I've rewritten my original article on Cody, WY since we've since taken another trip there, this time the three of us.
I originally visited Cody when I was in high school. We stayed at a wonderful place called Buffalo Bill Court - complete with chuckwagon dinners every night, a pool, a theater where melodramas were held and a replica of an old West boardwalk, complete with old time saloon. It was there I met my friend Kit. In talking we discovered we both had a lust for adventures and our afternoon meetings over sarsaparillas became a daily ritual.
Imagine my shock when I discovered my friend Kit was none other than Kit Carson Cody, the great grandson of Buffalo Bill Cody!
Buffalo Bill Court & Kit Carson Cody
I'd always vowed to return to Cody and look up Kit when I did, but life got in the way. In 2013, I was devastated to learn Kit and his younger brother had died when the plane Kit was piloting crashed in Florida.
My late husband and I did return to Cody after Kit's death. To my horror, Buffalo Bill Court had been bulldozed and turned into a big concrete parking lot. Even so, Cody was still beautiful to me.
Attractions America just named Cody #1 of the top 10 small towns to visit in Wyoming. It is most definitely that!
Jay had never been to Cody so we decided to spend a few days out there and take Ashley along, even if it wasn't her birthday. We enjoy her company and she learns a lot on these trips,
This time I/we stayed in one of Cody's newest RV parks, Buffalo Bluff RV Park: 137 Belfry Hwy, Cody. Great hosts, nice park, great amenities but only one thing I didn't like...it's like parking your RV in a concrete jungle parking lot. There's no trees for a bit of scenery or privacy, nothing. Just concrete pad after concrete pad lined up one after another. They would've done well to plant some trees between sites.
Huge pull-thru sites, free WiFi, full hook-ups, 50 amp power, online bookings, new shower suites, dog park, friendly western hospitality and clean grounds.
There are scads of different accommodations in and around Cody. Full list here. Click on VIEW ALL ACCOMMODATIONS on the right hand side of the page.
I highly recommend the Irma Hotel, built by Buffalo Bill and named after his daughter, Irma. It's the oldest hotel in Cody and Buffalo Bill himself had rooms there that can now be occupied by hotel guests. Unfortunately, you can't specifically select any of the historical rooms when booking. Why, I have no idea. But if you're interested, Buffalo Bill's suite of rooms is #12.
When you come to the hotel, be sure to see the cherrywood backbar in the restaurant. It was presented to Colonel Cody by Queen Victoria of England after a command performance he gave for her. It's absolutely gorgeous. The entire hotel is. Everyone from Colonel Cody, to princes and potentates, Indian chiefs and cowboys came to the Irma and it's easy to see why.
Another place I highly recommend is Bill Cody's Dude Ranch. This is where my hubby and I stayed on our trip to Cody.
All of the cabins are in beautiful settings and the interiors are really nice...and clean. VERY reasonably priced for the area! Oh...and a creek runs through the property. This is a dude ranch so there's horseback riding and many other ranch activities.
The trail rides up into the mountains were spectacular. During the trail ride you can see Buffalo Bill Reservoir and you have a meal on the trail, cooked over the fire with an overlook of Shoshone Natl. Forest.
The ranch also has an old West saloon and a dining room that serves breakfast and dinner. They'll even prepare a picnic basket for you if you want to eat out in nature.
They did offer all inclusive packages if you wanted meals included in your stay.
Our cabin at Buffalo Bill Dude Ranch
Discover the remarkable history of Cody during a narrated, downloadable walking tour of the town’s historic streets. Travel Storys created this free app in partnership with Cody Yellowstone and the Buffalo Bill Center of the West. You’ll discover why Cody has been named the Best Western Small Town in America and learn a lot of fun facts along the way.
While you’re at it, download the Travel Storys audio tour about the Road to Yellowstone — the Buffalo Bill Scenic Byway, from downtown Cody to the East entrance of Yellowstone National Park. This audio tour will accompany road-trippers on one of the most scenic drives in the West, offering history and interesting information about the region. It’s one of the most famously beautiful drives in Wyoming and was once called “the most scenic 50 miles in America” by legendary outdoorsman and President Teddy Roosevelt.
Ready to tour Cody? Saddle up, cowboys and cowgirls and let's hit the trail!
Day 1
Morning: Arrive in Cody and get settled into your accommodations. When you're settled in, take a walk or tour about Cody to get familiar with the town.
You can do a self-guided tour and walk the town,..or what I recommend is taking the Best of the West Cody Trolley Tour.
