The 2 Best National Park Tours in Cody Wyoming
Cody, Wyoming, sits just outside the east entrance of Yellowstone National Park, making it an ideal base for exploring America’s first national park. Unlike visiting from a big city, Cody’s small-town charm and rugged surroundings give you a more personal, less rushed experience. Local tour companies understand that travelers want to see the highlights—Old Faithful, Yellowstone Lake, and bubbling geysers—without wasting time. Whether you prefer a guided group adventure or a private, customizable experience, Cody offers options to suit various interests and budgets.
A quick note: these tours are designed for a full day, around 12 hours, so be ready for an early start and a long, rewarding day. Each offers a different vibe—one is a shared group experience with expert guides, and the other is an intimate private tour that lets you choose your sights. Whichever you select, you’ll get a deeper understanding of Yellowstone’s geothermal marvels, wildlife, and breathtaking landscapes.
Quick Overview of Top Yellowstone Tours from Cody
Below, you’ll find two standout options for visiting Yellowstone from Cody. The first is a full-day group tour that covers major sights with a knowledgeable guide; the second is a private day tour offering a customized itinerary and a smaller group setting. Both are highly rated, but they cater to different traveler preferences.
1. From Cody: Full-Day Yellowstone National Park Tour
At number one, this Full-Day Yellowstone National Park Tour from Cody is perfect for travelers who want a comprehensive experience with minimal planning. For around $260 per person, you will spend about 12 hours exploring Yellowstone’s most iconic sights, including Old Faithful, Grand Prismatic Spring, Norris Geyser Basin, and Yellowstone Lake. The tour is led by an experienced guide who shares stories and insights along the way, making the scenery come alive.
This tour is especially prized for its ability to hit Yellowstone’s top highlights efficiently. You’ll witness the geyser eruption of Old Faithful, marvel at the vibrant colors of the Grand Prismatic Spring, and walk across Fishing Bridge—the historic spot where anglers have fished for generations. The guide’s local knowledge makes all the difference, turning a sightseeing trip into an educational experience. With a 4.9-star rating from 33 reviews, visitors frequently praise the guide’s storytelling skills and the well-paced schedule.
The value for money here is good—you’re covering the major highlights in one day, which is ideal if you’re short on time. This tour suits travelers who prefer a group setting, enjoy structured days, and appreciate having transportation and logistics handled for them. Be prepared for a long day, but the scenery and stories will stay with you long after the trip ends.
Bottom Line: A dependable, all-inclusive option that maximizes Yellowstone’s highlights with expert guidance—perfect if you want a hassle-free experience.
2. Yellowstone National Park Private Day Tour
In second place, the Yellowstone National Park Private Day Tour offers a more intimate experience for up to 14 people. For a higher price—$1,899 per group—this tour is geared toward travelers looking for flexibility and a personalized itinerary. You choose which sights to see, whether it’s sticking to Yellowstone’s classic attractions or exploring lesser-visited areas. The private setting means your group can set the pace, linger longer at favorite spots, or skip others altogether.
This tour is ideal if you want to tailor your Yellowstone visit based on interests like wildlife spotting, geothermal features, or photography. The guide, who is well-versed in Yellowstone’s ecology and geology, will customize the day to fit your preferences. During the trip, you’ll have opportunities to see wildlife and enjoy a more relaxed, less crowded atmosphere.
Reviews highlight the value of having a dedicated guide who can adapt the trip on the fly. Although the price might seem steep, it includes transportation and a fully customizable experience, making it a worthwhile choice for families, small groups, or anyone wanting a more exclusive adventure. The tour’s flexibility and personal touch make it stand out from more rigid group options.
Bottom Line: For travelers who want a tailored Yellowstone experience in a small group, this private tour offers flexibility and exclusivity, making it worth the investment.
How to Choose the Best Yellowstone Tour from Cody
When deciding between these options, consider your budget, how much control you want over your itinerary, and the type of experience you prefer. If you’re looking for a hassle-free, guide-led day that covers all the major sights, the full-day group tour is a solid choice. It’s especially suitable if you’re on a tight schedule and want to see the highlights without worrying about logistics.
On the other hand, if you value a more personalized experience and want to customize your day around specific interests like wildlife or photography, the private tour offers the flexibility to do so. Keep in mind it’s more expensive, but for groups or families wanting a tailored adventure, it’s a great option.
Booking early is recommended, especially in peak summer months, as these tours are popular. Also, check the availability for your preferred dates, and be prepared for early mornings—Yellowstone’s wildlife and geothermal features are best enjoyed with the first light.
Final Thoughts
Both of these Yellowstone tours from Cody provide excellent ways to experience the park’s geothermal wonders, abundant wildlife, and stunning vistas. The full-day group tour is perfect for travelers seeking a guided, comprehensive day without the hassle of planning. Meanwhile, the private tour appeals to those wanting a customizable, more exclusive experience.
For families, solo travelers, or small groups with specific interests, these options give you flexibility and insight into Yellowstone’s natural beauty. Whichever you choose, booking early will ensure you get your spot and make your trip to Yellowstone from Cody truly memorable.