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You have probably heard about Cody’s popular rodeo and guest ranches. But did you know you can shop at the best independently owned outdoors sports store in the country, sip an IPA at the first female-owned brewery in the state, and craft a traditional wooden spoon at a high-end gallery?
Read on for my recommendations for the top fun things to do in Cody Yellowstone.
1. Hike with Guides in Shoshone National Forest
If you are okay with striking off on your own, go for it.
But if you’re more comfortable hiking with a guide, like I am, you can sign up with Sunlight Trail Guides for a guided hike.
Our group drove about an hour from Cody to the Clocktower trailhead, which is about 6,000 feet in elevation in Shoshone National Forest. You will find just as many trails (and fewer people) outside Yellowstone National Park.
Best Tips & Tools to Plan Your Trip
Before we set off, guide Meredith Zajac shared guidelines, including information about bear safety.
“We most likely won’t see any bears today,” she said, “but it’s best to be prepared.”
Guides carried bear spray and know how to use it which are reasons enough for me to hike with a guide.
Zajac advised that we make noise and always stay together.
“And please don’t use the ‘B’ word,” she added, “unless you actually do see a bear.”
Guides Carry Bear Spray, and Ask, ‘Please Don’t Say the ‘B’ Word Unless You See One’
We hiked the moderate out-and-back trail, with plenty of breaks to photograph the glorious landscape and Indian paintbrush.
When we stopped to take a group photo, several of us handed our phones to guide Shad Lemert to take a photo.
“Okay, please bear with me, everyone,” he said, apologizing as he juggled our devices.
“Hey, Shad! Don’t say the ‘B’ word!” one person teased.
2. Shop at Sunlight Sports—Reason Enough to Visit Cody Yellowstone
Named National Retailer of the Year in 2018, Sunlight Sports is a destination in itself. Voted on by industry pros and brands such as Patagonia, the award recognizes the best independently owned outdoor retailer in the U.S.
But when I walked into Sunlight Sports on Cody’s Sheridan Avenue, what really impressed me was the inventory of gear and friendly staff.
The two-story paradise for outdoor gear geeks has racks and rows of tents, packs of every size, maps, hiking boots, and yes, bear spray.
And while you’re browsing, pick up a copy of “The Hidden Side of Yellowstone – a Hiker’s Guide to Cody & Yellowstone,” written by locals and the store’s crew. The book includes essential information like directions, where to park, and whether or not a trail is dog-friendly. It also includes fun morsels like instructions for campfire cocktails.
Owner Wes Allen is often in the store, helping customers find that perfect hoodie with SPF or answering questions about where to hike.
Allen humbly describes this award-winning utopia as “a mom-and-pop” retail store.
But it’s much more. Allen and his wife Melissa believe in giving back to the community.
The store’s mission statement on its website reads, in part, “We believe that a locally owned outdoor retailer should make a difference where we live.”
Since 2010, Sunlight Sports has contributed $600,000 to groups such as Park Country Youth Cycling, Science Kids, and more.
Mission accomplished.
3. Order Some Suds and Shop for Cowboy Boots at Irma Hotel
Buffalo Bill built the now-famous Irma Hotel in 1902, naming it after his daughter. Today, you can sit at the cherrywood bar (a gift to Buffalo Bill from Queen Victoria) and order a Snake River Pako’s IPA.
The Irma is also on the Sippin’Trail, a terrific way to experience Cody’s best breweries and restaurants and win prizes.
Download the Sippin’ Trail free app and get ready to grin.
Cowboy Boots Galore in Cody Yellowstone
The Buffalo Bill Wild West Emporium, next to the Irma, sells gorgeous hand-crafted cowboy boots, leather-fringed jackets, and jewelry. You won’t have trouble spending time or money in this beautifully appointed store. Tell owner Mike Darby I sent you!
You can also stay in Buffalo Bill’s private suite at the Irma or one of the 15 renovated rooms.
4. Take an Exclusive Tour at Buffalo Bill Center of the West
Buffalo Bill Center of the West houses five extraordinary museums and, in my opinion, rivals the Smithsonian.
I visited the center about a year ago, but on a recent trip, I joined an exclusive tour.
First, a museum expert presented to a small group of us in a classroom setting. She shared information about eagle feathers, customs during Buffalo Bill’s time, and Buffalo Bill’s life.
Following the interactive talk, she led us on a tour of the Plains Indian Museum and shared information about the exquisite artistry, artifacts, and displays.
I gained a much deeper understanding of the cultures and traditions of the Plains Indian people than I would have if I had explored the museum on my own.
You’ll want to schedule more than one day to take it all in. Fortunately, your ticket is good for two consecutive days.
5. Sit on a Live Bull at Cody Nite Rodeo
One of my favorite parts about the beloved Cody Nite Rodeo is everything that happens before the big event. Like sitting on top of a live bull.
I handed my phone to a friend to capture that Instagram shot and then waited in line to perch on Norman. When it was my turn, a 14-year-old cowboy politely offered his arm and helped me climb on the sizable (and squishy!) animal.
But what left a lasting impression happened as I was getting off the bull. The National Anthem began to filter through the speakers in the stadium behind us.
