Interactive visitor center featuring historical exhibits, local artwork, and a towering bronze sculpture commemorating the legend of Buffalo Bill.

How to Get There

From Colby, KS (21 mi): Take I-70 E to exit 76, then head south on US-83 for 3 miles; the center is on the west side of the highway.

Overview

The Buffalo Bill Cultural Center in Oakley, Kansas, celebrates the legacy of William F. “Buffalo Bill” Cody and the region’s Wild West heritage. Anchored by a twice life-size bronze sculpture of Buffalo Bill by Kansas artists Charlie and Pat Norton, the center marks the legendary 1868 buffalo hunting contest that helped forge Cody’s nickname. Inside, visitors will find interpretive exhibits on the Smoky Hill Trail, the Western Cattle Trail, and the ghost town of Sheridan, along with a fossil and rock display and artwork by local artists. The center also serves as a travel information hub with maps, brochures, and a gift shop featuring Kansas-made products.

The center is part of the Western Vistas Historic Byway and offers a welcoming stop for travelers with picnic tables, clean restrooms, and free Wi-Fi. Children can enjoy interactive displays, while adults explore the cultural and historical panels. Outside, the sculpture plaza and storyboard panels are accessible 24/7, offering a dramatic photo opportunity and a glimpse into the frontier spirit that shaped the American West. Whether you're passing through or planning a deeper dive into Kansas history, the Buffalo Bill Cultural Center offers a memorable and educational experience.

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