Hotels in Cochrane

Chasing Waterfalls: Discover Cochrane's Hidden River Oasis

Discover Cochrane, Alberta, a charming town that beautifully blends natural beauty with small-town warmth. Nestled near the majestic Rocky Mountains, Cochrane boasts stunning landscapes highlighted by the picturesque Cochrane River and nearby waterfalls. Stroll through the historic downtown, where unique shops and cozy cafes await, or embark on outdoor adventures like hiking, biking, and fishing. With its inviting atmosphere and breathtaking scenery, Cochrane is a perfect getaway for those seeking tranquility, adventure, or a romantic escape in the heart of Canada’s Alberta. Experience the allure of this hidden gem and create unforgettable memories. For the best hotel rates in Cochrane, be sure to check out Hotels.com's Last-Minute DealsOpens in a new window on travel.

Top locations to stay in Cochrane

Some of the best places to stay in Cochrane are Downtown Calgary, Northwest Calgary and Southwest Calgary. Cochrane, Alberta, is a charming destination near Calgary, offering stunning views and outdoor activities. Downtown Calgary is ideal for first-time visitors, with vibrant shops and cultural attractions. Northwest Calgary boasts beautiful parks and easy access to nature, while Southwest Calgary features upscale dining and shopping. Hotel accommodations in these areas range from budget motels to upscale hotels, often with amenities like pools and fitness centers, ensuring a comfortable stay for all travelers. Here are some of the most popular hotels with our guests in Cochrane:

1. Downtown CalgaryOpens in a new window: Downtown Calgary is an exciting area perfect for families and entertainment enthusiasts. With attractions like the Scotiabank Saddledome, Calgary Tower, and the Calgary TELUS Convention Centre, visitors can enjoy a mix of sports, sightseeing, and events. The hotels here, such as Sandman Signature Calgary Downtown HotelOpens in a new window, offer a blend of business and family-friendly amenities, including a business center and pet-friendly policies. Fairmont PalliserOpens in a new window is centrally located, providing essential business services and free cribs for children. Another option, Calgary Marriott Downtown HotelOpens in a new window, caters to adventure seekers, featuring nearby rock climbing and biking activities, along with a pet-friendly policy.
2. Northwest CalgaryOpens in a new window: Northwest Calgary is great for families and adventure lovers, with attractions like the University of Calgary and Canada Olympic Park. It combines outdoor activities with city life. Hotel Arts KensingtonOpens in a new window stands out with its boutique charm and business facilities, while Along River RidgeOpens in a new window offers adventure sports options and business amenities. Westmount River InnOpens in a new window provides a cozy atmosphere with dining options and various recreational activities nearby, ensuring travelers have a fulfilling stay.
3. Southwest CalgaryOpens in a new window: Southwest Calgary is ideal for families and those seeking entertainment, featuring highlights like the Calgary Tower and Grey Eagle Casino. Courtyard by Marriott Calgary SouthOpens in a new window offers a luxurious experience with a full spa and extensive business services, making it perfect for corporate travelers. Grey Eagle ResortOpens in a new window is a resort that welcomes pets and includes business amenities, while The Inn at Officers GardenOpens in a new window offers city-center convenience with meeting facilities, catering to business and leisure guests alike.

Things to do in Cochrane for first time

Three days in Cochrane offer an ideal escape for nature lovers, featuring stunning waterfalls, winding rivers, and lush forests. Visitors can enjoy activities such as hiking, swimming, and relaxing at a spa, while embracing the vibrant local sports scene with hockey and soccer matches. Here's a quick itinerary to make the most of your trip to Cochrane:

