Welcome to the ultimate list of things to do in Cody WY, a Western gem famous for rodeos, breathtaking landscapes, and proximity to Yellowstone National Park. Cody beckons with epic outdoor adventures, historical landmarks, and a culture that keeps its cowboy spirit alive. In 2025, the town offers fresh updates, new events, and timeless attractions. Ready to hit the trail? Let’s saddle up.
Discover Cody’s Rich Western Heritage & History
Cody’s soul resonates with cowboy lore. You’ll see it in the museums, old towns, and nightly rodeos. These historical hotspots let you step into the Old West and learn about the people who shaped it.
Buffalo Bill Center of the West
If you crave the top things to do in Cody WY, start here. This sprawling complex showcases five museums under one roof. The Buffalo Bill Museum reveals the life of William F. “Buffalo Bill” Cody—showman, scout, and visionary. You’ll see stage costumes, personal letters, and artifacts from his Wild West shows.
There’s also the Cody Firearms Museum, home to a massive collection of historic guns. The Draper Natural History Museum brings the Greater Yellowstone ecosystem to life. Kids adore the interactive exhibits in the Whitney Western Art Museum and the Plains Indian Museum.
- Approximate Cost: Adult tickets are around $23–$25. Youth discounts available.
- Tip: Your admission is valid for two consecutive days. Take your time exploring each museum wing.
Old Trail Town – A Step Back in Time
Old Trail Town transports you to the 19th century. This open-air museum is a recreated Western settlement. Stroll by historic cabins once used by outlaws and frontiersmen, including Butch Cassidy’s old haunts. Imagine ranchers and fur trappers gathering provisions before venturing deeper into the frontier.
Authentic wagons, pioneer items, and preserved cabins capture the spirit of early Wyoming life. Guides offer stories of lawmen, outlaws, and fearless explorers. Want to feel the grit of the Old West under your boots? This is the place.
- Approximate Cost: Tickets hover around $10 for adults.
- Tip: Arrive early to beat midday heat. Photographers love the golden morning light.
If you’re an outdoor enthusiast, exploring the top national parks in the U.S. should definitely be on your bucket list.
Cody Night Rodeo – The Rodeo Capital Experience
Cody stakes its claim as the “Rodeo Capital of the World.” The Cody Night Rodeo proves it. Running since 1938, this is the longest-running nightly rodeo in America. Cowboys and cowgirls from across the nation test their mettle in barrel racing, bronc riding, and bull riding.
It’s a family-friendly evening, complete with patriotic pageantry, hearty laughs, and funnel cakes. The announcers keep the crowd hyped, and local food vendors serve Western staples. If you’re listing things to do in Cody WY in summer, make sure this is top priority.
- Approximate Cost: Tickets cost around $25 for adults, $12 for kids.
- Tip: Bring a light jacket or blanket. High-desert nights get chilly, even in summer.
Outdoor Adventures & Scenic Wonders in Cody WY
Cody’s landscapes go beyond mythic desert plains. It’s a gateway to forests, gorges, and alpine routes. Each destination offers fresh air, stirring vistas, and a chance to encounter Wyoming’s wild side.
Shoshone National Forest – Gateway to Adventure
America’s first national forest sits right next to Cody. With over two million acres, Shoshone National Forest offers unmatched hiking, fishing, and camping. This vast wilderness extends through the Absaroka and Beartooth Ranges.
- Activities: Hike well-marked trails like Elk Fork or enjoy a leisurely picnic by a crystal-clear stream. Fly fishing is legendary here. Licenses start around $14 for a one-day resident pass, more for non-residents.
- Wildlife Encounters: Keep watch for elk, moose, and black bears. Store food carefully.
- Travel Tip: Check trail conditions. Snow can linger at higher elevations into early summer.
Bighorn Canyon National Recreation Area
High cliffs and a serpentine lake make Bighorn Canyon a photographer’s paradise. Many overlook it in favor of Yellowstone, but that’s a mistake. The canyon’s towering red walls, boat-friendly waters, and scenic trails offer a quiet alternative to busier parks.
- Activities: Explore by boat or kayak. Rentals hover around $100–$150 for a half-day motorboat. Prefer dry land? Hike trails to vantage points overlooking the canyon.
- Wildlife: Bighorn sheep scale steep cliff sides. You might spot them in early morning or late afternoon.
- Photography Tip: Late-day sunlight drenches the canyon walls in vivid colors, ideal for epic shots.
Beartooth Highway – One of America’s Best Drives
Named “the most beautiful drive in America” by many, Beartooth Highway is an unmissable route. It connects Cody to Yellowstone’s northeast entrance. Along the way, you’ll climb switchbacks, pass alpine lakes, and savor panoramic landscapes.
