CFD Old West Museum

Since 1978, the Cheyenne Frontier Days Old West Museum has captivated visitors with diverse exhibitions, awe-inspiring collections and educational programs that showcase the spirit of the American West and preserve the thrilling history of Cheyenne Frontier Days.

From authentic stages to early ice and milk wagons to rare Drop Front Phaetons, the nearly 150 carriages and wagons in the Cheyenne Frontier Days Old West Museum collection chronicle the colorful pioneer history of Cheyenne and the expansion of the American West.

A variety of cultural programs throughout the year also allow visitors of all ages to step back in time and experience Cheyenne’s history. From the spectacular first-class western art of the annual Western Art Show and Sale to the old-fashioned family fun at the annual Kids Cowboy Festival, the Cheyenne Frontier Days Old West Museum serves as one of the region’s premier year-round cultural attractions.

"Bull Fighters: The Risky Road to Glory!
Special Exhibit

The Cheyenne Frontier Days Old West Museum presents “Bullfighters: The Risky Road to Glory”.  Five Cheyenne Frontier Days Hall of Fame members Wilbur Plaugher, Wick Peth, Quail Dobbs and famous bulls Crooked Nose and Mr. T, rodeo careers are highlighted as examples of how the dramatic role of rodeo clown into the modern day “bullfighter” has evolved over time.

This exhibit features the history of clowns and bullfighters at Cheyenne Frontier Days as well as captures the excitement and danger of the bullfighter’s trade.   Experience bullfighting from the viewpoint of these daring men and learn the tricks that kept them from getting “hooked.” Quail Dobbs, Wick Peth and Wilbur Plaugher each have contributed their stories, their skills and their experiences at Cheyenne Frontier Days to this world class exhibit.

"Cheyenne Frontier Days: A Legend Walking Tall"
Permanent Exhibit

The museum exhibit, "Cheyenne Frontier Days: A Legend Walking Tall" showcases the evolution of Cheyenne Frontier Days into the world's largest outdoor rodeo and western celebration. The museum exhibit includes photographs, authentic memorabilia and Hall of Fame items spanning the history of Cheyenne Frontier Days. Trace the history of Cheyenne Frontier Days from its humble beginnings in 1897 to the world renowned pageantry today as The Daddy of 'em All ®.

Historic Carriages and Wagons
Permanent Exhibit

The collection of over 150 horse-drawn vehicles ranks it among the largest collection of historic carriages and wagons in the United States. The examples on display from the collection include specialized wagons from local Cheyenne businesses, such as an ice wagon, a milk wagon and an ambulance. Two-wheeled carts and a fine example of a rare Drop Front Phaeton are also on display. Visitors during Cheyenne Frontier Days can see several of the carriages rolling in the many parades during the celebration.

Cheyenne Frontier Days Hall of Fame
Permanent Exhibit

Created in 2002 as an enhancement to the museum's permanent exhibit about the history of Cheyenne Frontier Days, the Cheyenne Frontier Days Hall of Fame exhibits honor the people, organizations and livestock that have contributed fame to "The Daddy of 'em All" ® and celebrates those volunteers who have helped grow Cheyenne Frontier Days into the world's largest outdoor rodeo and western celebration.

The Cheyenne Frontier Days Old West Museum collections representative materials for each of the inductees in the CFD Hall of Fame and hosts the annual induction ceremony honoring new inductees into the Cheyenne Frontier Days Hall of Fame.

Women’s Civic League
“Hole in the Wall”
Children's Interactive Gallery
Permanent Exhibit

Interactive learning displays and other hands-on activities await visitors of all ages into our wildly popular kids room. Whether you're a young cowpoke looking to try your hand at roping or a young cowgirl wanting to try your hand at hide painting or other crafts, the CFD Old West Museum offers a safe, family friendly environment in which visitors of all ages can learn about our region's western heritage. The kids room remains open daily and is available for party rentals for birthdays.