Should You Visit Cody, Wyoming?

Is Cody, Wyoming worth visiting?

This town is a good place to visit for one to three days. During our first trip to Cody, Wyoming in 2017, we fell in love with its colorful personality and quirky shops. We've come back several times since then to experience it even more. Cody, Wyoming is a historical tourist town that's not far from Yellowstone National Park. It's named for Buffalo Bill and it has a historic downtown that is filled with shops and restaurants that highlight the area's Wild West past. There are museums and live reenactments that make the town a fun place to spend a day or two.

Cody, Wyoming

Reasons to Visit Cody, Wyoming

Museums
There are some interesting local museums around town. One of the most popular is the Buffalo Bill Center of the West. There are also several gun museums like the Cody Dug Up Gun Museum and the Cody Firearms Museum. For history, check out the Museum of the Plains Indian or the Cody Heritage Museum.

Shopping
You'll find quirky shops, local vendors, and sporting equipment stores around town. Whether you want to pick up a souvenir or browse the Wild West paraphernalia, shopping is a fun activity in town.

Food
Most of the restaurants offer a nod to the Wild West theme. There's a soda saloon, barbecue joints, and old fashioned saloons where you can grab a thick steak or fried green tomatoes. Many have fun decor and a family-friendly vibe that sets the atmosphere.

Nightlife
The nightlife scene, like everything else in town, stays true to the Wild West theme. You'll find cowboys and cowgirls on the dance floor and enjoy live music and cold drinks at the local bar.

Historical Sights
The historic downtown is small, just a few blocks along Sheridan Avenue, but it's filled with personality. The buildings have local character and highlight the town's past.

Hiking
It's not hard to get out of town and enjoy some hiking. Trails take you through the local landscapes and sometimes offer you the opportunity to see local wildlife.

Things to Consider Before Visiting Cody, Wyoming

Getting Around
The area is not very walkable, and public transit is not great here, so it might be difficult to get around without arranging your own transportation.

The Cost
Depending on your budget, schedule, and travel style, Cody, Wyoming might be an expensive destination for you. You can find out the travel costs for Cody, Wyoming here or see if Cody, Wyoming is expensive here.

Related

What is Cody, Wyoming most famous for?

Cody, Wyoming is most famous for it's Wild West atmosphere and its founder, Buffalo Bill. People visit this impressive town for its great museums and shopping. It is also known for its great food, nightlife, historical sights, and hiking. It is often described as historic, fascinating, and activity-filled.

What is the most famous sight in Cody, Wyoming?

The most popular sight in Cody, Wyoming is the Buffalo Bill Center of the West. You can see prices and costs for this and other sights in Cody, Wyoming on our travel costs page.

Or, see tickets, activities, and tours for the Buffalo Bill Center of the West and other attractions here.

How touristy is Cody, Wyoming? Is it a popular town to visit?

Cody, Wyoming is a popular town for tourists and travelers. Here are some of the most popular activities and tours. (Prices in US Dollars)

• Guided Upper Loop of Yellowstone Tour from Cody, WY: $269
• Yellowstone Lower Loop Guided Tour from Cody, Wyoming: $298
• Yellowstone Custom Wildlife and Nature Tour: $298
• Guided Lower Loop of Yellowstone Tour from Cody, WY: $269
• Red Canyon River Trip’s all inclusive Half Day Tour!: $85
• Cody Trolley Tours - Best of the West Trolley Tour: $34
• Red Canyon Wild Mustang Tour 5:00: $89
• All-Inclusive YNP Lower Loop Tour for 55+Seniors P/U in Cody Wy: $189

How long should I spend in Cody, Wyoming?

The ideal length of time for a trip to Cody, Wyoming is one to three days. Since Cody, Wyoming has activities such as museums and shopping, many visit for up to three days.

If you have a specific amount of time for your trip, see our advice about how much time to spend here: Should I spend 1, 2, or 3 days in Cody, Wyoming? and Should I spend 3, 4, or 5 days in Cody, Wyoming?.