cave and basin national historic site

Minaminame

This place was fantastic. We went in off season so some of it was closed but we still managed to spend two enjoyable hours. The wetlands trail was beautiful. The cave was awesome (bad smell warning though). It was very educational and fun.

890susanp

Only a small site but worth a walk around. Ideal if, like us, you have someone unable to walk too far. some fabulous photos in the exhibition area.

davecason

I grew up swimming there as a kid about 200 yds up from the original cave and basin tourist site when it was abandoned in 1975!! Now they want (I think) $5 bucks to go look at the old hole and it used to be open and just sitting there .... as far as touristy things to go see, yes, if you want to see the original hole in the ground that started "Banff" Fine, but its crap and there is nothing there. I sure as heck isn't worth paying money to go see it now.It's a shame they re-developed it and opened it in 1985 and then closed it again in 1992 - that wrecked a great local hidden swimming hole back then in the early 80's and now they're "sort of" re-opened it again 2 years ago in 2013 as a tourist trap - you still can't swim there but its a good way to waste 13.8 million bucks.

StephenI363

First of all, the Cave and Basin National Historic Site is a very interesting place to visit but your trip will be enhanced if you inform yourself beforehand. The entrance fee of around $7 is free if you have a Parks pass, which can be obtained if you hire a car. A party of 7 can enter free of charge. The main attraction for us were some extremely rare Banff spring snails which live in a hot pool which smells of rotten eggs. The snails are tiny, like grains of rice on the rocks. The buildings in the Cave and Basin are beautifully looked after and provide interesting photos of historic interest such as the first ski races down Banff High Street. There are exhibits such as furs and snow shoes, all tastefully displayed. We had to catch a plane so only stayed 45 minutes but could have done with more time.

SunCruise2014

Newly multiple millions renovation completed. A historical site. If you are annual park holder, you can get in free and enjoy the free guided tour. Check the opening hour before you go. Do not miss the short trails around the site. The scenery is also breath taking.

zakip

I enjoyed being here. I have learnt many things. I also was there during the 50th anniversary of the Canadian flag, so we had the chance to see few special events.The cave is awesome and very tempting for a swim that we could not do.The walk in the trails is very interesting and the it is good to learn about the history of the thermal waters. Worth a visit.

WelshRobby

This tells the story of the old cave thermal pool. It is an interesting site and well laid out. Lots of boards to read but a guide was available if needed.Not many places to sit and rest and no coffee shop.It had snowed so not able to sit outside.

531scottc

so much stuff to see and do it,s a nice walk from town thru forest where we were right beside large elk

suz406

We took my parents there during the Christmas holidays. We are from the area and have never been there. We are glad they re opened the cave and basins. Very interesting and educational history on the National Park. Extremely reasonable admission price for the Banff area. The cave and basin was beautiful and was worth going to see. It was nice just to go in and walk around at your own pace and not be on a tour. Something different to go and see.

rphair3

Neat to visit a bit of our history with the kids. Very reasonable price to get in. This place is stroller friendly which is great to not have to pack little ones in your arms. My 7 year old loved the outdoor area where the pool used to be, we visited in Jan. and they had a mini ice castle sculpture and ice slide which was a huge hit with her, and me! She also thought it was pretty neat to see an example of the bathing suits that were worn back in that time, much bigger than the ones worn these days ;)

lettrix

Fun and reasonably priced attraction for the whole family. Great interpretation of local history. Interactive exhibits that will engage all ages.

580charlesh

We visited in the summer, we enjoyed the walk on the grounds. Lots to see. The cave it's self is just amazing.

DeeG44

It's a very cool place to learn about the early days of Banff National Park and the snowshoeing was lots of fun.

sour28

A short walk up to a great historical site at a reasonable family cost. Free with a park pass. Open long hours so that you can enjoy the high density polymer skating rink. They also offered hot chocolate for the evening skaters. The gift shoppe is filled with a great variety of reasonable priced souvenirs.

CJDFNS

It was better than I expected. If you show your Parks Canada annual park pass there's no cost, otherwise it's only a couple of bucks anyway. Well worth the time. After the cave itself take time to explore and enjoy the history behind it all. It was very interesting and well presented that even our younger children were kept in awe. We walked up the mountain which was an easy walk for all in our group. Don't leave Banff before you pay a visit to this lovely attraction.