Known locally as the ‘Rodeo Capital of the World, Cody, of Buffalo Bill fame, is located in northwest Wyoming near Yellowstone National Park. An authentic-looking cowboy town, Cody is very popular with those into the Western scene and is close to some awesome scenery.
Tourism is Cody’s biggest industry and the small town has numerous hotels, shops, restaurants and bars that cater to visitors. Many simply use the town as a launching point for the hugely popular Yellowstone Park, although Cody also has plenty of attractions of its own.
The town was originally founded by living legend William ‘Buffalo Bill’ Cody back in the late 19th century and today features a world class museum and plays host to many popular festivals and events. The Cody Old West Show & Auction is one of the biggest of events of the year with visitors coming from all over looking for Cowboy and Native American artifact and antiques. A wild-west shoot-out next to the Irma Hotel is another big draw.
Highlights
Buffalo Bill Historical Center: this center is home to no less than five museums, including the award winning Plains Indian Museum and the Whitney Gallery of Western Art.
Cody Stampede Rodeo: this is the biggest event of the summer in Cody and happens around the 4th of July, with cowboys from all over America competing in seven different events.
Cody Nite Rodeo: this popular two-month long event (June 1st to August 31st) features bull riding and steer wrestling every evening.
Dude Ranches: those into horseback riding can visit one of these many ranches in the Cody vicinity, including the K3 Guest Ranch.
Yellowstone National Park: the eastern entrance to this world famous park is less than an hour along Highway 14.