When looking for the best things to do in Wyoming, people will often be unsure where start. Located in a part of America often referred to as the flyover states, many assume Wyoming is nothing but a wilderness, with very little to offer tourists.
However, those of us who has visited Wyoming will know that couldn’t be further from the truth. From stunning national parks and iconic landmarks to historic cities and towns, Wyoming has plenty to keep even the fussiest of travellers occupied.
While there is so much to do in the state that I couldn’t possibly list everything, what I can do is tell you the 10 best things to do in Wyoming, USA. This should help get you started and ensure you have a trip you remember for the rest of your life.
Wyoming At A Glance
Covering almost 100,000 square miles, Wyoming is the 10th largest state in America. However, with just 577,000 permanent residents, it is also the least populated state in the entire country.
Admitted to the Union on July 10th 1890, it is among the youngest states, with only 6 having joined more recently. Wyoming is quite centrally located, bordered to the north and west by Montana and Idaho respectively, and is part of the Mountain Time Zone.
One of the more natural, undeveloped states in the US, Wyoming’s western half is covered by vast mountains and wilderness areas, while its eastern half features sprawling prairies.
It was an area synonymous with the wild west culture of the old west, and to this day is still often referred to as “Cowboy Country” or its official nickname, the Cowboy State.
Best Time To Visit Wyoming
When looking at the best time to visit Wyoming, most visitors will prefer to plan their trip between June and September.
This is because Wyoming is known to experience incredibly harsh, cold, snowy winters. While this will appeal to some visitors, particularly those who enjoy winter sports, it can also be prohibitive for the greater majority.
For starters, large sections of the outdoor attractions will either be closed off, unreachable, or simply too cold to enjoy. Then, in extreme circumstances, sections of the main freeways can even be closed off due to snow, making even travelling around the state itself problematic.
If you plan your visit between June and September, you can be assured everything from roads to attractions will be fully open and operational, while the temperature will be pleasant and allow you to enjoy this once in a lifetime adventure.
Best Things To Do In Wyoming
As we move to our list of the 10 best things to do in Wyoming, I am going to suggest a broad range of options. These will include things to appeal to travellers of all different interests, while ensuring you have something to cover everything that Wyoming is known for.
Explore Yellowstone National Park
Yellowstone National Park is the oldest, 6th most visited, and 8th largest national park in the United States.
It is a sprawling wilderness of mountains, forests, rivers, waterfalls, lakes, and canyons, all filled with unique and iconic animals like bears, bison, bighorn sheep, elk, and countless species of fish and birds.
Perhaps its most famous attraction is the Grand Prismatic Spring, one of the most photographed natural attractions in the world. The third largest hot spring on Earth, it displays all the colours of the rainbow and is unlike anything you will see anywhere else.
Grand Prismatic Spring is surrounded by smaller hot springs and geysers, including the famous Excelsior Geyser. However, the most popular geyser is located a few miles away in the Old Faithful Historic District.
Named for its incredible regularity of an eruption every 44 to 120 minutes, the Old Faithful Geyser is a popular attraction with those who want to guarantee they will see something when they visit.
Meanwhile, it is surrounded by beautiful lodges and museums, where you can relax and learn more about the park. There is even the Old Faithful Inn, the largest log hotel in the world, for those who fancy spending the night.
With a small number of villages and historic districts located in the park, Yellowstone National Park is a perfect opportunity to explore the wilds of America, while still having luxuries like hotels and excursions close at hand.
Best Hotel To Stay In Yellowstone National Park – The Old Faithful Inn
With such a historic hotel on offer, The Old Faithful Inn truly is the only place to stay within the confines of the park. Its style and history aside, it positions you near some of the Yellowstone’s most famous attractions, so you don’t have to waste any time travelling.
There are also two restaurants, a bar, café, and snack bar on site, to take care of all your culinary needs during your stay, as well as a beautiful fireplace to relax in front of.
They then have a wide range of different room types, ensuring everyone has an option to complete their dream vacation.
Soak Up The Western Culture In Cody
The town of Cody originated in 1896 and is named after its founder, legendary frontiersman William Frederick “Buffalo Bill” Cody.
Despite having less than 10,000 residents, Cody still ranks as the joint 10th most populated city in Wyoming, which goes to show just how sparsely populated the state truly is.
Known as the rodeo capital of the world, a visit to the town is a must for anyone interested in a culture that is deeply ingrained in the fabric of this part of the world.
From the Stampede Rodeo held every 4th of July weekend, the largest rodeo in America, to the Cody Nite Rodeo that is held every night from June through to September, there is almost always something going on for fans of the rodeo to enjoy.
Besides its rodeos, Cody is also known for its Buffalo Bill Center Of The West, a museum complex considered one of the most remarkable in the United States.
