Please note that this is not an itinerary submitted by an actual family. This day was inspired by theJuly 2014 issue of Condé Nast Traveler Magazine and further enhanced by one of our travel experts. It serves as a recommendation for a family of children with ages 4 through late teens, based on knowledge of the city. Factors such as time, cost and distance have been considered to make this a great day to get a sense of the city and keep the
children and teens interested and engaged.
Address: Center Loop Road, Yellowstone National Park, WY 82190
Phone: 307-344-7381
Hours: Doesn’t close, but check for predicted times of geyser eruptions
Website: http://www.yellowstonenationalpark.com/uppergeyser.htm
Admission: All National Parks are free of charge
Upon arriving at the park, smart travellers will pay a visit to the information center to get the latest geyser time predictions. Equipped with this information, make your way over to the upper geyser basin. This is the location of most of the park’s geysers including “Old Faithful” which is perhaps the most famous in the world. No matter how young or old, everyone is sure to be impressed by a real life eruption sending water over 100 feet in the air. Helpful guides as well as park literature will explain the fascinating science behind these thermal features, as well as the history of their discovery by early settlers. Besides the natural features there are a number of food and beverage options (including ice cream treats) as well as gift shops and lounge areas. This could easily become most of your day…and that’s not a bad thing.
Address: Grand Loop Road, Between Fishing Bridge and Grant Village, Yellowstone National Park, WY 82190
Phone: 307-44-7381
Hours: Doesn’t close but consult expert opinions for best times to catch certain fish.
Website: http://www.nps.gov/yell/planyourvisit/fishing.htm
Admission: Fishing permit required for all over 16 years old. $18 for three-day permit, $25 for seven-day permit or $40 for season permit. Children 15 and younger free with supervising adult who has permit.
After experiencing the geysers that the entire world knows Yellowstone for, experience the fishing that only the initiated love it for. The local Yellowstone cutthroat trout are the stuff of legend: beautiful, elusive and for those so inclined, delicious. They average an impressive 20 inches in length. Experienced anglers will find a real challenge and a rewarding pursuit here. The novice and younger fisherman will find a great variety of fish, some easier to catch than others and the greatest consolation prize of all: breathtaking views. Not only of the lake, but of surrounding mountains and even steam vents bordering the water. Take some time to relax as well as fish and stand in awe of nature’s grandeur while you try your hand at casting a line and trying to identify what you just caught. For those serious about not walking away empty handed, the best fishing is from mid June-mid July (the season doesn’t open until June 15th). There are various locations to rent equipment for those not traveling with their own.
Address: 1326 Sheridan Ave, Cody, WY 82414
Phone: 1-800-207-0744
Hours: Nightly at 8PM, gates at 7PM from June 1st – August 31st
Website: http://www.codystampederodeo.com/
Getting There: One hour from Yellowstone via US 14 or 20 East.
Admission: $10-$20 depending on section. Group rates start at 10 people.
Still going strong after 76 years this is the country’s oldest rodeo and the only one that operates nightly. Tickets can be purchased online to ensure your seat. Still, you’ll want to come early to meet the clowns and riders and to pick up some concessions for the two hour show. Children will enjoy face painting and having a picture taken with “Hollywood the Bull.” Parents should note that this may be a bit rough for younger children, but there are activities and rides for children there aside from the show. Children 12 and under can participate in the “calf scramble” and really feel a part of the tradition. While the main show is not itself violent, people getting thrown from bulls may be upsetting to some young ones. In the end this is boh a unique and uniquely American experience the whole family is sure to remember. Live out cowboy dreams and enjoy the kind of down to earth activity only available in the American West.