Staying Cool in Cody Yellowstone
It’s summer in Cody Yellowstone — the sun is shining, the days are warm, and there’s plenty to see & do in the great outdoors! But on those warmer days, sometimes all you really want to do is keep cool. And whether that means jumping in the water or jumping into the fascinating history of the West in an air-conditioned environment, we’ve got you covered! Here are a few of our favorite ways to keep cool on warm days in Cody Yellowstone.
Make a Splash on the Water
Here in Cody Yellowstone, there are plenty of ways to enjoy life on — and in — the water! Whether you enjoy paddle boarding, kayaking, river rafting, or simply floating, you’ll find plenty of opportunities to make a splash. Make your way to Gradiant Mountain Sports to rent kayaks, canoes, and paddle boards, as well as book a lesson to learn the basics. Or, head out on the adventure of a lifetime with former Wild Watch Ambassadors at Wyoming River Trips or Red Canyon River Trips. Both offer tour packages ranging from two hours to full-day excursions. And for family whitewater rafting, make your way to River Runners of Wyoming.
Prefer your time in the water to be a little more relaxing? Stop by the Paul Stock Aquatic and Recreation Center to take a dip in their leisure pool or unwind in the hot tub. Or, if you’re near Powell, visit the Powel Aquatic Center, where you’ll find a splash pad that’s great for the little ones, as well as a leisure pool with beach entry, a continuous river, an eight-lane lap pool, and more.
Learn Some Cool History at the Center of the West
Sure, Cody Yellowstone is known for its amazing outdoor recreation, but there’s plenty to do indoors as well. In fact, there might be no better place to explore indoors than at the Smithsonian Affiliated Buffalo Bill Center of the West! Home to five museums under one roof:
- Plains Indian Museum: This museum showcases the art, history, traditions, and contemporary lives of Plains Indian people and how they shaped the American West. Don’t miss the Adversity and Renewal gallery, which explores the past of the Plains people while also casting an eye toward the future.
- Whitney Western Art Museum: This museum features masterworks of Western American art, including famous pieces by artists like Remington, Russell, and Bierstadt. While you’re here, take a look out the picture window to see The Scout, a massive bronze sculpture of Buffalo Bill Cody on his steed outside the museum created by Gertrude Vanderbilt Whitney 100 years ago.
- Cody Firearms Museum: Home to the most comprehensive collection of American firearms in the world, this museum explores the people and culture of the American West through firearms. The Winchester Arms Collection is a highlight.
- Buffalo Bill Museum: This museum explores the life and adventures of Buffalo Bill Cody, who founded Cody and was known for the Buffalo Bill Wild West Show. See original treasures like Buffalo Bill’s saddles and buckskin jackets, or book an exclusive tour for an even more in-depth understanding of our town’s founder.
- Draper Natural History Museum: This innovative museum explores the Greater Yellowstone ecosystem, especially its wildlife, with family-friendly interactive exhibits. This museum is a perfect primer before heading off to explore Yellowstone National Park.
Learn more about the Buffalo Bill Center of the West here, and explore even more of the fascinating museums located in Cody Yellowstone, including By Western Hands, the Cody Dug Up Gun Museum, the Homesteader Museum, the Heart Mountain WWII Interpretive Center, and more.
Catch a Show and Cool Off
If you’re the type that loves a little entertainment on vacation, Cody Yellowstone has shows you’ll love! If you’re a history buff who enjoys tapping your toes while learning a thing or two, grab some tickets to the Buffalo Bill’s Wild West Spectacular: The Musical. This show, performed through August 10th at the historic Cody Theatre, follows the fascinating journey of Buffalo Bill Cody, the legendary showman who captured hearts worldwide with his Wild West extravaganza. Sing along to well-known tunes, meet iconic figures like Annie Oakley and “Wild Bill” Hickok, and witness the captivating story of a bygone era unfold on stage. Don’t miss your chance to be transported back in time – grab your tickets now!
Is dinner with a show more your style? Saddle up at the Cody Cattle Company for an unforgettable evening! This Western feast combines a delicious chuckwagon meal with toe-tapping live music by award-winning performers. Fill your plate with all your favorite Western fare, then sit back and enjoy a lively show. Best of all, you can customize your ticket to get the exact experience you want, including dinner and a show, just a show, or a special discounted ticket package for dinner, a show, and a night at the rodeo!
Sip Refreshing Drinks Around Town on the Sippin Trail
When you’re looking to cool down, nothing beats an ice-cold drink. And here in Cody Yellowstone, we’re making it easier than ever to explore and enjoy all the flavors of the West with our Sippin Trail Drink Pass. With this pass, you’ll embark on an adventure through our local restaurant and bar scene, including stops at the Chamberlin Inn, Cody Craft Brewing, Pat O’ Hara’s, Blanca Tatanka, WYOld West Taproom, and more, sampling exceptional brews, spirits, and cocktails along the way. Not only that, this free digital passport offers the chance to win free prizes.
Learn more about the Sippin Trail Drink Pass and get yours today!
Make Sure Your Cody Yellowstone Vacation’s a Cool One
Here in Cody Yellowstone, we even make planning your next great adventure cool and easy! Request your free Cody Yellowstone Adventure guide today and start exploring all the cool things you can do here in the Wild!