17 Unique & Epic Things to Do in Cody, Wyoming

Set in the heart of Wyoming, the town of Cody is a gateway to the American West. It was founded by the legendary Buffalo Bill Cody and today is known as the “Rodeo Capital of the World”. With a rich blend of history, culture, and outdoor adventure, there’s no shortage of things to do in Cody, Wyoming.

During our weeklong stay, we explored the natural wonders and historical sites that define the area. Cody is a prime destination for experiencing the rugged beauty of the surrounding area, including nearby Yellowstone National Park.

Whether you’re interested in the rich history of the United States or the outdoors, Cody has something to offer everyone. Something we cannot wait to share with you below!

17 Best Things to Do in Cody, Wyoming

1. Buffalo Bill Center of the West

No visit to Cody, Wyoming would be complete without a visit to the Buffalo Bill Center of the West. This impressive complex is made up of five Smithsonian world-class museums. Each one is dedicated to a unique aspect of the American West.

The Buffalo Bill Museum focuses on the life and legacy of Colonel William Frederick Cody, famously known as “Buffalo Bill”. It offers artifacts, photographs, and exhibits that detail his contributions as a showman and frontiersman.

The Whitney Western Art Museum houses an extensive collection of Western art. Pieces on display feature works by artists such as Frederic Remington and Charles M. Russell.

The Plains Indian Museum provides a deep dive into the cultures and histories of the Plains Native American tribes. It’s an impressive exhibit that showcases their art, clothing, and everyday objects.

The Cody Firearms Museum boasts one of the largest collections of firearms in the world. Be prepared to take in the over 4,000 firearms and related artifacts on display.

Lastly, the Draper Natural History Museum offers insights into the Greater Yellowstone ecosystem, highlighting its wildlife, geology, and conservation efforts.

Together, these museums provide a comprehensive and educational experience. This makes the Buffalo Bill Center of the West a must for anyone interested in Western American history and culture.

We could have spent a full day there, so be sure to give yourself adequate time. Admission tickets are good for two days, so be sure to take advantage of that.

2. Cody Nite Rodeo

The Cody Nite Rodeo is held every night during the summer months from June through August. It is the longest-running nightly rodeo in the world, offering you an authentic taste of cowboy culture. We were in town for opening night and couldn’t resist attending.

Established in 1938, it provides a platform for both amateur and professional rodeo athletes to showcase their skills. You can see events such as bull riding, bronc riding, barrel racing, and calf roping.

The rodeo is also family-friendly, featuring pre-show activities for kids. This includes things like the calf scramble and the opportunity to meet the cowboys and rodeo clowns.

If you’re planning to visit Cody in July, we highly recommend you book tickets for the Cody Stampede Rodeo. This is the rodeo event of the year, featuring professionals and it sells out well in advance. If you can secure tickets, it’s worth going!

3. Old Trail Town

Old Trail Town is a meticulously preserved collection of historic buildings and artifacts from the late 19th century. A few of the buildings are even from the original Cody Town that was set up in Oregon Basin before the town was moved to its current location.

Founded by Bob Edgar in 1967, this outdoor museum features over 25 authentic Old West structures. This includes cabins, a saloon with bullet holes, a schoolhouse, and even the original log cabin used by Butch Cassidy and the Sundance Kid.

The buildings were relocated from various sites across Wyoming and Montana and then restored to their original condition. The museum also houses a collection of artifacts such as wagons, tools, and personal items. These items provide insight into the lives of early pioneers, trappers, and outlaws of the American West.

The onsite cemetery houses the grave of the notorious John Jerimiah Johnson, who Robert Redford famously portrayed. Redford even served as a pallbearer when Johnson was relocated to the Old Trail Town from California.

4. Irma Hotel

The Irma Hotel was established by Buffalo Bill Cody in 1902 and named after his daughter, Irma. This historic hotel has been a central hub for travelers and locals since the day it opened.

One of the hotel’s most notable features is the grand bar. This was a gift from Queen Victoria to Buffalo Bill and it remains a focal point in the hotel’s restaurant.

You can still stay at The Irma Hotel. The rooms offer a blend of historic charm and modern amenities. Each is decorated to reflect the early 20th century while providing modern comforts.

The hotel’s restaurant is known for its prime rib, all-you-can-eat buffet! It is served in the same dining room where Buffalo Bill once entertained guests. When we arrived in Cody, our first stop was the Irma Hotel for the prime rib buffet!

5. Stroll Around Downtown Cody

Downtown Cody, Wyoming, is the heart of the town, offering a mix of historic charm and modern attractions. Centered around Sheridan Avenue, the downtown area is lined with a variety of shops, galleries, and restaurants.

Each of them reflects the town’s unique Western heritage. The best way to experience the downtown is to walk!

Historic buildings, some dating back to the early 1900s, house many of these businesses, adding to the area’s character. The Cody Theater hosts nightly cowboy music shows during the summer, while other venues offer local arts and crafts.

Our best advice is to find parking on either end of Sheridan Avenue. Then you can walk down one side and back up the other. There is plenty to do and see along the way.

