Cody, Wyoming, is a fantastic place. Explore best Things to Do in Cody WY, attractions the historic locations like the Irma Hotel and Old Trail Town while diving into Buffalo Bill Cody’s history at the Buffalo Bill Center of the West. Cody, conveniently close to Yellowstone National Park, provides picturesque drives and quick access to the park’s geothermal beauties and fauna. You can enjoy boating, Fishing, and hiking in the Absaroka Mountains and Shoshone National Forest. Additionally, visit the Cody Dug Up Gun Museum, the Cody Nite Rodeo, and the Heart Mountain Interpretive Center. Marvel at the breathtaking scenery of Wapiti Valley, the Absaroka Mountains, and the pristine heavens, ideal for astronomy.
1. The Buffalo Bill Center
The Buffalo Bill Center of the West in Cody, Wyoming, is a comprehensive complex that offers a rich exploration of the American West through five distinct museums.
Buffalo Bill Museum
Time-Travel with Cody: Step into the shoes of Buffalo Bill Cody through interactive storytelling exhibits that transport you back to his era. Imagine the thrills of his Wild West shows and the challenges of his scouting days.
Cody’s Wild West Experience: Don’t just see his memorabilia—participate in a hands-on workshop where you can try on period costumes or handle replica artifacts to get a tactile sense of his legendary life.
Whitney Western Art Museum
Artistry in Action: Participate in art workshops guided by local artists, where you can create your Western-inspired pieces. Through your artistic lens, capture the essence of the landscape and culture.
2. Old Trail Town
Old Trail Town in Cody, Wyoming, offers a charming and immersive experience into the history of the American West. Here’s a look at the unique activities and experiences you can enjoy there:
Explore Historic Buildings
Wander Through Restored Structures: Stroll through a collection of restored and authentic old Western buildings, including a saloon, a schoolhouse, and a blacksmith shop. Each building provides a glimpse into the early days of Cody and the surrounding area.
Step into the Past: Visit original cabins and storefronts relocated to Old Trail Town from various locations around Wyoming.
Learn About Frontier Life
Explore Historic Buildings: Wander Through Restored Structures: Stroll through a collection of restored and authentic old Western buildings, including a saloon, a schoolhouse, and a blacksmith shop. Each building provides a glimpse into the early days of Cody and the surrounding area.
3. The Cody Nite Rodeo
The Cody Nite Rodeo offers an authentic Western experience with various activities and attractions. Here’s how you can make the most of your visit to this iconic rodeo:
Rodeo Adventure Packages
VIP Rodeo Experience: Upgrade to a VIP package with front-row seating, a meet-and-greet with the rodeo participants, and access to a private lounge with complimentary Western-themed refreshments.
Backstage Pass: Get a behind-the-scenes look with a backstage tour before the rodeo begins. Meet the riders, see the animals up close, and learn about the preparation for the show.
Interactive Themed Events
Rodeo Bootcamp: Participate in a pre-rodeo workshop where you can learn the basics of rodeo events. Try roping a dummy, practicing bull riding on a mechanical bull, or getting tips on barrel racing from local experts.
4. Yellowstone National Park
Yellowstone National Park is a vast and diverse landscape with many activities and sights to explore. Here’s a unique and comprehensive guide to making the most of your visit:
Hidden Geothermal Spots
Lone Star Geyser: Skip the crowds and hike to the remote Lone Star Geyser. It erupts about every three hours, and the hike there offers solitude and beautiful views of the Firehole River.
Black Sand Basin: Explore this lesser-known area near Old Faithful, which has strikingly colorful hot springs and geysers. Its smaller crowds make for a more serene experience.
Hiking and Outdoor Activities
Uncle Tom’s Trail: Hike down to a dramatic viewpoint of the Lower Falls of the Yellowstone River. The trail involves a steep descent with rewarding views.
Mount Washburn: Hike to the summit for panoramic views of the park and surrounding areas. This trail offers a moderate challenge with stunning vistas.
5. Shoshone National Forest
Shoshone National Forest, located in northwestern Wyoming, is a haven for outdoor enthusiasts and nature lovers. Here’s a unique guide to exploring this diverse and scenic area:
Scenic Drives and Views
Beartooth Highway: Drive the Beartooth Highway, one of America’s most scenic byways. It offers breathtaking alpine views, high mountain passes, and expansive vistas of the Beartooth Range.
Wind River Canyon: Explore the Scenic Byway, which provides stunning views of the Wind River and dramatic canyon walls.
