Step Back Into the Old West at Cody Wyoming's Wild West Show

Dancing, singing, storytelling and a lively pace keep the audience entertained in Cody, Wyoming, at the popular Wild West Spectacular.  The show just ended a successful run, based on the life of showman, soldier and entrepreneur "Buffalo Bill" Cody, after whom the town of Cody is named.

Editor's Note

Originally published: August 2022

Last updated: June 22, 2026

This article has been reviewed and updated to reflect current travel information, attractions, schedules, pricing, lodging options, and visitor recommendations.

Wyoming's Wild West fun in vintage theater tells of Buffalo Bill, Annie Oakley and more

If you've ever dreamed of stepping into the Wild West, there's no better place than Cody, Wyoming. Founded by Buffalo Bill Cody himself, this historic western town celebrates its frontier heritage every summer with the acclaimed Cody Wild West Show. Combining history, music, comedy, colorful characters, and family-friendly entertainment, the show offers visitors a chance to experience the legends and stories that helped shape the American West. Whether you're visiting Yellowstone National Park or exploring Wyoming's scenic landscapes, this unforgettable evening should be on your travel itinerary.

A cast including college students and graduates, theater majors and professional dancers and singers entertains to applause.

Cody isn't just another western town. It's a destination built on the legacy of William F. "Buffalo Bill" Cody, one of the most famous figures in American history.

Located approximately 52 miles east of Yellowstone National Park's East Entrance, Cody serves as a gateway for millions of visitors each year. The town embraces its western roots through museums, rodeos, historic hotels, western art galleries, and live performances that keep frontier traditions alive.

Among the town's most beloved attractions is the Cody Wild West Show, also known as Buffalo Bill's Wild West Spectacular. This award-winning production has become a summer tradition for visitors looking to experience authentic western entertainment.

The 1936 Cody Theatre is the venue for a rousing spectacular about Buffalo Bill and more

STORY By CHRISTENE MEYERS

PHOTOS By BRUCE KELLER

The Carpe Diem Kids

WE WITNESSED THE OLD West in glorious, boisterous entertainment at "Wild West Spectacular, the Musical," a rip-roaring show in Cody, Wyoming.

Rocky Mountain Dance Theater produces this visual treat to raves each summer.  It took its final spirited bow for the 2022 season last weekend. If you were fortunate enough to book tickets, you were delighted, amused and perhaps even surprised at the high quality of the extravaganza, produced with a cast of 30 since late June with an ambitious docket of both evening shows and matinees.

Cody Wyoming's Wild West Show

 A new season will debut in early summer of 2026

Unlike a traditional stage play, this production blends:

• Historical storytelling

• Live music

• Singing and dancing

• Comedy

• Western action

• Audience interaction

• Family-friendly entertainment

Guests meet famous frontier figures including Annie Oakley, Wild Bill Hickok, Frank Butler, sharpshooters, cowboys, saloon performers, and Buffalo Bill himself.

THE HIGH CALIBER of the show has garnered accolades and favorable reviews since its 2016 inception from True West Magazine  and TripAdvisor. Cast members come from across the country. Most have theater degrees or background on the stage.  

Tourists are lamenting the end of the show's run, while Yellowstone National Park and other attractions are still attracting crowds to Cody, but marketing director Jennifer Kaelberer explains. "We have a shorter summer season than other attractions because our actors have commitments."

Members of the talented 30-person cast takes a bow at show's 414 end. Additional behind-the-scenes workers include lighting and technical staff, marketers, costumers, choreographers and more.

Many of the professionals contracted are college students from across the country who must return to campus. Some have contracts with other companies or must satisfy a commitment to a job elsewhere.

THE SHOW has a fresh feeling, boasting both an original script and choreography.  Some of the music is from Broadway's treasure chest of western lore ("Annie Get Your Gun," for instance). Set and lighting are imaginative, augmented by additional original musical pieces.

The legend of Buffalo Bill Cody comes to life as snippets from Cody's colorful life are woven into the action. The international showman had a town named after him and the show pays tribute to his talents and energy with a non-stop dancing, singing, music and storytelling yarn.

It's laced with good-natured humor, colorful costumes, tap dancing, ballet and audience interaction.

The 2026 season runs from June 17 through August 8, 2026, with performances on select dates throughout the summer.

