Calgary’s Stampede Park is set to welcome a significant new development: a 320-room hotel. This project is a direct response to the increased demand generated by the recently expanded BMO Centre convention facility. The Calgary Municipal Land Corporation (CMLC) and the Calgary Stampede have partnered with developer Truman to bring this full-service hotel to the site.
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This development signals growing momentum in Calgary’s Rivers District, particularly following the BMO Centre expansion. For readers, this means more accommodation options directly within a major entertainment and event hub, potentially boosting visitor numbers and local economic activity. Key takeaways include the partnership, the hotel’s size and amenities, and its connection to the BMO Centre’s success.
Addressing Growing Demand Near the BMO Centre
The catalyst for this hotel project is the need for more accommodation near the now-larger BMO Centre. According to CMLC President and CEO Kate Thompson, hotel development has been a key priority for years. The completion of the BMO Centre expansion, along with the groundbreaking of Scotia Place and the new 17 Ave SE extension, has significantly increased development interest in The Rivers District and unlocked the potential of the hotel site.
This strategic location at the west entrance to Stampede Park and The Culture + Entertainment District is seen as ideal for capturing event attendees and visitors.
The partnership with Truman, a developer with over 40 years of experience, is intended to bring the project to fruition after several years of navigating challenging market conditions and financing requirements.
Conceptual rendering of a curved hotel building from an aerial perspective near a road intersection, showing the design planned for Calgary's Stampede Park
Hotel Features and Design
Located on an 85,000 square foot parcel, the proposed hotel will be 13 storeys tall and feature 320 guest rooms. It is designed as a full-service property, including extensive amenities to support event-goers and leisure travelers.
Planned features include 15,000 square feet of dedicated meeting and ballroom space, essential for supporting the convention centre. Additionally, there will be 14,000 square feet dedicated to food and beverage options, encompassing multiple restaurants, a lobby bar, a coffee shop, and a rooftop lounge. Leisure facilities will include a terrace with an activity pool, hot tub, and outdoor bar, as well as an indoor swimming pool and a gym.
The design of the hotel draws inspiration from the unique architecture of the expanded BMO Centre and the newly named Flores LaDue Parade route. Its sweeping curved form is intended to evoke the movement of a bucking horse, symbolizing the identity of the Calgary Stampede and Alberta’s landscape.
Map overlaying future development plans for Calgary's Rivers District and Stampede Park, highlighting project locations
Truman chief operating officer, Tony Trutina, highlighted the prime location’s benefit, stating guests will be steps away from various attractions within The Culture + Entertainment District. This includes conventions at the BMO Centre, hockey games at the future Scotia Place, concerts at The Big Four Roadhouse, and the annual Calgary Stampede celebration.
Economic Impact and Project Timeline
The expansion of the BMO Centre, completed in June 2024, has already hosted 409 events. CMLC and the Stampede report 205 major events are booked between now and 2032, demonstrating the facility’s immediate and long-term impact on driving visitors to the area.
The BMO Centre alone is projected to contribute over $250 million annually to Canada’s GDP, with the majority benefiting Alberta’s economy. The addition of a large, full-service hotel directly on site is expected to further amplify this economic benefit by providing convenient accommodation and additional amenities for attendees.
Conceptual street-level rendering of the curved hotel design planned for Calgary's Stampede Park
The next critical step for the hotel project involves securing regulatory approvals. A development permit application is anticipated to be submitted to the city later this month. Following approvals, site preparation will begin, with construction targeted to start in late 2025. The hotel is expected to be completed and open to guests in late 2028.
Looking Ahead
The announcement of the Stampede Park hotel marks a significant milestone in the ongoing development of Calgary’s Rivers District. It directly addresses the increased need for lodging spurred by the BMO Centre’s expansion and reinforces the area’s position as a major event and entertainment destination. As the project moves through the approval process and heads towards construction, stakeholders will watch closely for progress on this key piece of infrastructure.
