Well, I'm heading up to Grande Prairie and area this week, so for the third year in a row I managed to escape the Stampede. Though, I am half tempted to go take in a rodeo event next weekend (and I have no interest in the rodeo) just to spite the protesters fighting against the rodeo.
As for things to do, depends on your interest.
The Glenbow Museum is apparently pretty good, if that is your thing.
Heritage Park is a decent place for an out of towner to learn about the area's history.
If you like baseball, the Dawgs are playing tomorrow at Foothills, while the Vipers are in town beginning Tuesday. Dont expect large crowds, but it is a nice way to spend an afternoon in the sun away from the Stampede (that and most of the hot girls in tight clothes are over 18.
)
Fish Creek Park is usually a nice place to spend a day walking, but recent flooding has left much of it damaged or closed.
You arent in the bar scene, so that isnt much of an option.
Calgary Tower/Olympic museum at it's base.