In 1886, during the heyday of his famous show, Cody instructed his brother-in-law and his manager, Al Goodman, to build a large house on the property. No expense was spared with the building of the house, which Cody insisted upon including a parlor and a bedroom with a bathroom attached.

An addition was built onto the back of the house in 1909, making the house exactly how it is to this day.

The house was a main attraction to many famous and wealthy guests of that time, and Cody loved to entertain at the Scouts Rest Ranch. Everyone, from actors to royalty, was invited to the ranch at one time or another.

Since 1965, the house, barn, and original outbuildings have been preserved by the Nebraska Game and Parks Commission as a historical park. The park now encompasses 25 acres of the original ranch, including the house and barn.

The house and barn have been restored to their original state, much as it was when Cody occupied it. Mementos of Cody's long career are exhibited in the 18-room house.

The ranch is now open to the general public to enjoy. The ranch is open from 9 a.m. to 5 p.m. Monday through Friday from April 1 to Memorial Day.

From Memorial Day to Labor Day, the ranch is open from 10 a.m. to 8 p.m. daily.
From Labor Day to Oct. 31, the ranch is open from 9 a.m. to 5 p.m. Monday through Friday.
State Park permits are required for all vehicles. Daily permits are $2.50.

Next to the ranch is the Buffalo Bill State Recreation Area. The area offers camping sites along the Platte River, fishing, picnic tables, fire rings, hiking trails, and horse trails. 23 camping pads are available with electricity, and 20 primitive sites without hookups are available. Camper cabins, drinking water and laundry facilities are other amenities.

If something indoors is what you prefer, the Cody home is opened for Christmas at the Cody's where an old-fashioned Christmas can be enjoyed as the house is decorated for the season. Roasted chestnuts, carolers and music of the season, stories and hayrides are there for the enjoyment of visitors.

From June 18-21, at the Wild West Arena right across the road from the ranch, Buffalo Bill's tradition is kept alive with the Buffalo Bill Rodeo. Cowboys from across the country come and to show what they've got.

No matter what your taste, come and enjoy the fascinating story of America's most famous showman-scout.