- Elevation & Sights: You’ll ascend to nearly 11,000 feet. Crisp mountain air and occasional snowmelt cascades are common.
- Seasonal Caution: Open typically late May through early October, weather permitting. Always check conditions before heading out.
- Adventure Options: Stop at scenic turnouts or lace up hiking boots for a quick summit. If you love high-altitude vistas, Beartooth is among the best things to do in Cody WY.
If you’re craving an island getaway, check out Cat Island, Bahamas, a tropical paradise known for its pristine beaches and crystal-clear waters.
Must-Visit Attractions & Hidden Gems in Cody WY
Cody has unique spots that go beyond typical tourist routes. Dive into World War II history, check out unusual museums, or hit the slopes in winter. These hidden gems enrich any itinerary.
Heart Mountain Interpretive Center – WWII History
Heart Mountain was once a Japanese American internment camp during World War II. Today, it’s an educational center reflecting on a dark chapter in U.S. history. Interactive exhibits share personal stories of families forced to live behind barbed wire.
- Exhibits & Tours: Life-sized dioramas and archived letters offer poignant insights. Admission is around $9 for adults.
- Reflective Experience: Spend time at the Memorial and interpretive trail. You’ll sense the resilience and heartbreak that shaped this site.
- Tip: Combine a visit with a drive to the nearby Buffalo Bill Dam for more local history.
For a more secluded island experience, Dauphin Island offers visitors a chance to enjoy quiet beaches and abundant wildlife.
Sleeping Giant Ski Area – A Winter Wonderland
Western Wyoming winters can be magical. Sleeping Giant Ski Area, near Yellowstone’s east gate, proves it. This family-friendly resort offers skiing and snowboarding without the mega-resort vibe.
- Slopes & Trails: Five lifts serve terrain for all levels. Day passes start around $45–$55. Rentals cost extra.
- Year-Round Fun: In summer, the area hosts ziplining and scenic chairlift rides. Keep an eye on local event listings for live music nights.
- Crowd Factor: It’s far less crowded than big-name resorts. You’ll have room to carve your tracks.
Cody Dug Up Gun Museum – Unique Firearms Collection
What’s more “Old West” than frontier firearms? This quirky museum displays weapons pulled from farms, fields, and battlefields. Each relic has a story, from rusted-out Civil War rifles to revolvers left behind in dusty barns.
- Admission: By donation (suggested $2–$5).
- Exhibit Variety: Swords, antique knives, and other relics line the walls. It’s a quick stop for Old West buffs.
- Location Tip: Situated downtown near shops and restaurants, making it an easy add-on.
Those who love coastal charm will find plenty to do in Nantucket, a stunning island getaway filled with picturesque landscapes and rich history.
Exciting Day Trips from Cody WY
Cody’s location provides easy access to iconic destinations. Yellowstone is the obvious choice, but you can also enjoy scenic getaways to Red Lodge or historical high mountain passes.
Yellowstone National Park – Just an Hour Away!
The National park Yellowstone hardly needs an introduction. From Cody, you can reach the park’s East Entrance in under 60 miles. Don’t miss Old Faithful’s eruption, the vibrant Grand Prismatic Spring, or the wildlife-rich Lamar Valley.
- Admission Fees: $35 per vehicle for a seven-day pass.
- Timing: Arrive early to skip lines at the entrance. Summer crowds can be intense.
- Seasonal Highlights: Spring welcomes bear sightings, while fall offers elk mating season. Winter tours are available but require special vehicles.
Red Lodge, Montana – A Charming Getaway
Red Lodge sits just north of Cody, nestled at the base of the Beartooth Mountains. It’s a quaint town where you can stroll Main Street, shop local boutiques, or sip craft beer in rustic pubs. In winter, the Red Lodge Mountain ski resort offers slopes for all levels.
- Summer Fun: Hike or bike scenic trails. Then grab lunch at a cozy café, spending around $10–$15 for a hearty meal.
- Driving Access: Via the Beartooth Highway, if open. Otherwise, take alternative routes.
- Local Events: Red Lodge hosts festivals, parades, and music events—especially in warmer months.
Dead Indian Pass – Stunning Views & History
Also known as part of the Chief Joseph Scenic Byway, Dead Indian Pass rises high above the valleys below. The viewpoint offers panoramic vistas and glimpses of the winding Clarks Fork River.
- Historical Significance: This pass references the Nez Perce tribe’s flight in 1877. Signs detail the tribe’s poignant story.
