Where in the West Should I Go? • 52 Places to Visit in 2022
Whether you’re strolling the streets of Cody or perusing the five museums in town, the Wild West is proudly on full display.
Cody’s rich history dates back to the late 1800s when the town’s western theme was being established, thanks in part to the many efforts of legendary cowboy William F. “Buffalo Bill” Cody. The town has long been acknowledged as the “Rodeo Capital of the World.” Even today, the Cody Nite Rodeo continues that legacy.
The Cody story is encapsulated within the Buffalo Bill Center of the West. Featuring five museums under one roof, visitors can explore: The Buffalo Bill Museum, Plains Indian Museum, Cody Firearms Museum, Draper Natural History Museum and the Whitney Western Art Museum. The Center also includes the McCracken Research Library.
The Buffalo Bill Center sees 175,000 visitors annually, with 15% international visitors. It’s not that surprising considering 75% of all visitors are traveling to Yellowstone National Park, whose east entrance is just over 50 miles away.
With an elevation of more than 5,000 feet, Cody also offers numerous outdoor pursuits. From fly-fishing and golfing in the summer, to snowshoeing and skiing in the winter, outdoor enthusiasts can also enjoy hiking, horseback riding, kayaking, biking, ziplining and camping. Popular with RVers are the Ponderosa Campground and picturesque Buffalo Bluff RV Park.
In the heart of town, the historic Irma Hotel serves up a delicious prime rib. You can wash it down with a thirst-quenching Buffalo Bill beer.
Find more information at codyyellowstone.org.
–Rick Stedman
