10 Fun Things To Do In and Around Powell, Wyoming (Park County Travel Guide)
Looking for a quiet, friendly Wyoming town that still puts you close to big Western adventures?
Powell, Wyoming, in
Park County, might be exactly what you’re after.
Tucked in the northern part of the state, Powell is a small farming community with big views, wide-open skies, and easy access to some of the best things to do in northwest Wyoming. It’s also a great base for exploring
Yellowstone National Park,
Cody, and the stunning
Big Horn Basin.
Below are
10 things to do in and near Powell, WY that work for couples, families, road-trippers, and anyone who just loves the American West.
1. Explore Downtown Powell and Grab a Coffee
Before you race off to the mountains, spend a little time getting to know
downtown Powell.
You’ll find a classic small-town Main Street with local shops, friendly faces, and that “everyone waves at you” vibe. Strolling a few blocks here honestly feels like stepping into a calmer time.
- Pop into local boutiques for Western wear, gifts, and outdoor gear.
- Grab coffee and a pastry at a local café and people-watch for a bit.
- Check out murals and small-town street art you’ll spot along the way.
If you’re on a long road trip across Wyoming, Powell’s downtown makes a perfect leg-stretch stop. Walk a few blocks, breathe in that clear high plains air, and reset before getting back in the car.
2. Visit Northwest College and the Northwest College Museum
Right in Powell, you’ll find
Northwest College, a small community college with a pretty campus and a strong outdoor culture.
One cool stop is the
Northwest College Museum & Archives (and related exhibits on campus). It’s especially interesting if you enjoy local history, geology, or learning how this part of Wyoming grew from open range to farming and ranching.
Expect to find things like:
- Local history exhibits
- Regional geology and fossils
- Rotating art or photography shows
If you’re traveling with teens, walking a college campus can also spark fun “what’s next?” conversations. It’s a simple stop, but it helps you connect more deeply to Powell, not just rush through it.
3. Drive the Scenic Route to Cody, Wyoming
One of the best
day trips from Powell is the short drive to
Cody, about 25–30 miles southwest.
The drive itself is a treat:
- Open ranchland with horses and cattle grazing
- Views of distant mountains rising up from the plains
- Big Wyoming skies that seem to stretch forever
When you reach Cody, you can:
- Walk the historic downtown
- Grab a burger or steak at a local restaurant
- Browse Western art galleries and gift shops
Think of Powell as your quiet “home base” and Cody as the busier, more touristy neighbor. The combo works well if you like adventure during the day but prefer restful evenings.
4. Experience the Buffalo Bill Center of the West (Cody)
If there’s one major attraction near Powell you shouldn’t miss, it’s the
Buffalo Bill Center of the West in Cody.
This isn’t just a museum. It’s actually
five museums under one roof:
Plan to spend at least half a day here. If you’re traveling with family, this is a great way to mix fun, education, and air conditioning on a hot summer afternoon.
From Powell, it’s an easy 30–40 minute drive, making it one of the top
things to do near Powell, WY.
5. Take a Day Trip into Yellowstone National Park
One of the biggest perks of staying in Powell is how close you are to
Yellowstone National Park without being stuck in the busiest tourist towns.
From Powell:
- Drive to Cody (about 30 minutes)
- Then head west about 50 more miles to Yellowstone’s East Entrance
In less than 2 hours, you’re inside the world’s first national park.
Once there, you can see:
- Old Faithful and other geysers
- Yellowstone Lake and dramatic mountain views
- Bison, elk, and maybe even bears (from a safe distance!)
- Colorful hot springs and bubbling mud pots
A few tips:
- Leave Powell early to beat some of the traffic.
- Bring layers – mornings can be chilly even in July.
- Pack snacks and water; services inside the park are spread out.
Using Powell as a base for Yellowstone allows you to escape the crowds in the evening and enjoy a quieter, more local feel.
6. Hike, Fish, and Picnic in the Big Horn Basin
Powell sits in the wide
Big Horn Basin, framed by mountain ranges and cut by creeks and rivers. If you like fresh air and simple outdoor time, you’ll have plenty of options.
Near Powell, you can:
- Fish in local rivers and reservoirs (check current fishing regulations).
- Walk or hike on nearby trails and backroads with views of the Absaroka and Beartooth ranges in the distance.
- Picnic in small parks or along waterways, especially in the summer.
