Where to Stay in Banff for Families: Best Banff Hotels & Family Suites (Best Value)

So you’ve read the 3 day itinerary for family trips to Banff – now it’s time to find the best place to stay. If you are able to book in advance, I would recommend staying in Banff proper, instead of in the cheaper town of Canmore, in order to save hours of driving for those further away landmarks (Lake Louise for example!)

This post focuses on the best places to stay in Banff for families, prioritizing:

• Hotels with rooms that sleep 4+ people
• Suites or apartment-style layouts
• Strong reviews and family-friendly amenities
• Excellent value in April and May, when prices drop dramatically

These are all of the things I look for when I am planning a family trip. A suite vs a 2-bed room makes such a huge difference.

Best Time to Visit Banff With Kids

Banff is a year-round destination, but timing makes a huge difference—especially for families.

June–September: Peak Season

From June through September, Banff experiences peak summer travel. This is when:

• Alpine hiking trails fully open
• Lakes reach their iconic turquoise color (Probably what Banff is most famous for!)
• Festivals and summer events fill the town

The downside? Hotel prices are often 3–4x higher than other times of year, and family-sized rooms sell out early. For many families, summer prices make Banff difficult to justify.

During this time, I would recommend staying in the nearby town (closer to Calgary) of Canmore. OR even doing day trips from Calgary.

December–May: Best Value Season for Families

For families focused on value and space, December through May is the sweet spot.

• December–March: ❄️Prime ski season with reliable snow, winter festivals, and festive town energy
• April & May: 🤫One of the best-kept secrets for Banff family travel

During April and May:

• Ski resorts like Sunshine Village remain open into late May
• Crowds drop significantly
• Hotel prices fall sharply, especially for suites and family rooms

Can You Hike in Banff in April or May?

Yes—just not at high elevations. Stay around the Banff city area.

While alpine trails are still snow-covered, families can enjoy:

• Fenland Trail, Johnston Canyon (with ice cleats), Bow Falls & Surprise Corner
• Marsh Loop and river pathways
• Scenic walks with frozen or partially thawed lakes – Frozen waterfalls look like something out of Frozen!

This time of year is ideal for combining spring skiing, easy hikes, wildlife spotting, and hot springs—without summer crowds.

Best Family-Friendly Hotels in Banff (Large Rooms & Suites)

Travelling is expensive so I try to save where I can💸 This is how I’ve received hundreds in cashback and loyalty rewards in the past year

Each hotel below offers family-sized accommodations, good April pricing, and locations that make exploring Banff easy.

Moose Hotel & Suites

This is one of the best hotels in Banff for families if you want comfort, location, and modern interiors.

Location: Banff town (Banff Avenue)

• Sleeps 4+ people: Yes
• Suites available: Yes (studios & one-bedroom suites)
• Average April rates: ~$220–280 per night
• Decor style: Modern alpine, upscale and cozy

Why families love it:

• Spacious suites with sofa beds and kitchenettes
• Rooftop hot pools with mountain views
• Walkable to shops, restaurants, and Banff Avenue strolls (very centrally located)
• One of the highest-rated family hotels in Banff

Banff Park Lodge

Banff Park Lodge consistently ranks as one of the best-value family hotels in Banff.

Location: Central Banff, near Bow Falls

• Sleeps 4+ people: Yes
• Suites available: Yes
• Average April rates: ~$180–240 per night
• Decor style: Classic lodge with updated interiors – very fancy looking for the price!

Standout features:

• Indoor pool and hot tub
• Family rooms and multi-room layouts
• Walkable to downtown Banff and river trails
• Excellent balance of price, size, and location

Tunnel Mountain Resort (Personal Favorite!)

This is one of the best places to stay in Banff with kids and grandparents if space is a priority.

Location: Tunnel Mountain (above Banff town)

• Sleeps 4+ people: Yes
• Suites & cabins: Yes (some sleep 6+)
• Average April rates: ~$170–230 per night
• Decor style: Rustic condo-style

Why it works for families:

• Separate bedrooms and full kitchens
• Outdoor hot tubs
• Free Roam Transit access into Banff town
• Ideal for larger families or multigenerational trips

Basecamp Suites Banff

Basecamp Suites is ideal for longer stays and families who prefer condo-style lodging over traditional hotels. A bit more expensive but worth it.

Location: Downtown Banff

• Sleeps 4+ people: Yes
• Suites only: Yes
• Average April rates: ~$220–290 per night
• Decor style: Modern, urban mountain – it’s more pricey but worth it

Why families book it:

• Large suites with full kitchens and laundry – like a home away from home
• Central, walk-everywhere location
• Two (!!) rooftop hot tubs

Peaks Hotel & Suites

A strong mid-range option for families wanting style (interior is super modern and nice) without luxury pricing.

Location: Banff Avenue

• Sleeps 4+ people: Yes
• Suites available: Yes
• Average April rates: ~$200–260 per night
• Decor style: Modern boutique

Highlights:

• Contemporary rooms with efficient layouts
• Rooftop hot tubs
• Excellent location for dining and shopping

Canalta Lodge

Canalta Lodge is a great choice for families focused on value and convenience who want simple, modern interiors.

Location: Banff Avenue (west end)

• Sleeps 4+ people: Yes
• Suites available: Limited
• Average April rates: ~$190–250 per night
• Decor style: Modern lodge

Family-friendly perks:

• Free hot breakfast (major cost saver)
• Outdoor hot tubs and fire pits
• Easy parking and quieter location

Castle Mountain Chalets

This is one of the best family accommodations near Banff for a quieter, more immersive experience.

Location: Between Banff and Lake Louise – A little bit out of Banff center, but closer to the main nature attractions.

• Sleeps 4+ people: Yes
• Chalets & cabins: Yes
• Average April rates: ~$200–280 per night
• Decor style: Rustic mountain cabins

Why families love it:

• Standalone chalets with kitchens and fireplaces
• Wildlife sightings and open space
• Easy access to both Banff and Lake Louise

Travelling is expensive so I try to save where I can💸 This is how I’ve received hundreds in cashback and loyalty rewards in the past year

Final Thoughts: Best Places to Stay in Banff for Families

For families, April and May offer the best value for Banff travel. You’ll get:

• Larger rooms and suites for a fraction of summer prices
• Fewer crowds
• A mix of spring hiking and late-season skiing

Best overall family hotel in Banff: Moose Hotel & Suites (Centrally located and walkable) 🏢
Best value for space: Tunnel Mountain Resort (Best for multigenerational trips) 👯🧑‍🤝‍🧑👯‍♂️
Best condo-style stay: Basecamp Suites (Home away from home) 🏠
Best nature escape: Castle Mountain Chalets (Cutest experience) ⛰️

If you’re planning a Banff family vacation, booking one of these hotels during shoulder season can make the trip both unforgettable and affordable.