15 Best Things to Do in Wyoming

Imagine a land where the Wild West still whispers on the wind, where vast, untamed landscapes stretch to the horizon, and where nature’s most spectacular wonders unfold before your very eyes. Welcome to Wyoming, the Cowboy State, a destination that promises adventure, tranquility, and a profound connection to both history and the raw power of the natural world. From the bubbling geothermal basins of Yellowstone to the majestic peaks of the Grand Tetons, Wyoming is a tapestry of iconic American experiences waiting for you to discover.

This guide will take you on an unforgettable journey through 15 of Wyoming’s absolute best attractions, offering practical insights, insider tips, and detailed cost breakdowns to help you plan your perfect escape. Whether you are a solo adventurer seeking solitude, a couple on a romantic getaway, or a family looking for educational fun, Wyoming has something truly special for everyone. The best times to visit are generally late spring (May-early June) or early fall (September-early October) to enjoy pleasant weather, fewer crowds, and full access to most attractions before winter closures. Summer (July-August) offers warm weather and full accessibility but brings the largest crowds and higher prices.

Yellowstone National Park

Prepare to be utterly awestruck as you step into Yellowstone National Park, the world’s first national park and a true geological wonderland. This vast wilderness, sprawling across 2.2 million acres, is a symphony of geothermal activity, from the iconic Old Faithful geyser erupting with astonishing regularity to the vibrant, steaming pools like Grand Prismatic Spring. You will discover an incredible diversity of wildlife roaming freely, including bison herds grazing in vast meadows, elusive wolves stalking their prey, and grizzly bears foraging for food.

Drive the Grand Loop Road to access the major attractions, stopping at viewpoints to admire dramatic canyons, cascading waterfalls like the Lower Falls of the Yellowstone River, and serene lakes. Hiking trails range from easy boardwalks around geysers to strenuous backcountry treks, allowing you to immerse yourself in the park’s raw beauty. Every turn offers a new postcard-perfect view, making it a photographer’s paradise. Yellowstone truly offers an unparalleled blend of natural phenomena and wildlife viewing opportunities that will leave you breathless and inspired.

Grand Teton National Park

Just south of Yellowstone, you will discover the dramatic, jagged peaks of Grand Teton National Park, a place of stunning alpine beauty and serene lakes. The Teton Range rises abruptly from the valley floor, creating a breathtaking backdrop for your adventures. Here, you can embark on world-class hiking trails, from easy lakeside strolls to challenging ascents that reward you with panoramic vistas.

Kayaking or canoeing on Jenny Lake or Jackson Lake offers unparalleled views of the mountains reflected in crystal-clear waters. Wildlife viewing is exceptional, with opportunities to spot moose, elk, bears, and various bird species in their natural habitats, especially during dawn and dusk. Drive the scenic loop roads to access iconic viewpoints like Mormon Row, where historic barns stand against the majestic Tetons, or Oxbow Bend, famous for its mirror-like reflections. Grand Teton offers a more focused and intimate mountain experience compared to Yellowstone’s geothermal wonders, making it perfect for those seeking classic mountain scenery and outdoor recreation.

Grand Prismatic Spring

Prepare to be mesmerized by the vibrant, otherworldly beauty of Grand Prismatic Spring, the largest hot spring in the United States and a true crown jewel of Yellowstone National Park. Its colossal size and brilliant, rainbow-like colors are caused by heat-loving bacteria that thrive in the varying temperatures of the mineral-rich water. As you walk along the boardwalks, you will witness rings of deep blue, emerald green, fiery orange, and rusty red, all emanating from the steaming center.

The sheer scale and vividness of this natural masterpiece are breathtaking, making it a must-see for any visitor to Yellowstone. The steam rising from the spring adds an ethereal quality, especially on cooler days, creating a truly unforgettable visual spectacle. It is a testament to the incredible geothermal activity that defines Yellowstone, inviting you to marvel at Earth’s dynamic forces.

The Buffalo Bill Centre of the West

Immerse yourself in the rich tapestry of the American West at The Buffalo Bill Center of the West in Cody. This sprawling complex is not just one museum, but five distinct museums under one roof, offering an unparalleled deep dive into Western history, art, and culture. You will explore the Draper Natural History Museum with its stunning wildlife dioramas, the Plains Indian Museum showcasing the vibrant heritage of Native American tribes, and the Cody Firearms Museum with its extensive collection of historic weapons.

The Whitney Western Art Museum features masterpieces depicting the American West, while the Buffalo Bill Museum itself celebrates the life and legend of William F. “Buffalo Bill” Cody, the town’s founder. It is a comprehensive and engaging experience for all ages, providing context and understanding to the landscapes you explore outside. Whether you are a history buff, an art enthusiast, or simply curious about the frontier, this center offers hours of fascinating discovery.

