With a hint of cowboy culture, the Buffalo Bill Museum and Grave is the perfect place for teachers to bring their students who want to learn more about Indian heritage. Located in Jefferson County, Colorado, the museum showcases William F. “Buffalo Bill” Cody, an American soldier, bison hunter, and showman. The museum serves as a fantastic educational destination for classroom visits, offering self-guided tours that allow students to explore freely. With a diverse range of Wild West-themed exhibits and interactive features, it provides an engaging and entertaining experience that captivates students throughout their visit.
During a typical field trip, educators can expect a two-hour reservation at the small museum. To ensure an enjoyable and organized visit, the staff requires groups to be divided into smaller groups of 10 students, each accompanied by one adult. While one group explores the museum, the others can take turns visiting the gravesite, checking out the observation deck, going for a hike, or eating lunch. Museum visits are self-guided, with most student groups finding that about 30 minutes is enough time to explore the exhibits.
While strolling through the museum, students will encounter various exhibits that can pique their interest. The Buffalo Bill Story exhibit brings the tale of the museum’s namesake to life, guiding visitors through key chapters of his remarkable journey. As you explore, you’ll encounter striking images, historical recordings, and a collection of artifacts, including his iconic cowboy hat and cherished memorabilia, all of which offer a deeper glimpse into his legendary legacy. For educators seeking to enrich their students’ understanding of Indian culture, they can follow the “Adversary to Advocate” exhibit. This exhibit showcases Buffalo Bill’s relation to the American Indians, offering a gallery of images telling the journey of being an advocate for the community. The Legacy on Lookout Mountain exhibit will inform students about Buffalo Bill’s decision to be buried there and the controversy surrounding it, featuring objects and photos to admire.
When the weather is nice in the city, the museum offers outdoor activities for the classroom. Visiting Buffalo Bill’s grave offers students an easy walk to the final resting place of the Wild West legend. The museum’s observation deck and the historic Pahaska Tepee provide picnic areas for visitors. Built in 1921, the Pahaska Tepee originally served as a museum, café, and gift shop after Buffalo Bill’s burial on Lookout Mountain. In addition to the museum, visitors can explore nearby outdoor attractions, including Lookout Mountain, which offers breathtaking views of the Rocky Mountains and Denver, bison viewing at Genesee Park, and scenic hiking trails that surround the museum and local areas.
The Buffalo Bill Museum and Grave offers the perfect educational and engaging field trip for the entire classroom. From fascinating insights into Buffalo Bill’s life and American Indian heritage to the breathtaking scenery of Jefferson County surrounding the museum and park, students can expect to be immersed in history while enjoying a memorable outdoor experience. The mountain’s sweeping views and surrounding trails offer a glimpse into the landscapes Buffalo Bill once roamed, creating a more immersive and engaging historical experience.
