Overview
About Cody
Nestled in the shadows of the Absaroka Range, Cody embodies the rugged spirit of the American West. Founded by Colonel William F. “Buffalo Bill” Cody in 1896, the town serves as the eastern gateway to Yellowstone National Park, blending frontier history with modern adventure. Its streets echo with the legacy of rodeo — the nightly Cody Nite Rodeo is the longest-running outdoor rodeo in the world — while world-class museums like the Buffalo Bill Center of the West preserve the art, firearms, and natural history of the region. Wide-open skies, abundant wildlife, and a welcoming, unpretentious vibe make Cody a place where the myth of the West feels tangibly alive.
Logistics
Practical info
Getting there & around
A car is essential for exploring Cody and the surrounding wilderness. The town itself is walkable, but Yellowstone’s East Entrance lies 52 miles west via the spectacular Buffalo Bill Scenic Byway (US-14/16/20). Limited taxi and rideshare services operate locally; rental cars are available at Yellowstone Regional Airport (COD), 3 miles from downtown.
Food & drink
Cody’s dining scene leans hearty and authentic: think bison burgers, Wyoming beef steaks, and trout fresh from mountain streams. Historic spots like the Irma Hotel’s dining room serve classic Western fare amid 1900s charm, while newer craft breweries — such as Pat O’Hara Brewing Company — pour locally inspired ales. Don’t miss a huckleberry milkshake or a slice of chokecherry pie for a true taste of the Rockies.
Stay aware
Safety considerations
Wildlife encounters are common — maintain distance from bison, elk, and bears, especially near Yellowstone’s boundaries. Summer thunderstorms can bring lightning and flash floods in canyons; winter driving demands preparation for ice and blizzard conditions. Altitude (around 5,000 ft) may affect visitors unaccustomed to elevation; stay hydrated and pace activity.