If you’re visiting Calgary and want a truly local, cowboy-themed night out, Ranchman’s Cookhouse and Dance Hall is a must-visit. Known as Calgary’s most iconic country bar, it’s packed with line dancing, live music, and classic Western charm — and yes, it’s surprisingly solo-traveler friendly.
I first heard about Ranchman’s during my first Calgary Stampede in 2015, when locals kept asking, “Are you coming to Ranchmans tonight?”. I had no idea what – or where – it was at the time, but after returning to the Stampede a couple of times and spending several nights there, I get the hype. Once you’ve spent time here it’s easy to see why this iconic venue is such a popular spot for both locals and tourists who enjoy Country music.
Whether you’re coming for a Stampede afterparty, a night of two-stepping, or just to soak up authentic Calgary nightlife and cowboy energy, Ranchmans delivers.
In this guide, I’ll walk you through everything you need to know about Ranchman’s Cookhouse and Dance Hall, from when to go and what to wear to what to expect as a first-timer or solo visitor.
About Ranchman’s Cookhouse and Dance Hall
Since it was established in 1972, Ranchman’s has been an iconic part of Calgary’s nightlife. It is also one of the main venues for events during the Stampede. Known for its authentic Western decor and Country vibe, it offers regular live music, Country dance lessons, bull riding, and a decent selection of food.
It has hosted countless events over the years ranging from concerts, rodeos, and charity pole climbs to dance lessons and jam sessions. Every single day that it is open there is some kind of event or offer happening.
Ranchman’s also plays a significant part in the Calgary Stampede by offering lots of special events, and being a popular spot for the Cowboys when they aren’t competing.
Despite changes in ownership over the years, it has retained its authentic Western Canada vibe and traditional charm making it a beloved spot for many local Calgarians.
The History Of Ranchman’s
Ranchman’s has been a staple in Calgary since it opened, but it wasn’t always the large multiple-events venue that it is today. When it first opened it was a simple cookhouse, but it became a popular spot for Country music lovers and a key part of the nightlife scene.
This is a venue with a very rich history filled with stories of cowboys, numerous famous Country music artists that it has hosted, and fans who have made it their go-to spot over the years.
So you will see lots of photos including many autographed photos all over the walls inside amongst all the Western decor which includes Saddles hanging over beams and western posters and signs.
In glass cases, beautiful saddles and other Rodeo memorabilia are proudly displayed which have been donated to Ranchman’s over the years. It all gives the place a cozy, charming, nostalgic feel that I loved.
Why is Ranchman’s Popular?
If you spend time in Ranchman’s you will understand why it has been such a popular spot in Calgary for the past 50+ years. From the rustic decor that makes the place feel very authentic to all the live music and pretty constant line dancing, you could easily think you are in a honky tonk bar in Texas or a Western movie.
It’s surprisingly social. Maybe it’s because I live in Vancouver AKA an extremely unfriendly place where I am generally invisible, but I found Ranchman’s to be friendly overall. The first time I walked in there alone within just a few minutes two girls came over to me just to tell me that I was really pretty and to have a great night.
I think I went there about 10 times while I was in Calgary for the Stampede in 2024, and there wasn’t a single night where I didn’t either chat, dance, or get drinks with people. There was a handful of rude and unfriendly locals on one of the nights, but aside from that I had mostly very positive experiences with people. The staff are also friendly and welcoming so between the crowd and the staff it’s very easy to strike up conversations. You just have to get over the initial intimidation of so many thin pretty women there.
The other reason why this place is so popular is that there are so many events and specials including a lot of live performances, regular dance lessons, and weekly specials, all often happening on the same night, which gives them a big edge over other venues in Calgary.
How To Get To Ranchman’s
Ranchman’s is at 9615 Macleod Trail South. If you are going there during Stampede it is just a short drive or C-Train ride away from Stampede Park.
Public Transit: Southland station on the red line (Tuscany / Somerset Bridlewood line) is just a short walk from Ranchman’s. When you get off at Southland station, go up the wooden steps, turn right, and walk up to the intersection. You will know if you’ve gone in the right direction because after a short walk, you will see Walmart and a Delta hotel straight ahead of you, and a petrol station on your left. Turn left onto Macleod Trail South, and after a minute or so you will see the large red R of Ranchman’s and the M of a MacDonalds (next door to Ranchman’s) ahead.
Taxi or Rideshare: Uber and local taxi services are pretty easy to get. Even during Stampede, I didn’t wait longer than 10/15 minutes for an Uber. However, during the Stampede an Uber fare can and will jump from only about $12-$15 to as much as $30-$50 or more in a matter of minutes.
