Alberta spot named among world's best places to visit in February
If travel is on your February bucket list, one Alberta destination landed on a list of the world’s top places to visit next month.
U.S. News & World Report released a list of the top 15 best places in the world to visit this February, and Banff secured the fifth spot overall, ranking alongside popular international destinations.
“Banff’s scenic, snow-covered mountain views and long ski season make it one of the best places to visit in February, especially if you love spending time outdoors,” the ranking said.
Alex JW Robinson/Shutterstock
Located within Canada’s first national park, Banff National Park, the town has no shortage of things to do, especially in the winter months. The ranking highlighted the wide range of outdoor activities available, such as snowshoeing, winter hiking, and opportunities for wildlife viewing.
Visitors can also explore the town’s lively downtown core, which was named one of the best downtowns in the Rocky Mountains, relax at the Banff Upper Hot Springs, or take in those iconic mountain and lake views that draw people in from all over the world.
Skiing and snowboarding were also a major draw, with the list pointing to the area’s three major ski resorts: Mount Norquay, Banff Sunshine Village, and Lake Louise Ski Resort.
Brie Robertson/Shutterstock
South Island, New Zealand, came in first place, noting that February is a great time to visit because there are fewer tourists. Saint Lucia came in second place, followed by Phuket and the Swiss Alps in third and fourth, respectively. Banff was the only Canadian destination to make the list.
Banff is no stranger to the spotlight; the national park was even named a wonder of the world for 2026.
You can view the full ranking online.