Heart Mountain Interpretive Center

The basics

Many visitors like to visit the Heart Mountain Interpretive Center in Wyoming on their own to explore the historical site at a comfortable pace. Although the remembrance site doesn’t offer guided tours, audio tours are available for free in multiple languages, and you can always book an experience that takes you to the Heart Mountain Interpretive Center from Cody. One of the highlights of the Heart Mountain Interpretive Center is a 15-minute documentary film called All We Could Carry.

Things to know before you go

• One wheelchair is available at the site to rent, but it’s first-come first-serve.

• Service animals are the only animals allowed at the Heart Mountain Interpretive Center.

• You should plan at least an hour and a half to explore the site, if not more time, as there’s a lot to learn and see.

How to get there

Because of its remote location in Wyoming, you need a car to visit the Heart Mountain Interpretive Center. Most people visit the Heart Mountain Interpretive Center from Cody, which is also a home base for many travelers visiting Yellowstone National Park. From Cody, take Highway 14A to Road 19. Once at Road 19, head all the way down and turn right onto the stretch that’s for the site, and you’ll see a parking lot at the end. You can also join a private or group tour that includes transport from Cody.

When to get there

It’s best to visit the Heart Mountain Interpretive Center during the week, excluding Fridays, if you’re looking to beat the crowds. It’s closed on Mondays and Tuesdays from early October until mid-May. You also want to visit before 3pm to allow yourself enough time to explore the complex.

Look for wild mustangs

For travelers who have more time in the area, carve out a full day to visit the McCullough Peaks Herd Management Area, so you can see wild mustangs in their natural Wyoming habitat. The area is about a 25-minute drive from Cody, and you can either drive yourself or join a group or private tour from Cody.