Cruise around town for 1 hour and see several key landmarks including the dam, Old Trail Town, the Cody Mural and Museum, and the rodeo.
Your guide will regale you with the history of the town including stories about Buffalo Bill, who founded Cody.
Best of Cody information book, free for each party on the Trolley Tour!
You must make prior reservations to riding the trolley but you can do that and not pay until later in order to remain flexible. Two trolley guides
will entertain you with stories, myths and legends about Buffalo Bill Cody, Annie Oakley, and the Wild West as you ride 22 miles and discover the many things to do while in the Cody, Wyoming area. The trolley is dog friendly, just let the trolley operators know you'll be bringing your pooch along.
Current trolley fares:
Adult $28
Youth $16
Seniors $26
NOW PAY ATTENTION HERE! When you book trolley reservations go here and pay the $3 extra for the gunfight reserved chair for yourself! Just trust me, I'll explain more later when we get to the gunfight.
Taking the trolley tour before you do a walking tour will give you a better idea of Cody's layout and what you might want to explore later.
Sheridan Street is the "main drag" in downtown Cody
While you're strolling around Cody here are the most popular stores to shop in:
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Yellowstone Gift Shop
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Cowtown Candy Company
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Wyoming Buffalo Company
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Loves Gifts & Other Things
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Pretty Buffalo Boutique
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Custom Cowboy Shop
Money $aving Tip: Use Valpak's free coupons to save money in local Cody businesses.
Afternoon: Stop by Annie's Soda Saloon if you want to take a lunch break while touring Cody and shopping
Formerly a jewelry and drug store, Annie’s Soda Saloon & Cafe has been serving up authentic old-school milkshakes, breakfast and lunch in downtown Cody, Wyoming since 2016. Grab a stool at the counter and transport yourself to the times of old drinking a Raspberry Rattler.
Monday through Saturday from 7am – 5pm. $
Visit the Buffalo Bill Center: 720 Sheridan Avenue, Cody.
The Wild West comes to life in the 5 museums of the Buffalo Bill Center - Native American culture, famous cowboys and cowgirls, western art and more. There's also hands-on experiences like a chuckwagon dinner, live birds of prey and behind-the-scenes tours.
Buffalo Bill Center is a Smithsonian Affiliate, located just 50 miles from the East Gate of Yellowstone.
A ticket is good for 2 days of viewing the museums and costs $23 for adults, $22 for seniors, $21 for students with a valid ID, $16 for kids 5-17 and kids under 5 get in free. Active U.S. Military also get in free. It was the best $23 I ever spent as there was so much to see and do.
Evening: Dinner at the Cody Steakhouse: 1367 Sheridan Avenue, Cody.
Photos credit: Cody Steakhouse
The Cody Steakhouse is one of the premier steakhouses in Cody, known for its contemporary and upscale twist to the classic steak dinner. It's one of the best restaurants in Cody. Prices on entrees range from $26.95 to $64.95 which is about what you'd expect to pay now days...but the food is expertly prepared so the price is worth it. And the appetizers and sides are what put this steak house over the top.
I love loaded baked potatoes and theirs are scrumptious.
Their ribeye is done to absolute mouthwatering perfection.
They serve chicken, pastas, seafood, sandwiches and of course, steak dinners.
Hours
Mon Closed
Tue 04:00 pm – 09:00 pm
Wed 04:00 pm – 09:00 pm
Thu 04:00 pm – 09:00 pm
Fri 04:00 pm – 10:00 pm
Sat 04:00 pm – 10:00 pm
Sun Closed
Money $aving Tip:
Cody Restaurants & Dinner Shows Discounts, Coupons, Promo Codes. Buy direct from official websites
Photo credit: Wild West Spectacular
Rocky Mountain Dance Theatre is proud to present their award winning, original "Wild West Spectacular the Musical" LIVE on stage! This historically based, comedic full-length production is offered on select days for 7 weeks during the summer at the historic downtown Cody Theatre, located on Sheridan Avenue in Cody.
You'll meet Annie Oakley, "Wild Bill" Hickok, Frank Butler, sharpshooters, saloon girls, and more as Buffalo Bill Cody’s dream of becoming the WORLD'S greatest showman to ever live, comes to life in this musical.
For an added unique experience, during intermission the audience can interact with cast members in character and belly up to the stage bar to buy a sarsaparilla or a beer.
This is around a 2 hour show with a 15 minute intermission. Real firearms are not used in this production so you can leave your Kevlar vest at home.
