownership. Situated in the heart of Banff, The Poplar Inn is a peaceful spot of respite where guests can rest blissfully after a memorable day on some of the world’s greatest slopes.

The inn boasts two elegant rooms, both with king-size beds and en-suite bathrooms, and a delicious full-course breakfast is served every morning.

Some light-hearted touches make this property a popular choice amongst returning Banff visitors, such as complimentary coffee and tea in the lounge area and a graceful backyard manicured to perfection.

Pros

Accommodation with balcony or patio

Complimentary tea and coffee

Sun terrace and hot tub

Enjoy skiing and cycling nearby

Cons

Breakfast is not included

No swimming pool

Top Rated Extraordinary Hotels in Banff 2023

The following table compares the Top 15 Cool and Unusual Hotels in Banff on account of multiple different attributes. 

Hotel NameLocationPrice Range (per night)Fitness FacilitiesDistance to Attractions (km)Nearby Restaurants
Buffalo Mountain Lodge700 Tunnel Mountain Drive$407-$505Yes1.83
Storm Mountain Lodge & CabinsStorm Mountain Lodge Highway 93 South$445No6.13
Royal Canadian Lodge459 Banff Avenue$359Yes0.93
Mount Royal Hotel138 Banff Avenue$437-$471No0.23
Canalta Lodge545 Banff Avenue$407-$439Yes1.43
Peaks Hotel and Suites218 Lynx Street P.O$538-$839No0.63
Holiday Lodge Bed and Breakfast311 Marten Street$154-$185No0.23
Moose Hotel and Suites345 Banff Avenue$570-$1366Yes0.53
Beaujolais Boutique B&B at Thea's House138 Otter Street$439No0.53
Sunshine Mountain Lodge1 Sunshine Access Road$570No1.33
Rimrock Resort Hotel300 Mountain Avenue$596-$3110Yes2.63
The Juniper Hotel & Bistro1 Juniper Way and Mount Norquay Road Box 3449$303-$335No1.93
Fairmont Banff Springs405 Spray Avenue$1279-$4097Yes1.33
Fox Hotel and Suites461 Banff Avenue$464-$506Yes1.03
The Poplar Inn316 Lynx Street P.O. Box 1977$1100No0.93