The Historic Irma Hotel - Cody, Wyoming
Written By: Sarah Reish
This is the first time we are showcasing a stay at a hotel. While this might not become regular content for us, we felt it was appropriate to include due to the history surrounding the location and original owner. So my friend, Lauren Castellanos and I packed an overnight bag and headed to the Irma Hotel and settled in for a night of fun!
The History
Many of you know that Cody is named after William Fredrick “Buffalo Bill” Cody. While the town of Cody is named after him, the Irma Hotel is named after his daughter. You can still stay in his suite or his daughters suite. The historic bar and restaurant space was originally a casino of sorts and the original gambling tables and “wheel of fortune” can be seen at the Center of the West Buffalo Bill Museum. The Irma Hotel opened November 1, 1902 and they held the grand opening celebration on November 18th. The Irma is listed on the National Registry of Historic Places by the National Park Service.
The Bar
The bar itself is an icon piece of history and its immense presence makes it feel like you have stepped back in time. The bar was a gift from Queen Victoria and is made of cherry wood. Some of the exterior walls of this area of the hotel are made of river rock pulled from Beck lake. While the bar itself is not in operation you can sit at it and order from the bar and eat and drink there.
The Rooms
The rooms are stunningly historic and feature furniture from the era. The rooms each have a private bathroom with gravity fed toilets and don’t worry there is air conditioning! Royalty and icon figures from history have stayed here while exploring the west. When Lauren and I stayed we were in room 33. The room features two queen beds, a desk, walk in closet, and dresser. The beds were comfortable and the room was spacious, the high ceilings made the room feel expansive.
The Food
Here is a photo of the famous bread pudding Lauren and I tried! We also have enjoyed various meals as we have dined here many times. The chicken pot pie, shrimp, and burgers are all delicious. Each weekend they offer a brunch buffet, as well as, lunch and dinner buffets daily. If you don’t plan to stay at the hotel make an effort to dine there and explore the hotel - it is worth the stop!
Entertainment
The nightly gun fight takes place every evening throughout the summer and can be viewed from right there on the large covered porch. The historic reenactment is something you have to see at least once. I know as locals it is hard to become a resident tourist, but it is fun to participate in these little happenings that keep our history alive.
The Hauntings
Okay, I know many people brush this off, but there are whispers of the Irma Hotel being haunted. Lauren and I decided to have a mini investigation while we were staying at the hotel. Our room shared walls with room 35 which has had guests report various happenings. Nothing took place in the room we stayed in, however we were able to investigate room 16 which was Irma’s room. Irma died in the hotel at the young age of 35 from influenza, just days after her husband, the hotel manager passed of pneumonia. Just before leaving room 16 the ceiling fan, that hadn’t moved the entire time we were there began to spin. We will let you be the judge, was that Irma’s way of “waving” goodbye to us?
Plan Your Trip
We hope you visit and stay at the Irma Hotel next time you are passing through Cody. You can book your stay online. Be sure to share your adventures by posting photos on social media and remember to tag us @LiveWYldMag and use #LiveWYld.