Old Trail Town Travel Guide — Wyoming

Welcome to our comprehensive guide to Old Trail Town Wyoming, an essential stop for anyone drawn to the authentic spirit of the American West. Our team at Roam States has curated this guide to help you navigate this remarkable collection of original 19th-century frontier cabins and artifacts, including the notorious hideout of Butch Cassidy. We cut through the generic fluff to bring you confident, specific recommendations for planning your visit to this unique historical destination.

Why Visit Old Trail Town

Old Trail Town in Cody, Wyoming, offers a rare opportunity to step directly into the 1890s frontier. This open-air museum is a living testament to the pioneering spirit, meticulously assembled by Western historian Bob Edgar, who began collecting historic buildings and relics in 1967 to prevent their disappearance from the landscape. We recommend a visit here to experience firsthand the Old West heritage of the region, which has even been voted “Best Tourist Attraction and Historical Site” by True West Magazine.

The collection features 26 to 28 authentic historical buildings, dating from 1879 to 1901, that were carefully disassembled from remote locations across Wyoming and Montana, then relocated and reassembled on the original townsite laid out by William F. "Buffalo Bill" Cody himself in 1895. As you wander the dusty streets, you'll encounter structures like Butch Cassidy's "Hole-in-the-Wall" cabin and the Mud Spring Cabin, both known hideouts for him and the Sundance Kid. You can also explore an 1888 saloon, a frontier schoolhouse, a blacksmith shop, a post office, and the log cabin home of "Curley," a Crow Indian army scout who guided Lt. Col. George A. Custer.

Beyond the buildings, Old Trail Town houses thousands of historic Old West artifacts, including horse-drawn vehicles, prehistoric stone tools, Native American clothing, and beadwork. The site also includes a memorial cemetery where notable Western figures, such as mountain man John "Liver-Eating" Johnson (whose life inspired the movie "Jeremiah Johnson"), are laid to rest. This tangible connection to a bygone era, preserved for future generations, makes Old Trail Town a truly enriching and unforgettable experience.

Who It's Best For

Old Trail Town is an ideal destination for a diverse range of visitors. History enthusiasts will revel in the authentic structures and extensive artifact collection, gaining a deeper understanding of frontier life. Families with children will find it a captivating and educational experience, as the interactive nature of walking through original buildings brings history to life. We've found that the self-guided tours allow for exploration at your own pace, making it suitable for all ages.

Travelers on a USA road trip through Wyoming, particularly those en route to Yellowstone National Park, will find Old Trail Town a convenient and rewarding stop, as it's located on the road to Yellowstone's East Entrance. Photographers will appreciate the authentic facades and historical objects, which provide magnificent backdrops for capturing the essence of the Old West. Anyone seeking a unique travel experience that moves beyond typical museum displays will find Old Trail Town delivers with its splinters, bullet holes, and palpable sense of history.

Is It Worth Visiting?

Absolutely, Old Trail Town is worth visiting. Our team consistently recommends it as a must-see attraction in Cody, Wyoming, for its authentic historical representation of the 1890s frontier. It provides an immersive "living museum" experience where you can truly imagine the lives of cowboys, trappers, and outlaws who once called these structures home. The ability to walk inside the cabins, saloons, and other buildings, furnished with period pieces, offers a tangible connection to the past that static exhibits often lack.

The collection's significance as the largest of its kind in Wyoming, combined with its location on Buffalo Bill Cody's original townsite, adds immense value. While some reviewers have noted that certain structures could benefit from more preservation efforts, the overall sentiment is overwhelmingly positive, with many praising the extensive collection and the reasonable prices at the gift shop. For anyone interested in the raw, human stories of the Old West, Old Trail Town offers an experience that is both educational and thought-provoking.

How to Get There

Old Trail Town is conveniently located at 1831 Demaris Drive, Cody, WY 82414, just 4 kilometers (approximately 2.5 miles) from the city center. For those driving, it's easily accessible via highways US-14/US-16/US-20, also known as Yellowstone Highway, by following the clear signs. This makes it a straightforward stop for travelers heading to or from Yellowstone National Park's East Entrance, which is about 80 kilometers (50 miles) away.