6. Cody Cattle Company – Dinner and a Show

The Cody Cattle Company is a popular dinner and entertainment venue offering hearty Western cuisine and live music. It is famously known for its nightly Chuckwagon Dinner Show! The experience includes a buffet-style meal featuring BBQ beef brisket, chicken, and an array of traditional side dishes.

Following dinner, you will be treated to a live performance by the Triple C Cowboys Band. They are known for their blend of country, bluegrass, and classic Western music. The show is appropriate for the whole family and interactive, often involving the audience in sing-alongs and other activities.

Whether you’re staying in town, or at a nearby Dude Ranch, you’ll want to include this experience.

7. Buffalo Bill Dam

The Buffalo Bill Dam is a significant historical and engineering landmark. It was completed in 1910 and was the tallest dam in the world at the time of its construction. It stands 325 feet high.

The dam was part of the Shoshone Project. It was aimed at providing irrigation water to the arid lands of the Bighorn Basin. The dam plays a crucial role in water management and hydroelectric power generation for the region.

The visitor center at the dam offers educational exhibits detailing the construction, history, and impact of the dam. It’s also a fantastic place for stunning views of the Shoshone River, the Buffalo Bill Reservoir, and the surrounding canyon.

8. Cody Trolley Tours

Cody Trolley Tours offers an engaging and informative way to explore the history and attractions of Cody. The one-hour tour covers approximately 22 miles and includes over 50 points of interest.

The knowledgeable guides provided a lively commentary, blending historical facts with entertaining anecdotes about Buffalo Bill Cody and the town. Key highlights included the Buffalo Bill Center of the West, Old Trail Town, the Irma Hotel, and the scenic views of the surrounding mountains and rivers.

The trolley is designed for comfort and convenience, allowing you to sit back and enjoy the sights. The tours run regularly during the summer months, making it easy for you to fit this experience into their itinerary.

It’s a fantastic way to get a thorough overview of the area’s history and we found it quite fun!

9. Cody Dug Up Gun Museum

The Cody Dug Up Gun Museum offers a unique collection of firearms that have been unearthed from various historical sites. The museum features over a thousand relics, ranging from the Revolutionary War to World War II. Each offers its own story of how it was found and its historical significance.

The exhibits include pistols, rifles, and other weaponry, many of which have been preserved in the condition they were found. This provides a raw and authentic glimpse into the past.

The museum is organized chronologically and thematically, allowing you to follow the evolution of firearms and the history they represent. You can learn more here.

10. Cody Firearms Experience

The Cody Firearms Experience offers you a hands-on opportunity to learn about and shoot a wide range of firearms.

This indoor shooting range provides a safe and controlled environment where you can try out firearms from different eras of American history. This includes Old West revolvers, early 20th-century military rifles, and contemporary handguns and rifles.

The experience is designed to educate you about firearm safety, mechanics, and history through professional guidance and supervision. Knowledgeable staff members provide detailed instructions and historical context for each firearm, enhancing the educational aspect of the experience.

11. Cody Sippin’ Trail

The Cody Sippin’ Trail is a self-guided tour that highlights the local craft beverage scene. The stops include local breweries, distilleries, and tasting rooms, allowing you to sample local craft beers and artisanal spirits.

Each stop on the trail offers a unique experience, showcasing the creativity and craftsmanship of Cody’s beverage makers. Participating locations often feature special tastings, tours, and events, enhancing the overall experience.

Be sure to download the Cody Sippin’ Trail app before you start to track your visits and earn prizes. Some of our recommended favorites include the Chamberlin Inn, Pat O’ Hara Brewing Company, Proud Cut Saloon, The Irma Hotel & Saloon, and The Blanca Tatanka.

12. UTV Tour with Out West Adventures

A UTV tour with Out West Adventures offers an exciting and informative exploration of the rugged landscapes surrounding Cody. Of course, we can never resist an adventure in the great outdoors!

Our guided tour offered insights into the area’s history, geology, and wildlife while also taking us off the beaten path. The tour gave us access to remote areas that showcase the natural beauty and geological features of the region. We had our own UTV and followed the leader with our guide.

First, we visited the Oregon Basin to see the dramatic terrain. We visited the original site of Cody City and saw some impressive Native American petroglyphs.

After, we cruised over to McCullough Peaks for the breathtaking views of the colorful badlands. We also tried our luck at viewing the wild Mustangs in their natural habitat. Unfortunately, we didn’t see the Mustangs, but we still had an amazing time on this adventure!

13. Heart Mountain Interpretive Center

The Heart Mountain Interpretive Center is dedicated to preserving and sharing the history of the Japanese American internment during World War II.

The center is situated just outside of Cody at the site of the Heart Mountain Relocation Center. This spot housed over 14,000 Japanese Americans forcibly relocated from their homes on the West Coast.

The interpretive center is well done and features exhibits that detail the daily lives of the internees. You learn about their struggles, and their resilience through photographs, artifacts, and personal stories. It also provides historical context about the broader internment program and its impact on American society.

