6 Banff Rooftop Patios Where You Should Chill This Summer

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 by Magpie & Stump

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 the Magpie’s famous queso. Level things up with a Bulldog – a Corona/margarita combo that the locals swear by.

2. Three Bears Brewery & Restaurant

Three Bears is the new kid in town, 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 quickly becoming legendary among locals, and there's a general consensus that a flight of craft beer is the best way to wash it down.

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. The Bison

The Bison’s stylish rooftop patio sits atop the newly transformed 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.

5. 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 a 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.

6. 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, or tuck into the elk tacos or portobello burger to refuel after a day in Banff National Park.