Things To Do With Kids in Cody, WY

Wyoming River Trips offers the perfect introduction to river rafting for families, with guided float trips down calm, scenic stretches of water near Yellowstone's east entrance. With an impressive 4.9/5 rating from over 300 reviews, their experienced guides make even first-time paddlers feel confident while enjoying the stunning Cody wilderness and potential wildlife sightings along the riverbanks.

The Buffalo Bill Center of the West is an incredible complex housing five world-class museums under one roof, making it perfect for families who want variety without the hassle of multiple stops. Kids can explore authentic Wild West artifacts, marvel at stunning Native American beadwork and regalia, get up close with taxidermied wildlife in natural history dioramas, and learn about firearms history through interactive displays that bring the Old West to life.

The Heart Mountain Interpretive Center offers families a powerful educational experience about Japanese American internment during World War II. Through age-appropriate exhibits, walking trails to historic barracks foundations, and engaging programs, kids can learn about courage, justice, and civil rights in an accessible and meaningful way.

Shoshone National Forest offers families an incredible wilderness playground spanning 2.4 million acres of pristine Rocky Mountain terrain near Cody, Wyoming. With easy hiking trails perfect for little legs, crystal-clear streams for wading and skipping stones, and excellent chances to spot wildlife like elk, moose, and eagles, it's an unforgettable outdoor classroom where kids can disconnect from screens and reconnect with nature.

Experience the nostalgia of a classic drive-in movie theater at American Dream Drive In, where families can enjoy first-run films from the comfort of their own car under the beautiful Wyoming night sky. Kids will love the on-site playground where they can burn off energy before the show, and the full concession stand serves up all the movie snacks you crave, making this an unforgettable family entertainment experience.

The East Entrance of Yellowstone National Park offers families an iconic gateway to one of America's most spectacular natural wonders, just 50 minutes from Cody. This entrance provides easy access to incredible wildlife viewing, the famous Old Faithful geyser, stunning canyon vistas, and family-friendly hiking trails that will create memories to last a lifetime.

Experience authentic Western culture at Cody Nite Rodeo, where families can watch thrilling nightly rodeo performances featuring bronc riding, barrel racing, bull riding, and calf roping. The family-friendly atmosphere includes entertaining announcer commentary, special kids' events like calf scrambles where children can chase calves for prizes, and the chance to meet real cowboys and cowgirls after the show.

Old Trail Town brings the Wild West to life with 26 authentic historic buildings relocated from around Wyoming, including Butch Cassidy's cabin and a fascinating collection of horse-drawn wagons. Kids can walk through real frontier structures, peek into old saloons and cabins, and see genuine artifacts that tell the stories of cowboys, outlaws, and pioneers who shaped the American West.

Wyoming Summer Pack Trips offers guided family fly fishing adventures along pristine rivers and streams near Cody, perfect for introducing children to the art of angling. With professional instruction tailored for beginners and the stunning backdrop of Wyoming's wilderness, families create unforgettable outdoor memories together. The highly-rated outfitter (5.0/5 stars) specializes in making fishing accessible and fun for kids of all skill levels.

Absaroka Mountain Lodge offers families an authentic Wyoming ranch experience with guided horseback riding, fly fishing, and mountain adventures in the stunning North Fork Valley near Yellowstone. This full-service lodge combines comfortable accommodations with expert-led outdoor activities perfect for introducing kids to Western heritage and wilderness exploration.

Absaroka Ranch offers an authentic Wyoming ranch experience where kids can immerse themselves in real farm life and agricultural activities. From picking fresh produce to learning about sustainable farming practices, this highly-rated working ranch provides hands-on educational experiences that bring food and farming to life in the stunning setting near Yellowstone Country.

Cody City Park's splash pad is a summertime oasis in the heart of Cody, offering refreshing water play without the worries of deep water. Kids can run through spraying jets and play in shallow pools while parents relax nearby, making it an ideal free (or low-cost) way to beat the Wyoming heat after a morning at the Buffalo Bill Center or before heading to the rodeo.