Historic Downtown Cody

Sponsored by Buffalo Bill Center of the West

• Location: Wyoming
• Travel Type: Walking
• Trip Time: 45 minutes
• Language:

Colonel William F. "Buffalo Bill" Cody, the living legend who, at the age of 41, was one of the most famous men in the world, founded Cody, Wyoming, in 1896. Travel back to the frontier days on this walking tour of historic downtown Cody, Wyoming.

Have you've ever imagined what life was like in the American West when bison roamed the open plains and teepees dotted the landscape? Step into the Plains Indians Museum at the Buffalo Bill Center of the West and learn about the traditions, values, and cultures of the Plains Indians people. This is just one of five comprehensive and remarkable museums at The Center. Often referred to as the "Smithsonian of the West," home to the Buffalo Bill Museum, Draper Natural History Museum, and Cody Firearms Museum.

Given Cody's founders famous Wild West shows, it will come as no surprise that it is considered the "Rodeo Capital of the World." While passing by the Cody Stampede Rodeo Office, hear about the Cody Stampede’s almost 100-year history.

The nearby Chamberlin Inn had some famous guests in its day, like Ernest Hemingway. The J.H. Vogel Building, some say, has guests of a different sort: ghosts! The building is now home to The Cowboy Palace but once was a mortuary. Some say the ghosts of spirits that have passed still reside here.

Hear stories about the buildings that have changed and those that have stayed the same in the downtown. The Cody Trading Company long-predated Wal-Mart as the one-stop shop for all one’s shopping needs in this frontier town. Or the Cody Post Office that has the same façade and interior details from when it was built in 1927.

Of course, there will be stories about "Buffalo Bill," his career, and his family—especially his daughter Irma who is the namesake of the Irma Hotel.

With its close proximity to Yellowstone National Park, rich western heritage, and exciting attractions and outdoor activities, Cody welcomes hundreds of thousands of visitors each year. Get to know the town with this walking tour through its main sites.

Tour Sponsors

This tour was created in partnership with the Buffalo Bill Center of the West and the Park County Travel Council. It was made possible by the generosity of the Nielson Family. The tour is narrated by retired local radio broadcaster Mack Frost.

Find More Tours Near You

If you include a trip to Yellowstone National Park on this visit, you can enjoy multiple audio tour by TravelStorys including the Cody to Yellowstone Driving Tour. In addition, you can find other tours in Wyoming or wherever your travels may take you at TravelStorys.com. Every place has a story.