Things To Do
in Cody
Cody is a charming town located in the state of Wyoming, USA. It is known for its close proximity to Yellowstone National Park, making it a popular destination for outdoor enthusiasts. The town has a rich history tied to Buffalo Bill Cody, with attractions such as the Buffalo Bill Center of the West showcasing this heritage.
Visitors can enjoy a range of outdoor activities, western culture experiences, and wildlife sightings in and around Cody.
Prices
- 🏠 Accommodation (per night): $100 - $200
- 🍽️ Meal at a Restaurant: $15 - $40
- ☕ Coffee: $3 - $5
- 🚌 Public transport ticket (single journey): $2 - $5
- 🛒 Grocery shopping (per week): $50 - $100
- 🏋️♂️ Gym Membership: $30 - $60
Day Trips
Spend a day exploring around
Start your day with a visit to Buffalo Bill Center of the West to learn about the history of the region. Enjoy a hearty breakfast at a local diner before heading out.
Explore the beautiful Shoshone National Forest and take a scenic hike along the trails. Pack a picnic lunch to enjoy amidst the stunning views.
Wind down with a stroll through the charming downtown of Cody. Enjoy dinner at a restaurant that specializes in local cuisine.
Begin your day with breakfast at a classic western café. Afterward, visit the Cody Dug Up Gun Museum to see an impressive collection of historical firearms.
Take a guided tour of the Old Trail Town to step back in time to the Old West. Grab lunch at a saloon-style restaurant for the full western experience.
Attend a live rodeo event at the Cody Stampede Rodeo for an authentic western evening. Enjoy dinner at a nearby steakhouse afterwards.
Strengths and Weaknesses
- Stunning natural scenery, including the nearby Yellowstone National Park and the Absaroka Mountains.
- Rich cultural history with attractions like the Buffalo Bill Center of the West.
- Outdoor recreational opportunities such as hiking, fishing, and skiing.
- A friendly small-town atmosphere with a tight-knit community.
- Access to various events and festivals that celebrate local culture and heritage.
- Limited job opportunities outside of tourism and agriculture.
- Harsh winters with heavy snowfall can make transportation challenging.
- Some amenities and services may be less accessible compared to larger cities.
- Higher cost of living relative to some nearby areas.
- Limited nightlife and entertainment options, which may not suit everyone's lifestyle.
Best Activities in Cody
Outdoor fun you shouldn't miss!
Explore the stunning landscapes, geothermal features, and diverse wildlife of Yellowstone, which is just a short drive from Cody.
An outdoor museum experience where you can learn about the Wild West and the legacy of Buffalo Bill Cody.
Experience authentic rodeo action during the summer months, showcasing cowboy culture and skills.
Engage in hiking, camping, and fishing in this beautiful national forest that offers numerous trailheads and scenic views.
Enjoy hiking, mountain biking, and wildlife viewing in the rugged terrains of the nearby Absaroka Mountains.
Kayak, fish, or simply relax along the serene channels of the Shoshone River that runs through Cody.
Take a scenic drive to learn about the history of Japanese-American internment during World War II, set against beautiful landscapes.
Visit this unique site where you can see real dinosaur fossils and enjoy breathtaking scenery and outdoor activities like rafting.
Tours
Uncover the best of Cody with these unforgettable tours.
Places to Visit in Cody
Visit one of these nice places.
This complex offers stunning views of the surrounding mountains and is a focal point for Western art and history photography.
Experience the excitement of a rodeo at night, with excellent photo opportunities of cowboys and the vibrant action against the backdrop of the setting sun.
Multiple hiking trails and viewpoints in the Cody Mountains provide breathtaking panoramic views of the Absaroka range and vast landscapes.
A great place for scenic photography featuring diverse wildlife and breathtaking natural scenery, especially during sunrise and sunset.
Located just outside of Cody, this historic lodge offers beautiful views of the mountains and is a picturesque spot for photography.
Just a short drive from Cody, the East Entrance of Yellowstone provides iconic landscapes and opportunities to capture dramatic natural features and wildlife.
Offers educational exhibits alongside stunning views of Heart Mountain, making it a meaningful and picturesque stop.
Food in Cody
Cody Famous Food
Signature dishes, delicacies and famous food
Sink your teeth into a juicy bison burger, a quintessential Western dish. The Local - a popular spot in town - serves up a mouthwatering bison burger that's a must-try.
Must-Try!
For the adventurous foodie, sampling Rocky Mountain Oysters is a unique local experience. The Proud Cut Saloon features this delicacy, which are actually fried bull testicles. It's an iconic dish that's not to be missed.
Treat yourself to the taste of the Rockies with huckleberry ice cream. This local specialty can be found at the Cody Creamery, and it's a refreshing way to indulge your sweet tooth.
Unique Experiences
Get to know Cody better with these unique experiences.
Food Markets
Explore local food markets
Experience the vibrant Cody Farmers Market, where you can explore local produce, artisanal foods, and handmade crafts. It's a fantastic place to sample and purchase fresh, seasonal goods from local vendors.
Every Friday during the summer, Cody hosts Food Truck Fridays, offering a diverse array of street food options. From gourmet tacos to unique fusion dishes, this event is a food lover's paradise.
