Traveling to Yellowstone National Park and the surrounding area affords a chance to admire beautiful scenery, see amazing wildlife and also learn about colorful characters from the history of the American West such William Frederick Cody, more commonly known as Buffalo Bill. ---

To most, the name conjures the image of a showman and bison hunter. However, there's just as much that most don't know about him: Cody was an advocate for the rights of Native Americans and women, a 32nd-degree Freemason, worked as a Pony Express rider as a teenager, came from an abolitionist family and was a Medal of Honor recipient for his military service. 

The Buffalo Bill Historical Center, in Cody, Wyo., explores the life of Buffalo Bill Cody and the story of the American West with its exhibits and events. The town also has numerous other museums covering a wide range of American history from the Wild West into World War II, and the Old Trail Town's collection of frontier buildings, including Butch Cassidy and the Sundance Kid's "hole in the wall" cabin. Local day ranches provide an opportunity to get in the frontier spirit with roping lessons, hay rides and cooking around the campfire, and the town is also close to Yellowstone National Park. To start planning your own Buffalo Bill adventure, head to the town's website.

The Travel Tramps write regularly about their treks near and far in City Weekly and host the Travel Brigade Radio Show.