The 2 Best Lunch Experiences in Cody
Cody offers more than just striking scenery and Western charm—it’s also a place where you can enjoy memorable lunches paired with exciting activities. The town’s location along the Shoshone River makes for some standout outdoor dining options, especially when paired with adventures like whitewater rafting. Whether you’re craving a rush of adrenaline on the river or prefer a scenic picnic with wildlife views, Cody has a lunch experience suited to your taste.
With options ranging from half-day whitewater trips to full-day excursions, it’s worth planning ahead. These experiences not only serve up good food but pack in plenty of fun and spectacular scenery. Keep reading to see which lunch adventure fits your style, budget, and schedule best.
Quick Overview
This guide highlights two top lunch experiences in Cody—Red Canyon River Trip’s Extended Whitewater Adventure and The Cody Two-Step Wild Mustangs And Half Day Rafting Trip W/Lunch. The first combines a 4-hour whitewater adventure with a riverside picnic, perfect for those seeking a shorter, adrenaline-packed outing. The second is an 8-hour full-day trip featuring miles of rapids, a scenic ride, and a hearty picnic lunch, tailored for thrill-seekers looking for a comprehensive outdoor experience.
Now, let’s explore each in detail to help you choose the best fit for your trip.
1. Red Canyon River Trip’s Extended Whitewater Adventure
This half-day whitewater trip offers a fantastic way to experience the Shoshone River’s rapids without spending a full day on the water. For around $89, you’ll enjoy a 4-hour adventure on Red Canyon River, which has been providing rafting fun since 1972. The tour includes navigating class II and III rapids with a professional guide, who will keep safety a priority. The trip is all about balance—exciting enough for thrill-seekers but manageable for those new to rafting, as no prior experience is required.
What sets this tour apart is the riverside picnic lunch—a gourmet deli-style meal or breakfast sandwich served at a scenic spot halfway through the trip. The small-group setting enhances the experience, allowing guides to tailor the adventure and answer questions. You’ll pass Wyoming wildlife and enjoy views of rugged terrain as the water calms between rapids. Many reviews note how the friendly guides and scenic setting make this a relaxing yet exhilarating day. One guest raved, “It was a relaxing trip in a beautiful setting with just enough rapids to get you wet.”
Bottom line: This tour is ideal if you want a short, fun, and scenic whitewater experience with a quality riverside lunch. It’s perfect for families, first-timers, or anyone looking to combine adventure with good food without taking up your whole day.
2. The Cody Two-Step Wild Mustangs And Half Day Rafting Trip W/Lunch
For those who want a full-day adventure, this 8-hour trip delivers miles of thrilling rapids, stunning scenery, and a hearty picnic lunch. Priced at $189 per person, it’s a more substantial investment but packed with diverse experiences. Starting with a guided river ride, you’ll paddle through multiple sections of the river, tackling rapid after rapid, which keeps the adrenaline flowing. This trip runs all day, giving you ample time to enjoy the landscape and wildlife.
After several hours of paddling and splashing, you’ll stop for a tasty picnic lunch—a perfect break before heading back into the water for more excitement. The tour includes all necessary safety equipment—life vests, rain slickers, and drinks—so you can focus on the fun. This experience is best suited for active travelers who want to maximize their time on the river and enjoy a comprehensive outdoor day. The reviews highlight the expert guidance and the exhilaration of tackling miles of rapids, with one customer noting, “We loved the combination of adventure and the scenic lunch stop.”
Bottom line: This full-day trip is ideal if you’re seeking a thorough and adrenaline-filled whitewater experience with a scenic picnic and plenty of water-time. It’s especially good for thrill-seekers and active groups willing to dedicate a full day to river adventure.
How to Choose
When selecting between these two lunch experiences, consider your time availability, budget, and adventure level. The Red Canyon River Trip’s Extended Whitewater Adventure offers a shorter, more relaxed half-day option, perfect if you want a taste of whitewater with minimal time commitment. It’s excellent for families or visitors who want to leave part of the day free for other activities.
In contrast, the Cody Two-Step Trip provides a full day of paddling, scenic views, and wildlife, suitable for those craving a deep dive into Wyoming’s outdoor beauty. It’s best if you’re comfortable with a physically active day and want to maximize river time.
Budget-wise, the half-day trip costs less but still includes all necessary equipment and a quality riverside lunch, making it good value. The full-day trip costs more but provides a more extensive experience for those wanting a true outdoor adventure.
Booking early is recommended, especially in peak summer months, to secure your spot and ensure you have your preferred date.
Final thoughts
Cody’s lunch experiences on the water are as diverse as the landscape itself. If your schedule is tight but you still want a fun, scenic river trip with a picnic, the Red Canyon River Trip offers excellent value and memorable scenery. For a full-day adrenaline rush, the Cody Two-Step trip delivers hours of paddling, wildlife viewing, and a delicious lunch.
No matter your choice, these experiences showcase Wyoming’s rugged beauty and give you a well-rounded adventure paired with a satisfying meal. Remember to book early, wear appropriate gear, and prepare for some splashy fun. Your perfect Wyoming river lunch adventure awaits.