Cody
· US

Cody

Cody, Wyoming, United States

Cody, Wyoming, located in the scenic western United States, is a charming destination that offers a delightful mix of outdoor adventures, cultural experiences, and rich history. Named after the legendary showman Buffalo …

#Western town#Buffalo Bill Center#Yellowstone National Park gateway#Rodeo capital#Cowboy culture
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Top hotels & flights

Hand-picked stays and the best fares into Cody.

Top Hotels in Cody

Top Flights to Cody

Popular activities

Tours, tickets and experiences travelers book most in Cody.

Tours

Yellowstone National Park Exploration

Experience the natural beauty and geothermal features of Yellowstone National Park.

Buffalo Bill Center of the West

A complex of five museums on Western American history and culture.

Cody Trolley Tours

Guided trolley tours showcasing the history and highlights of Cody.

Shopping

Downtown Cody Shopping

Explore unique shops and boutiques in downtown Cody.

Outdoor

Shoshone River Rafting

Enjoy a thrilling rafting adventure on the Shoshone River.

Cody Nite Rodeo

Experience the excitement of rodeo events in an authentic setting.

Cody Gunfighters Show

A lively reenactment of Old West gunfights.

Location videos

Real reels from travelers, plus longer watches to get the full picture.

Watch & explore

Practical info

The essentials for planning your time in Cody.

Currency
$ | USD | US Dollar
Population
The approximate estimated total population of Cody, Wyoming is 10,000.
Languages
English, English
Average weather
Cody
Jan
snow
-1°-10°
Feb
cold
2°-8°
Mar
cold
7°-4°
Apr
cloud
13°0°
May
rain
18°4°
Jun
sun
24°9°
Jul
hot
29°13°
Aug
hot
28°12°
Sep
clear
22°7°
Oct
cloud
14°1°
Nov
cold
6°-5°
Dec
snow
0°-9°

Local guide

What travelers love, what to watch for, and a deeper read on Cody.

What people love

Cody, Wyoming, located near the eastern entrance of Yellowstone National Park, offers a variety of attractions and activities that make it a great destination for travelers. Some of the pros of traveling to Cody include:

  1. Proximity to Yellowstone National Park: Cody is a convenient base for exploring Yellowstone National Park, one of the most iconic national parks in the United States. Visitors can enjoy the park's geothermal features, wildlife viewing opportunities, and stunning natural landscapes.

  2. Buffalo Bill Center of the West: This world-class museum complex in Cody is dedicated to the life and times of William F. "Buffalo Bill" Cody, as well as the natural history and culture of the American West. It offers a fascinating look at the history of the region and is a must-visit for history buffs.

  3. Outdoor recreational opportunities: Cody is surrounded by beautiful natural scenery and offers a wide range of outdoor activities such as hiking, fishing, horseback riding, and wildlife watching. Visitors can explore the nearby Shoshone National Forest or take a scenic drive along the Chief Joseph Scenic Byway.

  4. Rodeo and western culture: Cody is known as the "Rodeo Capital of the World" and hosts nightly rodeo performances during the summer months. Visitors can experience the excitement of a traditional rodeo and get a taste of the region's rich western heritage.

  5. Authentic western charm: Cody has a unique western vibe with cowboy culture influences evident throughout the town. Visitors can explore western-themed shops, dine at cowboy-style restaurants, and attend live western music performances.

Overall, traveling to Cody offers a mix of natural beauty, cultural attractions, and outdoor adventures that make it a memorable destination for travelers seeking an authentic western experience.

What to know

Traveling to Cody, Wyoming, like any destination, has its potential downsides depending on individual preferences and circumstances. Here are some cons to consider:

  1. Limited Public Transportation: Cody is a relatively small town, and public transportation options are limited. Visitors might need to rent a car to explore the area and nearby attractions, which could be inconvenient for some travelers.

  2. Seasonal Weather Challenges: Cody experiences a wide range of weather conditions throughout the year. Winters can be harsh, with cold temperatures and snow, which might not be ideal for all travelers. Summer can bring high temperatures and occasional thunderstorms.

  3. Tourist Crowds: During the peak tourist season in the summer, Cody can become crowded, especially due to its proximity to Yellowstone National Park. This can lead to higher lodging prices and crowded attractions.

  4. Limited Nightlife and Entertainment: As a small town, Cody does not have a vibrant nightlife or a wide range of entertainment options compared to larger cities. Those looking for lively nightlife may find options limited.

  5. Remote Location: Cody's location can be both a draw and a drawback. While it offers beautiful natural scenery, its remote location means longer travel times if you're coming from a major city. The nearest major airport is in Billings, Montana, which is about 100 miles away.

  6. Limited Dining Options: Although Cody offers some good restaurants, the variety is not as extensive as in larger cities. Dining options might be limited, especially for those with specific dietary preferences or requirements.

  7. Accommodation Prices: During peak tourist season, accommodation prices can be high due to increased demand, and options may become limited if not booked in advance.

  8. Wildlife Hazards: Being close to natural areas, there's always a possibility of encountering wildlife, which can pose risks if proper precautions are not taken.

These considerations may not outweigh the benefits of visiting Cody, especially for those interested in outdoor activities and exploring the natural beauty of the region, but they are important for planning a well-rounded trip.

Cody, Wyoming, founded in 1896, is a city rich in history and closely associated with its namesake, the legendary Wild West figure, William Frederick “Buffalo Bill” Cody.

Founding and Early History: Buffalo Bill Cody played a pivotal role in the establishment of the city. He envisioned Cody as a gateway to Yellowstone National Park and a thriving community in the Bighorn Basin. His vision was realized through the Cody Canal, which was part of an ambitious irrigation project to transform the arid land into fertile farmland.

Notable Historical Figures:

  • Buffalo Bill Cody: A showman and entrepreneur, Cody was instrumental in popularizing the American West through his Wild West shows. His influence is evident in many aspects of the town’s history and culture.
  • George T. Beck: A partner of Buffalo Bill, Beck was integral to the development of the Cody Canal and the town’s early infrastructure.

Significant Events:

  • Completion of the Cody Canal (1904): This was a significant development in the area, allowing for agriculture and settlement.
  • Construction of the Buffalo Bill Dam (1910): At the time of completion, the dam was the tallest in the world, symbolizing the ambitious projects that characterized the early 20th-century development in the West.
  • Establishment of the Buffalo Bill Center of the West (1917): Originally known as the Buffalo Bill Memorial Association, this museum complex has grown to encompass five museums, focusing on the American West and natural history.

Important Landmarks:

  • Buffalo Bill Center of the West: This is a premier cultural institution that includes the Buffalo Bill Museum, the Plains Indian Museum, the Draper Natural History Museum, the Whitney Western Art Museum, and the Cody Firearms Museum.
  • Buffalo Bill Dam: An engineering marvel of its time, the dam is a National Civil Engineering Landmark and offers a visitor center with historical exhibits.
  • Old Trail Town: A collection of historic buildings and artifacts relocated to depict a frontier town. It includes the cabin used by the infamous outlaws Butch Cassidy and the Sundance Kid.

Cultural Significance: Cody hosts the Cody Stampede Rodeo, one of the longest-running and most famous rodeos in the country, which celebrates the town's rich cowboy culture.

Today, Cody remains an important cultural and historical site, attracting tourists interested in the legacy of the American West and the natural beauty of the nearby Yellowstone National Park.