AND...if Cody Steakhouse was too rich for your blood, during the summer months you can order dinner from Clem's Canteen and it will be delivered to you during the first act.
Open every Wild West Spectacular Show day: 11:00 am - 9:30 pm in the lobby for dine in OR carry out.
They go on sale October 1st, 2025.
Day 2
Have breakfast at Our Place: 148 W Yellowstone Ave, Cody.
Just a quaint little place but with Grandma's home cooking. The walls are covered with patches and plaques from police, firefighters, military organizations and other service organizations thanking the restaurant for supporting them - which was pretty impressive.
Breakfast and lunch served and loved by locals and tourists alike.
Great friendly staff and service.
Pricing: $
After breakfast visit Buffalo Bill's Hunting Lodge. Pahaska Tepee is where Buffalo Bill Cody, AKA “The Colonel”, relaxed with friends like Teddy Roosevelt and the Prince of Monaco. Built in 1904, this hunting lodge sits just outside the East Gate of Yellowstone National Park. It was called “Pahaska” after the nickname given to him by the local Native Americans, meaning “long hair.” The rustic log lodge displays many gifts given to Cody by guests. A restaurant and gift shop are housed in an adjacent building.
Buffalo Bill’s original 1904 lodge is open for tours Memorial Day through Labor Day.
It offers a full service bar and restaurant, a large souvenir/gift shop, fuel, convenience store, and horseback riding (late May through mid-September).
Call (307) 272-3254 or (307) 527-7701 to reserve your ride.
TIP: Mention “Buffalo Bill” for a 10% discount on 1 or 2 hour rides when reserved in advance. Walk ups are welcome too.
First rides leave at 8am. Last ride leaves at 4pm.
Photo credit: New York Magazine
As long as you're in the area of Pahaska Teepee, go another 18 miles to visit Kerwin Ghost Town. Now, you'll need a rugged 4 wheel vehicle to get to Kerwin Ghost Town but Kerwin Ghost Town Offroad Adventures has you covered.
No Trailering. No Guides. No Extra Fees. All of their vehicles are Highway Licensed. YOU drive. YOUR pace. YOUR Time. From their Lot direct to Kirwin & Beyond.
You'll want to watch this video!
Then watch this video in FULL SCREEN so you have some idea of what kind of terrain you'd be driving..
PLEASE don't get it in your head you're going to attempt to drive the family car to Kerwin! That road on the video may look like it's smooth traveling? IT IS NOT, especially after a rain or snow. You'll be in the middle of nowhere, miles from anywhere by the time you reach Kerwin! And you won't get cell phone reception. Hire a specially equipped 5x5 vehicle from Kerwin Ghost Town Offroad Adventures to get you safely to Kerwin and back again! No one wants to be finding your corpse come spring thaw!
* Total Price = One 5x5, up to 6 people all day (9 hrs) for less than $60.00 per hour (less than $10 per person/per hr)
Rentals are per vehicle, not per person.
Take a hike. Cody and the surrounding areas have some beautiful hiking trails.
Photo credit: Cody Yellowstone
Exploring by foot is a fun, fascinating, and free way to discover the best of Cody. So strap on your walking shoes and hike Cody and some of the hundreds of hiking trails surrounding the town.
Here are some of the best hiking options:
Return to Cody in the evening if you're not hiking near Cody.
Evening: Have dinner at Cody Cattle Company. 1910 Demaris Dr, Cody.
The Cody Cattle Company is a dinner and show experience for all ages. They offer a nightly buffet with a great menu, followed by fabulous live music.
Doors open at 4:50pm and dinner begins at 5:30pm. The live music show starts at 6:30 pm.
The rodeo starts at 8 pm but more on that in just a minute.
The meal is a family style buffet consisting of Beef Brisket, Chicken, Pulled Pork, Potatoes, Baked Beans, Coleslaw, Macaroni and Cheese, Corn Bread, and Salad. Dessert: Freshly baked brownies and vanilla ice cream! (You can order one of their special flat iron steaks for $16 more) And yes, there is a bar.
Your best bet here is to book the Trifecta Ticket with Cody Cattle Company. That includes your dinner, the live music show and tickets to the Cody Rodeo - which is what I ended this day's itinerary with.
You'll have to check their reservations page for pricing as pricing varies by date. Make your reservations online prior to your visit to Cody.
After dinner and the show, walk 900 yards to the Rodeo Grounds for the Nightly Rodeo at 8 PM.
