A layover in Cody is one of those happy accidents of air travel. Yellowstone Regional Airport sits just 30 minutes from the city center by local transport, and even a short visit can be surprisingly rewarding. This guide covers everything you need to get out of the terminal and back in time for your next boarding call.
Before You Step Outside COD
Before heading into Cody, take a moment to confirm the basics:
- Visa status: Entry rules for United States vary by nationality. If you’re unsure, check with your airline or the immigration desk before leaving the secure area.
- Getting there: Cody is roughly 30 minutes from COD via local transport. Plan to be back at the airport at least 2 hours before your next departure.
- Money: You’ll be spending in local currency. Cards are widely accepted in most places, but carrying some the local currency in cash is a good idea for smaller vendors.
Getting from COD to Cody
| Option | Approximate Time | Cost Level | Notes |
|---|---|---|---|
| local transport | ~30 min | $ | Recommended for layovers |
| Taxi / Ride-share | ~50 min | $$$ | Convenient but traffic-dependent |
For a layover, the local transport is usually the way to go. It’s predictable, which matters when you have a flight to catch. Taxis can be faster in ideal conditions but slower when traffic builds up.
What to Budget for Your Cody Side Trip
Quick budget math for your Cody layover:
| Expense | Estimated Cost (USD) |
|---|---|
| Round-trip transport | ~$10 |
| Meal | ~$20 |
| Buffer / extras | ~$10 |
| Total | ~$40 |
Withdraw local currency from an ATM at the airport rather than using exchange counters — the rates are usually better.
Luggage Storage at COD
Specific locker facilities at COD aren’t well-documented. We recommend checking Bounce before your trip to find a secure storage spot either near the airport or in Cody itself.
If you’re traveling carry-on only, you might be able to skip storage entirely and bring your bag along.
What to See and Do in Cody
With limited time, focus on what’s accessible. In Cody, two standouts are:
- Buffalo Bill Center of the West — Accessible and enjoyable even on a short visit.
- Old Trail Town — Accessible and enjoyable even on a short visit.
Both are realistic options even if you only have a few hours to spare.
If you’d rather stay inside COD — maybe your layover is shorter than expected, or you just prefer to stay close to your gate — there are still ways to pass the time:
- Yellowstone Outfitters Gift Shop
- Aircraft Viewing Area
Where to Grab a Meal
Two dining recommendations if you’re heading into Cody: Wyoming’s Rib & Chop House and Annie’s Restaurant. Both are accessible without a huge time commitment.
Staying at the airport? Look for The Flight Deck Cafe or Airport Vending Machines. Airport food may not be glamorous, but it’ll keep you fueled up for the next leg.
Where to Rest During Your Layover
If your layover is an overnight one or you just need to recharge, look for quiet seating areas near less-busy gates. Some travelers report finding usable rest spots near the international departures area at COD.
For something more comfortable, check if there’s a lounge you can access — many offer day passes regardless of your airline or class of travel. Apps like LoungeBuddy can help you find options.
Staying Connected
Most airports offer free WiFi these days, and COD is no exception — connect and browse while you sort out your plans. If you’re heading into Cody and want data on the go, pick up a local SIM from a shop in the arrivals hall or download an eSIM before you land. Airalo and Holafly are popular options that let you set up data access before you even touch down.
Final Thoughts
A layover in Cody with time to spare is really an invitation to explore. Cody may not have been on your original itinerary, but sometimes those surprise stops become the best part of a trip.
Just remember: set an alarm, know your gate, and leave time for security. Everything else is an adventure.
Nearby Layover Guides
Disclaimer: Visa rules, transport schedules, and prices change. Always verify details with official sources and your airline before leaving the airport.