Rocky Mountaineer and The Calgary Stampede

26 Oct 2016 | by Sarah Clarke

Updated November 2017

The Calgary Stampede is a tremendous rodeo event held in Canada every year. This one of a kind Wild West festival can be experienced through a two day Planet Cruise Thrill Package; combinable with a tailor-made cruise and rail holiday in Alaska and Canada.

The unique experience includes a luxury 7 night cruise around Alaska, an extraordinary Rocky Mountaineer train journey - visiting Kamloops, Banff, and Calgary - plus tickets to the world famous Calgary Stampede. Combining these journeys is the perfect way to see the highlights of Canada, including Banff, the stunning Lake Louise, and the mountain resort of Jasper. The Western Explorer tour includes a 12-minute panoramic helicopter tour, Banff gondola and national parks pass, as well as Yoho national pak and Icefields Parkway tour.

The Planet Cruise team have co-hosted at the Calgary Stampede, and have put together a few top tips to know before you go:

Food

There is something for everyone in terms of food. A top recommendation for something unique is the deep-fried, Tequila flavoured shots.

On your way to Stampede Park, check out Fluor Rope Square - every day starts with a bacon pancake served hot from a chuck wagon.

Local dining options really are plentiful, try the Keg on 4th for some fantastic steak and lobster.

Food vendors at the Calgary Stampede are incredibly proud of their award-winning reputations, and display their awards and trophies outside their stands to entice you.

Accommodation and Getting Around

You will be staying at a central Calgary hotel, within walking distance of the C-Train - Calgary’s rail system. The train will take you direct to Stampede Park, or alternatively you could walk - this would take about half an hour.

Activities

Included in the holiday is a 2-day Thrill Package. This includes reserved grandstand seating for one afternoon rodeo show, and one evening show. The evening show features some spectacular acrobatics, chuck wagon races, and a fireworks display to rival the very best in the world.

You will also receive a golf shirt, tote bag, and tickets to join the SkyRide - which gives you aerial views of Stampede Park - plus discounts at some of the nearby stores.

Outside Stampede Park, at Flour Rope Square, enjoy free activities such as live entertainment, square dancing, clowns, old-time horse drawn rig rides, and the Indian Parade.

During the Stampede festival, be sure to visit the Stampede staff in the foyer of the hotel. These friendly folk will provide you with all the information you need, and even give you a free train ticket.

Book your Calgary Stampede experience and check out some photos of our time in Canada below!