Cody
Planning Your Vacation to Cody, Wyoming
As the eastern gateway to Yellowstone National Park, Cody, Wyoming embodies the true spirit of the West. There is breathtaking scenery in every direction, offering a spectrum of opportunities. With the Beartooth Mountains and Sunlight Basin to the north, and the Absaroka Mountains and Wapiti Valley to the west and south, you can't go wrong by visiting the hip mountain town of Cody, Wyoming. more info
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The Buffalo Bill Historical Center in Cody, WY
Discover Where the West Begins. Located in historic Cody, WY, just an hour from the east entrance of Yellowstone. Art and History of the American West. Bring the kids.
(307) 587-4771
History
In the early days, the area of Cody was inhabited by Natives of the Absaroka tribe, or Crow Indians, as the white men referred to them.
Many fur trappers were attracted to the area, John Colter being one of them. Colter first came to Cody in 1807 and referred to the area as the land of the "Stinkingwater River," alluding to the geysers going off along the Shoshone River. In 1895, William F. "Buffalo Bill"
Cody, famous for his Wild West Show, and two of his partners, envisioned creating a town that would prosper through the combination of tourism and irrigated farming. Thus the town of Cody was established. Its name was chosen to attract tourists to the area.
Today, tourism and agriculture are still the main industries of Cody.
Attractions
Cody Nite Rodeo: The Cody Nite Rodeo has been around since 1938, and is the longest running rodeo in the United States. It is no wonder that Cody is referred to as the "Rodeo Capital of the World," by its Chamber of Commerce. The rodeo runs every night during the summers.
As you watch cowboys ride bucking broncos in the setting sun, you'll feel like you're on the Old Western Frontier. Other rodeo events include calf roping, steer and bull riding, barrel racing, and more.
Buffalo Bill Historical Center: This historical center is actually home to 4 different museums, all of which emphasize Western history. The Plains Indian Museum exhibits artifacts from Buffalo Bill's own private collection, as well as from Native Americans who performed in his show. There are also displays depicting everyday Native American life. The Cody Firearms Museum traces the history of weapons from the 16th century to the present. On display is an extensive collection of riffles and pistols. The other two museums, the Whitney Gallery of Western Art, and the Kriendler Gallery of Contemporary Art, exhibit paintings, sculptures, and prints from the past and the present. The Buffalo Bill Historical Center is open year-round.
Outdoor Sports: Cody is located at the transition point between the forests of the Beartooth Mountains and the Big Horn Basin, providing an excellent playground for all of your favorite outdoor activities from hunting to biking to camping. With the Shoshone River flowing right through town, Cody is an excellent area to fish and float down the river. The North Fork of the Shoshone River is a popular spot to catch trout. Beck Lake Park and Recreation Area also offers spectacular fishing, as well as hiking and biking opportunities. If you're after whitewater or just a mellow float, Shoshone Canyon and the North Fork of the Shoshone River provide fun for the thrill seeker as well as for the quiet sightseer. There are also many hiking options in Cody from taking a short walk through town or a long multi-day trip through and Shoshone National Forest.
Directions
Cody is located 52 miles from the east entrance of Yellowstone National Park on Hwy. 20. You can also get there through the Big Horn Mountains on Hwy. Alt. 14. The closest airport is Yellowstone Regional Airport.
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