Hiking and Backcountry Adventures
Bomber Basin: Hike to Bomber Basin for a remote and peaceful experience. This area offers beautiful alpine lakes and expansive meadows, with opportunities for solitude and reflection away from the crowds.
Fishing and Water Activities
Fly Fishing on the Shoshone River: Enjoy world-class fly fishing in the Shoshone River, which is known for its trout populations. The river offers both peaceful stretches and more challenging spots for avid anglers.
6. The Heart Mountain Interpretive Center
The Heart Mountain Interpretive Center, located near Things to Do in Cody WY, provides a compelling and educational experience focused on the history of the Japanese American internment during World War II. Here’s a guide to the unique and enriching activities you can engage in at the center.
Explore the Exhibits
Historical Exhibits: Delve into detailed exhibits that chronicle the internment of Japanese Americans during WWII. These exhibits include personal stories, photographs, and artifacts that deeply understand the internment experience.
Interactive Displays: Engage with interactive displays that allow you to explore the daily lives of internees and their contributions.
Participate in Educational Programs
Guided Tours: Join a guided tour led by knowledgeable docents who provide in-depth explanations and context about the internment camp’s history and significance.
Workshops and Lectures: Attend workshops and lectures on various aspects of Japanese American history, internment, and civil liberties. These programs often feature guest speakers, historians, and scholars.
7. Cody Dug Up Gun Museum
The Cody Dug Up Gun Museum in Cody, Wyoming, offers a unique glimpse into the history of firearms through a fascinating collection of vintage and historical guns. Here’s what things to do here:
Explore the Collection
Historical Firearms: Admire an extensive collection of firearms dating from the 17th to the 20th centuries. The collection includes pistols, rifles, and shotguns, each with historical significance.
Rare and Unique Pieces: Discover rare and unusual guns, including early prototypes, foreign firearms, and guns with unique historical backstories.
Learn About Firearms History
Informative Exhibits: Engage with detailed exhibits that provide historical context for the guns on display. Learn about their design, usage, and role in various historical periods.
8. Pahaska Tepee
Pahaska Tepee, located just outside of Things to Do in Cody WY, offers a variety of unique experiences centered around its rich history and natural surroundings. Here’s a guide to what you can do at this historic lodge and its surroundings:
Stay at the Historic Lodge
Historic Accommodations: Stay in the landmark Pahaska Tepee Lodge, which offers rustic charm and a glimpse into early 20th-century Western life.
Cabins and Lodging: Choose from various lodging options, including cozy cabins that provide a more private and intimate experience amidst the beautiful natural setting.
Explore the History
Historical Tour: Tour Pahaska Tepee to learn about its history. Originally built as a hunting lodge for Buffalo Bill Cody, the Things to Do in Cody WY, lodge has a rich history tied to the legendary frontiersman and his exploits.
Buffalo Bill Cody Connection: Discover the stories and artifacts related to Buffalo Bill Cody and his time at Pahaska Tepee.
9. Cody Trolley Tours
Cody Trolley Tours offers a delightful way to explore Cody, Wyoming’s vibrant history and attractions. Here’s a unique guide to what you can do during a Cody Trolley Tour:
Discover Cody’s History
Historic Narration: Enjoy Things to Do in Cody WY a guided tour of Cody’s rich history with live commentary from knowledgeable guides. Learn about the town’s founding, notable figures, and critical historical events, including Buffalo Bill Cody’s legacy.
Buffalo Bill Cody: Hear captivating stories about Buffalo Bill Cody, the legendary showman and founder of Cody, and visit significant sites related to his life and achievements.
Explore Local Attractions
Buffalo Bill Center of the West: See the Buffalo Bill Center of the West, a significant tour highlight. The trolley will often make a stop at this comprehensive museum complex.
10. Wapiti Valley
Wapiti Valley, located near Things to Do in Cody WY, is a picturesque area known for its stunning landscapes, outdoor activities, and serene environment. Here’s a guide to making the most of your visit to Wapiti Valley:
Outdoor Recreation
Hiking and Nature Walks: Explore various hiking trails in the Wapiti Valley area. Trails offer opportunities to see wildflowers, wildlife, and scenic views. Some popular trails lead to beautiful viewpoints and secluded places.
Fishing: For a peaceful fishing experience, cast a line in the Shoshone River or nearby streams. The area is known for its good fishing conditions and scenic waters.
Camping and Picnicking
Campgrounds: Find campgrounds in and around Wapiti Valley for a rustic outdoor experience.
Picnic Areas: Enjoy a picnic in scenic spots along the Shoshone River or designated picnic areas. The valley’s natural beauty makes for a perfect outdoor dining setting.
