Cody

About This Town

Cody sits at Yellowstone's doorstep with a Western frontier vibe and a working-town pace. About 9,800 residents call it home, swelling in summer as visitors flood in. The Buffalo Bill legacy and Western heritage shape the town, while downtown Cody remains walkable with shops and eateries; after hours it can quiet down outside peak season, with many spots closing by 9 PM. Yellowstone's East Entrance sits roughly 52 miles to the east, about an hour's drive depending on traffic. Essential services include Safeway for groceries; gas stations around town, with some brands running 24-hour service during peak season—verify your date. West Park Hospital handles local medical needs, and banks/ATMs are spread throughout the town. Cody Laundromat operates 24/7 with coin machines, WiFi, and vending; Yellowstone Laundry also runs 24/7 and offers wash-dry-fold options. Dining: kitchens commonly shut around 9 PM, especially in the off-season; check individual hours. The dining scene ranges from local diners to tourist spots, with higher prices at well-known places and solid value at neighborhood joints. The Irma Hotel is a local landmark with dining space. Late-night options are limited; IHOP sometimes runs 24/7, but most local venues close around 9–10 PM. Lodging and planning: Cody has a broad mix of hotels, motels, and B&Bs. Expect tighter availability and higher prices June–August; booking ahead is wise. Downtown Cody is best for walking to Buffalo Bill Center of the West, shops, and restaurants, while hotels along the main highway offer easier in-out access. In winter, the town stays open and hosts events like the Wyoming Ice Climbing Festival, keeping momentum even as some services scale back.

The Vibe

Cody is a working gateway town with a Western edge, not a resort. You need a car to reach the park; prices skew practical and value-driven. Stay downtown to save time and money; use it as a base for day trips.

Stock Up Here

Gas: Sinclair and Maverik are 24/7; Fill up in Cody before the park. Gear: Sunlight Sports, MTN GRL Wyoming; Outdoor Adventures Revived (used gear). Groceries: full-service in town. Souvenirs: Yellowstone Gift Shop Cody.

Late Night Intel

Most kitchens close by 9–9:30 PM; late-night options are limited. If you roll in late, Proud Cut Saloon or Annie's Soda Saloon are safer bets; breakfast spots open early around 5 AM.

Town at a Glance

Highlights

What Makes It Special

Rugged Western heritage meets reliable services before the park—gas, groceries, and lodging are all convenient for park access and events.

Seasonal Planning

Best Time to Visit

Shoulder seasons (April–May and September–October) are quieter; summer brings Cody Nite Rodeo, Stampede Rodeo, and events.