Accepted to be the most comprehensive display of exhibits and artefacts relating to the wild west anywhere in the country, its 5 museums include the Buffalo Bill Museum, Cody Firearms Museum, Plains Indians Museum, Whitney Western Art Museum, and Draper Natural History Museum.
Other attractions in Cody include the Old Town Trail, a recreation of parts of the town as they would have looked in the late 1800s, as well as the Historic Cody Mural & Museum.
Best Hotel To Stay In Cody – Cody Cowboy Village
Where better to stay in the “Rodeo Capital Of The World” than at the Cody Cowboy Village. Guests of this beautiful, 4-star hotel will get to stay in traditional, wooden log styled rooms.
Despite its rustic appearance, luxuries like air conditioning, flat screen TVs, a fridge, Wi-Fi, and a private patio with a mountain view let you know the calibre of the property.
The hotel also has a communal hot tub and tennis courts for you to make use of, while sculptures of horses and wagons will get you into the spirit of your destination.
Take In The Beauty Of Grand Teton National Park
Grand Teton National Park often gets overshadowed, as the considerably more famous Yellowstone National Park is a mere 10 miles to the north. This is a desperate shame though, as Grand Teton has plenty to offer in its own right.
The park is named after the Grand Teton mountain, which is the tallest in the Teton Range of the Rocky Mountains.
Its landscape is filled with sprawling mountain ranges, shimmering lakes, and beautiful prairies. The Jackson Hole valley offers some of the most stunning vistas in the country, with Snake River weaving in front of a backdrop of the highest peaks in the region.
The lower number of visitors also means the wildlife is even more abundant than in Yellowstone, with black bears, grizzly bears, bison, deer, elk, moose, pronghorn, and more than 300 species of bird freely roaming the area.
While hiking and cycling the trails are some of the most popular activities, things like boating, fishing, and mountaineering are also extremely popular, as are some seasonal activities, like snowshoe trekking.
Best Hotel To Stay In Grand Teton National Park – Jenny Lake Lodge
The Jenny Lake Lodge is a traditional log lodge, located within the park itself. Guests can rent one of 37 private cabins, to provide you with an authentic experience throughout your stay.
Its prime location means you never have to waste a single second commuting to and from the park, while a restaurant and a bar and lounge will keep you well fed and watered after long days of exploring.
Step Back In Time In Jackson
The town of Jackson, often incorrectly referred to as Jackson Hole, is located just to the south of Grand Teton National Park and is tied with Cody as the joint 10th most populous area in Wyoming.
Jackson is best known for the Jackson Town Square, a beautiful park at the heart of the town. It features Jackson’s iconic elk antler arches, which are a can’t miss photo opportunity for any visitors to the town.
Surrounding the square, you then have a number of attractions that help immerse you in the western culture the town is known for, having been used to film westerns as far back as John Wayne’s first starring role in 1930.
The Million Dollar Cowboy Bar will make you think you’re stepping into an old west saloon, while a Stagecoach Ride around the park will help you truly understand the history and culture of your location.
There is even plenty of themed shops as well, so you can purchase souvenirs and keep sakes to help you remember the experience for years to come. On the outskirts of the town, you also have the National Elk Herd.
The largest herd of elk in the United States and one of the largest in the world, visitors can see up to 7,500 elk if they come at the right time, while sleigh rides around the reserve are also available during winter for a truly unique experience.
Each spring, the refuge holds the Elkfest auction to sell off all the shed antlers from the herd, while the Grand Teton Music Festival takes place each summer, to ensure there is always something different going on to experience.
Overlooking the National Elk Herd, you even have the National Museum Of Wildlife Art, where paintings and sculptures of the local wildlife add a new element to the experience.
In a similar vein, the Center For The Arts gives further evidence of the artistic culture that is prominent in the town.
While not technically located in Jackson, there are also three famous ski resorts in its vicinity, Grand Targhee Resort, Jackson Hole Resort, and Snow King Mountain Resort. This makes Jackson a perfect stop for anyone who fancies a spot of skiing during their visit.
Best Hotel To Stay In Jackson – Wyoming Inn Of Jackson Hole
The Wyoming Inn Of Jackson Hole is a stunning lodge with western-style décor and a beautiful lobby fireplace, to completely immerse you in your surroundings.
The breakfast area combines thick wooden ceiling beams with a wood panel fireplace and stone columns to complete the iconic setting. There is also a restaurant on site, the Whistling Grizzly, to make sure you are never hungry or thirsty, no matter if it is night or day.
The rooms continue the traditional theme but are blended with warm colours to make them feel more homely. Amenities like Wi-Fi, cable TV, and coffee making facilities leave no doubt this is a quality property, while there is even an on-site gym for those who don’t want to skip a workout while they are away.
