Old Trail Town

Imagine stepping back in time to the 1890s, the height of the frontier era. Old Trail Town is a unique open-air museum in Cody, USA, featuring a meticulously recreated Wild West town.

The complex brings together 28 authentic historical buildings brought from across Wyoming. Here you can see original cabins used as hideouts by famous outlaws like Butch Cassidy and the Sundance Kid, as well as old saloons, stores, and homes that preserve the pioneer spirit.

Located on the very spot where the legendary Buffalo Bill once laid the town's foundation, this museum is considered the largest collection of historical buildings in the region. It is not just an exhibition, but a true immersion into the life of cowboys, gold prospectors, and hunters, creating an authentic atmosphere of the American West.

To confirm details before your visit, you can contact the museum administration through official channels.

The main activity here is strolling along the dusty streets, which makes you feel like a character in a Western. You can step inside the buildings to see authentic furniture, clothing, and tools from that era. Be sure to visit the famous "Hole in the Wall" cabin, which served as a hideout for Butch Cassidy's gang, and stop by the old Rose Williams saloon.

History enthusiasts will enjoy exploring the Museum of the Old West. It features an impressive collection of Native American artifacts, horse-drawn carriages, and personal belongings of early settlers. Don't forget to visit the memorial cemetery, which features a monument to the mountain men and the grave of the legendary hunter Jeremiah Johnston.

For those looking for atmospheric shots, this place is a treasure trove—authentic facades and interiors provide perfect conditions for photo shoots. During the summer season, special historical events and lectures are sometimes held, making the visit even more educational and interactive.

The open-air museum is located at 1831 Demaris Dr, Cody, WY 82414, just 4 kilometers from the city center. Travelers by car can easily reach it via highway US-14/US-16/US-20 (also known as Yellowstone Highway) by following the signs. Free on-site parking is available for visitors.

If you are arriving by plane via Yellowstone Regional Airport (COD), the drive or taxi ride to the site will take no more than 10–15 minutes. Public transport within the city is limited, so renting a car or using taxi services is the most convenient way for tourists to get around.

Due to its location 80 km from the east entrance of Yellowstone National Park, this spot is often a must-see for those headed to the legendary park. During the summer season, organized tourist shuttles are sometimes available from the city center.

The history of this place began in 1967 through the efforts of historian and archaeologist Bob Edgar. His goal was to save the vanishing heritage of the frontier: he collected authentic wooden buildings throughout Wyoming and moved them here to create a living monument to the era. The first exhibit was Victor Arland's cabin, built in 1883.

The museum complex grew on historical land—it was here in 1895 that the famous Buffalo Bill Cody planned the layout of his first settlement called "Cody City." Today, there are 28 buildings dating from 1879 to 1901, making it the largest and most significant collection in the state.

The local cemetery is particularly significant, as it is the final resting place of famous pioneers and mountain men, including Jeremiah "Liver-Eating" Johnston, whose remains were reinterred here in 1974. Every corner of this museum town is steeped in the spirit of the Wild West, preserving the authentic stories of pioneers and cowboys without modern embellishments.

To leisurely explore all 28 buildings, stroll through the old streets, and visit the pioneer cemetery, most tourists need about 2 to 3 hours. This is enough time to examine the cabin interiors and read the information plaques detailing the history of each structure.

If you plan to study the exhibits in the Museum of the Old West in detail—where rare Native American artifacts and antique carriages are kept—you should allow an extra hour. For fans of historical photography, the visit may take longer, as every object here serves as a magnificent backdrop for photos.

The museum welcomes visitors daily, providing easy access to historical exhibits throughout the week. According to the current schedule, Old Trail Town is open as follows:

• Monday — Sunday: 08:00 – 18:00

Please note that the site operates primarily during the tourist season (from mid-May through September), so it is recommended to check the official website before visiting during the off-season.

The city of Cody offers many interesting locations that perfectly complement a visit to the historical town. Exploring the surrounding area will allow you to dive deeper into the culture of the Western states and enjoy Wyoming's hospitality.