things to do in cody wyoming
Cody, Wyoming, is a charming Western town surrounded by the stunning natural beauty of Yellowstone National Park, the Big Horn Mountains, and the Buffalo Bill Reservoir. Here are some things to do in Cody, Wyoming:
- Buffalo Bill Center of the West: A world-class museum showcasing Western art, history, and culture. The museum features an extensive collection of firearms, Native American artifacts, and a wing dedicated to the life and legacy of Buffalo Bill Cody.
- Yellowstone National Park: Cody is just a stone’s throw from the east entrance of Yellowstone, America’s first national park. Visit the park’s geysers, hot springs, and diverse wildlife, including grizzly bears, wolves, and bison.
- Whitewater Rafting: Experience the thrill of rafting on the Shoshone River, which offers rapids ranging from gentle to extreme. Several outfitters in Cody offer guided rafting trips.
- Horseback Riding: Explore the beautiful trails surrounding Cody on horseback. Several stables and outfitters offer guided horseback rides, from beginner-friendly day trips to multi-day pack trips.
- Cody Nite Rodeo: Every summer evening, the Cody Nite Rodeo brings the excitement of rodeo to the town. Watch cowboys and cowgirls compete in events like bull riding, roping, and barrel racing.
- Buffalo Bill Dam and Reservoir: Take a guided tour of the historic Buffalo Bill Dam and enjoy the scenic views of the surrounding mountains and reservoir.
- Old Trail Town: This historic town features a collection of restored buildings from the 1800s, including a saloon, general store, and livery stable.
- Cody Museum: Learn about the history of Cody and the surrounding region at this small, local museum.
- Shopping and Dining: Cody’s downtown area features a range of shops, restaurants, and galleries, including the iconic Irma Hotel, built by Buffalo Bill Cody himself.
- Wildlife Viewing: The area around Cody is home to a wide range of wildlife, including elk, deer, and bighorn sheep. Take a guided tour or drive through the scenic countryside to spot these amazing animals.
- Fishing: The rivers and lakes around Cody offer excellent fishing opportunities for trout and other species. Guided fishing trips are available.
- Hiking and Backpacking: Explore the beautiful trails of the surrounding mountains, including the Beartooth Mountains and the Absaroka-Beartooth Wilderness.
- Cody Trolley Tours: Take a guided tour of Cody’s historic sites and attractions on a narrated trolley tour.
- Western Town: Experience the charm of a traditional Western town at Cody’s Western Town, which features shops, restaurants, and a saloon.
- Annual Events: Cody hosts a range of annual events, including the Cody Stampede, the Cody Elk Bugling Contest, and the Western Design Conference.
These are just a few of the many things to do in Cody, Wyoming. Whether you’re interested in history, outdoor adventure, or simply soaking up the Western atmosphere, Cody has something for everyone.