- Photography: Crisp mountain air often means clear skies. Early morning or late afternoon light is ideal for landscape shots.
- Road Conditions: It’s a well-maintained highway, but check for closures in winter.
Where to Eat & Stay in Cody WY
No trip is complete without good grub and a comfortable place to rest your boots. Luckily, Cody’s culinary scene and lodging options have expanded over the years. From budget motels to scenic ranches, you’ll find the right fit.
Best Restaurants in Cody WY for Local Flavor
If you’re seeking the delicious side of things to do in Cody WY, you won’t be disappointed. The town thrives on hearty, Western-style cooking, but there are also global flavors.
- Proud Cut Saloon: Known for steaks, burgers, and a friendly Old West vibe. Dinner costs range from $15–$30.
- Cody Steakhouse: High-quality cuts of beef, local bison, and fresh sides. Reservations recommended during peak tourist season.
- The Local: Creative American fare featuring fresh, local ingredients. Try their daily specials for around $20–$25.
Where to Stay – Top Hotels, Lodges & Ranches
From historic inns to ranch stays, Cody offers accommodations that suit every traveler’s taste. Many lodging places reflect the rustic Western theme.
- Luxury Hotels: The Chamberlin Inn combines modern comfort with vintage decor. Rooms often start around $200 per night in peak season.
- Mid-Range Options: Best Western Sunset Inn or Holiday Inn Cody. Expect $100–$150 per night.
- Budget Stays: Smaller motels can cost $60–$90 a night, especially off-season.
Unique Experiences – Glamping & Ranch Stays
Ever dreamt of sleeping under star-studded skies, but with a comfy bed nearby? Glamping sites in Cody deliver that. Imagine waking up to the sound of birds, then stepping onto a deck with panoramic mountain views.
- Dude Ranch Vacations: Some ranches offer horseback riding, chuckwagon dinners, and rodeo lessons. Packages can start around $250–$400 per person per day.
- Glamping Tents: Typically fitted with plush beds, small heaters, and private decks. Expect rates from $150–$300 nightly, depending on amenities.
- Book Early: These unique stays fill up fast in peak months (June–August).
Quick Summary of the Top Things to Do in Cody WY
Below is a handy reference table for your Cody plans. Feel free to take a screenshot for easy trip planning.
| Category | Top Attractions |
|---|---|
| History & Culture | Buffalo Bill Center, Old Trail Town, Cody Night Rodeo |
| Outdoor Adventures | Shoshone National Forest, Bighorn Canyon, Beartooth Highway |
| Hidden Gems | Heart Mountain, Cody Dug Up Gun Museum, Sleeping Giant Ski Area |
| Day Trips | Yellowstone, Red Lodge, Dead Indian Pass |
| Dining & Lodging | Cody Steakhouse, Glamping, Western Ranches |
FAQ: Everything You Need to Know About Cody WY
Is Cody, Wyoming worth visiting?
Absolutely. Cody offers a vibrant mix of history, adventure, and scenic wonders. It also serves as a convenient gateway to Yellowstone National Park.
Is Cody, Wyoming expensive?
Costs vary. You’ll find high-end lodges and big-ticket activities. Yet many outdoor gems are free or low-cost. Stick to a budget by cooking some meals and choosing affordable motels.
What is Cody Wyoming best known for?
Cody is famous for its Buffalo Bill heritage and nightly rodeos. It also boasts quick access to Yellowstone’s East Entrance, making it a prime base camp for nature lovers.
Why is Cody so popular?
Authentic Western charm draws visitors. Rodeo shows, historical sites, and mountain vistas define things to do in Cody WY. The friendly local vibe also keeps travelers returning year after year.
How many days should I spend in Cody WY?
Two to three days lets you see major museums, catch the rodeo, and venture into nearby wilds. For deeper exploration or day trips to Yellowstone, add an extra day or two.
Conclusion: Plan Your 2025 Cody WY Adventure!
Cody, Wyoming, brings the Old West roaring to life. You’ll find rodeo thrills, museum treasures, and mountain roads leading to endless adventures. Whether you’re eager for quiet nature retreats or lively main-street energy, you’ll uncover plenty of things to do in Cody WY.
Ready to book your trip? Start mapping out your stops now—Buffalo Bill Center, the night rodeo, and a quick trek into Yellowstone. If you’ve been to Cody or plan to go, share your thoughts below! Spread the word among friends looking for a true Western escape.
Official Resource & Practical Tips
- Official Tourism Site: Cody Yellowstone
- Budget Tip: Many local attractions offer combo passes or family deals.
- Weather: Summers can be hot and dry. Winters often bring snow and ice. Pack layers year-round.