Cody, Wyoming, is a town built on the spirit of the Old West, and it’s a perfect starting point for exploring some of America’s most iconic landscapes and attractions. What makes Cody especially appealing is its blend of rich cowboy heritage, proximity to Yellowstone National Park, and plentiful outdoor adventures. Whether you’re interested in learning about Buffalo Bill, spotting wild Mustangs, or venturing into Yellowstone’s wilderness, Cody offers a variety of tours that cater to different interests and activity levels. We particularly like the Cody Trolley Tours for an easy overview of the town’s history and landmarks, and the Yellowstone safaris for those wanting to see the park’s wildlife in its natural setting. Plus, there are adrenaline-packed activities like whitewater rafting that get your blood pumping while surrounded by Wyoming’s stunning scenery.
If you’re trying to decide which experience is best for you, this guide breaks down the top tours—from family-friendly sightseeing to full-day wildlife safaris—so you’ll have all the details you need to pick the right adventure. And remember, many tours book up early, especially in peak season, so it’s worth planning ahead.
1. Cody Trolley Tours – Best of the West Trolley Tour
At number 1, the Cody Trolley Tours – Best of the West Trolley Tour offers a fun, relaxed way to get to know Cody’s landmarks in about an hour. This historic trolley ride includes stops at the Buffalo Bill Dam, Old Trail Town, the Cody Mural and Museum, and the local rodeo. Your guide shares lively stories about Buffalo Bill Cody and the town’s history, making it an engaging experience for all ages.
What makes this tour stand out is its flexibility—several tour times are available during peak season, plus hassle-free pickups from local hotels and campgrounds. You can even upgrade to include a ticket to the Buffalo Bill Center of the West, a museum complex dedicated to the region’s history and art. Reviewers call it a “wonderful way to learn Cody history” and appreciate the humor and visual aids shared by guides like Chuck. It’s perfect if you want a quick, easy overview with insider tips on local eateries and attractions. The cost is $35 per person, making it a good value for a snapshot of Cody’s highlights.
Bottom Line: This tour is ideal for first-time visitors or those short on time who want a friendly, informative introduction to Cody’s key sites.
2. Guided Lower Loop of Yellowstone from Cody, WY
For around $269, the Guided Lower Loop of Yellowstone from Cody offers a comprehensive day in one of America’s most famous national parks. This small-group tour visits attractions like Dragon’s Mouth Springs, Hayden Valley, Norris Geyser Basin, and Artist Point. The tour includes a provided lunch, water, and binoculars, which greatly enhance your chances of spotting wildlife and enjoying the geothermal features up close.
Guided by experienced naturalists, you’ll learn about Yellowstone’s volcanic activity and wildlife. Reviewers praise guides like Jack for their knowledge and ability to find bears, buffalo, elk, and more. It’s a long but rewarding day, perfect for travelers who want to see Yellowstone’s highlights without the hassle of driving or planning. The tour’s small size ensures more personalized attention and deeper insights into the park’s ecosystems.
Bottom Line: If you want a well-organized, wildlife-rich Yellowstone experience with views like Artist Point, this tour hits the mark for its value and depth.
3. Red Canyon’s Best Of The Wild West Wild Mustang+Rafting Adventure
At number 3, this Wild Mustang and Rafting Adventure combines scenic river trips with the chance to see Wyoming’s famous wild Mustangs. Over approximately 7 hours, you’ll explore the McCullough Peaks Wild Horse Preserve and paddle 7 miles of the Shoshone River, navigating rapids like Colters Falls and Little Big Drop. The tour includes safety gear, a deli-style picnic lunch, and stunning views of wildlife and rugged terrain.
This tour is perfect for those who want a mix of adventure and wildlife viewing. The rafting part gets your adrenaline going, while the Mustang sightings offer great photo opportunities. Reviewers highlight guides’ knowledge and the beautiful scenery, with some noting the fun of traversing rapids and seeing wild horses in their natural habitat.
Bottom Line: Best suited for active travelers eager for both whitewater thrills and a glimpse of Wyoming’s iconic wild Mustangs.
4. Northern Yellowstone Safari from Cody, WY
Ranked number 4, the Northern Yellowstone Safari focuses on wildlife in the park’s northern range and Upper Loop. This full-day tour includes sightings of bears, wolves, moose, and many other species, with the aid of provided scopes and binoculars. The itinerary covers Lamar Valley, Grand Canyon of Yellowstone, and Chief Joseph Scenic Byway, offering spectacular views and plenty of photo moments.
Guides like Cody excel at wildlife spotting, and reviews mention their extensive knowledge and personable approach. The tour includes lunch and round-trip transfers, making it a seamless experience. It’s perfect for wildlife enthusiasts who want to maximize their chances of seeing Yellowstone’s animals up close.
