How To Rent A Car For Your Calgary Stampede Visit
If you’re planning on visiting Calgary at the beginning of July, then the Calgary Stampede must be on your to-do list. Renting a car to get to Calgary and the Stampede can make your entire Stampede experience smoother. It will also give you the flexibility you need to make the most of your time there. But because it’s one of the busiest times of the year, you’ll want to be prepared for the crowds.
Here are our top tips and tricks on making the most of your visit to the Calgary Stampede without spending a fistful of dollars.
What Happens At The Calgary Stampede?
The Calgary Stampede is called The Greatest Outdoor Show on Earth for many a good reason. It’s one of the country’s most iconic summer events – a rodeo, a music festival, an arts festival, and a carnival all rolled into one. There’s something for everyone at this 10-day celebration, including a parade and some good-old fashioned fun. Yee-haw!
Here’s what makes the Stampede unforgettable:
- World-class rodeo events: Watch top athletes and all the pretty horses as they compete in barrel racing, breakaway roping, bull riding, steer wrestling, and more.
- Chuckwagon races: Unique to the Stampede, these high-speed events are a crowd favourite.
- Concerts and live music: From major headliners to local acts, there’s music around every corner.
- Midway rides and indulgent eats: Carnival games, rides, and wild food creations like deep-fried Oreos and pickle lemonade.
- Parades and Western flair: The Calgary Stampede Parade kicks things off with floats, marching bands, show horses, and cowboy cheer—it’s a must-see event that closes off downtown streets on opening day.
- Free pancake breakfasts: A beloved Stampede tradition, communities and businesses across Calgary host free Stampede breakfasts—complete with pancakes, sausages, coffee, and western hospitality. Download the Stampede Free Breakfasts app to find the one closest to you
Whether you’re dressing up in denim and boots or soaking in the lively atmosphere, the Stampede is the ultimate celebration of Alberta’s Western heritage.
Who Is Calgary Stampede Marshall 2025?
If all that isn’t enough, Shania Twain is the Calgary Stampede Marshall this year and will be performing as part of the event’s concert series too.
Why Rent A Car For The Stampede?
Renting a car lets you explore the stampede at your own pace, avoid the crowds, and explore Alberta beyond city limits.
- Convenience: Get around on your own schedule without relying on transit or rideshares.
- Freedom to explore: Make day trips to the mountains, Banff, Drumheller, or local attractions between Stampede events.
- Save Some Cash: You won’t have to deal with crowds on public transport or deal with surge pricing from cab aggregators.
How to Rent a Car for the Calgary Stampede
Book Early
July is peak tourist season in Calgary, so car rentals can go fast. Reserve your vehicle ahead of time to secure the best selection and rates.
Choose the Right Vehicle
Consider what you’ll be doing:
- Compact cars for city driving and parking near Stampede Park
- SUVs for extra space or if you’re planning a road trip to the Rockies
- Luxury options for a few dollars more give you a comfortable ride and premium experience
Consider Pick Up and Drop Off Locations
Ascent Car Rental offers convenient Calgary Airport pickup. You can also ask about downtown drop-offs if you’re staying in the city center.
A One-Way Rental Can Save Time
Coming from Vancouver? You can book a one-way car rental—drive to Calgary for the Stampede, then fly home. Or fly in, pick up a car, and make a road trip out of your return journey. It’s an option that saves a whole day of travel but still gives you all the fun of a road trip.
Tips for Driving During Stampede Week
Plan for traffic: Roads near Stampede Park can get busy. Allow extra time for parking and road closures.
Watch for parade detours: The Calgary Stampede Parade kicks off the festivities and causes major road closures downtown on opening day—check parade routes and plan accordingly.
Use Park & Ride: You can also drive to a CTrain station and take transit downtown.
Stay fueled: Gas stations may be busier than usual—fill up early.
Where to Park For The Calgary Stampede
There are several paid parking lots around Stampede Park. Get to them early. Check the Calgary Stampede website for updated maps and rates. Many downtown hotels also offer guest parking if you’re staying nearby.
Renting a car for your Calgary Stampede visit gives you the freedom to enjoy the event and explore the area on your own time. Whether you’re flying in, driving from Vancouver, or just need something for a few days in the city, Ascent Car Rental has flexible options—including one-way rentals—to help make your Stampede trip easy and memorable.
Get in touch with us to rent your car well in advance today!