Cody is the rodeo capital of the world so it's only natural we end our night at the Cody Nite Rodeo.
The rodeo is held nightly during the summer months of June through August in Cody.
This action-packed event showcases the skill, bravery, and athleticism of both professional and amateur riders, as they compete in a variety of exciting rodeo events, including bull riding, barrel racing, and team roping.
- Gates Open: 7:00 p.m.
- Rodeo Begins: 8:00 p.m.
The 2025 rodeo season is finished but tickets for the 2026 season will be available for purchase beginning on March 2, 2026. The price of 2026 tickets has yet to be published but 2025 prices were:
$25 Adults | $12.50 (ages 7-12) | Free (Under 6)
After the rodeo, ride the Cody Rodeo Bus back,
just one block over.
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Day 3
Morning: Have breakfast at a Cody favorite, Hungry Bear Restaurant: 2706 Big Horn Ave, Cody.
Great food, huge portions and friendly staff. $
Wednesday: 7:00 AM - 10:00 AM
Thursday: 7:00 AM - 10:00 AM
Friday: 7:00 AM - 10:00 AM
Saturday: 7:00 AM - 10:00 AM
Sunday: Closed
Monday: Closed
Tuesday: 7:00 AM - 10:00 AM
Visit the Cody Heritage Museum at 1092 Sheridan Avenue, Cody: (Open during summers only)
Photo credit: Cody Heritage Museum
The Cody Heritage Museum focuses on local Cody history in these key areas:
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The founders
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Ranching & agricultural history, and early Cody businesses
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The tourist industry
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The oil, gas, and railroad industries
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Area cowboy history, including the Cody Stampede Rodeo
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Historic Cody families
Open Late May to September
Tue - Sat: 10am - 4pm
Sun: Noon - 4pm
Admission: Adults $2; Children $1; under 6 Free
Another interesting museum is the Cody Dug Up Gun Museum: 1020 12th, Street, Cody.
With over a thousand relic guns, weapons and accoutrements, the Cody Dug Up Gun Museum collection covers various and prominent time periods in history such as The Gold Rush Era, The US Civil War, The Old West & Indian Wars, World War I, The Roaring 20’s and World War II.
And ladies, even if you're not particularly interested in guns, it's the stories behind the finding of these guns that are interesting.
OPEN MAY – SEPTEMBER: 9 am – 9 pm – 7 days a week
Admission is by donation. There is no admission fee.
Afternoon: Have lunch at Pardners Cafe: 1500 Heart Mountain St Inside The Cody Library, Cody.
Delightful cafe offering delicious breakfast and lunch menu items.
Operated by adults with disabilities and their one-on-one mentors. Located inside the Cody Library, across from the Rec Center. This is a non-profit organization.
Breakfast items, paninis, salads, soup...it's all good food! Locals love it. Their salads are exceptional.
Hours |
Monday - Friday 9:00 AM - 1:30 PM
Visit Cody Firearms Experience: 142 W Yellowstone Ave, Cody.
Head over to the Cody Firearms Experience (Shoot a real Gatling Gun!) Their mission is to provide a quality environment that explains the historical significance and evolution of firearms in the old west that teaches firearms safety and use, and allows people to experience that history through the actual use of firearms.
But this is much more than just an indoor firing range. There's an indoor axe throwing range and a kids' arcade.
Shoot an 1862 Gatling Gun
There is no better way to unwind the History, Myth, and Power of the Gatling Gun than to turn the crank on one yourself.
Evening: You either want to have an early dinner or dinner after this next event which takes place at 6 pm in the street in front of the Irma Hotel. Remember that $3 you paid when buying your trolley ticket? This is where that $3 will pay off in that you'll have a reserved seat for this gunfight in the street!
Huge crowds show up for this show and without your $3 ticket you'd have to get there really early to get a good seat.
Performances run Monday through Saturday (no Sundayperformances) from June 4th through September 22nd right in the street in front of Buffalo Bill’s Historic Irma Hotel. Four different 30-minute shows are rotated throughout summer and they all end in a blaze of gunfire! Crowds often swell to 500+ to stand and view this each performance. The show is free and there is limited seating on picnic tables, curbs, and rock walls - available on a first come first served basis.
The show starts at 6:00, but you will want to be in your seat by 5:50 to not miss anything!
