Cowboy Things To Do in Calgary, AB
The Western Theme is Still Alive and Kicking in Alberta
Apr 30, 2008
Alberta, Canada is known for keeping cowboy culture alive today and Calgary certainly leads the way. Travel back to the Wild West by staying at the Homeplace Guest Ranch & Trail Rides (Site 2 RR 1, Priddis, Alberta, 1-877-931-3245).
A 45-minute drive south west of Calgary, it’s worlds away from the hustle and bustle of city life. Owner Mac MaKenny welcomes guests to his hospitable ranch to work, play and, above all, fall in love with his horses.
Friendly Sam, the housedog, bounds up to welcome visitors as they drive down the gravel road. The cowboy spirit engulfs you as the horses casually check you out and the city sounds are long forgotten.
Settling in consists of leaving your bags in the spotless rooms, grabbing a cup of tea, browsing through the hundreds of ranch photos over the years, and relaxing in the living area with the two friendly cats. From there, the time is yours to participate in ranch life as much or as little as you want.
Even beginner riders will find themselves enamoured with the horses- they can learn how to mount on a wooden horse and get a feel for the rider’s experience. Then a nice brush and a lesson in how to communicate and walk around your horse is given as you’re shown how to saddle up and steer.
The trail rides are a wonderful way to explore the land and get acquainted with nature. Wildlife viewing is almost guaranteed, with white tailed deer leaping through the forests around you. Home cooked meals keep everyone happy and the warm staff make leaving difficult.
Cowboy Culture in Calgary
If a night out in Calgary appeals to you during your stay, drive back to the city for a little urban western fun. A stop at the Alberta Boot Company (614 10th Avenue SW- moving in 2008, 403-263-4605) will get you geared up for ranch living.
A huge selection of cowboy boots greet you, manufactured right there in the back of the store. If there’s a pair you like but want to adjust or add something to, the company will custom make them to your specifications. Of course, you won’t get them in time for this trip, but you’ll fit right in the next time you visit.
Dinner can be eaten in western style at Buzzards Restaurant & Bar (140 10th Avenue SW, 403-264-6959), a casual eatery with upscale pub-style food. The separate Bottlescrew Bill’s pub has many TV’s set on sports and the restaurant part has a few so you can keep your eye on the game. Afterwards, cowboy nightlife at Ranchman’s Cookhouse and Dance Hall (9615 Macleod Trail S, 403-253-1100) is a tradition. Grab a drink, have a seat or join in the dancing.
For the ultimate in cowboy culture, head to Calgary in July for the renowned Calgary Stampede.
For more cowboy Calgary ideas, contact Tourism Calgary (1-800-661-1678) for options. For trips exploring more of Alberta, let Travel Alberta (1-800-ALBERTA) help you out.
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