If you're flying into the area, Yellowstone Regional Airport (COD) is the closest option, and the drive or taxi ride to Old Trail Town will take no more than 10-15 minutes. While public transport within Cody is limited, renting a car or utilizing taxi services are the most convenient ways for tourists to get around. During the summer season, organized tourist shuttles are sometimes available from the city center to various attractions, including Old Trail Town. Ample free on-site parking is available for visitors, so you won't have to worry about finding a spot for your vehicle.

Top Things to Do

When planning your visit, there are many things to do at Old Trail Town that will immerse you in the authentic Wild West. The primary activity is a self-guided stroll along the dusty streets, allowing you to step inside the 26 to 28 historic buildings and examine their authentic furnishings, clothing, and tools from the era. We recommend dedicating at least 2 to 3 hours to leisurely explore all the structures and read the information plaques detailing their history.

• Explore Outlaw Hideouts: A highlight among the things to do at Old Trail Town is visiting the original cabins used by infamous outlaws like Butch Cassidy and the Sundance Kid. Be sure to see the "Hole-in-the-Wall" cabin and the Mud Spring Cabin.
• Visit Historic Saloons and Shops: Step into the 1888 Rivers Saloon, which reportedly still bears bullet holes, and imagine the cowboys and colorful characters who once frequented it. You can also explore an original general store, a post office, and various homestead cabins.
• Discover the Museum of the Old West: This museum within Old Trail Town features an impressive collection of Native American artifacts, horse-drawn carriages, prehistoric tools, and personal belongings of early settlers. Allow an extra hour if you wish to study these exhibits in detail.
• Pay Respects at the Cemetery: The memorial cemetery is the final resting place of several notable Western figures, including mountain man John "Liver-Eating" Johnson.
• Photograph the Frontier: The authentic facades and historical objects provide excellent opportunities for atmospheric photography, making every corner a magnificent backdrop.

While there are no specific "Old Trail Town hiking trails" within the immediate grounds, the experience of walking the boardwalks and pathways between the buildings offers a pleasant and immersive stroll through history. For more extensive hiking, the surrounding areas of Cody and the Shoshone National Forest provide ample opportunities (see "Old Trail Town Hiking Trails" below).

Old Trail Town Hiking Trails

While Old Trail Town itself is an open-air museum designed for walking through historical structures rather than traditional hiking, the greater Cody area offers abundant opportunities for outdoor enthusiasts seeking Wyoming hiking trails. We recommend exploring the vast landscapes surrounding Cody for genuine Old Trail Town hiking trails experiences.

The Shoshone National Forest, located nearby, provides numerous trails ranging from easy strolls to challenging backcountry expeditions. Visitors can find mountain biking, hiking, kayaking, fly fishing, and horseback riding in this area. For example, the McCullough Peaks Wilderness Study Area, just a short drive from Cody, offers a 30-mile dirt road loop through stunning landscapes, perfect for those looking for longer Old Trail Town hiking trails or scenic drives. Always check local conditions and trail maps before heading out, as weather can change rapidly in Wyoming's high country.

Old Trail Town Camping

While Old Trail Town itself does not offer camping facilities, the surrounding Cody area and nearby national forests provide excellent options for Old Trail Town camping. We understand that many travelers visiting the Old West are keen to experience the great outdoors, and Cody delivers.

For those seeking developed campgrounds, there are several options in and around Cody, including private RV parks and public campgrounds in the Shoshone National Forest. These typically offer amenities such as restrooms, water, and picnic tables. For a more rustic Old Trail Town camping experience, dispersed camping is often permitted in the national forest areas, adhering to Leave No Trace principles and local regulations. Always verify current fire restrictions and permits required for backcountry camping.

Additionally, many hotels and motels in Cody, such as the Super 8 by Wyndham Cody and Hampton Inn & Suites Cody, are located conveniently close to Old Trail Town, offering comfortable alternatives for those who prefer not to camp.