Cody Trolley Tours offers the most comfortable way to watch the nightly show. They offer RESERVED SEATING for just $3 per chair. They put your name on a folding chair so you can arrive a moment before the show and be assured a great seat! Half the rent-a-chair profits go to gunfighter charities. Reserve your gunfight chairs, call for reservations today at 307-527-7043, or go to the Cody Trolley Tours ticket booth on the porch of the Irma Hotel as soon as you arrive in Cody to ensure the best seats in the house.
Since we'd taken the trolley ride we took advantage of the reserved seating and boy, am I glad we did as this shoot out draws a big crowd. Was definitely worth the $3 and a great view of the show.
I'd suggest having dinner in the Irma Hotel since you'll be headed there anyway for the gunfight show.
Day 4
Morning: A favorite breakfast haunt among the locals is Beta Coffee House: 1450 Sheridan Ave, Cody,
For 20 years, The Beta has been a favorite hangout with fantastic coffee and teas, and homemade meals and treats.
You'll work off those breakfast sweets whitewater rafting the Shoshone River.
I have my friend Kit to thank for getting me hooked on whitewater rafting. I've rafted the Shoshone River twice now, the first time compliments of Kit's company, River Runners which he founded. My second whitewater rafting trip was through River Runners as well.
Whether you're a kid or an adult, you'll have a BLAST doing this! Relax, they're only Class III (Novice) rapids, you won't fall overboard and drown or anything. You will however get wet. Very wet. And you'll also get a good cardio workout paddling. Don't be worried if you can't swim, you won't need to and will be in a life vest the entire time you're on the water.
The Shoshone whitewater rafting trip typically lasts approximately 2 hours, including a 10-15 minute shuttle ride to the river and about 4.5 miles of rapids. The duration may vary based on water levels and conditions, but it generally includes a mix of Class III rapids and a scenic float.
Prices depend on which rafting package you choose. The most economical one is the Family Whitewater Adventure that lasts about 2 hours.
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Three departures daily, June 1st – August 31st
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Departure times are 9:30 a.m., 12:30 p.m.,and 3:30 p.m. Please arrive 1/2 hour early for check-in.
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Adults: $47
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Children 12 and under: $43
What's provided: Round trip transportation to and from the river, foul weather gear (rain jackets), and Coast Guard-approved life jackets – which must be worn at all times. Group and individual pick-up can be arranged.
These trips book up really, really fast so make online reservations as far in advance of your trip as you possibly can. 730 Yellowstone Ave in Cody.
Afternoon: After your whitewater rafting adventure, kick-back and relax in the inviting Trailhead Bar & Grill: 1326 Beck Avenue, Cody.
Take a step off Main Street and experience a mountain lodge feel with the burned wood detailing and a touch of urban with the exposed brick.
Enjoy wood fired pizza and fine dining with a seasonal changing menu currently featuring scratch made northern Italian cuisine. Relax with exquisite food and craft cocktails, and an extensive wine, whiskey, and scotch menu.
After lunch, visit Old Trail Town: 1831 Demaris Drive, Cody. I actually found Old Trail Town far more interesting than Yellowstone. This is an outdoor museum that's open seasonally.
Visit the grave of famed Jeremiah Johnson, see Butch Cassidy's Hole In The Wall Cabin, & more.
Old Trail Town is one of the most popular family friendly western destinations and is conveniently located just off US HWY 16-20-14 on your way to the East entrance of Yellowstone National Park.
On this site in 1895, western scout and showman, William F. (“Buffalo Bill”) Cody, laid out the original town site of Cody, Wyoming, which was named in his honor.
Old Trail Town is an outdoor museum full of authentic buildings from the 1890's.
Today Old Trail Town preserves the lifestyle and history of the Frontier West through a rare collection of authentic structures and furnishings. From remote locations in Wyoming and Montana these historic buildings were carefully disassembled, moved and reassembled here at Old Trail Town by Western historian Bob Edgar and friends.
Located here also are thousands of historic artifacts from the Old West and grave sites of several notable Western figures. Among them is the grave of mountain man John Johnston, who was portrayed by the actor Robert Redford in the 1972 motion picture “Jeremiah Johnson”.
Here too are original cabins used by Old West outlaws Butch Cassidy and the Sundance Kid and a Wyoming saloon frequented by Cassidy’s “Hole-in-the-Wall Gang”. Also on this site is the log cabin home of “Curley” a Crow Indian army scout who helped guide Lt Col. George A. Custer and the U.S. 7th Cavalry to the battle of the Little Big Horn in 1876. Old Trail Town exists today as a memorial to the uniquely American experience known throughout the world as “the Old West”.
