How to get there
The lowest round-trip air fare between Boston and Calgary, Alberta, at press time was $467 on
Where to stay
Fairmont Palliser Hotel
133 9th Ave. SW
403-262-1234; 800-257-7544
A historic landmark with a grand marble lobby and large elegant rooms. Doubles $307; one-bedroom suite $426.
Macleod Trail South Holiday Inn
4206 Macleod Trail SE
800-359-6279; 403-287-2700
Recently renovated hotal on the city's light rail transit line. Close to shopping and nightlife, and one stop from the Stampede. Doubles $205-$225 during Stampede; $104-$120 other times.
Howard Johnson Inn
5307 Macleod Trail South
800-268-6128
Recently renovated and centrally located 5 minutes from Stampede Grounds. Doubles $109-$138, including full breakfast.
Where to eat
Big Four Dining Room and Lounge
Calgary Stampede, Big Four Building (Upper Level)
403-261-0108
One of the best deals on the Stampede grounds and air-conditioned to boot; lunch buffet $10, dinner buffet $14.
Buzzards Cowboy Cuisine
140 10th Ave. SW
403-264-6959
An Old West restaurant decorated with barbed wire and barn wood; serves lunch and dinner. Burgers $8, buffalo steak $20.
Hy's Steak House
316 4th Ave. SW
403-263-2222
A legendary local steakhouse where top-grade Alberta beef comes in generous portions. Friendly club-like atmosphere. Entrees $12-$41.
What to do
Calgary Stampede
1410 Olympic Way SE
800-661-1767; 403-269-9822
The Stampede runs this year from Friday to July 17. Adults about $10,seniors and children $5.
Stampede Rodeo
800-661-1767; 403-269-9822
The world-famous rodeo runs every afternoon of Stampede at 1:30 p.m. Tickets about $18-$105, including gate admission if purchased in advance from the Stampede website or box office.
Nashville North
Catch some of North America's favorite country music stars in this dance hall and saloon on the Stampede grounds. Free with gate admission.
