Cody offers what most small towns can't: paying audiences. The tourist season brings Yellowstone overflow, visitors from everywhere looking for entertainment after the park closes. Historic Downtown hosts the summer showcases—packed rooms, generous crowds, tips that make the drive worthwhile. Off-season brings the locals back, and the scene contracts to Buffalo Bill Area regulars who've heard every Western joke. West Cody books the year-round grinders. Sunset Ridge draws the summer energy. The economics work here when they don't work elsewhere, and comics learn to ride the seasonal wave.