Uncover The History Of The State In Cheyenne
The capital and most populous city in the state, Cheyenne is as close to a big city as you will get in Wyoming, despite having a population less than 65,000. Founded in 1867, the city is named after the Cheyenne people, who have inhabited the region for centuries.
Cheyenne is a fabulous destination for anyone interested in the history of the state, as there are numerous institutions offering exhibits and education, as well as more than 50 locations listed on the National Register Of Historic Places.
The most prominent building is the Wyoming State Capitol, home to the chambers of the Wyoming State Legislature. Built between 1886 and 1890 in the Renaissance Revival style, it features domes to help it resemble the United States Capitol in Washington D.C.
The Francis E. Warren Air Force Base is the oldest continuously active air force base in the United States. While not usually open to the public, it still makes a fabulous attraction for anyone interested in the airborne branch of the U.S military.
The Cheyenne Frontier Days Wild West Museum is a great option for learning about Wyoming’s wild west past. With photos and videos, plus rotating exhibits like rodeo gear and horse carriages and wagons, it is a fun and educational stop for all the family.
You even have the Cheyenne Depot Museum, which features photos and train cars from all eras since the birth of the railroad. As one of the most important locations along the Pacific Railroad in the west, it makes for a great destination to learn about history where it actually occurred.
Best Hotel To Stay In Cheyenne – Little America Hotel & Resort Cheyenne
Located just 3 miles from the centre of the city, the Little America Hotel & Resort Cheyenne is a 4-star property, boasting luxuries like a pool, golf course, fitness centre, bar, and restaurant, as well as a selection of shops.
Each of the family friendly rooms boasts Wi-Fi, a fridge, tea and coffee making facilities, and an en suite bathroom, to ensure guests of all ages are taken care of throughout their stay.
Have A Big Adventure In Bighorn National Forest
Bighorn National Forest covers 1.1 million acres of land across the Bighorn Mountains and Bighorn Basin, as well as featuring stretches of the Bighorn River. With 99% of the forest above 4,900 feet, it can provide some stunning views of the surrounding areas.
More than 1,500 miles of trails make it a great destination for fans of hiking, while 3 scenic byways make it equally suited for those who would prefer a relaxing drive.
A choice of 32 campgrounds and lodges then provides a similar range of choice when it comes to accommodation as well.
Anyone who wants to take their adventure to the extreme also has the Cloud Peak Wilderness to explore. Located around Cloud Peak, the highest peak in the Bighorn Mountains, this is a completely de-motorised area, where hiking and horse-riding are the only means of exploration.
The most famous attraction in Bighorn National Forest is the Medicine Wheel National Historic Landmark.
A limestone memorial measuring 80 feet in diameter, its origins remain a mystery, with even the local tribes claiming it was present when they arrived more than 600 years ago.
Considered a holy place, it has been used extensively by the Native American tribes in the area for both sacred ceremonies and scientific enquiries for centuries.
Best Hotel To Stay Near Bighorn National Forest – The Historic Occidental Hotel
While not in the forest itself, The Historic Occidental Hotel is located in nearby Buffalo. First opened in 1880, it features a stately, old west style from that era, with a unique décor that includes genuine bullet holes from wild west shoot outs.
The rooms boast historic furniture with an elegant style, while the beautiful views help you feel like you’re truly in a luxurious establishment, despite its incredibly affordable price tag.
With on-site facilities including a saloon, seating area and fireplace, gift shop, and two restaurants, you can truly immerse yourself in the history of your wild west setting throughout your stay at The Historic Occidental Hotel.
Learn About The Growth Of A Nation In Casper
The largest and second most populous city in the state of Wyoming, Casper is named after Casper Mountain, which it sits at the foot of. Nicknamed The Oil City, it has a long running history with both the oil industry and cowboy culture.
The city was founded after the fall of Fort Caspar, which was located a short way to the west of the city.
The site now features the Fort Caspar Museum, with artefacts, exhibits, guided tours, and recreated buildings showing and explaining how the fort would have looked in the early to mid-1860s.
It is this sort of history that is common throughout the modern-day city of Casper as well, with numerous museums offering exhibits on the history, art, and wildlife of the region. Among the most popular is the National Historic Trails Interpretative Center.
With permanent displays on the Oregon, Pony Express, California, and Pioneer Mormon Trails, all of which ran through Casper, as well as temporary exhibits on some lesser-known trails, it is the ideal location to learn about the growth of the United States as it expanded west in the 1800s.
Best Hotel To Stay In Casper – Residence Inn By Marriott Casper
The Residence Inn By Marriott Casper offers all the luxury and convenience you would expect from such a reputable chain.
