Wyoming has emerged as its own unique aesthetic, gaining considerable online attention lately. Perhaps it’s just my TikTok algorithm, but it seems like every other video is a cinematic montage set to John Denver songs, showcasing the state’s breathtaking landscapes and natural beauty. However, it’s more than just a social media trend—the nature of Wyoming exudes a dreamlike energy like no other and I had to see it for myself.

It was a no-brainer that Jackson Hole would be the primary reason for my visit to the state, but I also wanted to check out other cool towns Wyoming has to offer. Being from California and not knowing much about Wyoming, I wasn’t sure what else to see other than Grand Teton and Yellowstone National Park, which were part of the itinerary as well. Since my original plan was to travel through Wyoming on my way to Colorado, I mapped out a route that would take me through several towns across the state. That included the small, yet historically significant town of Cody, Wyoming. 

The way I became familiar with Cody, Wyoming was by simply using Google Maps to see what towns appeared on my route crossing the state. The word “Cody” caught my eye because I have a cousin named Cody and thought about the fun merch I could bring home for the family. However, I was in for a real surprise when I learned how cool this little town actually was.  

Getting to Cody from Jackson Hole, I took a nice scenic route through Grand Teton and Yellowstone where I stopped for a night in a forest cabin. The drive was absolutely breathtaking and because it was long and a bit windy, it became somewhat of a mission to travel through. I saw all kinds of beautiful scenic views of mountains, forest trees, rivers, geysers, and tons of bison. I was hoping to see more wildlife, like bears or wolves, but I didn’t have much time to go deep into the park seeking for it. What I did see on the drive through was stunning enough as I made multiple stops to sightsee. As amazingly beautiful as it was, my anxiety kicked in several times when I encountered narrow roads and a lightning storm coming in through dark hovering clouds. If you’ve been keeping up with my blogs, you are aware of my experiences with scary weather drives. On top of that, I had no reception for the entire 5-hour drive. But, hey, I made it through, and the overall scenic experience was worth it.  

Based on my research, I had a pretty solid idea of what to expect during my stay in Cody, but it turned out to exceed all my expectations. I booked a two-night stay in mid-September, and by the end of it, I found myself wishing I had planned for a longer visit. The hotel options were limited, but I made sure to stay at the nicest pet-friendly hotel in town, which was the Hampton Inn and Suites by Hilton. Let me just say, this newly renovated hotel was the cleanest I’ve ever experienced. Having stayed in some luxury accommodations, I can confidently say this hotel sets a new standard for impeccable cleanliness and exceptional hospitality. As a guest, I couldn’t have asked for more—it was flawless. 

It seemed the storm I encountered in Yellowstone decided to follow me as rain began pouring the moment I arrived in Cody that afternoon. After unloading my things, I was ready to eat a good meal, so I went to the famous Irma Hotel, which is a historical landmark in the town of Cody. I got myself a roast beef sandwich and an iced cold local beer as I people-watched all the older folks gathering for a dinner buffet. Yes, I was the youngest one there by 30+ years and I loved every bit of it. I often find myself in the company of an older crowd, likely because I’m drawn to places that naturally appeal to them. I’m like a 75-year-old in a 35-year-old body.  

So, what is so great about Cody, Wyoming? Well, the history of course! This was a region once populated by Native Americans, like the Shoshone and Crow tribes, in the Bighorn Basin area with restrictions preventing white settlement at the time. By 1868, these restrictions were lifted, drawing the attention of settlers to the area. Among those settlers was a man named William F. Cody, whom you may know as “Buffalo Bill”. Yes, the legendary Buffalo Bill himself—one of the most iconic figures of the Wild West. He, and several other men, began establishing the town of Cody in 1895 as they saw the potential for good farming, hunting, ranching, and within decent proximity to the east side of Yellowstone. Through his dedication and significant investments in developing the town, Buffalo Bill is widely recognized today as the founder of Cody, Wyoming. 

Being a history buff, it was amazing to see how well-preserved the town keeps the history alive. I dedicated an entire day taking in everything the town had to offer, beginning with a local trolley tour that turned out to be the highlight of my trip. The trolley started off at the Irma Hotel, which I had mentioned earlier. Buffalo Bill named this hotel after his youngest daughter Irma in 1902, and it was known to be a luxury hotel for its time. It was “just the sweetest hotel that ever was” according to Buffalo Bill. When he wasn’t on the road performing his iconic “Buffalo Bill’s Wild West Show”, the man himself would spend his time relaxing at the Irma Hotel. It became a stomping ground for the Cody community and was a big attraction for tourists. Fun fact: Queen Victoria of England gifted Buffalo Bill a cherrywood bar as a token of gratitude for his private Wild West show in London. Remarkably, this historic piece still stands today in the dining room. 

The hour-long trolley tour drove through all the landmarks of Cody, going in-depth of the town’s charm. The hosts of the trolley tour were a married couple with the man as the driver and the lady as the host. They shared all kinds of fun facts (and silly jokes) as we navigated through the town. These facts weren’t just about Buffalo Bill; they also highlighted other original settlers, showcasing the homes they lived in—many of which still stand today. We even drove along the beautiful Shoshone River that connects to the Buffalo Bill Dam. Apparently, Buffalo Bill wrote in his will to be buried on top of Cedar Mountain in Cody that stands along the Shoshone River, but he ended up being buried in Denver, Colorado where he had passed away. Legend has it that his body was switched with another body and stolen from the mortuary in Colorado to fulfill his wish to be buried in Cody. I would love to believe this is a true story.

Coming back into the town, I spent some time downtown shopping for souvenirs, checking out the local museum, and eating at the local Silver Dollar Bar, just before the 6:00pm gunfight at the Irma Hotel. I had been looking forward to this all day as it is one of the main attractions of the town. The street next to the Irma Hotel is blocked off daily to perform a Wild West gunfight skit. Seats are available to reserve for $3.00, or you can simply stand around or grab a table on the patio of the Irma Hotel. I got myself a seat right in front with all the action and thankfully took Ginger back to the hotel before the show knowing it would be too loud for her. And, was it LOUD! It was quite the entertainment and a must-see for tourists.

The town of Cody took me by surprise, and I wish I had more time to enjoy it longer. There was a lot more I wanted to do like check out more of the local bars and entertainment. There was also the Cody Stampede Rodeo that had just ended its season the week before my visit that would’ve been fun to catch. Overall, I hope the people of Cody who work to preserve the town’s timeless charm know just how much their efforts are cherished by visitors like me. I have a strong feeling that someday, I’ll find myself returning to Cody, Wyoming. If Buffalo Bill’s body can make it back, so can I.

XO, Tawnie