Helpful Stampede Tip: Keep an eye on fares if you plan to Uber from Stampede Park to Ranchman’s. From about 10 pm/10.30 pm onwards seems to be when fares start to get high depending on what events are happening.
By Car: There’s a decent amount of parking on-site at Ranchman’s. If you’re driving, just follow Macleod Trail South and look out for the iconic Ranchman’s sign and the M of the McDonald’s next door. If you go later at night just be aware that you may get briefly stuck behind taxis and Ubers.
Ranchman’s Cookhouse and Dance Hall Opening Hours
Firstly, Ranchman’s is closed on Sundays, Mondays, and Tuesdays.
On Wednesdays, Thursdays, and Fridays it is open from 5 pm until late. On Saturdays, it opens earlier at 3 pm. It stays open late every night. The last call seems to be around 2 am every night roughly.
How To Get Into Ranchman’s
Age: You must be 18+ to enter.
ID: Make sure to bring a government-issued ID.
Cover Charge: There may be a cover charge, especially on weekends or special event nights. Check their website for details.
Dress Code At Ranchman’s
The dress code at Ranchman’s is very relaxed so you do not need to dress a certain way to get in or fit in. Western wear, cowboy boots, cowboy hats, etc is encouraged but not at all mandatory. Some girls get very dressed up, but the majority seem to go for the middle-ground of just smart/casual or a little dressed up. Essentially wear whatever you want to wear.
If you are coming here from the UK, elsewhere in Europe, or the States to an extent, just remember that Canadians do not dress up in the way that we do. I rarely wear any of my dressy things.
Food At Ranchman’s
At Ranchman’s you will get a pretty typical bar and pub-style food selection including burgers, snacks, and light bites like potato skins and ribs, shareables, and salads.
The food is of decent quality and has good portions.
Ranchman’s Regular Events
Wednesdays at Ranchman’s
Two-Step Lessons: Beginner & Progressive
Wingsday Wednesday: 50-cent wings all night. Choose from medium, BBQ, sweet BBQ, hot, salt & pepper, honey garlic, Parmesan garlic, and lemon pepper.
Special Deals: $5 off food between 5 pm and 7 pm.
Thursdays at Ranchman’s
All Day & Night Happy Hour: Highballs (spirit & mixer) & Domestic Beers for $5.50
Local Vocals: Two hours of Local Artists from 7 pm to 9 pm
Thunderin’ Thursdays: Line Dancing Lessons at 9 pm
Bull Rides: $5
Special Deals: $5 off food between 5 pm and 7 pm.
Fridays at Ranchman’s
Country Swing Lessons: Beginner
Patio Nights – Furry Fridays: 5.30 pm to 8 pm
Live Music: Changes weekly. Usually starts between 8 pm and 9 pm.
Ladies’ Night: Free entry by 9 pm.
Special Deals: Jack’d Up Fridays – $7 JD. $5 off food between 5 pm and 7 pm.
Saturdays at Ranchman’s
Two-Step Lessons by
Afternoon Jam: 4.30 pm to 8.30 pm
Live Music: Changes weekly. Usually starts between 8 pm and 9 pm
Special Deals: $5 off food between 5 pm and 7 pm.
Stampede Events At Ranchman’s
During the Calgary Stampede, Ranchmans is one of the go-to places for after-parties and special events. It puts on several popular events including a Calgary firemen vs rodeo cowboys auction and pole climb. They also host an end of Stampede wrap-up party which includes a chance to meet some of the rodeo cowboys.
During the Stampede there are also three areas rather than two at Ranchmans; Inside, the Patio, and finally the infamous tent. Sometimes some areas are ticketed or restricted.
So you can expect larger crowds, live performances from big-name artists, and a festive atmosphere that’s hard to beat. It will be a little more intimidating than normal so you may just need a drink or two for Dutch courage.
For the Stampede this year Ranchman’s was giving out free all-access passes in the form of wristbands for the 10 days of the Stampede. The best thing about it was that it gave me free access to all areas of Ranchman’s at any time. There was also a special queue for wristbands so I never had to queue to get in either.
2025 Stampede Events at Ranchman’s
When Stampede is only a few weeks away, all of the main venues including Ranchman’s publish their line ups.
You’ll be able to find Ranchman’s Stampede events on their website.
The 2025 full live music and events schedule is available here. More info on the different events is here in their Stampede Festival Full Line-Up.
