For anyone captivated by the legend of William F. “Buffalo Bill” Cody, his namesake town of Cody, Wyoming, is an essential pilgrimage. Nestled on the eastern edge of Yellowstone National Park, Cody offers an immersive journey into the life and times of the iconic showman, frontiersman, and town founder. Here are my top picks for Buffalo Bill attractions in Cody, Wyoming.
Buffalo Bill Attractions in Cody, Wyoming: The Buffalo Bill Center of the West: The Epicenter of His Legacy
The Buffalo Bill Center of the West is a sprawling complex is an absolute must-see for any Buffalo Bill enthusiast. It’s not just one museum, but five world-class museums under a single roof, all dedicated to the American West, with the Buffalo Bill Museum taking center stage. If that wasn’t enough, there’s an outdoor sculpture area and a small wildlife section.
Additionally, if you want to get the kiddos involved, each museum has a search and find with a small prize at the end for getting most of the objects found. I’m not going to lie, several of them were pretty tough to locate!
The Buffalo Bill Museum
This is where you’ll delve deep into Cody’s fascinating life story. From his early days as a Pony Express rider and Army scout to his global fame with the Wild West show, the museum chronicles his adventures and lasting impact. You’ll see original artifacts, including his saddles and famous buckskin jackets, and even encounter a life-sized hologram of the man himself. For an even more in-depth experience, consider booking an exclusive, private tour.
Cody Firearms Museum
Given Buffalo Bill’s history, it’s fitting that the Center also houses one of the world’s most comprehensive collections of American firearms. You’ll learn about the evolution of firearms and their role in shaping the American West.
Whitney Western Art Museum
Explore the West through the eyes of renowned artists, with paintings and sculptures depicting the landscapes and figures that defined the era.
Plains Indian Museum
Gain a deeper understanding of the diverse Native American cultures of the Plains, many of whom were integral to Buffalo Bill’s life and his Wild West show.
Draper Natural History Museum
While not directly about Buffalo Bill, this museum offers insights into the natural environment of the Greater Yellowstone region that Cody himself explored and admired.
Cody Trolley Tours: A Guided Journey Through History
For a comprehensive overview of Cody’s history and attractions, including many related to Buffalo Bill, consider taking a Cody Trolley Tour. The 60-minute, multi-media tour has fun, energetic guides who narrate the town’s history, spotlighting both Old West and “New West” attractions, often with historical photos and humorous anecdotes.
If I had my choice, this would be the first thing I’d do in Cody. It allowed me to get my bearings on the town and narrow down my must-sees.
Buffalo Bill Attractions in Cody, Wyoming: Buffalo Bill’s Irma Hotel: A Piece of Living History
Built by Buffalo Bill himself and named after his daughter, the Irma Hotel is more than just a place to stay; it’s a historical landmark. Even if you’re not staying there, you can step inside and you’ll feel transported back to the Old West. If you want to extend your time at the hotel, in QT’s Restaurant, you can grab a meal or a drink in the historic Bottom’s Up Lounge.
The ambiance, complete with its original cherrywood bar (a gift from Queen Victoria), is a palpable connection to Cody’s era. Don’t forget to take time to admire the grand architecture and historical details throughout the hotel, a testament to Buffalo Bill’s vision for his town.
Old Trail Town: Walk in the Footsteps of Outlaws and Pioneers
Located on the original site where Buffalo Bill laid out the town of Cody in 1895, Old Trail Town is an authentic collection of late-19th-century wooden buildings relocated from across Wyoming and Montana. With its historical buildings, you can wander through genuine frontier structures, including cabins used by famous outlaws like Butch Cassidy and the Sundance Kid (the “Hole in the Wall” cabin) and historic saloons.
It’s a tangible glimpse into the daily lives of those who populated the West during Cody’s time.
Buffalo Bill Dam & Visitor Center: An Engineering Marvel
Six miles west of Cody, the Buffalo Bill Dam is a remarkable feat of early 20th-century engineering. Completed in 1910, it was once the highest dam in the world. With jaw-droppingly gorgeous scenic views, you can actually walk across the top of the dam for to see the Shoshone River and the Buffalo Bill Reservoir.
Don’t forget to stop in the Visitor’s Center to learn about the dam’s construction, its historical significance, and how it helped transform the region through irrigation, a project Buffalo Bill himself championed.
Cody Nite Rodeo: The “Rodeo Capital of the World”
Cody proudly claims the title of “Rodeo Capital of the World,” and for good reason. The Cody Nite Rodeo has been performing nightly during the summer since 1919. It’s a chance to see authentic western action and experience the thrill of real cowboys and cowgirls competing in classic rodeo events like bronco riding, bull riding, and barrel racing. It truly embodies the spirit of the Wild West that Buffalo Bill popularized.
Buffalo Bill’s Original Hunting Lodge – Pahaska Tepee
Located about 48 miles west of Cody, near the East Gate of Yellowstone National Park, Pahaska Tepee was Buffalo Bill’s own hunting lodge, built in 1904. This beautiful two-story log lodge, now on the National Historic Register, offers a glimpse into Cody’s personal retreat and where he entertained guests like Teddy Roosevelt. You can tour the lodge and, for a truly immersive experience, even stay in one of the resort’s modern cabins.