Top 12 Things to Do in Cody, WY
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Howdy, neighbor! If you’re looking for the best way to spend a vacation in Wyoming, Cody is the right place.
Enjoy all of the wild West action you’ve dreamed of, offset by modern attractions designed for the whole family to enjoy. Well known for being the Eastern gateway to Yellowstone National Park, Cody is the ideal destination for your next Western adventure.
The Best 12 Things to Do in Cody, WY
From the fascinating Buffalo Bill Center of the West to the historic Old Trail Town, you can explore the rich history, natural wonders, and cultural treasures this vibrant city has to offer. Grab your cowboy hat: Here are some of the most poplar things to do in Cody, WY.
1. Buffalo Bill Center of the West
It’s time to bring it all back to where it started with an ode to the city’s founder, William Frederick Cody, aka Buffalo Bill. An affiliate of the Smithsonian Institution, The Buffalo Bill Center of the West is an enormous structure comprised of 5 museums, each designed to be entertaining, educational, and exciting for all ages.
Start at the Buffalo Bill Museum to take a walk through the life of the man himself, then learn the history of thousands of guns throughout the ages at the Cody Firearms Museum .
See one of the largest curated collections of Western art anywhere in the world at the Whitney Western Art Museum or get a hands-on look at the natural marvels of Yellowstone at the Draper Natural History Museum .
For an incredibly close view of the Native American civilizations that call the area home, don’t miss the Plains Indian Museum while you’re there.
2. Old Trail Town
It’s time to explore the Western way of life, and what better way to do it than in buildings where folks like Butch Cassidy and Buffalo Bill spent their time? Old Trail Town in Cody is an incredible historian-recreated village, using the original structures from days gone by to put significant homes, saloons, and even hideouts all in one place.
Not only can you take a closer look at the buildings themselves, but the street you’re strolling down is just as symbolic; this is the exact spot where plans for the city of Cody came to be! If you want to feel like an original cowboy, come see how the original cowboys really lived.
3. Buffalo Bill’s Irma Hotel & Restaurant
Relive the spirit of Buffalo Bill Cody in a place he loved, named after a little lady he loved. Since 1902, Buffalo Bill’s Irma Hotel & Restaurant has served up tasty eats (including a famous prime rib) and a belly-warming cocktail, capped off by a classic room to hang your hat in for the night.
Named after his youngest child, the Irma has been thoughtfully restored to retain the original charm that made it a favorite of visitors and locals alike. Check out Buffalo Bill’s own Historical Room at the hotel, and get a real feel for the finest Western accommodations back in his heyday.
With so much history, Buffalo Bill’s Irma Hotel is also famous for being a one of the most popular haunted places in Wyoming for guests to visit!
4. Kirwin Ghost Town Tours
Shhh! Did you hear that? If you’re strolling through Kirwin Ghost Town , you might have heard mystical communication from the village’s previous residents. Located a short distance from Cody in the beautiful Absaroka Mountains, Kirwin was settled by a failed drive for the gold rush that was ultimately impacted by a brutal natural tragedy.
The remaining land and structures tell their own beautiful and sad story, with nothing much changed since the last resident moved on. Now abandoned, some say it is a ghost town in more ways than one, leaving much to explore and experience in what was left behind. Your best bet to see the sights? Take an ATV tour through the terrain.
5. Cody Nite Rodeo
Nothing says Western fun like a day at the rodeo, but what if you could get all your cowboy thrills in the glow of moonlight? In the summer months, you’ll find that and more at the Cody Nite Rodeo , put on by Wyoming-staple Cody Stampede Rodeo .
This experience puts you at the center of the action under glittering stars, but there’s more to do than watch. You can get a lesson in how to rope like a pro, try your skills on a mechanical bull, and even get your picture taken with the real deal — the famous Mongo the Bull! Come on down for an evening you won’t forget.
6. The Cody Cattle Company
You’ve had dinner and a movie plenty of times — consider upgrading to dinner and a live show on your next Wyoming getaway. The Cody Cattle Company is ready and willing to provide you with a deliciously filling meal and some fantastic tunes to scoot your boots to while you eat. Gather ’round the guitar and fiddle, sing along with some Western favorites, and have a meal fit for the true cowboy in you.
Don’t forget about their Trifecta Tickets, which cover the show, the food, and admission to the Cody Nite Rodeo. A whole night out for one great price!
