Experience Banff in a Vintage Car: A Fun and Unique Way to See the Rockies
Our review of the Banff: Vintage Car Legendary Open-Top Touring offers a fresh look at exploring the stunning Canadian Rockies. While we haven’t personally taken this ride, the glowing reviews and detailed experience descriptions make it clear this is a memorable way to discover Banff’s highlights. Whether you’re a history buff, a photography enthusiast, or simply seeking a different perspective on the mountain scenery, this tour is worth considering.
Two things we especially love about this experience are its nostalgic charm—cruising around in a vintage-inspired vehicle that feels like stepping back in time—and the opportunity to get fantastic photos. Imagine leaning out of a fully open-top car, camera in hand, with the Rockies as your backdrop. One possible consideration is that the tour only lasts 1.5 hours, so if you’re after an in-depth exploration, this might be more of a highlight reel than a comprehensive tour.
This experience will suit travelers who enjoy small, intimate tours, appreciate a bit of storytelling with their sightseeing, and want a fun, photogenic adventure. It’s particularly good for those who enjoy scenic drives, authentic vintage-style experiences, and are looking to add a special touch to their time in Banff.
Key Points

- Stylish Vintage Feel: Travel in a custom-made vintage-style 1930s automobile with a fully open-top roof.
- Scenic Spots: Stops at Banff’s most picturesque viewpoints make for impressive photos.
- Expert Storytelling: Guides dressed in period costumes share tales of notable visitors and local history.
- Modern Comforts: Cozy seats, USB charging ports, and a glass or canvas top in bad weather keep the experience comfortable.
- Authentic Experience: The combination of vintage charm and expert narration provides a genuine sense of history and place.
- Great Value: At $48 per person, the tour offers a memorable, well-rounded experience without a hefty price tag.
A Detailed Look at the Vintage Car Tour in Banff

Exploring Banff in a vintage car gives you a different lens on this iconic mountain town. Unlike standard bus or walking tours, this experience combines nostalgia, scenic beauty, and storytelling into a compact 1.5-hour package. From the moment you climb aboard, you’re transported to the 1930s, with a vehicle that’s been thoughtfully crafted to evoke the classic era while providing modern amenities.
You can also read our reviews of more tours and experiences in Banff.
The Vehicle and Comfort
The custom-made vintage automobile is a highlight in itself. Designed to look like a 1930s touring car, it’s not just a prop — it’s a fully functional, comfortable ride. You’ll appreciate the cozy seats, which make the short journey enjoyable, especially if the weather turns chilly. The USB ports are a thoughtful addition, allowing you to keep your phone charged for photos, navigation, or sharing your experience on social media.
The open-top roof is the star feature, offering unobstructed views of Banff’s mountains and scenery. During good weather, it’s an exhilarating way to feel the mountain air, soak in the vistas, and get your camera ready. If rain or chilly weather hits, the glass or canvas top can be quickly deployed, ensuring the tour continues comfortably.
The Itinerary and Stops
While the tour is relatively short, it’s packed with carefully chosen viewpoints that showcase the best of Banff’s dramatic scenery. You’ll have stops at Insta-worthy spots where you can hop out, lean over the side of the vintage car, and capture photos with the stunning Rockies as your backdrop. The guide’s role is central — dressed in period costume, they share stories about the area, including tales of royals, alpine guides, and other notable visitors who have passed through Banff over the years.
The Guide and Stories
The guides are praised for their knowledgeable and engaging storytelling. As one reviewer mentioned, Lucas and Sophie kept everyone entertained and shared interesting tidbits about the area’s history and notable figures. This storytelling adds depth to the scenic drive, transforming it from a simple sightseeing trip into a mini history lesson.
More Great Tours NearbyThe Price and Value
At $48 per person, this tour is a solid value for an experience that combines scenic beauty, vintage charm, and storytelling. It’s a good budget option compared to longer or more expensive tours. Reviewers consistently mention how much they enjoyed the good value and the memorable photos they captured — which can be worth more than the ticket price.
What Travelers Say
One traveler raved, “The tour was amazing, and being able to stand up through the roof made for great pictures,” highlighting how the open-top design enhances photo opportunities. Another appreciated the interesting and entertaining guides, noting that they saw wild animals at each stop, which added an extra layer of excitement.
Who Is This Tour For?