Photo credit: Old Trail Town
Take a short drive (30 minutes) to the Meeteetse Museums: 1947 State Street, Meeteetse, Wyoming.
FREE admission to 3 museums in one - the Meeteetse Museum, the Belden Museum and the Bank Museum.
Photo credit: Meetseetse Museum
Meetseetse has its own fascinating historical story to tell and these three museums do it beautifully via their eye-catching exhibits.
Evening: Return to Cody and have dinner at 8th Street At the Ivy, known as "The Ivy" by the locals.
1800 8th Street, Cody
Located in historic Cody, Wyoming, 8th Street at the Ivy offers a welcoming, family-friendly dining experience with beautiful mountain views and a relaxed Western atmosphere. Set inside the Best Western Premier Ivy Inn & Suites, the restaurant features comforting American cuisine made with quality ingredients, local craft beers, and a carefully curated wine list to suit every taste.
Just three blocks from the world-class Buffalo Bill Center of the West and on the road to Yellowstone.
Their dinner menu offers a nice variety of choices and their food was delicious.
Service was excellent.
After dinner return to your accommodations and relax.
Day 5
Morning: Start your day off with breakfast at Rooster's Cafe: 1651 8th Street, Cody.
Photo credit: Rooster's Cafe
Specializing in all-day breakfasts from steaks, to chicken & biscuits, omelets, and fresh-baked cinnamon rolls.
Open 7am - 2pm every day.
Go horseback riding at Cedar Mountain Trail Rides: 10 Spirit Mountain Dr, Cody.
This was a fantastic 2 hour ride, although rocky and steep in places. But the views are spectacular.
However, for people with smaller children I'd recommend the 1 hour ride.
We didn't need reservations. Cash only. $50 each for 2 hour ride. Guides are paid by tips so tip them well!
Cedar Mountain Trail Rides offer one-hour to one-day rides and pack trips for fishing and wildlife photography.
No weight or age limit. FREE PONY Rides for kids 4 and under!
They are located one mile west of the rodeo grounds in Cody. Open May-September, prices vary depending on length of ride.
Afternoon: Take a leisurely drive north of town about 16 miles to the Chief Joseph Scenic Byway turnoff to the left. Once you reach the "T," turn right toward the famous Beartooth Highway. Enjoy the amazing views from 10,947 feet.
Photo credit: Enjoy Your Parks
The Chief Joseph Scenic Byway of Wyoming runs between Cody Wyoming and the Northeast Entrance to Yellowstone National Park, and is an incredibly scenic drive. Also known as the "Sunlight Basin Highway",
the 47 mile long Chief Joseph Scenic Byway is officially Wyoming Highway 296, and is an extremely popular scenic route for visitors coming from Cody Wyoming and heading for Yellowstone Park.
The Chief Joseph Scenic Byway crosses the Shoshone National Forest via the Clarks Fork Valley, and then connects with U.S. 212, which is the legendary Beartooth Scenic Byway. As you drive through the Clarks Fork Valley, the mighty Beartooth Mountains tower above you to the north, and the incredible Absaroka Mountains tower above you to the south. This entire area is in the heart of grizzly bear country, and runs along the North Absaroka Wilderness to the south and the Absaroka-Beartooth Wilderness further to the north. And through the Clarks Fork Valley, the gorgeous Clark's Fork of the Yellowstone River runs along the highway to further enhance the already spectacular scenery.
Along the Chief Joseph Scenic Byway will see a fair number of turnouts and pullouts that will provide you with fantastic views of the gorgeous scenery. You will also see some popular trail heads that take hikers into the back country of this incredible area.
The Clarks Fork Valley is so scenic that we highly recommend that you take your time and enjoy this Rocky Mountain paradise.
There are no admission fees to travel the Chief Joseph Scenic Highway.
Have a meal at Bogart's: 11 Broadway Ave S, Red Lodge, MT.
Bogart's has delicious Mexican fare, excellent service and cocktails that are both unique and phenomenal.
They have a little bit of everything, from tacos and burritos to pizza and burgers. If you can't decide what to have, try their Comical de Ruggie. A little bit of all the best things on the menu. Portions are huge, enough for two people really. $$ You can't go wrong for the price!
Optional for the afternoon: Drive to Thermopolis, 1 hour from Cody. Visit the Hot Springs State Park and soak in the mineral pools: 51 US-20 E, Thermopolis, WY
Soaking in the mineral hot pools is soooooo relaxing!