7. Buffalo Bill Dam & Visitor Center
When you come out West, it’s all about the view, and there are few better than the ones you’ll get at the Buffalo Bill Dam & Visitor’s Center , just a quick drive from Cody. This mammoth structure is both an incredible feat of engineering and a key player in the history of Cody’s civilization, as well as a National Landmark.
For the visitor, it is entirely walkable, putting you nearly 300 feet above the Shoshone River. Don’t forget to stop by the visitor center while you’re there and learn a little more about the dam’s history while picking up some must-have souvenirs.
8. Red Canyon Wild Mustang Tours
Western wildlife means breathtaking sights of wild horses in their natural habitat; if you’ve never seen them before, you’re in for a treat in Cody. The Red Canyon Wild Mustang Tours offers you the opportunity to team up with experts and take in some incredible views, both of the mustangs themselves and where they live.
You’ll get a full taste of the West and all of its desert plant life. If you time your tour just right, you can catch a fantastic, Instagram-worthy sunset to remember the experience. Get in on the excitement!
9. The Buffalo Bill State Park
Situated in the exact location of the dam that shares its name, The Buffalo Bill Reservoir is your one-stop destination for camping, fishing and outdoor fun in Cody. With a wide variety of available trout and multiple points of access for your boat in the North and South Fork Rivers, this picturesque waterfront has all the needs of an outdoor adventurer covered.
Additionally, plenty of RV parking is available, as well as tent space for roughing it with a traditional camping experience. This area comes complete with restrooms, picnic tables, and other amenities to make your campout as comfortable as it should be.
10. Cody Dug Up Gun Museum
Have you ever wondered how firearms have changed throughout history?. The Cody Dug Up Gun Museum features weaponry through the ages, from the War of Independence to the Civil War, and even popular firearms in the 1920s!
Take a closer look at how defense weapons have evolved, and catch a glimpse of their impact on American history. The tools of yesterday are waiting for you today in the heart of Cody.
11. Cody Trolley Tours
No trip to the Wild West is complete without a way to authentically experience days gone by, and in Cody, that’s as easy as hopping on the trolley. Cody Trolley Tours is a family-owned business providing visitors with a charming and efficient way to immerse themselves in the city’s best offerings.
Jump on at the Irma Hotel and let the locals show you the ropes throughout the one-hour tour, seamlessly blending Cody’s fascinating history with its thriving modern day. While the trolley runs 2-4 times a day depending on the season, seats book up quickly, so it’s best to reserve your tickets in advance.
12. Shoshone National Forest
You can’t fully experience Cody without taking in its incredible open-air spaces, and the Shoshone National Forest is here to provide you with that opportunity. Comprised of over 2 million acres of land, the forest (the first in the U.S.) is only matched in size by its fantastic views and powerful natural beauty.
Outdoor adventurers can choose everything from hunting trips to hiking trails, camping out to checking out glaciers, or all of the above. The forest is a wild, rugged and free space, much like the state it calls home.
FAQ: Things to Do in Cody
The top attractions to visit in Cody include, Buffalo Bill Center of the West, Old Trail Town, Cody Nite Rodeoand the Cody Trolley Tours.
Many of the activities in Cody are family-friendly, but kids will especially enjoy the Buffalo Bill Center of the West, which has five museums and lots of wild lands to explore for the whole family.
Cody is best known historically for its founder, William Frederick “Buffalo Bill” Cody. Today, it’s known for the Buffalo Bill Center of the West, its closeness to Yellowstone National Park, Cody Nite Rodeo, and its incredible outdoor views.
While Cody has activities and attractions throughout the year, the best time to visit is in the warmest part of the summer to make the most of the great outdoors.
Cody is located 55 miles or about an hour’s drive from Yellowstone’s entrance on the park’s east side.
Plan Your Visit to Cody, WY Today!
The city of Cody is a quintessential example of a Western destination — rooted in history, with a love of the outdoors, good food, family, and a little grit. Don’t visit Wyoming without stopping by. Find out more and plan your trip today.
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Cody (pop 8800), founded by and named for legendary western icon Buffalo Bill Cody, is perched upon the transition between the rolling grassy plains of the Bighorn Basin to the east and the jagged peaks of the Rocky Mountains to the west. Cody is steeped in colorful history, making it a popular stop for tourists and has several interesting western museums to explore. Cody's historical pretext combined with its close proximity to the eastern entrance to Yellowstone National Park reinforces Cody's claim as the second busiest tourist destination town in the state of Wyoming (Jackson Hole being the first). Cody is also well known as a great place for outdoor recreation, with a variety of activities available right from town and westward through the Wapiti Valley.
