Whether it’s experiencing all of nature’s splendour in the great outdoors, or heading inside to sip on a drink or enjoy a museum, nearby Rocky Mountains destinations have no shortage of things to do. The best part – you can get there in about an hour from any of our executive suites!
The Rocky Mountains are undisputedly are one of Alberta’s greatest treasures, and here you can golf, hike, bike, walk, canoe and kayak or even try your hand at horseback riding in the summer; or ski, snowboard, snowshoe among other activities in the winter. Whether you are a guest with Urban Suites in town on business or pleasure, your stay can further be enhanced with the plethora of nearby alpine activities!
Provincial Park and Rocky Mountain destinations such as Canmore and Banff not only offer an abundance of natural beauty and activity, but also history.
Canmore
Canmore, about 45 mins west of Calgary is a great day trip escape from the City. Surrounded by the Rockies, explore many of the local trails such as those found at Grassi Lakes and the Nordic Centre. If you are feeling extra adventurous try a natural history, guided cave tour through Rat’s Nest Cave: a wild, undeveloped cave under Grotto Mountain near Banff and Canmore. This expedition is in not for the claustrophobic, as the caves can be very narrow – oh and there is no interior lighting, no hand railings, and no developed walkways. It is a cave in its natural state.
After a day of play in Canmore you can kick back a one of the many local pubs, or fine restaurants or stroll down mainstreet and peruse the many specialty gift shops.
Banff
The town of Banff, located inside Banff Provincial Park and about 1 hour west of Calgary, is rich in history. Tour the historic Fairmont Banff Springs Hotel, a western Canadian Landmark and architectural masterpiece. While in town, take a dip in one of Banff’s most famous attractions; the naturally warm, Upper Hot Springs, a historic spa and bath house nestled against the backdrop of alpine grandeur.
For further insight into the Western Canadian past, visit the some of the museums in the area like The Banff Park Museum and Whyte Museum of the Canadian Rockies. Both of these well established destinations offering a glimpse of what life was like in the undiscovered Rocky Mountains, as well as showcasing the impressive Natural wonders and wildlife that did, and still do, inhabit the region.
Banff boasts some delightful shops along the main street and through the town, like the Banff Tea Co., specialty candy and chocolate shops, various alpine and outdoor clothing stores, and many pubs and restaurants. Live music can be found playing 7 days a week.
So whether it’s exploring nature, trying new cuisine, or learning about Alberta’s rugged history – take the short drive to Canmore or Banff, then relax back in your Urban Suite – you’ll be glad you did!
About Urban Suites
Urban Suites offers executive accommodations in Calgary Alberta. Our stylish suites are available for long or short term stays. Offering guest furnished and fully equipped suites that include all the comforts of home. Browse our suites or contact us to book your next stay!