Over colorful terraces along the Big Horn River at Thermopolis flows water from mineral hot springs. More than 1.8 million gallons flow over the terrace every 24 hours at a constant temperature of 128 degrees Fahrenheit. The park has a free bath house where the water is maintained at 104 degrees for therapeutic bathing. Hot Springs has 6.2 miles of universally accessible trails and hiking trails. It is a full-service park with comfort stations, a volksmarch trail, fishing, and a boat ramp. One of the reservable group picnic shelters is located here. Hot Springs is a day-use park.
Non-Resident Fees
Day Use:
- Parks $12 per day, per vehicle
- Historic Sites $8 per day, per adult (kids are free)
If you don't want to drive to Thermopolis, it's your last day in Cody so wrap up any last minute things you want to do.
Day 6
Say goodbye to Cody and the Wild West and return home.
Decorations & Staging
What my Wild West party focal wall looked like:
With the exception of the photo backdrop saloon doorway, the hay bales and the cardboard horse standup, everything was staged with what I had on hand in my home.
OTHER WILD WEST DECOR:
Bandana banners are super easy and inexpensive to make.
Make your own cactus:
DIY Cardboard Barrel
Large events and parties during the American 1800’s were often decorated with a lot of red/white/blue ribbons and swags. Large bows were hung on lights/street lamps and hitching posts. These were especially prominent when politicians would come to speak before elections.
As an alternative to the above (and a little easier to get a hold of) try landing some wooden crates. If you don’t have to return them, paint things on them such as “TNT” or “Wells Fargo.” However, wooden crates are easy enough to make out of cardboard or even old pallets:
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Wood crates made out of cardboard
before painting
Make some gold nuggets – or mother lodes! Get your hand on some rough rocks (preferably not sedimentary or river rocks) and spray paint them gold. This also works for gravel. They look great strewn around a table for centerpieces (along with some metal pie tins), for games or for party favors. Have fun with them!
Woodworking is one of my hobbies (and therapy, it relaxes me!) so I set up a chuckwagon buffet for my party. There are scores of YouTube videos on how to do this. Basically you're building the wagon onto an oblong banquet table covered with a wood pattern tablecloth, setting a rectangular wood box on top of that and attaching the cover supports to the wood box. The cover is just a white bed sheet. The wheels are just corrugated cardboard and wood dowels. They don't support any weight (the table legs do that) they're just to make the wagon look realistic.
Assembled, 55 1/2" x 22 1/2" x 54"
If you don't want to be bothered with all of that, then Oriental Trading Company has a covered wagon table kit for $73.
It comes in 6 pieces so some assembly is required.
For place settings we used bandanas as place mats, pie tins for plates ($1.25 Dollar Store) and metal mugs.
6 for $12 Amazon.
For table centerpieces, I bought 2 cowboy boot vases for $14 each and filled them with wildflowers I picked around my house.
We seated everyone at 2 banquet tables I have. Simple and inexpensive.
Food/Menu
Cattle Drive Casserole
Recipe below
Dude Ranch Beans
Recipe below
Jiffy Mix Biscuits
Cowboy Salad
Horse Feed Snack Mix
Corn on the Cob
Moon pies & Rice Krispie bars
Cowboy Cupcakes
Shoot Out Cake
CATTLE DRIVE CASSEROLE
Serves 6
Preparation Time 40 min
Cooking Time 40 min
Ingredients
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2 pounds ground beef, cooked and drained
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1 (1.25-ounce) packet taco seasoning
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4 ounces sour cream
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4 ounces mayonnaise
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8 ounces Cheddar cheese, shredded and divided
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1/2 onion, diced
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2 cups Bisquick
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1 cup water
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2 tablespoons juice from jarred jalapeno peppers
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1 green bell pepper, chopped
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1 (4-ounce) can sliced jalapeno peppers
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1 (4-ounce) can whole black olives
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1 jar salsa (just enough to spread over the very top of the dish)
Instructions
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Preheat oven to 325 degrees F. Brown ground beef and add taco seasoning and water, according to packet instructions; set aside.
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In a separate bowl, combine sour cream, mayonnaise, 4 ounces of Cheddar cheese; set aside.
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Stir Bisquick, water, and jalapeño juice together to form a soft dough. Add more Bisquick if needed to achieve a dough consistency. Pat dough on the bottom and one-half-inch up the sides of an 9 x 13-inch greased casserole dish.
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Saute onions and bell peppers until slightly tender.
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On top of biscuit mix, evenly distribute ingredients in the following order: ground beef, bell pepper and onions, sour cream mixture, black olives, jalapeno peppers, salsa, and end with remaining shredded cheese.