The young cowboy who was helping me removed his hat, put his hand over his heart, and stood respectfully.
Laughter and chatting faded; people around me stood quietly–some mouthing the familiar words–as a vocalist belted out “The Star-Spangled Banner.”
After the performance, the audience erupted in thunderous cheers. It was time to rodeo.
6. Craft a Traditional Wooden Spoon at By Western Hands Exhibit Hall & Gallery
By Western Hands Exhibit Hall & Gallery sells gorgeous, unique furniture and is also a place to learn new skills.
John Gallis, who leads workshops at the gallery, grew up in New York but moved to Cody decades ago.
Today, the award-winning woodworker has a successful business creating western furniture with his son Ian. He also finds time to share his skills.
Gallis is passionate about his work and is also a good storyteller.
“Every time I make a spoon, I think of my Mom,” he reminisced.
How sweet, I thought to myself.
“I remember her chasing me with it saying, ‘Wait ‘til your Dad gets home!’’’ he added, laughing.
Woodworker and Instructor John Gallis Shares His Exceptional Skills and Stories
Gallis said he has made about 100 wooden spoons in the last five years and enjoys giving them as gifts.
“Anything that is handmade is special,” he said. “And a wooden spoon is not going to wear out!”
I don’t consider myself a crafter, but after a while, I began to love the meditative motion of sanding as I smoothed the rough texture. The scent of fresh wood and sawdust took me back to my dad’s garage in western Kansas.
After an hour of sandpapering, I asked Gallis to check my work, bragging that the spoon felt silky smooth and refined.
“It’s going to slip right out of my hands!” he laughed approvingly.
I left with a sense of accomplishment and a new appreciation for the age-old tradition of woodcraft. I also left with an artistic object I created with my own hands: an elegant wooden spoon to use and treasure.
7. Sip a Cold One at Wyoming’s First All-Woman-Owned and Operated Brewery
USA Today named Cody for “Best Small Town Beer Scene” in the U.S.
Where better to confirm that stat than Pat’s Brew House, Wyoming’s first all-woman-owned and operated brewery?
My friends and I sat at a high-top table on the breezy patio, but the interior, with exposed brick walls and an expansive bar, looked equally inviting.
I asked our server to recommend an IPA, and he suggested the Juni Ripper, which has hints of juniper berry. Delicious. The menu offers fish and chips, chicken tacos, a Reuben, and classic burgers and fries. One person in our group who is vegan, dined at Pat’s later that evening and was pleased with the grain bowl.
Owner Norfleet Gifford bought the bar in 2021 and said her goal was “to create an atmosphere like the popular television series Cheers.”
The day we were at Pat’s, a regular dropped in with his dog simply to say hi, telling the bartender he would be back later for dinner.
People sitting at the bar shared laughs. My guess was that Pat’s was like a second home, similar to a British pub.
Since it was my first time at Pat’s, staff didn’t know my name. But they certainly greeted me with a warm welcome, like a regular.
In fact, every person I met in this town was friendly, just one more thing to love about Cody Yellowstone.
If You Go to Cody Yellowstone
Budget plenty of time in the area. Executive Director of Cody Yellowstone Ryan Hauck says the number one comment from travelers is, “We didn’t plan enough time here!”
Lodging
K3 Guest Ranch Bed and Breakfast, just outside of Cody, offers an exceptional Western experience and an affordable price, especially when you compare lodging prices inside the park. Holiday Inn Cody is ideally located if you prefer to stay downtown and walk to restaurants, shops, and brewpubs.
More Activities and Attractions
Cody Trolley Tour – You’ll hear juicy stories about where Buffalo Bill may or may not be buried.
Cody Cattle Company—Dinner is timed so you can attend the rodeo. Entertainment by Triple C Cowboy Band, with talented fiddle and guitar musicians, was better than any I heard in Nashville.
Wyoming Buffalo Company—Shop for souvenirs like beef jerky, cowboy-themed placemats, ornaments, and more.
Queen Bee Gardens – Stock up on all things honey-related
Trailhead Bar Grill Wood-Fired Pizza – Fun vibe and outstanding pizza, burgers, gluten-free, and vegetarian options
Cody Craft Brewing – Excellent craft beer and they play trivia on Tuesday nights
Mammoth Hot Springs Hotel – My favorite lodge in Yellowstone National Park and they do an exceptional job with sustainability.
Open Range Gallery—Great place to browse and buy beautiful images by local photographers. Make sure to check out the photo of a mama bear and her cubs by Mike Blissett.
Yellowstone Tours: Book with Alvin Heggie (Wrangler in Chief) who will organize a shuttle, including to Yellowstone National Park. Heggie is a great guide and storyteller.
Cody Yellowstone consists of the towns of Cody, Powell, and Meeteetse; the valley east of Yellowstone National Park, and an area inside the park. USA Today named Cody the Top Western Town in the U.S. and one of the Best Historic Towns.
For the most complete and up-to-date information about Cody Yellowstone, visit codyyellowstone.org
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Wow Sherry! Youโre living just the kind of life you wanted. Iโm so proud to have been able to know you. Youโve come a long way from the Denver Public Library. Keep on traveling!