12 patios you need to try this summer in Banff & Lake Louise
- Jul 22, 2020
Patio season in the Canadian Rockies is a glorious time when endless views are complemented by local cuisine, Okanagan wine, Alberta craft beer, and locally inspired cocktails.
These Banff and Lake Louise patios are guaranteed to help you soak up summery mountain vibes and provide the perfect setting for those Instagram perfect moments.
PATIOS IN BANFF
1. Waldhaus Pub, Fairmont Banff Springs
German-inspired beer and cuisine meet views of the Spray River Valley at the Waldhaus Pub. It's the spot to be this summer after enjoying a bike ride or walk by the Bow Falls. This pub is located just up from the falls, overlooking the Stanley Thompson golf course. Housed in a heritage building that was once the golf course clubhouse, the Waldhaus is open for brunch on weekends and lunch and dinner seven days a week.
2. El Patio
El Patio is one of the newest additions to Banff's patio scene. This sun-drenched rooftop taco bar in downtown Banff provides a classic Mexican experience and is the perfect place to spend sunny afternoons and warm summer nights.
3. Rose & Crown
The recently refurbished Rose & Crown rooftop patio offers cold beer and million-dollar views of Cascade Mountain in the heart of Banff. Locals love the lounge-style seating and prime location four stories above the ground.
4. Elk and Oarsman
The fourth rooftop patio on our list can be found at the Elk and Oarsman, also on Banff Avenue. This is another local favourite and a great spot for enjoying mountain views from downtown Banff.
5. Juniper Bistro
The Juniper Bistro is already known for their award-winning food, and in the summertime, this is complemented by an award-worthy view. With panoramic views of Mount Rundle, Sulphur Mountain, Vermilion Lakes, the Fairmont Banff Springs, and the entire town of Banff, the Juniper Bistro is peacefully nestled at the base of Mount Norquay.
6. Chuck's Steakhouse
Chuck's Steakhouse can be found at the end of Banff Avenue, where you can head up to a rooftop patio and enjoy your locally-sourced Alberta beef with an unforgettable view. The Taste of Alberta platter is the ideal sharing option, giving you the opportunity to try a little bit of everything.
7. Park Distillery
Glacier to glass is what Park is known for, and from their balcony, you can gaze at the mountain peaks that were formed by the glaciers themselves. Savor the Cascade Cocktail while enjoying views of its namesake above the hustle and bustle of Banff Avenue.
Peak Patio
As far as open-air dining and views go, this could be the ultimate location in Banff National Park. Take the gondola to the summit of Sulphur Mountain and be in awe of the amazing views from the Peaks Patio. Watch as the sun sets behind the mountains over light bites and delicious drinks with your nearest and dearest.
PATIOS IN LAKE LOUISE
8. Deer Lodge
Deer Lodge is part of the Canadian Rocky Mountain Resorts, which source their meats from their very own game farm. Venture two minutes down the road from the Fairmont Chateau Lake Louise to this off-the-beaten-path patio in Lake Louise. Enjoy farm-raised elk and bison with views of Fairview Mountain and Victoria Glacier at Deer Lodge.
9. Lakeview Lounge
Arguably the best seats in the house - the Lakeview Lounge at the Fairmont Chateau Lake Louise is where you'll find lakefront dining at this iconic Banff National Park landmark. Priority seating goes to guests of the hotel, so reserve ahead of time if you fancy a drink or meal at the Lakeview Lounge.
10. Lake Louise Station Restaurant
Another off-the-beaten-path option in Lake Louise is the Station Restaurant. This former railway station is the oldest building in Lake Louise and has an outdoor patio on the lawn. Enjoy views of passing trains and luscious gardens in a setting that feels as if it could transport you back in time.
11. Whitehorn Bistro, Lake Louise Ski Resort & Summer Gondola
Sky-high patio views from the Whitehorn Bistro are made possible by a gondola or chairlift ride over the vegetation below. More days than not, Lake Louise Ski Resort and Summer Gondola has passing wild bears grazing below. Once at the top, head over to the Whitehorn Bistro for patio views overlooking the Bow Valley, Victoria Glacier, and Lake Louise.
12. Baker Creek Bistro
A hidden oasis on the Bow Valley Parkway, Baker Creek Bistro is the perfect stop when cycling or driving the Bow Valley Parkway. Relax on the patio and enjoy a cocktail (or two) and a delicious meal.
Are you coming to Banff National Park?
Make sure you purchase your Parks Canada Pass in advance for express entry into the park. All of the details, including frequently asked questions can be found in our Guide To The Parks Canada Pass.