Arrow Motel

The Arrow Motel is on the same property as it’s sister hotels the Ptarmigan Inn and Driftwood Inn. My husband and I go to the Rockies fairly often and had stayed at the Driftwood before. We were doing a quick weekend city break, one night in Banff and one night in Jasper, so we decided to try the cheaper Arrow Motel.
It was perfectly adequate for our needs. The room was on the small side, with a double bed and a shelving unit with a TV, as well as a coffee machine. I really liked that the bed was the same type they have in the Driftwood and Ptarmigan, something they call a ‘mountain luxury bed’. It was nice and soft, just the way I like my beds. Very comfortable for me. The bathroom was alright, your average three piece with toilet, sink and shower only. It was a bit hilarious how low the shower head was, though. I’m only 5’6″ and it wasn’t even above my head. My husband is almost 6′ and he had to duck his head under when he wanted to wash his hair. It didn’t bother us, though.
All three of these properties are in a great location on Banff Ave, within walking distance of all the shops and restaurants — no need to take your car. There is free parking at the hotel. I believe you can also ask for a free ROAM bus pass, however we didn’t require one. Guests at the Arrow have access to the Ptarmigan’s health and spa facilities, and room service through the onsite restaurant. If you need wireless internet, there is free access in the Ptarmigan lobby (ask for the password).
Banff is a gorgeous spot that I will always return to over and over again. The true beauty is out in the countryside, in the mountains, water and wildlife, not in the hotel rooms. The Arrow is the cheapest room I have ever found in Banff and I will stay there from now on. We paid $ 129 for a Friday night in peak season. We were originally also going to stay on the Thursday night, and it was $ 109 for that night.
We stayed here in July 2010 and will stay again.