It’s hard to miss. A larger-than-life-sized bronze statue of “Buffalo Bill” on his horse, Brigham, aiming at a buffalo, was sculpted to mark the legendary hunt that took place near Oakley. The legend says that Oakley was where William Frederick Cody gained the renowned title of “Buffalo Bill.”

Michele Hockersmith, director of the Buffalo Bill Cultural Center in Oakley, enjoys seeing how passers-by perceive the distinguished statue. “It is quite notable from the road and has appeal, but when you experience the artwork up close, you note the amazing detail,” says Hockersmith.

The center has been in operation for four years and has seen various travelers. “Those who come to events hosted here always compliment the beautiful building, wonderful staff and how accommodating the venue is,” says Hockersmith. “We are fortunate and proud to preserve and share the history of the Wild West with people from all over the world.”

If you’re driving on I-70 and passing by Oakley, the Buffalo Bill Cultural Center encourages you to stop and enjoy a cup of
coffee or stay for a picnic lunch. The surrounding area is pet-friendly and offers a spacious area to accommodate cars, RVs,
buses and trucks of any size.

Monument Rocks and Chalk Pyramids, geologic remnants of the ancient ocean that once covered this region, are great places to fossil hunt or take in a beautiful Kansas sunset. These monuments are located south of Oakley on U.S. Highway 83 and are free to the public. To learn more about these stops, visit www.buffalobilloakley.org and www.discoveroakley.com/visitors/attractions/monument-rocks. The sculpture and natural monuments rank as two of the Eight Wonders of Kansas Art.