A lounge, garden, tennis court, spa, indoor pool, wellness, business, and fitness centres, BBQ facilities, and a 24-hour front desk ensure your every need is taken care of.
The stylishly decorated rooms all feature comfortable furnishings, as well as Wi-Fi, air conditioning, a TV, and stunning mountain views. Breakfast is also available each morning at the accommodation.
Embrace The Native Culture On The Wind River Indian Reservation
Located in central Wyoming, the Wind River Indian Reservation is the seventh largest and fifth most populated in the country. It takes its name from the Wind River Basin in which it lies and is home to both the Northern Arapahoe and Eastern Shoshone tribes.
Throughout the reservation, numerous institutions like the Eastern Shoshone Cultural Center, Northern Arapahoe Experience Room, Fort Washakie School Library, and the Museum Of The Rockies help to teach visitors all about Native American culture.
Scheduled powwows also take place throughout the year, where the public can witness traditional singing, dancing, clothing, and other ceremonial traditions in person.
Those who want to fit in with the local culture will also have the opportunity to partake in activities like fishing, hiking, rafting, and mountaineering.
The Wind River Indian Reservation is also the only place in Wyoming where casinos are legal. With the Little Wind Casino, Shoshone Rose Casino, Wind River Hotel & Casino, and 789 Smoke Shop & Casino, it is the perfect opportunity to do a spot of gambling during your trip.
Best Hotel To Stay In Wind River – Wind River Hotel & Casino
There is no better way to appreciate the reservation than by staying at the Wind River Hotel & Casino itself. Full of Native American culture, casino entertainment, and a choice of three restaurants, you will have plenty of exciting options throughout your stay.
Each room also features a fridge, microwave, television, Wi-Fi, air conditioning, and free toiletries, as well as comfortable furnishings and chic, stylish décor that matches the rest of the property.
Discover An Iconic Location At Devils Tower National Monument
The Devils Tower was the first location to be designated a United States National Monument, when it was given the honour by President Theodore Roosevelt on the 24th of September 1906.
An iconic butte that stands 867 feet tall, it has long been considered a sacred location for numerous Native American tribes. Over the years, countless artists and photographers have produced iconic works of the tower, while numerous films have also used it as a setting.
The Devils Tower draws roughly 400,000 annual visitors, who come to take in the iconic imagery and appreciate its immense size first-hand.
The most daring are even allowed to climb the structure and take in the breathtaking vistas from the top, with around 500 reaching its summit each year.
Wildlife like deer and prairie dogs are a common site around the base of Devils Tower, while a lucky few will also spot the legendary bald eagle flying around the butte and nesting atop it.
Best Hotel To Stay Near Devils Tower National Monument – Devils Tower Lodge
Set in the shadow of the monument itself, Devils Tower Lodge lets you wake up each morning to views you won’t find anywhere else on earth. With a beautiful terrace, you can sit back and take it all in, before you go up close and see it in person.
The rooms are all simple yet comfortable and boast Wi-Fi, air conditioning, a hairdryer and free toiletries, as well as your own patio. An American breakfast is also served each morning, to make sure you are fully fuelled and ready for the adventure you are about to set out on.
Roll Through The Thunder Basin National Grassland
Thunder Basin National Grassland is a semi-arid wilderness that, at just under 550,000 acres, is one of the largest expanses of grassland anywhere in the United States.
Despite its vast size and natural beauty, Thunder Basin remains largely overlooked by tourists, which makes it a great choice for those in the know.
As a result, its prairies are abundant with wildlife like coyotes, pronghorn, antelope, prairie dogs, foxes, deer, jackrabbits, cotton tails, badgers, bats, rats, and squirrels. This makes it a fabulous destination for nature lovers to take a hike or even do a spot of camping.
Best Hotel To Stay Near Thunder Basin National Grassland – Travelodge By Wyndham Bill WY Thunder Basin Ntl Grassland
Located right on the edge of Thunder Basin itself, Travelodge By Wyndham Bill WY Thunder Basin Ntl Grassland is a 1950’s American style hotel that is perfect for those about to explore the wilds.
Penny’s Diner serves American cuisine, while a fitness centre, launderette, and 24-hour front desk should take care of all your needs.
The rooms all offer seating areas and en suite bathrooms, as well as Wi-Fi and cable TV, to ensure you are comfortable and well rested throughout your stay.
Conclusion
Wyoming is a wonderful and truly underappreciated state. From its natural beauty and iconic landmarks to the Native American culture and historic towns that are abundant throughout, Wyoming is a place that has something to offer for everyone.
This list of the 10 best things to do in Wyoming should, at the very least, have given you everything you need to start planning the itinerary for your own expedition. All that’s left is to get everything booked, so you can look forward to setting out on your very own adventure to the Cowboy State.
