We go there all the time. About every other week. It is an awesome city. Often referred to as Denvers sister city.
Calgary is very similar as in being on on the front range etc.. Way ahead of Denver in cleanliness, social problems etc. etc.
The energy business controls the main economy and sets the flow.
Yes cowboy hats are quite in vogue, more so during the Stampede which is like Frontier Days in CYS a virtual cowboy Mardi Gras.
Banff is an hour and a half by highway and a must do.