• Day 1: Kick off your Cochrane adventure at Calaway Park, an exciting amusement park offering thrilling rides and family-friendly attractions. Afterward, take a scenic drive to Hextall Bridge, where you can enjoy panoramic views of the surrounding landscape. As the day winds down, make your way to Bowness Park, a beautiful spot perfect for a relaxing stroll by the water or a cozy picnic amidst nature.
• Day 2: Your day begins with a visit to the iconic Calgary Tower. Ascend to the observation deck for breathtaking views of the city and the stunning Canadian Rockies in the distance. Next, enjoy a leisurely walk along the Bow River, where you can soak in the picturesque scenery and perhaps spot some local wildlife. Conclude your day at the Calgary Central Library, an architectural marvel that offers a vibrant space for reading, relaxation, and exploration.
• Day 3: Experience the beauty of nature at Big Hill Springs Provincial Park, known for its stunning waterfalls and lush landscapes—perfect for a morning hike. Afterward, head to the Trans Canada Pipeline Arch, a unique landmark that showcases the importance of the pipeline in Canada’s history. Finally, wrap up your day at Cochrane Lake, where you can unwind by the water, enjoy a peaceful sunset, and reflect on your memorable trip.

5 tips to find a great Cochrane hotel deal

1. Book for the cheapest times: The most budget-friendly time to visit Cochrane is during January, November, and December, when hotel prices are significantly lower. For international travelers, it’s advisable to book your flight at least four months in advance to secure more affordable fares. Spending at least 2-3 days in Cochrane is ideal for experiencing its great value attractions, which include stunning waterfalls and the serene river. This way, you can fully enjoy the beauty of the area without breaking the bank.
2. Look for last-minute deals on Hotels.com: For travelers seeking spontaneous getaways, last-minute deals to Cochrane offer an exciting opportunity to find great hotel discounts. To explore these deals, head to the DealsOpens in a new window or Last-Minute DealsOpens in a new window section on Hotels.com, where you could find reduced rates on accommodations just before your trip. It's also wise to compare prices and consider refundable options for added flexibility. By enabling email alerts or push notifications from Hotels.com, you can stay informed about flash sales and exclusive last-minute offers, ensuring you have the best chance to save on your stay.
3. Be flexible with dates: Hotel prices can fluctuate due to factors like the location, star rating, and the season. As a result, being flexible with your travel dates may help you save on hotel expenses in Cochrane.
4. Consider your location: Staying in the city center and close to local attractions in Cochrane is usually more expensive. If you opt for accommodations further from the city center, you can take advantage of transportation options like a car or bus to explore the area, which can be more likely to be affordable.
5. Upgrade with One Key: Make your next booking in Cochrane and sign up to Hotels.com's free One Key program, letting you earn and use reward points on your next stay. Progress through the Blue, Silver, Gold and Platinum tiers to unlock various advantages like room upgrades when available, discounted rates, and exclusive offers for members. Don't hesitate, sign up today.

What to eat in Cochrane

Here are some famous dishes in Cochrane, Alberta, Canada:

• Poutine: A quintessential Canadian dish, poutine consists of crispy French fries topped with rich gravy and squeaky cheese curds. In Cochrane, local variations may include unique toppings like pulled pork or gourmet sauces, making it a must-try comfort food that embodies the region's casual dining culture.
• Bison Burger: This hearty burger features lean bison meat, known for its rich flavor and lower fat content compared to beef. Often served with fresh, locally sourced toppings, a bison burger reflects Alberta's ranching heritage and is a perfect choice for a satisfying meal after exploring the town.
• Nanaimo Bars: A classic Canadian dessert, these no-bake bars consist of a crumbly base, a custard-flavored middle layer, and a chocolate topping. Enjoying a Nanaimo bar in Cochrane provides a sweet taste of the region's baking traditions, perfect for a spontaneous treat while sightseeing.

Best time to go to Cochrane

Cochrane experiences its lowest average temperature in December, at 15.8°F (-9.0°C), while July is the hottest month, with an average temperature of 60.6°F (15.9°C). June tends to be the wettest month. The peak travel months to visit Cochrane are June to August, which see a higher number of tourists. During this peak period, the weather is mostly sunny, accompanied by light rainfall. In contrast, October to December are ideal if you're looking for a calmer vacation, marked by dry rainfall and mostly sunny conditions.

Cochrane Travel Information