Cody sits at a crossroads and can be easily accessed by automobile from multiple directions. From Montana to the north, Cody is accessed via Laurel/Belfrey or Red Lodge. Cody is located along state route 14/16/20, the favored roadway for travelers from the east between interstate I-90 and the east entrance to Yellowstone National Park. For travelers with a time deficit, Cody also has a small municipal airport to which several national domestic airlines provide daily flights. Car rentals are available at the airport.
Cody's proximity to Yellowstone/Grand Teton National Parks includes it on the majority of itineraries to the area, resulting in a disporportionally large number of lodging options for a small town, and visitors will find most of the major chain motels and a few local options to choose from. Visitors will also find a good number of RV and camping parks available. Like most tourist based destinations, Cody has a reasonable number of restaurant options offering traditional Americanized road grub to fill the bellies of weary travelers.
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Cody Wyoming
A gateway to adventure, a step back in time, and a celebration of the spirit of the Old West.
Founded by the legendary Buffalo Bill Cody, this historic town is a treasure trove of Western heritage. From its nightly rodeos to its world-class museums, Cody offers a unique blend of entertainment and education.
Cody serves as the eastern gateway to Yellowstone National Park . This makes it an ideal base for exploring one of America’s most iconic natural landscapes.
Discover the Historic Town of Cody Wyoming
Cody Wyoming is a town steeped in history. Founded in 1896 by the famous showman Buffalo Bill Cody, it has preserved its Western roots while evolving into a vibrant tourist destination.
The town’s architecture reflects its historical significance. From the Irma Hotel, built by Buffalo Bill himself, to the charming shops of downtown Cody, the town’s buildings tell a story of the Old West. But Cody’s history is not just confined to its buildings. The town’s cultural heritage is alive and well, celebrated through reenactments, historical tours, and local events.
Cody’s history is intertwined with the story of the American frontier. It’s a place where the past meets the present, where the spirit of the Old West lives on.
Cody's Western Heritage and Buffalo Bill
Museums and cultural attractions.
Cody is home to a wealth of museums and cultural attractions. The Buffalo Bill Center of the West, a must-visit museum complex, includes five museums under one roof:
- The Buffalo Bill Museum
- The Plains Indians Museum
- The Whitney Western Art Museum
- The Draper Natural History Museum
- The Cody Firearms Museum
Each museum offers a unique perspective on the West. From the life and times of Buffalo Bill to the art and culture of the Plains Indians, the Center provides a comprehensive look at Western history and heritage.
Other notable attractions include the Heart Mountain WWII Interpretive Center, the Cody Dug Up Gun Museum, and the Old Trail Town. Each tells a unique story, adding to the rich tapestry of Cody’s cultural landscape.
Whether you’re a history buff, an art lover, or a curious traveler, Cody’s museums and cultural attractions offer a wealth of exploration and discovery.
Things to Do in Cody Wyoming
Cody Wyoming is not just a historic town. It’s also a hub of outdoor adventures, family-friendly activities, and exciting events.
From hiking and fishing to museum visits and rodeos, there’s something for everyone in Cody. The town’s location in the scenic Big Horn Basin, near Yellowstone National Park, adds to its appeal.
Whether you’re an outdoor enthusiast, a history buff, or a family on vacation, Cody offers a wealth of experiences. It’s a place where you can create memories that will last a lifetime.
Outdoor Adventures & Natural Wonders
Cody’s natural beauty is one of its biggest draws. The town is surrounded by stunning landscapes, from the rugged peaks of the Rocky Mountains to the rolling plains of the Big Horn Basin.
Outdoor enthusiasts will find plenty to do in Cody. The area offers:
- Hiking trails that range from easy walks to challenging backcountry treks
- Fishing opportunities in nearby rivers and streams
- Camping sites that let you experience the great outdoors
- Mountain biking trails for off-road adventures
The town’s proximity to Yellowstone National Park is another plus. Cody serves as the eastern gateway to the park, making it an ideal base for exploring Yellowstone’s natural wonders.
Whether you’re looking for adventure or tranquility, Cody’s natural beauty offers something for everyone.
Family-Friendly Activities in Cody
Cody is a great destination for families. The town offers a variety of attractions that are suitable for all ages.
From the interactive exhibits at the Buffalo Bill Center of the West to the thrilling rides at the Cody Nite Rodeo, there’s plenty to keep kids entertained. The town’s safe, friendly atmosphere adds to its appeal for families.