Weather
How to Behave
Tips on cultural norms and respectful behavior
In Cody, it's important to respect people's personal space. People generally prefer to maintain a comfortable distance during conversations, so avoid standing too close unless you have established a close relationship.
A friendly smile and a simple greeting go a long way in Cody. Whether you're entering a business or interacting with locals, acknowledging others with a warm smile and a 'hello' is considered polite and welcoming.
Cody is situated near natural attractions, and outdoor activities are popular. When enjoying nature, be respectful of the environment by following Leave No Trace principles, and always be courteous to fellow outdoor enthusiasts.
Hidden Gems
Discover the hidden gems of Cody with these exclusive activities.
Safety
Tipping in Cody
Ensure a smooth experience
In Cody, Wyoming, tipping practices generally align with those found across the United States. It is customary to tip service workers such as waitstaff, bartenders, and hotel staff around 15-20% of the total bill. For taxi drivers and delivery personnel, a tip of around 10-15% is common. In more casual settings, such as coffee shops, rounding up the bill or leaving spare change is often appreciated.
Payment practices in Cody typically include a variety of methods. Most establishments accept credit and debit cards, making transactions convenient for locals and tourists alike. Cash is also widely accepted, though many businesses encourage card payments for ease. Mobile payment options like Apple Pay and Google Wallet are becoming increasingly popular in larger retail and dining establishments.
Top Things To Do
Engage in these activities to dive deeper into Cody.
Best Time to Visit
And what to expect in different seasons...
Spring (March to May) brings mild temperatures and blooming wildflowers. This season is ideal for outdoor activities such as hiking and visiting nearby national parks. Expect occasional rain and fluctuating weather, but it’s less crowded compared to summer.
Summer (June to August) is the peak tourist season in Cody, characterized by warm temperatures and numerous outdoor events. Expect long days filled with sunshine, making it perfect for exploring Yellowstone National Park and enjoying local festivals. However, it can get crowded, so booking accommodations in advance is advisable.
Fall (September to November) offers cooler temperatures and stunning foliage as the leaves change color. This is a great time for photography and enjoying the outdoor scenery in a quieter setting. Wildlife is also more active during this time as animals prepare for winter.
Winter (December to February) features cold temperatures and snowfall, creating a beautiful winter landscape. This is the season for skiing and snowboarding at nearby resorts. Expect fewer tourists, which can make for a peaceful and serene visit, but be prepared for cold conditions.
Cody at Night
Hiking in Cody
Immerse in an unforgettable hike.
A beautiful canyon with stunning views and various trails for different skill levels, ideal for a day of hiking.
Offers vast wilderness areas with numerous hiking trails, ranging from easier walks to challenging mountain hikes.
A scenic trail known for its wildflowers and panoramic views of the surrounding mountains.
A moderately strenuous hike that leads to breathtaking views of the Absaroka Range.
A trail that provides an excellent opportunity to see wildlife and enjoy views of the Bighorn Basin and surrounding mountains.
Unforgettable Journeys
Delve deeper into Cody through these rare and unique activities.
Aiports
How to reach Cody by plane.
The closest airport to Cody, serving domestic flights.
Approximately 100 miles northeast of Cody, it offers a range of domestic flights.
Located about 140 miles south of Cody, it serves both domestic and some seasonal international flights.
About 200 miles east of Cody, it offers various domestic services.
Located around 200 miles northwest of Cody with multiple domestic flight options.
Walkability
Demographics
Explore demographics in this area.
The predominant demographic group in Cody, comprising a significant majority of the population.
A growing demographic in Cody, represented by individuals of Hispanic or Latino descent.
Includes individuals who identify as Native American, who may have historical ties to the region.
A smaller demographic group within Cody, representing individuals of African descent.
This group includes individuals of Asian descent, though they represent a minor portion of the population.
Individuals identifying with two or more racial categories, reflecting the increasing diversity of the population.
The Soul of Cody
Discover the essence of Cody through these truly unique experiences.
Popular Sports
Explore popular sports in region.
Cody is known as the 'Rodeo Capital of the World' and hosts several rodeo events throughout the summer, showcasing traditional cowboy skills.
With access to rivers and lakes in the area, fishing is a popular pastime for both locals and visitors, with opportunities for fly fishing and deep-sea fishing.
Cody is a gateway to Yellowstone National Park, offering numerous hiking trails that range in difficulty and provide stunning views of the surrounding landscape.
The area surrounding Cody offers ample opportunities for hunting deer, elk, and other game, attracting outdoor enthusiasts during hunting season.
Cody features several mountain biking trails, making it a popular location for cyclists looking for adventure in the rugged terrain.
Traffic
Accomodations
Find the best place to stay when visiting Cody.
Dietary Restrictions
Tips for restricted diets.
Many eateries in Cody offer vegetarian and vegan menu items, with options ranging from fresh salads to creative plant-based entrees. Restaurants like Juniper also cater to these dietary preferences.
Visitors with gluten restrictions will find accommodating restaurants like Bob's Big Boy, which provides gluten-free menu choices and takes care to address any specific dietary concerns.
Cultural Immersions
Experience the heart and soul of Cody with these cultural adventures.