Cody named one of the ‘Best Small Towns in the West’

POWELL (WNE) — For the third consecutive year, Cody has been named one of the “Best Small Towns in the West” by readers of USA Today. 

This latest accolade is one of many that the tourist town has received in recent years. The town has also been recognized for Best Small Town Beer Scenes, Top Rafting Destinations, Top Small Town Arts Scenes, Best Dude Ranches and Best Art Museum in the U.S. 

“Authenticity is central to everything about the town of Cody — from its historic attractions to its famous nightly rodeo — and our visitors often specifically choose Cody because they know they will experience a classic Western adventure,” said Michael Wambolt, executive director of Cody Yellowstone, in a press release. “Accolades like this one happen because our little town of Cody has some of the friendliest locals, the most dynamic outdoor adventures and the most memorable attractions of all small towns in the West.” 

Founded in 1896 by Colonel William F. “Buffalo Bill” Cody and marking its 130th anniversary this year, the town of Cody is best known for its Cody Nite Rodeo — the only nightly summer-season rodeo in the U.S. — as well as attractions such as the Smithsonian-affiliated Buffalo Bill Center of the West, which houses five museums under one roof. 

The Whitney Western Art Museum at BBCW was named the “Best Art Museum” in the U.S. by Newsweek. 

The town is also known for its classic Western experiences like dude ranch vacations. Blackwater Creek Ranch — one of 16 dude and guest ranches in the region — was recently named one of the “Best Dude Ranches in the U.S.” by USA Today.

This story was published on April 14, 2026.