Best Time to Visit

Old Trail Town is a seasonal attraction, typically open from mid-May to September 30th. The operating hours are generally from 8:00 AM to 6:00 PM daily, with the last entry around 5:15 PM. We recommend visiting during these warmer months for the best experience, as it is an outdoor museum.

To avoid peak crowds and enjoy the golden hour light for photography, consider visiting early in the morning or late afternoon. Spring (May to early June) offers pleasant temperatures and fewer crowds, with the landscapes just coming alive. Summer (July and August) is the busiest, but also when all attractions in Cody are in full swing, including the nightly rodeo. Fall (September) brings cooler temperatures and beautiful foliage, making for a comfortable and scenic visit before the seasonal closure.

Where to Stay Nearby

The town of Cody, Wyoming, offers a wide range of accommodation options to suit every traveler's preference and budget, all conveniently located near Old Trail Town. We recommend staying in Cody to fully experience the area's Western heritage and access other attractions.

For those seeking comfort and amenities, hotels like the Hampton Inn & Suites Cody, The Cody Hotel, and Comfort Inn Cody are popular choices, often featuring indoor pools, free breakfast, and easy access to Old Trail Town. The Best Western Sunset Inn is another excellent option, providing a comfortable base with amenities like a seasonal outdoor pool and complimentary breakfast.

Budget-friendly motels such as the Super 8 by Wyndham Cody are also available and are often pet-friendly, making them suitable for travelers with companions. Many accommodations are just steps away or a short drive from Old Trail Town, making it easy to visit. For a truly historic stay, consider Buffalo Bill's Irma Hotel, a landmark opened in 1902 by Buffalo Bill himself.

Beyond Cody, if you're exploring the wider region, options like Pahaska Tepee Resort offer cabins and amenities closer to Yellowstone's East Entrance. For a comprehensive list of places to stay, we suggest checking the official Travel Wyoming website.

Sample 2-Day Itinerary

Our team has crafted a sample 2-day itinerary to help you make the most of your visit to Old Trail Town and the surrounding Cody area:

Day 1: Immerse in the Old West

• Morning (9:00 AM - 12:00 PM): Old Trail Town Exploration. Start your day at Old Trail Town, arriving shortly after opening to enjoy cooler temperatures and fewer crowds. Dedicate 2-3 hours to a self-guided tour of the historic buildings, including Butch Cassidy's hideout and the old saloon. Explore the Museum of the Old West and the pioneer cemetery.
• Lunch (12:30 PM - 1:30 PM): Downtown Cody. Head into downtown Cody for lunch. We recommend local favorites like Trailhead Bar | Grill | Wood Fired Pizza for hearty options or Proud Cut Saloon for a classic Western meal.
• Afternoon (2:00 PM - 5:00 PM): Buffalo Bill Center of the West. Spend your afternoon at the world-class Buffalo Bill Center of the West. This Smithsonian affiliate houses five museums under one roof, including the Buffalo Bill Museum, Plains Indian Museum, Whitney Western Art Museum, Draper Natural History Museum, and Cody Firearms Museum. You could easily spend two days here, so prioritize sections based on your interests.
• Evening (6:00 PM onwards): Chuckwagon Dinner & Rodeo. For an authentic Western experience, enjoy a chuckwagon dinner at the Cody Cattle Company, often located across the street from Old Trail Town. Afterward, head to the Cody Nite Rodeo (June 1 - August 31) for nightly rodeo performances, a true taste of cowboy culture.

