Buffalo Bill State Historical Park

It’s Buffalo Bill’s ranch, of course it gets his Buffalo of Approval. You don’t have to take his word for it, there’s tons of reasons this State Historic Park is a must-see for visitors.

Originally 4000-acre Scout’s Rest Ranch, the historic park now consists of 25 acres that contain Buffalo Bill’s home as well as barns, outbuildings, and a variety of other features. The house is Cody’s 2nd Empire mansion, built in 1886 at a cost of $3,900, that has been restored and filled with period appropriate furnishings as well as a ton of Buffalo Bill memorabilia. The barn, once used to house horses, now contains a collection of antique carriages that belonged to Bill as well as a variety of memorabilia from the days of his world-famous Wild West Show.

Scout’s Rest Ranch at Buffalo Bill Ranch State Historical Park has been designated a National Historic Landmark for the significant role William F. “Buffalo Bill” Cody played in the creation of the Wild West entertainment movement of the late 19th century.

Scout’s Rest Ranch was the primary home of the frontiersman-turned-showman from 1886 to 1913. In the late 1800s, Cody developed a series of “Wild West” vaudeville shows that incorporated rodeo performances and re-enactments of historical events of the American frontier. The ranch was a powerful piece of publicity and propaganda in the show as it illustrated how Cody carried out his role as frontiersman and domesticator, not just in the arena, but in his private life.

Buffalo Bill’s Wild West was so compelling, it inspired more than 100 imitator shows, spawned the modern rodeo and influenced the motion picture industry. The movement influenced — and continues to influence — how the entertainment industry, mass media and popular culture present the history of the American West.

April 19-October 31   9:00am-5:00pm   Wednesday-Sunday
Other times by appointment.
The mansion is closed for the winter but the grounds are open year round.
 
Adults: $4
Ages 4-13: $1
3 and Under: Free
A State Park Permit is required for all vehicles and available for purchase online or at the park.
$6/daily (for Nebraska licensed vehicles) $12 (non-Nebraska vehicles).
$31/annual (Nebraska licensed vehicles) $61 (non-Nebraska vehicles).
 
 
Cody Mansion Buffalo Bill State Historical Park
Barn Buffalo Bill State Historical Park
Buffalo Bill State Historical Park Four Packed Bags
Buffalo Bill State Historical Park Bridge
Buffalo Bill State Historical Park Four Packed Bags

Annual & Seasonal Events Happening Here

North Platte Pow Wow

The pow wow will feature traditional, fancy, jingle dress and grass dancers in three age categories. There will also be specials for Golden Age, Tiny Tots and Veteran participants…

Dusty's Pumpkin Fest at the Cody's

Enjoy fun fall events at one of North Platte’s most historic properties, Buffalo Bill State Historical Park. Dusty’s Pumpkin Fest include games, duck race, hay slide, horseback…

Christmas at the Cody's

During the holidays, every nook and cranny of the Cody mansion is filled with holiday cheer. Outside, cider, cookies and roasted chestnuts are served in a recreation of Christmas…

 

 

Cody Park

You know why Cody Park, including the carousel and children’s rides, get the coveted Buffalo…

Golden Spike Tower

Anyone who’s ever loved the railroad or been interested in trains will instantly understand…

Grain Bin Antique Town

As a man of taste and distinction it’s no wonder that Buffalo Bill does his shopping at Grain…

Sandhill Cranes

Each spring the most incredible migration event in the world passes through the North Platte…

Trains & Railroads

  North Platte has been central to the transcontinental Railroad since it has existed. From the…