Summary
- Hit the Backcountry in Yellowstone National Park
- Play Outdoors in Grand Teton National Park
- Ski Jackson Hole Mountain Resort
- Wander Through the Buffalo Bill Center of the West
- Explore the National Historic Trails Interpretive Center
- Attend Cheyenne’s Frontier Days Rodeo
- Visit Fort Laramie National Historic Site
- Soak the Pools at Hot Springs State Park
- Rock Climb at Devils Tower National Monument
- Drive Your Car Along the Bridger Valley Historic Byway
- Take a Sleigh Ride in the Elk Refuge
- Ski Grand Targhee Resort
- Ride the Coaster at Snow King Mountain
- Hike the Thunder Basin National Grassland
- Boat and Fish the Flaming Gorge
- Visit the State Capitol Complex
- Backpack the Wind River Range
- Experience Nature at the Laurance Rockefeller Preserve
The state of Wyoming is rich in natural wonders and Old West history. With famous National Parks, towering mountain peaks, wild rivers, and wide-open plains, this state draws visitors and recreationists from around the world. The history of the West—from Native American and cowboy heritage to the development of railroads and mining—can be experienced at historical sites, museums, and visitor centers, and also by wandering around preserved downtown districts.
Hit the Backcountry in Yellowstone National Park
Address: View Avenue, Yellowstone National Park, WY 82190, USA
Phone: +1 307-344-2751
Yellowstone National Park is a natural wonder sprawling over 2.2 million acres—96 percent of which is located in Wyoming. This park boasts jaw-dropping geysers, colorful hot springs, majestic mountain ranges, and vibrant waterfalls. Popular attractions include Old Faithful Geyser, Mammoth Hot Springs, and the Grand Canyon of the Yellowstone River. Adventurous folks can explore the backcountry to avoid traffic and crowds while catching glimpses of wildlife such as wolves, elk, bison, and bears.
Play Outdoors in Grand Teton National Park
Address: Wyoming, USA
Phone: +1 307-739-3399
Grand Teton National Park features postcard-perfect scenery that rivals locations in Europe or Patagonia, Chile. It offers rugged peaks, rushing rivers, serene lakes, and wildflower-filled meadows perfect for city dwellers seeking retreat. Wildlife ranges from large bison and elk to smaller mammals like pika and marmots. This National Park, along with the nearby Bridger-Teton National Forest and the resort town of Jackson Hole, makes a vast outdoor playground suitable for every season. Activities include whitewater rafting, hiking, horseback riding, fishing, lake cruises, snowshoeing, and skiing.
Ski Jackson Hole Mountain Resort
Address: 25 Utah 43, Manila, UT 84046, USA
Phone: +1 435-784-3445
With a vertical drop of 4,139 feet and 2,500 acres of in-bounds skiing terrain, Jackson Hole Mountain Resort offers an unparalleled skiing experience. However, be aware that 50 percent of the terrain is suitable for expert-level skiers. Nonetheless, the lower mountain features beginner terrain, and the ski school provides excellent lessons for those needing skill enhancement. Teton Village boasts gourmet restaurants, luxurious accommodations, and a vibrant nightlife for après-ski enjoyment.
Wander Through the Buffalo Bill Center of the West
Address: 720 Sheridan Ave, Cody, WY 82414-3428, USA
Phone: +1 307-587-4771
The Buffalo Bill Center of the West comprises five fascinating museums, each worthy of a visit. Discover American history through artifacts from Buffalo Bill Cody’s life at the Buffalo Bill Museum. The Cody Firearms Museum offers an extensive collection of firearms from different eras. Nature enthusiasts will appreciate the exhibits at the Draper Museum of Natural History. The Plains Indian Museum reveals the rich heritage of regional Native Americans through exhibits and multimedia presentations. Finally, the Whitney Gallery of Western Art showcases a renowned collection featuring notable artists like Charles Russell and Frederic Remington.
Explore the National Historic Trails Interpretive Center
Address: 1501 N Poplar St, Casper, WY 82601, USA
Phone: +1 307-261-7700
The National Historic Trails Interpretive Center in Casper, Wyoming, is packed with educational experiences. The center features galleries showcasing Wyoming’s first inhabitants, mountain men, and fur trappers. Visitors can learn about the Oregon, Mormon, California Trails, and the Pony Express while rich multimedia presentations and living history demonstrations bring these stories to life.
Attend Cheyenne’s Frontier Days Rodeo
Address: 4610 Carey Avenue, 1210 W 8th Ave, Cheyenne, WY 82001, USA
Phone: +1 307-778-7200
Since 1919, the Cheyenne Frontier Days Rodeo, known as the “Daddy of ’em All,” showcases top quality rodeo performances. The late-July festivities span 10 days, featuring rodeos, concerts with renowned country music artists, a carnival, and a Grand Parade complete with traditional dance and costumes. If you can’t attend in July, the Cheyenne Frontier Days Old West Museum is open year-round for rodeo enthusiasts.