This vintage car tour is ideal for those who want a fun, nostalgic experience that’s also visually rewarding. It’s perfect if you’re short on time but still want a taste of Banff’s beauty and history. It’s also great for photographers and those who love a bit of storytelling with their sightseeing.
If you’re traveling with kids or older adults, the comfortable seats and thoughtful amenities like USB ports make it accessible. However, since it’s a small-group, open-air ride, those with mobility issues or who dislike open vehicles might prefer other options.
Final Thoughts

The Banff vintage car tour offers a delightful blend of scenic views, historic storytelling, and vintage charm. It’s a smart choice for travelers looking to add a unique, photo-worthy experience to their Banff visit without breaking the bank. The combination of knowledgeable guides, breathtaking viewpoints, and the chance to ride in a beautifully restored 1930s vehicle creates a memorable adventure.
While it’s a brief tour, the quality of the experience makes it stand out. You’ll leave with great photos, fascinating stories, and a sense of stepping back into a glamorous bygone era. For anyone who enjoys a mix of history, scenery, and fun, this tour hits the right notes.
FAQ

How long is the tour?
The tour lasts approximately 1.5 hours, making it a perfect half-day activity that leaves plenty of time for other sightseeing or relaxing in Banff.
What is included in the price?
The ticket covers the vintage-style vehicle tour, stops at the best viewpoints, photo props, and USB charging ports. The vehicle also has a glass or canvas top to protect you from weather.
Is the vehicle comfortable?
Yes, the seats are cozy, and the vehicle is designed for comfort with modern amenities, such as USB ports, despite its vintage look.
Are there any weather considerations?
The vehicle has a top that can be lowered or raised depending on the weather. In bad weather, the top provides protection, so the tour can proceed comfortably.
Who are the guides?
Guides are dressed in period costumes and are known for their engaging storytelling. They share stories of notable visitors and local history, enhancing the overall experience.
Can I take photos during the tour?
Absolutely. The open-top design and scenic stops make for excellent photo opportunities, and the guide often provides tips on the best spots for capturing the Rockies.
Is this tour suitable for children or seniors?
Yes, the comfortable seating and manageable duration make it suitable for most ages. Just keep in mind the open-top vehicle if weather is a concern or if mobility is an issue.
Whether you’re a history enthusiast, a photography lover, or simply after a unique way to see Banff, this vintage car tour offers a charming and scenic adventure worth considering. It’s a memorable way to add a bit of glamour and storytelling to your Rockies visit—an experience that’s authentically fun and beautifully scenic.
You can check availability for your dates here:More Tour Reviews in Banff
- Long Stops: Banff Gondola & Lake Minnewanka(Hiking Optional)
- Banff: Lake Louise, Moraine Lake, Gondola, Cave & Basin Tour
- Banff Town: Lake Louise Moraine, Glacier, Peyto & Bow Lake
- Kananaskis: 45 Minute “Sleeping Warrior” Helicopter Tour
- Calgary: Banff Top 5 Lakes Tour with Banff Town Visit
- Banff/Canmore: Sunrise at Moraine Lake w/ Lake Louise Option
Not for you? Here's more nearby things to do in Banff we have reviewed
- Long Stops: Banff Gondola & Lake Minnewanka(Hiking Optional)
- Banff: Lake Louise, Moraine Lake, Gondola, Cave & Basin Tour
- Banff Town: Lake Louise Moraine, Glacier, Peyto & Bow Lake
- Kananaskis: 45 Minute “Sleeping Warrior” Helicopter Tour
- Calgary: Banff Top 5 Lakes Tour with Banff Town Visit
- Banff/Canmore: Sunrise at Moraine Lake w/ Lake Louise Option
- From Banff/Canmore: Moraine Lake, Lake Louise 1.5 hrs Each
- Banff: Gondola, Hot Spring and Three Lakes Tour
- From Vancouver: Victoria, BC Ferry, Butchart Gardens Tour
- Calgary Banff: Columbia Icefield, Skywalk, and Lakes DayTour
- Banff/Calgary:1-Day to Lake Louise,Moraine Lake,Emerald Lake
- Discover the Best of Banff: Lakes, Mountains, Gondola Ride