Cody’s educational attractions, like the Draper Natural History Museum and the Cody Firearms Experience, offer fun learning experiences for kids. And the town’s outdoor activities, from hiking to fishing, provide opportunities for family bonding in the great outdoors.
Cody's Rodeo and Event Scene
Cody is known as the “Rodeo Capital of the World”. The town hosts the Cody Nite Rodeo, the longest-running nightly rodeo in the world, throughout the summer.
The Cody Stampede, held annually, is another highlight. This event brings together top rodeo athletes from around the country, making it a must-see for rodeo fans.
But rodeos are not the only events in Cody. The town hosts a variety of local events, from parades and music festivals to art shows. These events often celebrate Cody’s Western and pioneer heritage, adding to the town’s charm and appeal.
Whether you’re a rodeo fan or just looking for a fun, lively atmosphere, Cody’s event scene has something to offer.
Planning Your Cody Wyoming Vacation
When planning a Wyoming vacation, consider making Cody your base. The town’s location, attractions, and amenities make it an ideal starting point for your adventures.
Cody offers a range of accommodations to suit different budgets and preferences. From historic hotels to cozy bed and breakfasts, you’ll find a place to rest and recharge after a day of exploring.
The town’s dining scene is another draw. Whether you’re craving a hearty steak, a fresh salad, or a sweet treat, Cody’s restaurants and cafes have you covered.
Accommodations and Dining in Cody
Cody offers a variety of accommodations. Whether you prefer the charm of a historic hotel, the comfort of a modern motel, or the intimacy of a bed and breakfast, you’ll find it in Cody.
The town’s dining scene is equally diverse. From Western-style steakhouses to cozy cafes, there’s something for every palate. Local cuisine reflects the region’s history and cultural influences, offering a taste of the Old West.
Whether you’re a foodie, a history buff, or a traveler looking for comfort and convenience, Cody’s accommodations and dining options won’t disappoint.
The Gateway to Yellowstone
Cody’s location makes it the perfect gateway to Yellowstone National Park. The East Entrance to the park is less than an hour’s drive from the town, offering easy access to Yellowstone’s natural wonders.
From Cody, you can explore the park’s geysers, hot springs, and wildlife at your own pace. After a day in the park, you can return to Cody for a relaxing evening and a good night’s sleep.
Whether you’re a nature lover, a wildlife enthusiast, or a family on vacation, Cody’s proximity to Yellowstone makes it an ideal base for your Wyoming adventure.
Seasonal Activities and Why Visit Year-Round
Cody Wyoming is a destination for all seasons. The town offers a variety of activities throughout the year, catering to both summer and winter visitors.
In the warmer months, Cody comes alive with rodeos, outdoor concerts, and art shows. The town’s trails and rivers offer endless opportunities for hiking, fishing, and rafting.
When winter arrives, Cody transforms into a snowy wonderland. The town’s winter activities include snowshoeing, cross-country skiing, and ice climbing.
Summer in Cody: Rodeos, Trails, and Tours
Summer in Cody is a time of excitement and adventure. The town hosts the Cody Nite Rodeo, the longest-running nightly rodeo in the world.
The area’s trails beckon hikers and mountain bikers, while the rivers and lakes lure anglers and rafters. Guided tours, from trolley tours of the town to horseback rides in the surrounding wilderness, offer unique ways to explore Cody and its environs.
Whether you’re a thrill-seeker, a nature lover, or a history enthusiast, summer in Cody has something for you.
Winter in Cody: Snow Sports and Scenic Beauty
Winter in Cody offers its own set of attractions. The town’s location in the Rocky Mountains makes it a hub for winter sports.
Snowshoeing and cross-country skiing are popular activities, with trails offering stunning views of the snow-covered landscape. For the more adventurous, ice climbing provides a thrilling challenge.
Even if you’re not into winter sports, Cody’s winter scenery is worth the visit. The snow-dusted mountains and frosty plains create a serene and picturesque setting, perfect for photography or simply enjoying the quiet beauty of nature.
The Enduring Allure of Cody Wyoming
Cody Wyoming is more than just a gateway to Yellowstone National Park. It’s a destination in its own right, steeped in history, rich in cultural heritage, and surrounded by natural beauty.
Whether you’re drawn to its Western charm, outdoor adventures, or family-friendly attractions, Cody offers a unique and memorable experience. It’s a place where the spirit of the Old West lives on, inviting you to step back in time and explore the wonders of Wyoming.
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