Visit Fort Laramie National Historic Site
Address: 965 Grey Rocks Road, Fort Laramie, WY 82212, USA
Phone: +1 307-837-2221
Originally a fur trading post in 1834, the Fort Laramie National Historic Site represents a critical point for those migrating west via the Oregon and California Trails. Visitors can explore numerous restored historic buildings and view a short history video, along with a museum featuring military uniforms, weapons, and artifacts that narrate the colorful history of Fort Laramie.
Soak the Pools at Hot Springs State Park
Address: 220 Park St, Thermopolis, WY 82443, USA
Phone: +1 307-864-2176
Wyoming’s most popular state park offers year-round relaxation. Home to the world’s largest mineral hot spring, this area attracts not only visitors but also Wyoming’s central bison herd. Guests can enjoy soaking in 104-degree mineral waters at the indoor State Bath House or in outdoor pools. In summer, explore interesting rock formations created by mineral waters while hiking the extensive trail system.
Rock Climb at Devils Tower National Monument
Address: 340 WY-110, Devils Tower, WY 82714, USA
Phone: +1 307-467-5283
Located in northeast Wyoming, the majestic Devils Tower is a focal point for rock climbers, having gained fame from the film “Close Encounters of the Third Kind.” The Tower Trail, a 1.3-mile paved walking path, provides stunning views and knowledge about the natural history of the monument. Visitors can enjoy guided hikes or even try their hand at rock climbing.
Drive Your Car Along the Bridger Valley Historic Byway
This scenic 20-mile loop offers a remarkable glimpse into Wyoming’s history. Drive along the paths once traveled by those on the Oregon and California Trails, the Pony Express, and the transcontinental railroad. Stop at the Fort Bridger State Historic Site, which includes a museum and a walking tour of restored historic buildings, providing exciting insights into this original trading post founded by Jim Bridger.
Take a Sleigh Ride in the Elk Refuge
The National Elk Refuge is an absolute must during winter visits to Jackson Hole. Located just north of the town, this sanctuary houses up to 7,000 elk seasonally, with a horse-drawn sleigh ride offering a unique close encounter with the herds during the winter months. Sleigh rides operate daily from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m.
Ski Grand Targhee Resort
Known for its outstanding snowfall, Grand Targhee Resort is a family-oriented resort located just over the hill from Jackson Hole. Skis can accommodate all skill levels, making it a great alternative for those intimidated by Jackson Hole’s expert terrain. Visitors are often encouraged to bring snorkels due to the overwhelming amount of powder snow.
Ride the Coaster at Snow King Mountain
Thrill-seekers will enjoy the Cowboy Coaster at Snow King Mountain, where hand-operated coaster cars navigate through miles of loops and drops. Climbs offer stunning views of Jackson Hole and the surrounding Teton mountain range, making this summer attraction a popular choice for visitors seeking adventure. An all-day Big King Pass grants access to multiple activities, including mini-golf and a treetop adventure park.
Hike the Thunder Basin National Grassland
Nestled in northeastern Wyoming between the Big Horn Mountains and Black Hills, Thunder Basin National Grassland is ideal for hiking enthusiasts. A plethora of trails meander through rolling grasslands and native shrubbery. Keep a field guide handy to identify wildlife, plants, and birds you may encounter, along with the possibility of grazing livestock along the way.
Boat and Fish the Flaming Gorge
The stunning Flaming Gorge National Recreation Area provides ample opportunities for fishing, boating, and relaxing lakeside. The Flaming Gorge Reservoir is renowned among local trout fishermen. Access this remarkable fishery by driving south of Rock Springs to Buckboard Marina, where boat rentals and fishing reports are readily available.
Visit the State Capitol Complex
The captivating Wyoming State Capitol Complex consists of the Wyoming State Museum, Wyoming Supreme Court, Governor’s Mansion, and the Wyoming State Legislature. Experience the inner workings of the state’s government through tours, especially suited for students and educators with prior arrangements. Note that the Capitol building is currently undergoing renovation, but an exhibit is available at the Wyoming State Museum until it reopens.
Backpack the Wind River Range
This mountain range, often overlooked in favor of its Teton neighbors, offers hikers the chance to escape the crowds and enjoy nature in splendid isolation. Glacier-carved granite spires are interspersed with high mountain lakes and meadows perfect for camping. The Cirque of the Towers Loop—spanning three days and 23 miles—is ideal for experienced backpackers aiming to revel in breathtaking scenery.
Experience Nature at the Laurance Rockefeller Preserve
Located just south of Moose, Wyoming, east of Jackson Hole, the Laurance Rockefeller Preserve provides an opportunity for solitude away from the tourist crowds of summer. Engage with sensory exhibits, reflect peacefully, or relax while appreciating Rockefeller’s vision of preserving this natural landscape for future generations.
