William F. Cody’s actual burial site was selected for its commanding view of the plains and mountains, specifically requested in his will.
Despite his request for the burial site, the Denver Post engaged in a multi-year effort to secure the body for Denver, leading to the construction of a tomb on Lookout Mountain to prevent his removal.
The museum holds one of the most comprehensive collections of Buffalo Bill’s original Wild West Show performance posters.
Cody was a prolific letter writer, and the museum houses a significant portion of his personal correspondence with family and associates.
The site contains artifacts related to Sitting Bull, who performed in the Wild West show for one season in 1885.
A massive, iconic statue of Buffalo Bill stands near the entrance, serving as a landmark for the mountain summit.
The museum building underwent a major expansion in 1977 to better accommodate the growing artifact collection.
The burial site is physically located within the boundaries of Lookout Mountain Park, which was donated to the city of Denver in 1914.
The Buffalo Bill Museum and Grave commemorates the life of William F. Cody, situated atop Lookout Mountain in Golden, Colorado. The site houses an extensive collection of Wild West memorabilia, including Cody’s personal firearms, show costumes, and Native American artifacts. Visitors can view the actual gravesite of Buffalo Bill, which overlooks the Great Plains to the east and the Rocky Mountains to the west. The museum explores the transition of the American frontier through the lens of Cody’s international Wild West shows. Exhibits detail his service as a scout for the U.S. Army and his later career as a performer and cultural icon. The facility is integrated into Lookout Mountain Park, which provides panoramic vistas of the surrounding landscape. The site serves as both a historical repository and a memorial to the complex legacy of the frontier era.
The metal railing overlooking the Great Plains at the gravesite, which provides a dramatic contrast between the high peaks and the horizon.
Walk the short, paved path from the parking lot to the gravesite for the clearest views of the mountains.
Visit the museum gift shop for authentic, historically themed souvenirs not found in standard tourist outlets.
Dress in layers as the high elevation on Lookout Mountain creates temperatures significantly cooler than in downtown Denver or Golden.
Do not attempt to hike up the winding Lariat Loop Road; it is a driving route not intended for pedestrians.
Closed on Mondays during the winter season.
Respectful behavior is expected at the gravesite area as it is a designated memorial.
