The History and Top 25 Attractions of Cody, Wyoming

Located in the heart of northwest Wyoming, Cody is a town steeped in frontier legend, Western heritage, and stunning natural beauty. It was founded by one of America’s most iconic figures—William F. “Buffalo Bill” Cody—and remains one of the most authentic Western towns in the United States. Known as the “Rodeo Capital of the World,” Cody serves as a cultural gateway to Yellowstone National Park and offers visitors a rich blend of historical sites, outdoor recreation, and Old West charm.

History of Cody, Wyoming

The story of Cody begins with its founder, William F. “Buffalo Bill” Cody, who envisioned the town as a hub for tourism, ranching, and cultural celebration of the American West. Buffalo Bill was a legendary scout, buffalo hunter, and showman who gained international fame through his Wild West shows, which showcased cowboy skills, Native American culture, and reenactments of frontier life.

 

In the mid-1890s, Cody and a group of investors founded the Shoshone Land and Irrigation Company to develop the Bighorn Basin, and in 1896, the town of Cody was officially established near the Shoshone River. Buffalo Bill was instrumental in promoting the area and bringing rail access via the Chicago, Burlington and Quincy Railroad by 1901. He also helped construct the Irma Hotel—named after his daughter—which still stands today as a centerpiece of downtown Cody.

As part of his vision to transform Cody into a destination town, Buffalo Bill advocated for conservation and lobbied for road access to nearby Yellowstone National Park. The opening of the Buffalo Bill Scenic Byway provided a dramatic route into the park’s eastern entrance and solidified Cody as a natural stopover for Yellowstone-bound travelers.

Cody thrived in the early 20th century with cattle ranching, tourism, and oil exploration. The creation of the Buffalo Bill Dam in 1910—the highest dam in the world at the time—boosted agriculture through irrigation and remains an engineering marvel. Through the decades, Cody has remained fiercely committed to preserving its Western identity, fostering rodeo culture, and honoring the legacy of its namesake.

Today, Cody is a vibrant town that blends historical authenticity with modern attractions. It offers museums, performances, scenic byways, and access to some of the most pristine wilderness in the American West.

 

Top 25 Attractions in Cody, Wyoming

1. Buffalo Bill Center of the West – A world-class complex of five museums in one, including the Buffalo Bill Museum, Plains Indian Museum, Whitney Western Art Museum, Draper Natural History Museum, and Cody Firearms Museum.

2. Old Trail Town – A preserved and reconstructed frontier town featuring authentic buildings from the 19th century, including Butch Cassidy’s Hole-in-the-Wall cabin.

3. Cody Nite Rodeo – Held nightly during the summer, this professional rodeo has been a tradition since 1938 and showcases authentic Western competition.

4. Buffalo Bill Dam and Visitor Center – An early 20th-century engineering marvel offering sweeping views of the Shoshone River Canyon and educational exhibits.

5. Cody Trolley Tours – A one-hour narrated tour of Cody’s historical sites, offering a fun and informative overview of the town’s past and personalities.

6. The Irma Hotel – Built by Buffalo Bill himself in 1902, this historic hotel and restaurant retains its Old West ambiance and features a daily gunfight reenactment.

7. Heart Mountain Interpretive Center – A moving museum on the site of a former Japanese American internment camp from World War II, offering exhibits on civil liberties and resilience.

8. Cody Dug Up Gun Museum – An eclectic and fascinating collection of antique and battlefield-recovered firearms spanning multiple centuries.

9. Cody Firearms Experience – A hands-on museum and shooting range where visitors can learn about and try historic weapons under expert supervision.

10. Beck Lake Park – A scenic park perfect for picnicking, kayaking, fishing, and birdwatching, with mountain views and ample walking trails.

11. By Western Hands Museum & Gallery – A showcase of master-level craftsmanship in Western furniture, art, and design.

12. Cody Heritage Museum – Located in the old DeMaris House, it presents Cody’s development through personal stories, artifacts, and interactive exhibits.

13. Shoshone River Walkway – A peaceful trail that follows the river through town, offering scenic views, picnic spots, and access to fishing and wildlife.

14. The Cody Cattle Company – A dinner and music show experience featuring Western food and live cowboy performances.

15. Red Canyon Wild Mustang Tours – Guided tours to view wild mustangs in their natural Bighorn Basin habitat, just outside of Cody.

16. Buffalo Bill Scenic Byway – A stunning drive west toward Yellowstone, passing through canyons, rivers, and prime wildlife viewing areas.

17. The Mountain View Drive – A lesser-known but scenic road offering panoramic views of Cody, the Absaroka Mountains, and expansive Wyoming terrain.

18. Sleeping Giant Ski Area – Just east of Yellowstone, this family-friendly ski resort is a winter destination for locals and visitors alike.

19. Dead Indian Summit Overlook – An awe-inspiring vista along Chief Joseph Scenic Highway with sweeping views of the Absaroka Mountains.

20. Sunlight Basin – A remote wilderness area northwest of Cody known for hiking, wildlife, waterfalls, and rugged beauty.

21. Yellowstone East Entrance – Located about 50 miles from town, this gateway to Yellowstone passes through dramatic landscapes filled with wildlife and geothermal wonders.

22. Pahaska Tepee – Buffalo Bill’s original hunting lodge near Yellowstone, now a historic site and inn surrounded by national forest.

23. Big Horn Galleries – An art gallery specializing in Western and wildlife art, featuring works by local and nationally known artists.

24. Teton Leather & Gifts – A local institution offering custom leather goods, Western apparel, and Wyoming-made crafts.

25. Cody Stampede Parade and 4th of July Events – A multi-day summer celebration including parades, fireworks, rodeos, and festivals honoring Cody’s frontier spirit.

Cody, Wyoming, is far more than just a stopover on the way to Yellowstone—it is a living museum of the American West. From its founding by Buffalo Bill to its commitment to preserving history and culture, Cody offers a truly immersive experience in one of the last great Western towns. Whether you’re riding with cowboys, walking through history, or gazing at mountain vistas, Cody delivers adventure with authenticity.