The landscape here is a mix of irrigated fields, sagebrush, and rocky hills. It may not look like the dramatic photos of Yellowstone you see online, but the quiet beauty sneaks up on you.
If you enjoy photography, try heading out near sunrise or sunset. The colors on the fields and distant mountains can be amazing.
7. Visit Nearby Reservoirs and Enjoy the Water
The Powell area depends on irrigation, which means you’ll find several
reservoirs and canals not too far away. These spots are great for low-key outdoor fun and are popular with locals.
Depending on current access and conditions, you may be able to:
- Fish from the shore or a small boat
- Kayak or canoe on calm water
- Bird-watch in the marshy areas
- Enjoy a simple picnic with mountain views in the distance
Always check local signs and rules. Water levels and access points can change from season to season, especially in farming areas.
If you’re traveling as a family, a few relaxed hours by the water can be a nice break from busy driving days.
8. Drive the Chief Joseph Scenic Byway (Worth the Extra Miles)
If you like scenic drives, the
Chief Joseph Scenic Byway (
WY-296) is a must-do while you’re staying in Powell. You’ll connect to it from Cody or the nearby region, and it makes an unforgettable loop with the Beartooth Highway if you have more time.
Why it’s special:
- Winding roads through dramatic mountains and valleys
- Overlooks with sweeping views that feel like the top of the world
- Historic ties to Chief Joseph and the Nez Perce flight of 1877
This is the kind of drive where you roll down the windows, turn down the music for a while, and just soak in the views.
If you’re planning a longer road trip, many travelers link:
- Powell → Cody → Chief Joseph Scenic Byway → Beartooth Highway → Red Lodge, MT
Even if you don’t do the full loop, a partial drive is still worth your time.
9. Step Back in Time at Local and Regional Museums
Powell and the surrounding Park County area are rich in
Western and agricultural history. Beyond the big museum in Cody, it’s worth exploring smaller, more local spots too.
Look for:
- Local historical displays in Powell (often connected with the college or community centers).
- Small-town museums in nearby communities that share stories of homesteaders, ranchers, and irrigation projects.
These places may not be flashy, but they’re full of personal stories, old photographs, and artifacts. If you enjoy learning how people actually lived and worked in tough landscapes, you’ll find a lot to appreciate.
Plus, these stops are usually inexpensive, low-pressure, and great for a rainy or windy day.
10. Enjoy Local Events, Rodeos, and Small-Town Festivals
If you really want to feel what
life in Powell, WY is like, time your visit with a local event. In Wyoming, that often means
rodeos,
fairs, and
community festivals.
Depending on the season, you might find:
- Local rodeos and gymkhanas (horse events)
- County or community fairs with 4-H animals, food, and crafts
- Parades, live music, or holiday celebrations
Sitting in the bleachers at a rodeo or county fair is one of the fastest ways to feel like you’re part of the community instead of just passing through.
If you’re planning a trip, check:
- City of Powell event calendars
- Northwest College events
- Park County tourism or chamber of commerce websites
These gatherings are great for kids, couples, and solo travelers alike. Plus, you’ll usually find classic fair food… which is always a bonus.
Planning Your Trip to Powell, Wyoming
A few quick tips to make the most of your visit to
Powell and Park County:
- Best time to visit: Late spring through early fall (roughly May–September) is ideal for road trips, hiking, fishing, and Yellowstone day trips.
- Weather: Summers can be warm during the day but cool at night. Pack layers, sunscreen, and a light jacket.
- Driving distances: Things are spread out in Wyoming. Fill up on gas before longer drives and keep water and snacks in the car.
- Lodging: Use Powell as a quieter, more affordable base compared to some of the crowded gateway towns near Yellowstone.
If you like wide-open spaces, friendly folks, and easy access to some of the most beautiful landscapes in the USA, Powell is a smart place to add to your Wyoming travel plans.
What Would You Add to the Powell, WY Bucket List?
Have you spent time in
Powell or Park County, Wyoming? Did you discover a favorite coffee shop, fishing spot, or scenic overlook?
- What was your favorite thing to do near Powell?
- Any hidden gems other travelers should know about?
Share your tips and experiences in the comments so other readers can discover them too.
And if you found this list of
10 things to do in and around Powell, Wyoming helpful, please
share it with a friend who’s planning a road trip or pin it for your own future adventure. The more we share real, on-the-ground travel ideas, the easier it is for everyone to explore these wonderful small towns.
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