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Cody Firearms Experience, LLC

About

Imagine a place where the history of the Wild West literally comes alive in your hands. Cody Firearms Experience is more than just a traditional museum; it is a full-scale interactive complex in the city of Cody, where every visitor can take a journey through time by exploring the firearm heritage of the USA.

Cody Firearms Experience. Source: Kupi.com AI

The main highlight of this destination is its combination of an educational exhibit and a state-of-the-art indoor shooting range. The collection features over 50 firearm specimens, ranging from antique flintlock pistols to iconic models of the Frontier era. This is a unique opportunity for tourists to not only see rare exhibits behind glass but also to feel their weight and power in action under professional supervision.

Thanks to high-end equipment and a modern ventilation system, the museum ensures a comfortable and safe experience year-round. It is a must-visit spot for those who want to touch the authentic culture of Wyoming and learn more about the technical progress that shaped the American West.

Contacts

To plan your visit and clarify details, you can use the contact information provided below. It is recommended to contact the administration in advance if you are planning a group visit or wish to book a specific time at the shooting range.

The museum staff are always ready to answer questions regarding the available arsenal and safety regulations. You can find the facility at its downtown address or reach out to them via the official website and social media.

Address 142 W Yellowstone Ave, Cody, WY 82414, USA
Phone +1 (307) 586-4287
Website https://codyfirearmsexperience.com/
Email info@codyfirearmsexperience.com

What to Do

The highlight of visiting this center in Cody is undoubtedly the opportunity to shoot authentic firearms from past centuries. Under the expert guidance of instructors, you can test out muzzle-loading muskets, flintlocks, and the famous revolvers of the Gold Rush era. Guests are particularly thrilled by the 1862 Gatling gun — you can personally crank the handle and feel the power of one of the first rapid-fire machines in history.

Beyond firearms, you can try your hand at more ancient skills, such as axe throwing in a specially equipped area. For families with children, there is an engaging arcade, and nature lovers will appreciate the exhibit featuring the region's live fauna. Every activity is accompanied by fascinating facts about the lives of pioneers and cowboys.

The interactive format allows you to do more than just look at exhibits; you can literally interact with them. You will learn about the intricate mechanics of vintage systems and how to properly handle black powder. This is an excellent chance to gain unique practical experience that is impossible to find in a standard history museum.

Getting There

Located in the heart of the legendary city of Cody, this interactive museum is situated at 142 W Yellowstone Avenue. If you are traveling across the USA towards Yellowstone National Park, you will find the building easily, as it is located just 50 miles from the park's east entrance.

For those who prefer road trips, reaching the destination is simple: just enter the GPS coordinates (44.5139, -109.1001) into your navigator. There is convenient parking for visitors right by the museum, making it an excellent stop during a long drive through Wyoming.

If you are staying in the city center, you can quickly reach the museum by taxi or even on foot while enjoying the atmosphere of the Old West. Although there is no subway system here, the town's compact size allows for the use of local transfer services or rented bicycles to move quickly between attractions.

History & Facts

The history of the American frontier is inextricably linked to the development of firearms, and in the city of Cody, this connection is particularly palpable. The Cody Firearms Experience exhibition covers an extensive period—from the legendary Lewis and Clark expedition to the era of Buffalo Bill—demonstrating how technological progress shaped the lives of people in the Wild West.

A special place in the historical narrative is held by the Gatling gun. This revolutionary 1862 invention became a symbol of the transition to industrial warfare and fundamentally changed combat tactics. Visitors can not only see this mechanism but also understand its significance for 19th-century engineering.

The museum's collection vividly demonstrates the evolution from simple flintlock rifles to complex automatic systems. Each exhibit here is a witness to the expanding frontiers, the protection of families, and the hunting traditions that have formed the unique cultural code of the Wyoming region over centuries.

The city itself was named after William Frederick Cody, better known as Buffalo Bill, which adds additional historical value to the museum. Visiting this site allows for a deeper understanding of why firearm ownership became such a vital part of American identity and folklore.

Time Needed

To fully enjoy your visit and not miss out on the most interesting parts, it is recommended to set aside 2 to 3 hours. This is enough time to complete the mandatory safety briefing, explore the historical displays, and try your hand at the shooting range.

If you plan to include additional activities like axe throwing or exploring the wildlife exhibit along with the shooting, you should factor in a bit more time. Visitor traffic can vary, so a relaxed pace will allow you to experience the mechanics of each historical firearm without rushing.

Working Hours

The museum's schedule depends on the tourist season. During the summer period (May through September), the doors are open daily from 09:00 to 19:00. In the winter months (October – April), the schedule changes: the museum operates Tuesday through Friday from 10:00 to 19:00, on Saturday from 09:00 to 19:00, while Sunday and Monday are closing days.

As operating hours may change during holidays, visitors are strongly encouraged to check the latest information on the official website before their trip to ensure they can attend the briefing and access the shooting range.

Nearby

A stroll through the surrounding area after visiting the museum will allow you to immerse yourself even deeper into the atmosphere of Cody. Many historical monuments and cozy spots to discuss your impressions over coffee or lunch are within walking distance.

Most attractions are concentrated along the main streets, making the city very easy to explore. Below is a list of interesting locations situated nearby:

Attraction Distance (km)
Buffalo Bill – “The Scout” Statue 2.4
Cody Country Chamber of Commerce - Visitor Center 2.7
Millstone Pizza Company & Brewery 3
Cody Theatre 3.1
Buffalo Bill's Irma Hotel & Restaurant 3.1
Trailhead Bar - Grill - Wood Fired Pizza 3.3
THE MOLESWORTH HOUSE, c. 1937 3.5
HIP District Cody 3.6
Granny's Restaurant 3.6
The Historic Cody Mural and Museum 4.1

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