Interactive displays and educational programs aim to engage visitors of all ages in understanding this significant period in American history. The Heart Mountain Interpretive Center serves as a powerful reminder of the consequences of prejudice and the importance of civil liberties.

I won’t lie, it’s heavy. But it is an important part of American history that you should give an hour to when you’re visiting Cody.

14. Dude Ranch Stay at Blackwater Creek Ranch

Blackwater Creek Ranch, now part of the True Ranch Collection, was established in 1915 within the boundaries of the Shoshone National Forest. It offers an authentic Wyoming dude ranch experience set on the Shoshone River.

It has always been a dream of mine to enjoy a dude ranch experience out west! Our experience here was nothing short of gold. We enjoyed horseback riding, hiking, and wildlife watching in a natural habitat.

The ranch also offers trips to Cody, guided fishing trips, whitewater rafting, and Yellowstone tours. At the end of each day, you settle into rustic historic cabins that offer comfort after a day of adventure.

The best part is that your experience is all-inclusive. This means all of the lodging, meals, and activities are included for the duration of your stay. They currently offer 3-night and 6-night packages.

15. Drive the Buffalo Bill Cody Scenic Byway

The Buffalo Bill Cody Scenic Byway, also known as U.S. Highway 14/16/20, stretches for 27 miles between Cody, Wyoming, and the east entrance of Yellowstone National Park.

This route offers fantastic views of the Absaroka Mountains and the Shoshone National Forest. The byway follows the North Fork of the Shoshone River, winding through steep canyons and expansive meadows.

Key points of interest include the Buffalo Bill Dam, and the Wapiti Valley with its elk, bighorn sheep, and bears. The road also provides access to several hiking trails, fishing spots, and camping areas.

Traveling the Buffalo Bill Cody Scenic Byway is the perfect start for a road trip that leaves Cody. You can also continue to visit Yellowstone National Park and then return along the Chief Joseph Scenic Byway. We did it, and while it’s a full day, it’s highly rewarding!

16. Visit Yellowstone National Park

Most visitors to Cody will undoubtedly have plans to also visit Yellowstone National Park. It is the first national park in the United States after all. The most accessible part of the park from Cody is the East Loop. Although some people choose to drive some of the other loops, too.

Entering at the East Entrance of Yellowstone National Park, the East Loop route takes you through some of the park’s most iconic and diverse landscapes before exiting at the Northeast Entrance.

The journey begins with a scenic drive through Sylvan Pass, offering stunning views of Sylvan Lake and the Absaroka Mountains. Keep an eye out for black bears on this stretch!

Continuing west, you’ll reach Yellowstone Lake, the largest high-elevation lake in North America. Stops at Fishing Bridge and Lake Village provide opportunities for wildlife viewing and exploring the historic Lake Yellowstone Hotel.

Heading north, the route passes through Hayden Valley, a prime spot for observing bison, elk, and grizzly bears. The next major stop is the Grand Canyon of Yellowstone, featuring the dramatic Upper and Lower Falls. Be sure to visit the Artist Point and Lookout Point.

Continuing the loop, you’ll drive through the Lamar Valley, known as the Serengeti of North America. Sightings of wolves, bison, and other wildlife are frequent.

Finally, the route exits through the scenic Northeast Entrance.

This East Loop route showcases the natural beauty and diverse ecosystems that make Yellowstone National Park a unique destination.

17. Drive the Chief Joseph Scenic Byway

As you leave the Northeast Entrance of Yellowstone National Park, the road passes through the communities of Silver Gate and Cooke City. It then ascends into the Absaroka Mountains along the Beartooth Highway.

Shortly after this, you will branch off to the south along Wyoming Highway 296. From this point, you’re officially on the Chief Joseph Scenic Byway for a stunning 47-mile drive to Cody, Wyoming.

One of the first major stops is the Sunlight Basin. Here you’ll enjoy the expansive valley and surrounding peaks as far as the eye can see.

Continuing along the byway, you’ll cross the Sunlight Creek Bridge. This is the highest bridge in Wyoming and it offers dramatic views of the canyon below. The Dead Indian Summit Overlook provides panoramic vistas of the Clarks Fork of the Yellowstone River. You can also see the Beartooth Mountains in the distance.

Historical markers along the way recount the 1877 flight of the Nez Perce tribe, led by Chief Joseph. We highly recommend that you download the TravelStorys app and save the Chief Joseph Scenic Byway narration. It offers some intriguing stories about that very event.

As the byway descends towards Cody, the landscape transitions to rolling hills and open meadows. The contrast is stark compared to the rest of the route and a beautiful way to end your road trip!

Other Recommendations for Your Cody, WY Trip

Where to Stay

Best Restaurants in Cody, Wyoming

• The Station
• Pat’s Brew House
• Sitti’s Table
• Blanca Tatanka
• Trailhead Bar & Grill
• Zapata’s
• Cody Steakhouse
• Irma Hotel Restaurant
• The Big Chill

Our trip to Cody was in partnership with Cody Yellowstone. However, all opinions, stories, and advice are 100% ours, as always.

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