The state of Wyoming

In Cody, food gives you a very direct taste of the American West. This isn’t about fine dining, it’s all about simple, hearty dishes shaped by ranch life. Bison is the standout, a leaner meat than beef, usually served as a steak or in a burger, and you’ll also spot elk on menus around town. These local meats reflect a strong connection to the wide-open landscapes that define the region. On your plate, the Western feel is unmistakable, with classics like barbecue ribs, chili, and cornbread, a traditional bread made from corn. But the experience isn’t just about the food, it’s also about the setting. Steakhouses and saloons pull you into a real Wild West atmosphere, often with country music playing in the background, and when it comes to drinks, you’ll find local craft beers and whiskey, very much in the American spirit. Beyond the food, Wyoming also stands out for its history. It’s often called the Equality State because it was the first U.S. territory to grant women the right to vote back in 1869, long before the rest of the country. That said, things are a bit more complex today. Wyoming is still a very rural and conservative state, where issues around women’s rights, especially reproductive health, are still being debated. It’s a place shaped by pioneers and major turning points, but also by the more complex realities of the present, much like the country as a whole.