Banff Rooftop Patios Where You Should Chill This Summer
- Published
- Jul 2, 2024|
- Last Updated
- May 20, 2025|
- Food & Drink
You know that feeling you get when you sink into a chair after a day of adventures? It’s a mix of relief, accomplishment and contentment. You’ve given it your all, and now it’s time to kick back and celebrate your efforts.
A rooftop patio session is an essential indulgence after a day of hiking, canoeing, biking or touring, so plan to soak up the mountain views and sip on a cheeky cocktail at one of these Banff favourites. You deserve it.
1. El Patio
Did somebody say fiesta? This Mexican-themed rooftop patio always comes through with the festive vibes.
Whether you’re sipping on a lime margarita slushie or munching on nachos drizzled with queso, El Patio delivers big on flavour and fun.
Level things up with a Bulldog – a Corona/margarita combo that the locals swear by.
2. Three Bears Brewery & Restaurant
Three Bears sits right in the middle of Bear Street, and its rooftop patio status comes with a twist.
The windowed roof of the second floor is retractable and can be opened or closed according to the weather.
The brewery's sourdough pizza crust is becoming famous among locals. Most people agree that a flight of craft beer is the best way to enjoy it.
3. Rose & Crown
Your jaw will drop when you see the views of Cascade Mountain from Rose & Crown’s rooftop patio, making it all the easier to fill your mouth with a swig of beer or a bite of comforting pub fare.
Daily specials give you the opportunity to sample a range of beer, and live music is on the cards every night of the week at Banff’s oldest pub.
4. Banff Ave Brewing Co.
Perched above the buzz of Banff Avenue, this second-floor patio is the perfect spot for people watching with a pint in hand.
House-brewed beers flow steady, with local favorites like the Head Smashed IPA. Don't skip the duck wings or bison nachos, they're classic crowd pleasers.
5. The Bison
The Bison’s stylish rooftop patio sits atop the semi-pedestrianized Bear Street. The full menu of this multi-awarded restaurant is at your disposal, including the melt-in-your-mouth namesake bison.
This is an exceptional spot for Sunday brunch, where you can start your day right with bison eggs benedict and a Caesar with a bocconcini and bison garnish.
6. Whitehorn Bistro at Lake Louise Ski Resort
Located at 6,700 feet above sea level, Whitehorn Bistro offers an upscale menu in a casual environment.
The patio provides iconic panoramic mountain views, making it a perfect spot to enjoy a leisurely lunch or a refreshing drink.
7. Elk & Oarsman
Perched on top of Banff Avenue you’ll find the Elk & Oarsman patio – the perfect slice of rooftop to soak up the sun on a summer day.
Choose from the delightfully named Patio Crushers menu and sip on fuzzy peach punch and hard strawberry lemonade
They're no slouches when it comes to food either; tuck into the elk tacos or portobello burger to refuel after a day in Banff National Park.
8. Zyka
Zyka's rooftop patio serves up bold Indian flavors with a side of stunning views. It's cozy, elevated, and a perfect spot for sharing.
Start with a mango lassi cocktail and finish strong with the butter chicken.
9. LUPO Italian Ristorante
Eating outside and Italian cuisine, name a better duo! Lupo sits right in the middle of Wolf Street so you have a full view of Bear street and Sulphur Mountain in the distance.
LUPO is a great choice for groups since you can order "Family style" meals where you get a dish that everyone can dig in to!
If you're a bit of a lone wolf, you can feast on their decadent pasta dishes or mouth-watering pizza.
10. Peak Patio at the Banff Gondola
Take the Banff Gondola to the top of Sulphur Mountain. There, you will find the Peak Patio. This is a relaxed outdoor area with 360-degree views of the Canadian Rockies. You can see Mount Rundle and Cascade Mountain from here.
It's an ideal spot to unwind with a drink and a light fare while soaking in the panoramic mountain views.
11. Chuck’s Steakhouse
Set on the corner of Banff Avenue and Buffalo Street, this rooftop patio boasts stellar views of Sulphur Mountain and Mount Rundle.
Chuck’s is the place to go when you’re serious about steak, and there’s an even more serious whisky menu to complete the experience.
For patio sipping, we love the earl-grey infused Mother of Earl cocktail and the Italian rosé by the glass.
12. Mad Trapper's at Sunshine Meadows
Established in 1928, Mad Trapper's is a historic pub located in the Old Sunshine Mountain Lodge.
It's a patio favourite for apres-ski or summer relaxation. Offering a rustic atmosphere and a menu featuring applewood-smoked meat and southwestern dishes.
13. PARK Distillery
Craft spirits, comfort food, and campfire vibes, Park Distillery nails it.
Their street side patio is a prime spot for sunshine. Order a gin cocktail, dive into the maple bison ribs, and soak up the mountain-town magic.
14. Banff Social
Banff Social brings a fresh, modern vibe to the patio scene. Wrap around views, craft cocktails, and a buzzing après crowd make it a go-to.
Grab a seat, order the truffle fries and a spicy marg, and let the mountain air (and their playlist) do the rest.
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