Once the snow flies, Wyoming starts calling to the adventurous at heart. While it's true that the Cowboy State offers ample opportunity for exciting exploits in the summer, there's just as much to do in the winter - if not more! Cody is the ideal spot to satisfy that urge to get away and seek winter thrills. Spend a 4-day weekend, or plan on an entire week. There is tons of winter fun waiting for you in the city on the edge of the Bighorn Basin.
Cody may be the rodeo capital of the world, but it's also the destination for epic winter fun.
There are plenty of places to stay including an assortment of hotels and motels as well as a charming village of little log cabins. To get a taste of history, however, the hotel of choice is Buffalo Bill's Irma Hotel.
Built by Buffalo Bill Cody and named for his daughter, this grand old hotel has been a part of Cody, Wyoming since 1902.
Spending more than one day in Cody means getting to sample the delicious diners and coffee shops first thing each morning. Be sure to fuel up at Our Place at least once.
You'll find the home of "Home Cookin' and .25 Cent Coffee" (yes, they still only charge a quarter for a cup of coffee and refills are unlimited) at 148 Yellowstone Avenue. The hearty breakfasts here such as eggs and chicken fried steak smothered in gravy, and huevos rancheros with hash browns and tortillas will stay with you and provide energy for your adventures to come.
Sleeping Giant is the local ski area, with trails for cross-country skiing or snowshoeing in addition to the downhill runs.
Don't have your own Nordic skis or snowshoes? No problem! The ski area has a rental shop equipped with everything you need.
Hit one of the heavenly bakeries in Cody for an afternoon pick-me-up and to take off the chill. Heritage Bakery not only puts out some of the freshest and most fabulous pies, cakes, and pastries, but the cozy, homey atmosphere is a delightful place to enjoy a steaming cup of coffee and a treat.
Heritage Bakery is at 1532 Wyoming Avenue in Cody.
If you're still up for fun after your break, head over to the Riley Ice Arena for an afternoon of skating or save it for another day.
The Ice Arena and Community Events Center is located at 1400 Heart Mountain Street.
Other thrilling winter adventures to enjoy while in Cody include snowmobiling...
Local outfitters can hook you up with the equipment and even take you on a tour if you prefer traveling with a seasoned guide.
...ice climbing...
Definitely get with a local expert for this extreme adventure!
...and downhill sledding.
There are sledding hills in Hugh Smith Park and by Clearwater Campground. Plus, Sleeping Giant has a tubing hill.
Cody happens to be home to one of the best breweries in the state, Pat O'Hara's. It's a great place to relax in the early evening and enjoy a pint of one of the 15 craft beers on tap.
Pat O'Hara's is also a great place for dinner, with a unique menu filled with Irish and American fare.
This Wyoming town also has its share of mouthwatering restaurants that serve up pizza, Mexican food, and delicious standard American cuisine. At least once during your trip, however, you'll want to try Wyoming's Rib and Chop House.
Located at 1367 Sheridan Avenue, this restaurant was named one of the best steakhouses in the country.
Of course, your Wyoming winter adventure wouldn't be complete without hitting the slopes at Sleeping Giant. After all, you can't spend time there snowshoeing and tubing without getting an itch to race down the web of trails crisscrossing the mountain.
Where in Wyoming do you go for extreme winter fun?
Winter in Wyoming can be cold, so it's best to be prepared. These winter travel essentials are some of our go-to items for winter hiking and recreation in the state!
Subscribe to our newsletter
Get the latest updates and news
Thank you for subscribing!