Standard Show Times

• Most performances begin at 7:00 PM

• Doors typically open at 6:30 PM

• Performance length is approximately 2 hours with intermission.

Special Holiday Schedule

June 30 through July 4, 2026:

• Afternoon performances only

• Show time: 2:00 PM

2026 Ticket Prices

Adults (13+): $32

Children (12 and under): $15

Group discounts may be available for advance bookings. Additional service fees may apply depending on purchase method.

Travel Tips for First-Time Visitors

Arrive Early

Downtown Cody can be busy during peak summer travel season. Arriving early allows time to find parking, explore downtown, and enjoy refreshments before the show.

• Purchase Tickets in Advance

• Popular summer dates can sell out, especially around Independence Day and weekends.

• Explore Downtown Cody

• Make a full evening of your visit by exploring nearby shops, restaurants, and western attractions before the performance.

• Bring the Family

• The show is designed for all ages, making it one of Cody's best family-friendly attractions.

• 
  

We joined a crowd in the vintage Cody Theatre, in downtown Cody on the main street, Sheridan Avenue. If you don't know Cody, look for the famous Irma Hotel -- named after Buffalo Bill's beloved daughter. The theater is right across the street. Clem's Canteen and Creamery offers light refreshments and sweets, including ice cream.

THE FULL, two-hour production ended its run with hoots, hollers and an ovation after a seven-week stint beginning in late June. The venue is the 1936 art deco theater in downtown Cody Theatre, across the street from the Irma Hotel, which is the jewel on Sheridan Avenue, the main venue in town.

Families, couples and young and old joined in the merriment of the two-hour show, popcorn, snacks and non-alcoholic beverages in hand, purchased at Clem's outside the auditorium. The show is the brainchild of director and Cody native Elizabeth Fernandez assisted by Kaelberer, director of public relations and marketing.  Kaelberer also  runs the front of house and ticketing, and observes each production from the tech deck, taking notes for the director.

A VERSATILE cast of singers, dancers and actors is headed by Evan Wambeke, in his seventh season as Buffalo Bill. Other colorful characters dart in and out of the story -- headliner Annie Oakley, Wild Bill Hickok, Frank Butler and a top-drawer dance ensemble, whose numbers are show highlights, particularly a poignant homage to the buffalo.

Buffalo Bill's daughter, Irma, as a young woman, is played by Willow Fernandez. Other actors play Irma as a child. Here she sings a wistful ballad, missing her touring father.

Tickets for the summer 2023 season go on sale Jan. 1, 2023 and next summer's season will run the last week of June through the first week of August at the historic Cody Theatre.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is the Cody Wild West Show suitable for children?

Yes. The show is family-friendly and designed to entertain visitors of all ages.

How long is the performance?

Approximately two hours, including an intermission.

Do I need to buy tickets in advance?

Advance purchase is recommended during peak summer travel periods.

Where is the show located?

The Cody Theatre, 1171 Sheridan Avenue, Cody, Wyoming.

When does the 2026 season run?

June 17 through August 8, 2026.

How much are tickets?

Adults: $32

Children 12 and under: $15

Additional ticketing fees may apply.

Is the show near Yellowstone National Park?

Yes. Cody is one of Yellowstone's primary gateway communities and is located near the park's East Entrance.

Final Thoughts: Why You Should Visit the Cody Wild West Show

The Cody Wild West Show is more than just an evening of entertainment—it's a journey into the history, legends, and spirit of the American frontier. From the moment the music begins until the final curtain call, visitors are treated to a memorable experience filled with laughter, storytelling, western charm, and historical adventure.

Whether you're planning a Yellowstone vacation, exploring Wyoming's scenic beauty, or simply looking for a unique family-friendly attraction, the Cody Wild West Show deserves a spot on your itinerary.

For more travel inspiration, destination guides, road trip ideas, lodging recommendations, and insider tips across Montana, Wyoming, Yellowstone, and beyond, visit WhereIsCookie.com.

We're constantly sharing the latest travel tips, suggestions, and adventure ideas to help you discover unforgettable destinations throughout the American West.

More info or for next season's ticket information: Social media platforms: Instagram and Facebook @codywildwestshow; codywildwestshow.com;  rockymountaindancetheatre.org; 307 527-9973.

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