Where to stay near Banff: Cochrane is your perfect stop!

Planning a trip to the Canadian Rockies and wondering where to stay near Banff? You can’t miss stopping in Cochrane! Located between the bustling city of Calgary and the wild, beautiful mountain towns of Canmore and Banff, Cochrane is the perfect mid-way point and a fun, relaxing overnight stay for any itinerary.

Where is Cochrane and why stop here?

Cochrane is a small town on Alberta’s Cowboy Trail (highway 22). It’s a convenient 20 minutes west of Calgary, 45 minutes east of Canmore and 75 minutes east of Banff. This makes Cochrane a prime gateway to the Rockies.

Whether you’re landing at Calgary International Airport or roadtripping here from elsewhere, our welcoming town full of western charm is a great place to explore and recharge before you head to the mountains. 

With local boutiques, independent restaurants, and tons of outdoor fun to be had, Cochrane is a refreshing spot to escape the crowds and experience something new.

Wake up to mountain views in Cochrane

Wondering where to stay near Banff and see the mountains? Cochrane has several hotels, inns, and even an RV park where families, couples, and solo travellers alike will feel right at home. Here are our favourite spots to stay:

• Canalta Cochrane: This recently rebuilt hotel offers spacious rooms, an indoor pool with a waterslide, a games room, and free continental breakfast — perfect for families and their pets.
• Super 8 Cochrane: Budget-friendly and pet-friendly comfort with a gym, a business centre and free continental breakfast. Rooms feature essentials like a fridge, microwave, and even crockpots. This hotel is ideal for groups.
• The Crossing at Ghost River: One of the best hotels near Banff, this serene boutique inn is 30 minutes northwest of Cochrane on a 145-acre property. Unwind with nature walks, outdoor fire pits, and lawn games or ice skating. Indoors, enjoy a fitness centre, games room, and seasonal comfort food.
• Spring Hill RV Park: Just 7 km north of Cochrane, this RV park offers year-round full-service accommodations with 30/50-amp hookups. Enjoy on-site conveniences like gas, propane, and a liquor store, plus trout fishing.

Need transportation on your trip? With taxis, tours, and car rentals (including airport transfers), we’ve got lots of options for you.

Explore Cochrane’s Historic Downtown

We’ve now covered where to stay near Banff and how to get around — but Cochrane is much more than a place for weary travellers to rest. Our Historic Downtown is a vibrant shopping and dining district where you can easily spend a whole day exploring.

Downtown cafes and dining

• Cochrane Coffee Traders: Sip a warm beverage at this locals’ favourite cafe with an on-site roastery, alpine-style vibe, and delicious giant muffins.
• Vine Coffee Co.: Try specialty coffee at this cafe focused on small batch roasts to ensure maximum control and freshness.
• Texas Gate Bar & Grill: Experience an historic spot located in one of Alberta’s oldest operating hotels. Try the pub fare, all-day breakfast, or line dancing!
• Rocky View Brewing Company: Chill out at this pub-style restaurant and taproom with live music, a spacious patio, and a doggie menu. 
• Fence & Post: Enjoy upscale dining with a focus on fresh Canadian cuisine. The garlic balloon appetizer and Elk Osso Bucco are must-taste dishes.

Local boutiques

• Heavenly Outhouse: Shop a curated collection of home decor, accessories, and gifts that reflect Cochrane’s chic-yet-rustic vibe.
• The Social Spot Marketplace: Explore handmade and locally-sourced goods from a range of artisans under one roof.
• Pure Anada: Treat yourself to natural and eco-friendly skincare and beauty products made in Canada.
• Amaryllis Crystal Portal: Find crystals, singing bowls, and other unique gifts that promote balance and wellness.
• Found Books & Cafe: Browse a wide selection of new and used books, and sip on a coffee or tea while you shop.

Don’t miss these activities in and around town

Prefer the fresh air to indoors? Around here, there’s tons of opportunity to explore and play in nature.

• Cochrane Public Library: Pick up rentals like life jackets and hiking poles or ice cleats and snowshoes to gear up for your adventures.
• Yamnuska Wolfdog Sanctuary: Meet resident wolfdogs up close on an interactive tour or explore their enclosures on a self-guided visit.
• Boundary Ranch: Saddle up for a horseback ride through the stunning mountain landscape of Kananaskis Country.

Cochrane’s warm community vibe, prairie-meets-mountain scenery, and abundance of activities make it more than just a quick stop. So, before heading west to the Rockies, take the time to soak in the charm of our town with an overnight stay. You’ll be glad you did.

Download the Explore Cochrane app to browse hotels near Banff and explore the activities, dining, and shopping in our small town with a big personality!