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Bake for 30 to 40 minutes or until edges of dough are lightly browned.
DUDE RANCH BEANS
Serves 4
Preparation Time 10 min
Cooking Time 30 min
Ingredients
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2 (15-ounce) cans pork and beans in tomato sauce
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1 pound hot dogs
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1 onion, cut into eighths
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1 cup cherry tomatoes
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8 thick slices dill pickle
Instructions:
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Preheat the oven to 400°F. Coat an 8 x 8-inch baking dish with cooking spray.
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Pour the pork and beans into the baking dish.
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Cut each hot dog into 1-inch pieces slightly on the diagonal. Thread eight 6-inch wooden skewers with alternating items: hot dog, onion, tomato, and pickle.
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Lay the skewers over the beans in the baking dish and bake for 30 minutes. Serve.
Games/Activities
WILD WEST TREASURE HUNT
Although not always the easiest to design, having an ongoing activity like this can be the perfect additional to your western party. The trick is to not reward the first place team (that way, nobody is rushing and they can do it at their leisure) but rather instead offer a raffle at the end among all those teams who FINISHED the treasure hunt!
I've found that ongoing games and activities can often work out better for some crowds over activities where everyone HAS to stop what they are doing.
To download a collection of ready to go treasure hunt puzzles, click HERE.
For adults you can make the treasure hunt more challenging by putting the treasure in a DIY cardboard safe and give them a clue to discovering the combination to opening the safe.
For example: If the combination is 100, make your hint to open the
safe "What’s the number of yards in a football field??" Answer: 100
PLAY A GAME OF HORSESHOES
You can pick up an inexpensive horseshoe game
here from Grainger.
BOX MAZE GOLD MINE
This one takes a bit of time to set up as far as taping the boxes together but it keeps kids entertained for hours - even teens and college students!
Tape several cardboard boxes together in a creative way to form a maze, cutting openings in some to allow for crawling through them, and call it Prospector Pete’s Mine. This single activity will amuse most young children for hours on end. No kidding. For extra fun, make some of the walls with sliding doors, cut some windows, and make some dead ends.
A relay race can also be created as you hide different objects inside the short maze. Runners will have to enter and find the correct item before leaving. (Bringing back the wrong item will deduct points)
A variation of this for kids: It’s a printable PDF with a story set up to get the kids intrigued. “Some treasure hidden years ago by the notorious outlaw Blackjack Bill. Unfortunately, the map was torn apart by a desert storm. If the children can put the pieces back together, they will find the treasure!”
The pack also contains different versions of the hunt to suit any space, with ideas for treasure and tips and tricks to create an extra exciting search!
STRIKE IT RICH!
Ahead of time, spray paint many different sized rocks and gravel bits a shiny gold (make sure to use high gloss gold spray paint.) Then hide these rocks throughout a specified area, for your guests to find. The goal is NOT to find the most rocks, but rather the most gold. You see, instead of counting the rocks, have them weighed to determine the winner. This way, bigger lodes will be of more value than the little nuggets. You can offer your guests plastic cups to collect their nuggets throughout the party (making sure to write their names on them lest their claim gets jumped!
RENT A MECHANICAL BULL
This isn't an inexpensive activity by any stretch, prices usually around $900-$1000 + for 4 hour rental.
But I'll include it for anyone interested as it's usually a big hit with little ones and big ones.
Go online and search "Mechanical Bull Rentals" to find a rental place near you.
WILD WEST TRIVIA CONTEST
Brownielocks and The 3 Bears has come up with a really good Wild West set of trivia questions.
They aren't super easy so your quests will have to work at this trivia contest!
Print out the trivia questions on sheets for each guest.
Award a prize to the winner who gets the most correct answers.
TEST YOUR ROPING SKILLS
Building a roping dummy is so easy to do! I just used one of my sawhorses, cut a head out of plywood with a jigsaw, used 2 dowels for the horns and nailed the head to the sawhorse.
Provide a length of clothesline rope long enough to make a lasso. Have guests stand behind a line some feet away from the roping dummy and let them try to rope it, getting their lasso around the roping dummy's head.
For younger children, move the line they must stand behind closer to the roping dummy.
Note: When making the lasso portion of the rope, make sure it is a wide enough circle with some room to spare to get the lasso around the head and horns of the roping dummy.
HAVE A POKER GAME
Poker was the game of the Wild West.
For adults, have a poker game or tournament among your guests.