Bottom Line: Ideal for nature lovers and wildlife photographers eager to see Yellowstone’s fauna in a single, well-curated day.
5. The Grand Yellowstone 3 day private experience from Cody Wyoming
Number 5 offers a luxurious, private 3-day tour of Yellowstone and the Grand Tetons. This all-inclusive experience is tailored to your interests, with expert guides handling the logistics. Highlights include Old Faithful, Fountain Paint Pot, and the Grand Canyon of Yellowstone. You will also explore the Tetons, enjoying scenic drives, wildlife viewing, and relaxing in comfortable accommodations.
Reviewers mention the flexibility and personalized service, with guides sharing detailed insights about the geology and ecology. The $3,499 price covers up to 4 people, making it a good choice for families or small groups seeking a deeper, more luxurious Yellowstone experience.
Bottom Line: Best suited for travelers seeking a private, in-depth exploration of Yellowstone and nearby parks with tailored attention.
6. Kicking Red Canyon Wild Mustang Bus Tour Deals 5 PM In Cody
This Wild Mustang Bus Tour is a 3-hour late-afternoon adventure, perfect for viewing mustangs in their natural habitat. Traveling in a small group, you’ll visit the McCullough Peaks Herd Management Area with binoculars and spotting scopes provided. Guides share stories about the mustangs’ history, ecology, and their relation to the Old West.
Reviewers appreciate the knowledgeable guides and the chance to see herds up close. The tour costs $69 per person, offering a budget-friendly option for wildlife lovers who want an authentic Mustang viewing experience without a full-day commitment.
Bottom Line: A great option for those who prefer a shorter, focused wildlife observation tour in the late afternoon.
7. Private 4 Hour Red Canyon Wild Mustang Air Conditioned Van Tours
Number 7 features a private, air-conditioned van tour for about 3-4 hours, tailored to your interests. Led by a knowledgeable guide, this tour explores the McCullough Peaks Herd Management Area, with plenty of opportunities to see wild mustangs and other native animals.
Guests rave about the personalized approach, and the private setting allows for flexible scheduling and more detailed storytelling about Wyoming’s wild horses, history, and ecology. The $599 price is for up to 4 people, making it an excellent choice for small groups wanting an intimate experience.
Bottom Line: Best for small groups or families wanting a private, immersive Mustang viewing adventure.
8. Yellowstone Wildlife and Photo Tours – Upper Loop Tour From Cody
Rated 4.5, this Yellowstone Wildlife and Photo Tour emphasizes capturing the park’s stunning scenery and animals. Traveling around the Upper Loop, your guide provides binoculars and a spotting scope, plus snacks and lunch. Highlights include Mammoth Hot Springs, Tower Fall, and the Grand Canyon of Yellowstone.
Reviewers appreciate guides like Sally and Alice for their knowledge and friendliness, with many noting how the tour maximizes wildlife sightings and photo opportunities. It’s ideal for photographers or travelers wanting a combination of sightseeing and wildlife viewing.
Bottom Line: Perfect if you want to combine sightseeing with wildlife photography, guided by experts with an eye for capturing the perfect shot.
9. Yellowstone Nat’l Park Full Day Tour From Cody, WY
A comprehensive full-day Yellowstone safari, this tour covers main attractions like Old Faithful, Fountain Paint Pot, and the Grand Canyon. The guide customizes the itinerary based on current wildlife activity and road conditions, ensuring a personalized experience.
Reviewers mention guide Mike’s enthusiasm and knowledge, with many enjoying the flexibility to see park highlights efficiently. It’s a good choice for travelers who want a detailed yet manageable Yellowstone experience in a single day.
Bottom Line: Ideal for first-time visitors who want a thorough, guided overview in one day.
10. Red Canyon River Trip’s Extended Whitewater Adventure!
At number 10, this Extended Whitewater Adventure offers 4 hours of thrilling rapids and scenic Wyoming views. The guided trip on the Shoshone River includes class II and III rapids, with safety gear provided. Midway, there’s a riverside picnic, perfect for recharging before more splashes.
The tour is suitable for all skill levels, and reviewers love how the guides share interesting local stories and ensure everyone stays safe. The $89 per person price makes it a popular pick for families or groups seeking active fun.
Bottom Line: Best for those craving a longer, adrenaline-filled whitewater experience with scenic beauty.
11. The Best of Yellowstone – Nat’l Park Day Tour From Cody – Private
This private day tour covers Yellowstone’s top highlights including Old Faithful, Grand Prismatic Spring, and the Grand Canyon. Tailored to your interests, guides like Alice or Shari provide in-depth insights, ensuring a personalized experience.
