AMMOLITE DISPLAY
Learn about Alberta's official gemstone at Ammolite in the Rockies' free interpretive exhibit. There's a continuous plasma screen show and wall displays on ammonite origin and production, plus gem-making machines, and examples of whole ammonites and cut ammolite stones. Call ahead if you'd like a guided tour.

WINE FINDS
Marq and Doug from Banff Wine Store take pride in finding exceptional vintages that "hide under the radar." At the store's temperature-controlled, specialty wine cellar are limited-quantity wines you're not likely to see anywhere else. And if you're on a budget, the store's main section features wines that are "as tasty as you can get for under $15," notes Marq.

DELECTABLE SOUVENIRS
Instead of a T-shirt, consider smoked tomato ketchup, banana curry mustard or peach bourbon jam as a souvenir of Banff. Chef Grant Perry of The Bison Mountain Bistro & General Store prepares eclectic and tasty treats from local ingredients. "Each fall our Grandmas packed the summer's bounty into jars to get them through winter," notes Bison owner Ryan Rivard. "That's the idea behind what we do."

DRESS FOR OUTDOOR SUCCESS
Monod Sports' Stormy Monod says there's no need to sweat when shopping for outdoor wear:

1. Good base layers wick moisture from your skin, keeping you dry. Monod likes Icebreaker's merino wool products -- they are naturally insulating, breathable, and won't itch or smell. She suggests you "leave your cotton at home" because it absorbs sweat and loses its insulation value when wet (leaving you cold!).

2. The mid layer keeps the warmth in and cold out. Fleece is a perennial favourite, although Patagonia's down sweater is Monod's top choice because it's ultra-light, versatile (wear it as a jacket or under a waterproof jacket) and good-looking!