Cody Trolley Tours – Best of the West Trolley Tour

Planning a visit to Cody, Wyoming, and wondering how to get a good overview in a short time? This Best of the West Trolley Tour offers a convenient, lively way to see key sights and learn about the town’s famous history, all in about an hour. It’s an excellent choice for travelers who want a quick, engaging introduction to Cody without the hassle of navigation or planning.

What we particularly like about this tour is the combination of the guided storytelling—delivered with humor and local insight—and the chance to visit several iconic sites from the comfort of a vintage trolley. Plus, the easy hotel pick-up makes it hassle-free, especially if you’re short on time or prefer a relaxed approach. On the downside, the brief duration means it’s more of an overview than an in-depth exploration, so if you crave a deep dive into Cody’s history, this might just be the first step rather than the full story.

This tour is best suited for visitors with limited time, first-timers eager for a quick orientation, or families looking for a fun, educational activity. If you love authentic stories told by engaging guides, and are looking for a cost-effective way to get your bearings, this tour could be just right.

Key Points

• The tour lasts about an hour and covers main Cody sights with lively commentary.
• Price at $35 per person offers good value for an overview tour, with optional upgrades.
• The trolley features multiple departure times, making it flexible for different schedules.
• Guides are praised for their knowledge, humor, and storytelling ability.
• Stops include scenic views, landmarks, and sites like Buffalo Bill dam, Old Trail Town, and the rodeo.
• Hassle-free hotel and campground pickups make the experience easy for visitors.
• The tour frequently sells add-on tickets to local attractions, enhancing your visit.
• While brief, many travelers report this as a fun and informative introduction to Cody.

The Experience in Detail

The Best of the West Trolley Tour begins at 1119 12th St in Cody, a central spot easy to find. From there, the trolley departs several times a day during peak season, giving visitors ample flexibility. The vehicle itself is designed for small groups (up to 38 people), which helps maintain an intimate, friendly atmosphere. Seating is limited, with the front rows tailored for shorter folks, although most seats behind offer comfortable legroom—a thoughtful touch for taller travelers.

The Itinerary: What You’ll See and Hear

The tour is structured as a series of stops and drives-by commentary, each highlighting a different aspect of Cody’s rich background. It kicks off with a visit to the dam, where your guide explains its history and the reservoir’s importance. Since the dam is a significant engineering achievement and scenic spot, it’s a highlight for many.

Following this, the trolley meanders past the Cody Museum, Old Trail Town, and the colorful mural, providing commentary on their significance. The museum and Old Trail Town are not stops but points along the drive, giving you a chance to glimpse these local gems and perhaps plan a deeper visit later. The guide’s storytelling is often lauded—many reviews mention Chuck’s engaging and humorous narration, which makes the hour fly by.

One of the tour’s favorite stops is the rodeo, where guides describe the show and meal options, and the tour booth sells Cody Nite Rodeo tickets. The rodeo is a lively symbol of Cody’s Wild West heritage, and hearing about it from someone who knows the ins and outs makes it feel more alive.

Other notable commentary includes the Cody Firearms Experience, the Cody Cattle Company, and the Wild West Spectacular, giving a broad sense of Cody’s Western entertainment scene. The guide’s insights help connect these attractions to the town’s identity.

Value and Extras

One standout feature is the option to upgrade your ticket to include access to the Buffalo Bill Center of the West, one of the most comprehensive museums dedicated to Buffalo Bill and Western history. If you’re a history buff, that’s a worthwhile add-on, especially since the tour itself offers just a quick overview.

The tour also sells tickets for local attractions directly at the booth, simplifying your planning. Whether you want to catch a show or enjoy a meal, this convenience saves time and effort.

The Guides and Atmosphere

Many reviews praise the guides for their knowledge, humor, and ability to keep the group engaged. One reviewer called Chuck “a great orator,” emphasizing how visual aids and storytelling made the hour enjoyable. Several mention the guides’ cheeky candor and lively personalities as a highlight—these aren’t dry, textbook narrations but lively, authentic anecdotes.

Though most travelers find the experience fun and educational, a few mention the seats are small and that taller visitors may find them a bit cramped. It’s worth considering if you’re very tall or sensitive to tight spaces.

Group Size and Accessibility

The maximum group size of 38 keeps things intimate, and the tour is accessible for most travelers. Service animals are allowed, and those in wheelchairs can be assisted with prior notice. The tour’s pickup from Cody hotels and campgrounds adds convenience, especially if you’re staying in town or nearby.

Pricing and Overall Value

At $35 per person, this tour offers good value for a quick, guided overview of Cody. Since it includes entertaining guides, scenic drives, and the chance to learn about Buffalo Bill and local history, it’s a cost-effective way to orient yourself. The optional upgrades to attraction tickets further enhance the value, especially for first-time visitors who want to maximize their time.

Who Should Take This Tour?

If you prefer a brief, engaging introduction to Cody, this trolley tour hits the mark. It’s perfect for visitors with limited time, families looking for a fun activity, or anyone who appreciates lively storytelling paired with scenic views. If you want a comprehensive, in-depth exploration, you might want to pair this with a longer visit to attractions like the Buffalo Bill Center of the West or Old Trail Town afterward.

Travelers who enjoy authentic local stories and knowledgeable guides will find this tour particularly rewarding. It’s also a great way to get a feel for Cody’s cowboy and Western spirit without committing to a full-day experience.

Final Thoughts

The Best of the West Trolley Tour offers a lively, well-paced glimpse into Cody’s highlights. The guided commentary, delivered with humor and insight, makes the short hour feel packed with fascinating stories and scenic sightseeing. The convenience of hotel pick-up, combined with the opportunity to buy attraction tickets at the tour booth, adds practical value that helps maximize your visit.

While the tour isn’t meant to replace in-depth exploration, it’s an excellent way to orient yourself, get inspired, and perhaps spark interest in exploring more of Cody at your own pace. Whether you’re a history lover or just want a fun way to see the town quickly, this tour is a charming, cost-effective choice.

Frequently Asked Questions

How long does the tour last?
The tour takes about an hour, making it ideal for a quick overview of Cody.

What is included in the tour?
You’ll enjoy a guided ride around town with commentary on key landmarks, scenic views, and local history. You can also upgrade to include tickets to the Buffalo Bill Center of the West.

Are there multiple departure times?
Yes, several tour times are offered during peak season, giving you flexibility to choose a convenient slot.

Is the tour accessible for wheelchair users?
Most wheelchair guests can participate; they are asked to leave their chair at the booth and will be assisted onto the trolley.

Can I book this tour in advance?
Yes, it’s recommended to book about 25 days ahead, especially during busy summer months.

Does the tour include stops or just drives-by?
Most of the attractions are viewed from the trolley during the drive, with some stops at scenic points like the dam and rodeo.

What’s the price?
The standard price is $35 per person, with optional upgrades available.

Is this tour suitable for families?
Absolutely; it’s a family-friendly activity that offers educational fun for all ages.

In summary, the Cody Trolley Tours’ Best of the West ride is a lively, informative, and practical way to get a snapshot of Cody’s history and sights. With friendly guides, scenic views, and a relaxed pace, it’s a smart choice for those wanting a quick, authentic taste of Cody’s cowboy spirit.