Reviews laud the flexibility and extensive knowledge of guides, with many mentioning how they saw wildlife and explored geological wonders they wouldn’t have found on their own. For $447.50 per person, it’s a premium experience for small groups or families wanting a custom, intimate visit.
Bottom Line: The best choice if you seek a private, flexible, and comprehensive Yellowstone experience.
12. Red Canyon River Trips 7 Mile Whitewater Rafting 9am Daily
This shorter 2-hour whitewater trip is perfect for families or first-timers. It features class II and III rapids on the Shoshone River, with scenic canyon views and wildlife sights. It’s a quick, fun outing with all equipment included, and pickup from Cody is available.
Reviewers note the friendly guides and enjoyable scenery, though some mention the water levels vary. At $59 per person, it’s an affordable way to introduce yourself to Wyoming’s whitewater without a big time commitment.
Bottom Line: Great for families or casual adventurers wanting a quick splash of Wyoming’s rapids.
13. Full Day Private “Pet Friendly” Yellowstone Tour From Cody Wyo!
For pet owners, this private, pet-friendly Yellowstone tour offers a full day exploring the park’s highlights while bringing along your furry friend. The itinerary includes Yellowstone’s backcountry, Old Faithful, and Yellowstone Lake, with lunch provided.
Reviews spotlight the flexibility and personalized attention, making it ideal for travelers who want to enjoy Yellowstone without leaving their pets behind. The $1,499 price covers up to six people, and guides ensure a safe and accommodating experience.
Bottom Line: Perfect for pet owners seeking a custom Yellowstone adventure that includes their four-legged travel companions.
14. Yellowstone Wildlife and Photo Tours – Upper Loop Tour From Cody
This photo-focused tour emphasizes wildlife and landscape photography around Yellowstone’s Upper Loop. Guides provide binoculars and scopes, and the full-day itinerary includes Mammoth Hot Springs, Tower Fall, and the Grand Canyon.
Reviewers mention the guides’ ability to find animals like wolves and elk, and the opportunity to capture stunning images. It’s perfect for amateur and serious photographers wanting expert tips and prime shots.
Bottom Line: Best for photography enthusiasts eager to maximize their Yellowstone wildlife and scenery shots.
15. Yellowstone Nat’l Park Full Day Tour From Cody, WY
Similar to the earlier Yellowstone full-day, this trip offers flexibility and highlights like Old Faithful, Fountain Paint Pot, and the Grand Canyon. The guide customizes based on current wildlife sightings and conditions.
Reviewers appreciate guide Mike’s enthusiasm and the ability to see many of Yellowstone’s must-see sights in a manageable day. It’s a solid choice if you want to see the park efficiently.
Bottom Line: Good for travelers who prefer a flexible, efficient Yellowstone experience.
16. Kicking Red Canyon Wild Mustang Bus Tour Deals 8am Daily
Rounding out our list, this early morning Mustang bus tour gets you out to see Mustangs in action early in the day. Traveling in a small group, guides share stories about the herd’s history and ecology, while binoculars and scopes help you get close-up views.
Reviewers highlight the ease of the meeting spot, the guide’s knowledge, and the thrill of seeing Mustangs in the wild. At $69 per person, it’s an excellent option for those wanting to start their day with a wildlife focus.
Bottom Line: Ideal for early risers wanting a focused, guided Mustang viewing experience.
How to Choose the Best Tour for You
When selecting your Cody tour, consider your interests, time constraints, and budget. If you’re looking for a quick overview, the Cody Trolley provides a great intro. For wildlife lovers, the Yellowstone safaris or Lamar Valley safaris are top choices, offering excellent chances to see bears, wolves, and bison. Active travelers craving adventure might prefer whitewater rafting trips like the Extended Whitewater Adventure, while those seeking a private, customized experience could opt for the 3-day private Yellowstone tour.
Budget also plays a role—tours range from affordable half-day rides to premium multi-day adventures. Booking early during peak summer months helps ensure availability, especially for popular safaris or private tours. Think about your main goal—wildlife, geology, culture—and pick a tour that matches your style and interests.
Cody offers a wide variety of tours that suit different interests, schedules, and budgets. Whether you want a quick town overview, an immersive Yellowstone experience, or a scenic river adventure, you’ll find options that bring the wild West to life. For adventurous families, the whitewater trips are a hit, while history buffs may prefer the private Yellowstone tours. For those on a budget, shorter wildlife and Mustang tours offer great value. Whatever your choice, booking early helps secure your spot in these popular adventures.
Now is the time to plan your Cody trip—these experiences fill up fast, especially during summer. Pick what excites you most, and get ready for a true taste of the Old West.