Day 2: Nature, History & Scenic Drives

• Morning (9:00 AM - 12:00 PM): Buffalo Bill Dam & Scenic Drive. Drive west of Cody to visit the impressive Buffalo Bill Dam, an engineering marvel completed in 1910. Enjoy the breathtaking views of the Shoshone River Canyon. Continue along the scenic North Fork Highway towards Yellowstone's East Entrance, soaking in the dramatic mountain scenery and abundant wildlife in the Shoshone National Forest.
• Lunch (12:30 PM - 1:30 PM): Picnic or Return to Cody. Pack a picnic to enjoy amidst the scenic beauty of the Shoshone National Forest, or return to Cody for a casual lunch.
• Afternoon (2:00 PM - 4:00 PM): Heart Mountain Interpretive Center. Gain a deeper understanding of a significant moment in American history by visiting the Heart Mountain Interpretive Center, located nearby in Powell, WY. This world-class museum tells the poignant story of Japanese Americans interned during WWII.
• Late Afternoon (4:30 PM onwards): Explore Cody's Downtown. Spend time strolling through Cody's downtown, exploring unique shops, art galleries, and the historic Irma Hotel. Consider a visit to the Cody Dug Up Gun Museum for another unique historical perspective.

This itinerary offers a blend of historical immersion at Old Trail Town, cultural exploration, and appreciation for Wyoming's stunning natural landscapes. Remember that Cody is also a gateway to other incredible destinations like Bighorn Canyon National Recreation Area, offering even more opportunities for adventure.

FAQs

What are things to do in Cody?

Cody, Wyoming, offers a wealth of activities for visitors. Beyond Old Trail Town, popular things to do in Cody include visiting the world-class Buffalo Bill Center of the West (a complex of five museums), attending the nightly Cody Nite Rodeo during summer, exploring the historic downtown, and seeing the Buffalo Bill Dam. Outdoor adventures like hiking, fishing, and white-water rafting are also popular in the surrounding Shoshone National Forest.

Is Old Trail Town good with kids?

Yes, Old Trail Town is an excellent attraction for families with kids. The open-air museum format allows children to actively explore and imagine life in the Old West as they walk through authentic cabins, saloons, and a schoolhouse. The visual and interactive nature of the exhibits, including the stories of outlaws and mountain men, makes history engaging and memorable for all ages.

What are some Old Trail Town tips?

For the best experience, we recommend wearing comfortable shoes as you'll be walking on uneven terrain and dusty streets. Bring water, sun protection, and a camera to capture the unique atmosphere. Plan for at least 2-3 hours to explore, with an extra hour if you want to delve deeply into the Museum of the Old West. Consider visiting during the shoulder seasons (late May or September) or early/late in the day to avoid crowds. Check their official website for any special events or reenactments that might be happening during your visit.

Is there Old Trail Town parking?

Yes, there is free on-site parking available for visitors at Old Trail Town. You won't have to worry about finding a spot for your vehicle when you arrive.

What is the best time to visit Old Trail Town?

The best time to visit Old Trail Town is during its operating season, which runs from mid-May to September 30th. For comfortable weather and to avoid the busiest crowds, we suggest visiting in late May, early June, or September. If you visit during July or August, arriving early in the morning or late in the afternoon can help you avoid peak visitor times and enjoy softer light for photography.

What are Old Trail Town hours and fees?

As of 2026, Old Trail Town is open seasonally from May 15th to September 30th. The daily operating hours are typically from 8:00 AM to 6:00 PM, with the last entry around 5:15 PM. Admission fees are approximately $12.00 for adults and $6.00 for children aged 6 to 12. Some sources indicate slightly higher fees of $15 for adults, $14 for seniors, and $8 for children (6-12). We recommend checking the official Old Trail Town website (oldtrailtown.org) or calling ahead for the most current 2026 information on hours and fees, as these can sometimes vary.

Conclusion

Old Trail Town Wyoming stands as a remarkable, authentic window into the American frontier. Our team at Roam States believes it's an indispensable stop for anyone traveling through the region, offering a rich tapestry of history, from the cabins of notorious outlaws to the humble homes of pioneers. It's a place where the echoes of the Wild West truly resonate, providing a tangible and educational experience far removed from typical museum visits. We encourage you to plan your trip, immerse yourself in this unique collection, and discover the enduring spirit of the Old West for yourself.

Last updated: 2026-07-12 by the Roam States team.