The towns of Banff & Canmore are some of the most breathtaking places in the world to exchange your vows. Whether you’re planning a small, intimate elopement or a larger celebration with close family and friends, the stunning backdrop of the Canadian Rockies and pristine lakes creates an unforgettable setting. If you’re dreaming of an outdoor ceremony in Banff or Canmore, there are a few things you need to know about booking the perfect venue.
1. Having an Intimate Wedding with Over 20 Guests?
If you’re hosting an intimate wedding with more than 20 guests, you’ll likely need to book a designated outdoor ceremony site. Many public spaces in Banff National Park and the Town of Canmore, as beautiful as they are, require your group to be no larger than 20 guests. Booking a site ensures you have the space and privacy to celebrate your day in style, with the stunning natural surroundings as your backdrop.
2. Your Venue Doesn’t Have an Outdoor Ceremony Option
Not all wedding venues offer the option to exchange your vows outdoors, even if they provide an incredible indoor reception space. If your venue doesn’t offer an outdoor ceremony site, booking an external location is the perfect solution. With Banff & Canmore’s unmatched beauty, you’ll find a variety of outdoor spaces that cater to weddings.
LOCATED IN BANFF
Tunnel Mountain Reservoir is a stunning, secluded spot with breathtaking, unobstructed views of Mount Rundle, making it an ideal choice for couples looking for a scenic and private ceremony. It can accommodate up to 150 guests and offers a peaceful, more private setting, though it’s close to some hiking trails.
Bookings must be made through the Town of Banff’s website, and due to its popularity, it’s recommended to secure your date 12-18 months in advance, especially for summer weddings. To ensure you have plenty of time to enjoy the space without feeling rushed, it’s suggested to book a 3-hour window. The cost for this beautiful venue is $255 per hour and depending on the time of year and your specific requirements you may want up to 4 hours. Be sure to reserve early—this spot fills up fast!
LOCATED IN BANFF
he Banff Gazebo is a classic and iconic wedding spot located right downtown, making it super convenient with plenty of nearby parking. While it can be a bit busy with tourists and traffic, the gazebo offers a charming and timeless setting for couples who love the idea of a more central location in the heart of Banff.
Bookings are made through the Town of Banff’s website, and it’s a popular choice, especially during the summer months, so it’s best to secure your date well in advance. This locations is $240 per hour and a 3-hour time slot is recommended to ensure enough time for set up, ceremony and tear down. If you’re after a classic, downtown Banff vibe, this is the spot for you!
LOCATED IN CANMORE
Quarry Lake is a stunning outdoor venue with incredible views of the Rundle Range, offering a picturesque setting for up to 150 guests. The beautiful scenery makes it a popular choice, but the parking lot can get quite busy, so it’s a good idea to plan ahead.