Free Shuttle Bus from Stampede Park to Ranchman’s
During the Stampede, you could get from Stampede Park to Ranchman’s on a special shuttle bus that drove around the outside of the Stampede Grounds (Victoria Park station end primarily) every night. If you took the shuttle bus you also got free VIP entry into the Ranchman’s tent.
VIP Access at Ranchman’s During Stampede
Ranchman’s can get really busy during the Stampede with long lines to get in.
Ranchman’s Stampede Chute Pass
The Chute Pass is a single use, one day only VIP access pass for Ranchman’s during Stampede Days only. It will give you express line entry for a day of your choosing. You can’t use it for or during concerts though.
The other thing to note is that Ranchman’s can pick and choose with this pass whether you can use it for the tent or the main building depending on what events are happening.
Chute Pass’s can be purchased on Showpass.com
Ranchman’s V.I.C. Pass (Very Important Cowboy/Cowgirl)
The VIC Pass is an all access pass to the full 11 day Stampede festival at Ranchman’s. It gives you express entry with no cover charge for you and up to three guests every day of Stampede without the restrictions of the Chute Pass. It also includes access to all of the ticketed shows for you and up to three guests even the sold out ones.
Experience the ultimate Stampede indulgence with the Ranchmans V.I.C. Pass — your all-access ticket to 11 days of wild western fun, exclusive perks, and unforgettable memories at Calgary’s most iconic honky tonk.
At over $500 it’s expensive, but if you are doing a group trip to Stampede it’s decent value for money when it’s split between three or four people.
VIC Pass’s can be purchased on Showpass.com
Cowboys vs Firefighters Charity Pole Climb
Every year for the last 42 years there has been an annual Cowboys vs. Firefighters charity pole climb. All the money raised goes to the CPRA Cowboy Benefit Fund and the Calgary Firefighter’s Burn Treatment Society
I wasn’t planning to go, as I was going to go to see Ashley McBryde at Nashville North. But after discovering I had just been a placeholder for a guy, I naturally decided that going to see hot firefighters and cowboys was a far better option.
Ladies, do not miss this if you are at the Stampede when this is on. It seems to be on the same day every year; Monday evening of Stampede.
Details of the 2025 Annual Pole Climb is here
Cowboys vs Firefighters Charity Auction
Before the pole climb commences there is a charity auction. I didn’t know anything about the auction but I decided to go early to find out. I am very glad I did because the auction was essentially all the men stripping, and entertaining the crowd to try and generate the highest bids.
Helpful Tips:
If you choose to go…why would you not!? these are the things you should know.
- The auction starts about 3 hours before the pole climb. In 2024 it was at 6 pm.
- The pole climb happens straight after the auction without a break. In 2024 it was at 9 pm.
- The exact timings will be posted on Ranchman’s website and Facebook page.
- This is a popular event so arrive early to get a spot on the Patio. If you show up at or after the start time you may not get on the Patio.
- This is a free event.
- If you want to bid: All of the men went for at least a few hundred dollars with the hottest ones going for over $1000. You will have to pay immediately.
Things You Should Know About Ranchman’s Cookhouse and Dance Hall
Daytime At Ranchman’s
Is a Western Retirement home. You will be one of the only people in there below the age of about 60-65 and above. It’s quite entertaining but if you want people your age don’t come any earlier than at least 7 pm apx.
Coat Check
There is a $3 coat check on the left as you walk in.
Table Service & Bar
There is table service at any of the tables, booths, or dance floor spots. You can also go to the bar rather than wait for a Ranchman’s server.
Very Mixed Crowds
Ranchman’s seems to attract a very diverse crowd. They are all different ages and dress codes. The atmosphere is relaxed and friendly.
It’s Inexpensive
You won’t need lots of money at Ranchman’s. There is always some kind of deal or special offer on for drinks and/or food. So if you are on a tight budget you can have fun without breaking the bank.
Currently (July 2024) there is a $5 discount on most of the food Wed, Thurs, Fri, and Sat between 5 pm and 7 pm. There is also Wings Wednesday, Happy Hours, and drink specials. Check the Ranchman’s website for their latest deals.
It’s Solo Traveler Friendly
If you come to Ranchman’s on your own, you will be fine. The first time I went there was to pick up a special Stampede bracelet, and it was pretty busy so I felt intimidated. But I had people chat to me in the queue and a girl randomly told me I was “really pretty” so it was a positive experience. I’ve now been here a few times without any issues, and have even made a few friends along the way. With a bit of effort, and travelling around the bar a bit you can find friendly people.
It’s Pretty Safe
Ranchmans has a decent security presence with security scattered around the bar. They are easily identifiable if you need to find one of them. I’ve spent a few nights here and have always generally felt safe.
