Cody

Founded in 1896 and named for Pony Express rider, army scout, Freemason, and entertainer William F. "Buffalo Bill" Cody, Cody lies just east of the Absaroka Range in the high plains of the Bighorn Basin, about a mile above sea level. As the eastern gateway community for Yellowstone National Park, this town of about 9,800 sees a sharp influx of visitors during the summer months when Yellowstone's eastern entrance is open. But at any time of year, this easygoing community with a bustling downtown historic core offers plenty to see and do. Five superb museums under one roof make up the outstanding Buffalo Bill Historical Center, an affiliate of the Smithsonian, and the town exemplifies America's Western style and sensibility with its dude ranches and colorful shops specializing in everything from cowboy hats, landscape paintings, and hand-carved furniture to local beef jerky and outerwear. Part of the fun in Cody is sauntering down Sheridan Avenue, stopping by the Irma Hotel (built in 1902 by Buffalo Bill and named for his daughter) for an ice-cold beer, and attending the summertime nightly rodeo.