Things To Do
in Cody
Cody, Wyoming sits on the eastern edge of the Absaroka Range, serving as a frontier-town gateway to Yellowstone National Park. Founded as a rugged outpost in the late 19th century, it preserves Old West charm amid rugged scenery. Today it’s a year‑round base for travelers seeking canyon vistas, river adventures, and western heritage.
Beyond the souvenir shops, Cody offers ranch cuisine, rodeo nights, and easy access to iconic landscapes.
Day Trips
Spend a day exploring around
Arrive in Cody and settle into your accommodation. Take some time to freshen up and get ready to explore the town. Enjoy a leisurely breakfast at a local café, sampling some of the area's famous huckleberry pancakes.
After breakfast, visit the Buffalo Bill Center of the West to delve into the rich history of the American West. Explore the museum's five distinct sections, each dedicated to different aspects of Western culture and wildlife. Don't forget to check out the impressive art galleries featuring works from renowned Western artists.
Enjoy dinner at a local steakhouse, savoring the flavors of Wyoming's famed beef. Post-dinner, take a stroll down Cody's historic main street, where you can browse local shops and enjoy the charming atmosphere. Cap off the night with a nearby performance at the Cody Nite Rodeo, experiencing the thrill of rodeo culture.
Set off early for a day trip to Yellowstone National Park, just a short drive from Cody. Prepare for stunning views of geysers, hot springs, and the chance to spot wildlife in their natural habitat. Have breakfast on the road or pack a picnic to enjoy amidst the stunning scenery.
Spend your afternoon exploring the park's iconic features, such as Old Faithful and the Grand Prismatic Spring. Take in the breathtaking landscapes and, if you're lucky, encounter bison or elk along the way. Don't forget to take photos to capture the beauty of this unique national treasure.
Begin the drive back to Cody, reflecting on the incredible sights you've seen. Once back in town, enjoy a hearty meal at a local tavern, where you can share stories and experiences from your adventure. Embark on an early night to rest up for another day of exploration.
Prices
| Item | Price |
|---|---|
| 🍔Meal at inexpensive restaurant | $12-18 |
| 🏨One night in mid-range hotel | $120-180 |
| ☕Coffee at cafe | $3-5 |
| 🚗Gasoline per gallon | $3-4 |
| 🛒Groceries for a week | $60-120 |
Strengths and Weaknesses
- Accessible gateway to Yellowstone and the Big Horn Basin
- Rich Western heritage and family-friendly rodeo culture
- Compact town with walkable downtown and genuine local charm
- Strong selection of museums, outdoor activities, and scenic overlooks
- Limited nightlife and high-end dining compared to bigger cities
- Seasonal tourist rhythm means some services are reduced outside summer
- Weather can change quickly; winter driving requires preparation
Places to Visit in Cody
Visit one of these nice places.
Architectural lines, sculpture gardens, and museum plazas provide clean backdrops for both wide landscapes and detail shots.
Historic storefronts, neon signs, and wooden sidewalks glow during sunrise and sunset; ideal for vintage-style photography.
Iconic exterior with retro signage; captures the Old West spirit and lively street scenes.
Water reflections, cliffs, and river traffic offer tranquil nature compositions just a short drive from downtown.
Food in Cody
Cody Famous Food
Signature dishes, delicacies and famous food
A Wyoming staple, widely available at historic eateries and local steakhouses; pair with a craft beer or local fry bread.
Must-Try!
A comforting, hearty option often featured on pub menus and seasonal specials.
Tall, flavorful cuts served in traditional Western dining rooms.
A sweet finish highlighting a northern Rocky Mountain berry, frequently found in local bakeries and diners.
A lean, gamey alternative to beef, popular on Main Street at casual spots.
Food Markets
Explore local food markets
Seasonal market featuring local produce, prepared foods, and crafts; great for fresh ingredients and street-style bites in summer.
Weekend pop-ups and rotating trucks near downtown venues offering quick, tasty options.
Weather
How to Behave
Tips on cultural norms and respectful behavior
A firm handshake and straightforward conversation are common. Polite, friendly small talk is appreciated in shops and restaurants.
Casual Western wear is common, especially in dining rooms; respect local ranching and rodeo culture, and avoid inappropriate noise in quiet venues.
Maintain a respectful distance from wildlife; follow posted signs and local regulations when in or near public lands.
Safety
Tipping in Cody
Ensure a smooth experience
In restaurants, tip 15–20% of the pre-tax bill; consider 20% for good service. For bars, $1–2 per drink or 15–20% of the tab; for small gratuities at cafes, a few dollars in person is appreciated.
Credit and debit cards are widely accepted; cash is handy for small purchases and markets. ATMs are available in town, but keep some cash for smaller venues that don’t take cards.
Best Time to Visit
And what to expect in different seasons...
Mild days with cool nights; mountain trails may be muddy early in the season. Bring layers and be prepared for sudden weather changes.
Warm temperatures with long days; outdoor activities peak. Expect rodeo evenings and more local events; stay hydrated and use sun protection.
Crips and colorful—great for photography and hiking. Some services scale back after peak tourist months.
Cold, dry conditions with possible snowfall; activities shift to indoor museums, cozy dining, and winter sports nearby. Pack warm, waterproof gear.
Cody at Night
Hiking in Cody
Immerse in an unforgettable hike.
Scenic peak near Cody with moderate hikes and panoramic views of valleys and mountains; suitable for day trips.
A network of forest trails surrounding Cody offering forest canopies, meadows, and river access.
More challenging backcountry hikes with striking alpine scenery and wildlife opportunities; accessible from local trailheads.
Airports
How to reach Cody by plane.
Small regional airport with flights to Denver and Salt Lake City; convenient first touchpoint for Cody access.
Major regional hub about 150 miles away; many domestic connections and longer-range options.
Larger mountain gateway airport about 180–250 miles away, depending on route; typically used for longer trips into the Greater Yellowstone Region.
Walkability
Demographics
Explore demographics in this area.
A mix of long-time ranching families, retirees, seasonal workers, and families attracted to outdoor recreation.
Travelers from across the U.S. and abroad seeking Yellowstone access and Western heritage experiences.
Popular Sports
Explore popular sports in region.
A cornerstone of Cody’s culture, especially during summer events and night rodeos.
Popular year-round activities in surrounding rivers, lakes, and public lands.
Access to Absaroka Mountains and Shoshone National Forest supports a variety of trail-based sports.
Traffic
Accomodations
Find the best place to stay when visiting Cody.
Dietary Restrictions
Tips for restricted diets.
Many Cody restaurants offer non-meat mains, salads, pasta, and veggie sides. When ordering, ask for vegetable-forward dishes or swap proteins; many places can accommodate dairy-free requests with advance notice.