Cody Trolley Tours – Best of the West Trolley Tour

Discovering Cody, Wyoming: The Best of the West Trolley Tour

If you’re heading to Cody and want a quick, friendly way to get a feel for the town’s highlights, the Best of the West Trolley Tour might just be what you need. This hour-long ride offers a mix of sightseeing, storytelling, and insider tips, making it a solid choice for travelers wanting to familiarize themselves with Cody’s unique western charm without a time-consuming commitment.

What we really love about this tour is how personable and knowledgeable the guides are—they’re clearly passionate about Cody’s history and eager to share it with visitors. Plus, the convenience of hotel pickups and the option to upgrade with tickets to the Buffalo Bill Center of the West makes it flexible and convenient. On the flip side, some might find the ride a bit cramped or feel it moves too quickly to really soak everything in. Still, this tour hits the sweet spot for those with limited time but a desire to understand Cody’s roots and local flavor.

If you’re the kind of traveler who appreciates a friendly guided overview, especially if you’re interested in the legendary Buffalo Bill or want a heads-up on where to eat or explore afterward, this tour could be a good fit. Families, history buffs, or anyone curious about Cody’s significance in the Wild West story will likely find it enjoyable.

Key Points

• Concise and engaging: Perfect if you want a quick but rundown of Cody.
• Great guides: Known for friendly, humorous, well-informed storytellers.
• Convenient logistics: Hassle-free hotel and campground pickups in Cody.
• Flexible scheduling: Multiple tour times available during peak season.
• Optional upgrade: Tickets to the Buffalo Bill Center of the West can be added.
• Limited time commitment: About an hour, ideal for busy itineraries.

An Inside Look at the Cody Trolley Tour

If you’re considering this tour, understand that it’s designed as a snapshot of Cody’s landmarks and history. It’s not a deep-dive but a lively overview, making it suited for travelers who want to maximize their short stays or those who enjoy guided storytelling.

The Itinerary Breakdown

The tour begins at 1119 12th St, Cody, and lasts roughly an hour. It’s a hop-on, hop-off style, where the trolley stops at or drives by several notable sites, and the guide shares insights about each.

Dam and Reservoir: The first stop offers a view of the dam and reservoir, giving you a glimpse of Cody’s natural and infrastructural history. Your guide will talk about the dam’s significance, which is a neat way to start the tour with some impressive scenery.

Museum and Old Trail Town: As the trolley drives by, your guide will speak about these attractions. Old Trail Town, known for its collection of historic Western buildings and artifacts, is a highlight for those interested in cowboy lore. While you don’t get off here, hearing about it helps you decide whether to visit on your own later.

Cody Mural and Museum: The mural, depicting Cody’s cowboy spirit, is a visual treat you’ll see from the trolley, with commentary on its artistic and cultural significance. The museum spoken about might refer to Cody’s local history or Western exhibits.

Rodeo and Cody Cattle Company: The tour mentions the Cody Nite Rodeo and Cody Cattle Company, both iconic local entertainment spots. The guide will share stories about the rodeo’s history and suggest where to see a show or enjoy a meal. Plus, tickets for the rodeo and the Cattle Company are available at the tour booth, making planning easier.

Cody Firearms Experience: You’ll pass by this popular attraction that offers gun-related exhibits and experiences. While you don’t stop, hearing about it adds to your understanding of Cody’s Old West vibe.

Wild West Spectacular: The tour also mentions this entertainment production. Though you won’t see it during the trolley ride, it’s another option for evening entertainment if you stay longer.

The Guide’s Role

Many reviews mention the guides as a highlight—“Chuck was a great orator” and “the guides were very informative and welcoming.” They’re known for blending humor with history, which makes the tour lively and memorable. Some reviews even praise the guides for their visual aids, which help bring stories to life.

Logistics and Practicalities

The tour’s group size tops out at around 38 travelers, keeping it intimate enough for questions but lively enough for a social atmosphere. The trolley is designed to be accessible, with options for wheelchair guests who may need to leave their chair at the booth and be assisted.

The price point is $35 per person, which many reviewers agree offers good value considering the insights and convenience. Adding extra tickets for attractions like the Buffalo Bill Center of the West is a smart move if you want a deeper dive into Cody’s history.

The Experience in Practice

Most who’ve taken the tour say it’s fun, engaging, and informative. Several reviews mention that the guides are very knowledgeable and have a good sense of humor. “We loved the way they made the history come alive,” one guest shared. Others appreciated the tips on local places to eat and explore afterward.

That said, a few reviewers pointed out some drawbacks—small seats that might be uncomfortable for taller guests, and a feeling that some parts were a bit elementary or cheesy. For example, “Seats are really small. A tall person would be quite uncomfortable,” noted one traveler, while another felt the script could be more polished.

Gas fumes were mentioned during a back-up trolley operation—so if you’re sensitive to fumes, it’s good to ask about the trolley in use that day.

The Value of This Tour

Considering the cost and what’s included, this tour offers a compact, entertaining way to get oriented with Cody, especially if you’re short on time. The mix of scenic views, story-sharing, and local tips make it a practical choice. Plus, the optional ticket upgrades open doors to deeper exploration.

Who Should Consider This Tour?

This trolley experience is ideal if you’re looking for an easy, engaging overview of Cody’s main sights and stories. It works well for travelers who appreciate guides with personality and want a friendly introduction rather than a rigorous history lesson. Families, couples, or solo adventurers all find it manageable and enjoyable.

It’s especially suited for those who want to avoid the hassle of navigating on their own and value local recommendations for food, entertainment, and attractions. If you’re interested in Buffalo Bill or cowboy culture, this tour is a good starting point. However, if you’re seeking an in-depth historical tour, you might want to supplement this with additional visits.

FAQs About the Cody Trolley Tour

Is this tour suitable for people with mobility issues?
Yes, most wheelchair guests are able to participate; they just need to leave their chair at the booth and will be assisted onto the trolley.

How long does the tour last?
It lasts approximately one hour, making it a quick but rundown of Cody.

Can I buy tickets to attractions during the tour?
Absolutely. You can purchase tickets for the Buffalo Bill Center of the West, Cody Cattle Company, and Cody Nite Rodeo at the tour booth.

What if I need to cancel?
You can cancel for free up to 24 hours before the tour for a full refund. Cancellations within 24 hours are not eligible for a refund.

Are there multiple tour times?
Yes, during peak season, several tour times are available, providing flexibility around your schedule.

Is there a minimum number of travelers required?
The tour operates with a maximum of 38 travelers and likely a minimum to run, but this isn’t specified; most small groups find it manageable.

What’s the main highlight of the tour?
Many say it’s the guides’ storytelling—mixing facts with humor—and the chance to see key Cody landmarks without a long walk or drive.

Is it family-friendly?
While not specifically marketed as a family tour, the content and pace suit most travelers, including families with older children interested in Western history.

All in all, the Cody Trolley Tour offers a friendly, efficient way to get your bearings and hear some lively stories about this iconic town. Whether you’re a history buff or just want to get your first impressions, it’s a straightforward option that keeps things light and informative.