Tips For Going To Ranchman’s Cookhouse & Dance Hall Alone
After spending so much time in this Country bar, these are my top tips.
Go There Early
If you plan to spend the evening there go there fairly early around 8/8.30pm. The younger crowd (45 and under) seems to start arriving around this time. You’ll be able to get a drink and find a good spot to base yourself before it starts getting busy.
Sit Within The Main Area
When you enter Ranchman’s, you will see a smaller dance area sectioned off and many tables and chairs. Sit near the small dance area or at one of these tables in the main area for the best chance at people chatting to you.
Join the Dance Lessons
It’s a fun way to break the ice. It seems to be very inclusive, and it will not matter that you are on your own. Every time I watched the dance lessons, men always said yes to dancing with a woman alone. So you won’t be stuck without a dance partner.
Enjoy A Drink
If you like to have a drink or two, it is a safe place to do so. I was drunk there on more than one occasion and never felt unsafe. On the rare occasions that some creepy guy hassled me, there were men around me wanting to handle it. As I mentioned before there are also security wandering around.
Be Confident
Wear an outfit that you feel good in, and just be yourself. Fake it until you make it if you struggle with feeling confident. There are always exceptions to the rule but generally no one will care that you are on your own. Some will think it is cool.
Be Sociable
Chat with people who approach you, and make an effort to just be social. I guarantee that if you do, you won’t be completely on your own all night. As long as you don’t just sit at a table and ignore everyone, it’s pretty guaranteed that at least one person will be friendly to you,
Get On The Dance Floor
Don’t be shy about getting on the dance floor, especially if you want to be social.
The Cowboy VIP area is the smaller dance floor
If you go to Ranchman’s to see professional Cowboys during Stampede, the smaller dance floor with the bar and raised seating area is where they will be. Ranchman’s turns this area into a VIP section during Stampede – but you can use that bar and dance there etc.
Figure Out Transport Home In Advance
If you’re planning to stay until late, especially during Stampede, keep an eye on the Uber fares as they will vary significantly at different times of night. Your timing could be the difference between paying the regular fare and paying 4x or 5x as much.
Best Times To Go
During Calgary Stampede it does get very busy, but the atmosphere is hard to beat when everyone is in such good spirits. So if you go to the Stampede, I’d encourage you to include Ranchman’s in your plans. The rest of the time it varies significantly but Friday and Saturday nights, or when there’s live music on are your best bets if you want a lively atmosphere.
An iconic Calgary Honky Tonk
If Country music and Western culture are your jam, or you just want to experience an authentic Country bar for fun, I recommend checking out Ranchman’s Cookhouse and Dance Hall at least once when you are in Calgary. After all, it’s an iconic part of Calgary’s vibrant nightlife! And if you’ve never been before I hope this post helps you to have a great time at this popular Honky Tonk.
Learn More About The Calgary Stampede
- Things You Should Know Before You Attend Calgary Stampede
- 15 Reasons Why You Should Go To Calgary Stampede
- 12 Calgary Stampede Tips To Have A Great Time
- Calgary Stampede Outfits: How To Plan What To Wear To Fit In
- A Guide To Calgary Stampede’s Nashville North Tent
- The Ultimate Guide to Enjoying the Calgary Stampede Alone
- How To Stay Safe At Calgary Stampede
- Easy Ways To Save Money At Calgary Stampede
- Ultimate Guide To Ranchman’s Cookhouse and Dance Hall
- Where To Stay In Calgary For Solo Female Travelers
- Solo Traveler’s Guide To The Whiskey Rose Saloon In Calgary
- Calgary Stampede Packing List As A First Timer
- Cowboys Music Festival: Complete Guide for Solo Travelers
- Everything You Need To Know About Calgary Stampede Pancake Breakfasts
- Best Things To Do Alone At Calgary Stampede
- What Happens In Calgary During Stampede (Outside The Grounds)
- How To Enjoy The Calgary Stampede Midway Without The Rides
- How To Get Around Calgary Stampede Park As A First-Time Solo Visitor
- The Most Instagrammable Spots At Calgary Stampede
- Calgary Stampede At Night: What To Expect As A Solo Traveler
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Gemma Lawrence is the creator of This Brits Life. Born and raised in England, she has been living in British Columbia, Canada as a permanent resident since 2016. A solo traveler for the past 9 years, she hopes to inspire and help others to enjoy solo adventures too. As someone who has always struggled with her self-confidence and mental health, she also shares tips and inspirational stories relating to self-love, self-care, and mental health.
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