The National Historic Trails Interpretive Centre

Step back in time and walk in the footsteps of pioneers at The National Historic Trails Interpretive Center in Casper. This exceptional museum brings to life the epic journeys along the Oregon, Mormon, California, and Pony Express Trails that shaped the American West. Through immersive exhibits, you will hear the stories of resilience, hardship, and hope that drove thousands westward.

Feel the weight of a pioneer wagon, try your hand at packing a mule, and experience a simulated river crossing. The center’s interactive displays and engaging narratives make history truly come alive for visitors of all ages. You will gain a profound appreciation for the challenges faced by those who traversed these historic routes, understanding the motivations and sacrifices involved in forging a new life on the frontier. It is an educational and moving experience that connects you directly to a pivotal chapter in American history.

Smith Mansion

For a truly unique and somewhat eerie experience, seek out the Smith Mansion, an architectural marvel built into a hillside near Wapiti. This unconventional, multi-story log cabin was painstakingly constructed by hand over decades by Francis Lee Smith, using locally sourced timber and without traditional blueprints. The result is a fantastical, almost whimsical structure that defies conventional design, with multiple levels, irregular windows, and a raw, organic feel.

Smith Mansion stands as a testament to one man’s vision and dedication, yet its unfinished state and remote location give it an air of mystery. While the mansion is on private property and not open for tours, you can view it from the road, marveling at its eccentric beauty and imagining the stories within its walls. It is a fascinating roadside attraction that sparks the imagination and offers a glimpse into a truly individual artistic endeavor.

Flaming Gorge National Recreation Area

Discover a striking contrast to Wyoming’s mountain landscapes at Flaming Gorge National Recreation Area, a vast reservoir nestled amidst dramatic red rock canyons. This stunning area, straddling the Wyoming-Utah border, offers an abundance of water-based activities and breathtaking scenery. You can spend your days boating, fishing for trophy trout, kayaking, or paddleboarding on the expansive lake.

The vibrant red cliffs, carved by the Green River, provide a spectacular backdrop for all your adventures. Explore numerous hiking trails that lead to panoramic overlooks, or drive the scenic byways to capture incredible photographs. The Flaming Gorge Dam itself is an impressive engineering feat worth visiting. Whether you are seeking aquatic recreation, stunning geology, or peaceful camping under a star-filled sky, Flaming Gorge provides a unique and colorful escape from the traditional mountain experience, perfect for families and outdoor enthusiasts.

Fort Laramie

Step onto the historic grounds of Fort Laramie National Historic Site and transport yourself back to a pivotal era of American expansion. Once a fur trading post, then a prominent military fort, Fort Laramie played a crucial role in the westward migration, serving as a vital outpost for pioneers on the Oregon, Mormon, and California Trails. You will explore well-preserved and reconstructed buildings, including officers’ quarters, the cavalry barracks, and the commissary, gaining insight into daily life on the frontier.

Costumed interpreters often bring the fort’s history to life, sharing stories of soldiers, traders, and Native Americans who shaped this land. Wander through the parade grounds, imagine the bustling activity, and reflect on the treaties signed here that profoundly impacted the region. Fort Laramie offers a tangible connection to the past, making it an essential visit for history enthusiasts and anyone curious about the challenges and complexities of frontier life.

Cheyenne Frontier Days Rodeo

Get ready for an electrifying experience at the Cheyenne Frontier Days Rodeo, the “Daddy of ’em All,” held annually in late July in Cheyenne. This isn’t just a rodeo; it’s the world’s largest outdoor rodeo and Western celebration, drawing top cowboys and cowgirls to compete in thrilling events like bull riding, barrel racing, and steer wrestling. Beyond the arena, you will find a full-fledged festival atmosphere with daily pancake breakfasts, a captivating Indian Village showcasing Native American culture, a lively carnival, and free concerts featuring major country music stars.

The Grand Parades, featuring horse-drawn carriages and marching bands, are a highlight, along with the Old West Museum. Cheyenne Frontier Days is an immersive dive into cowboy culture, offering non-stop excitement and entertainment that truly embodies the spirit of the American West. It’s an unforgettable event for families, couples, and anyone seeking an authentic Western adventure.

Devils Tower National Monument

Stand in awe before Devils Tower National Monument, America’s first national monument, a colossal geological formation that rises dramatically from the rolling plains of northeastern Wyoming. This striking igneous intrusion, a massive column of rock, has captivated visitors for centuries. You can walk the paved Tower Trail that loops around the base of the monument, offering various perspectives and views of its unique columnar joints.

For more adventurous souls, Devils Tower is a renowned climbing destination, with climbers often visible scaling its sheer faces. Beyond its geological significance, the tower holds profound spiritual importance for many Native American tribes, who consider it a sacred place for ceremonies and prayer. The visitor center offers exhibits on its geology, history, and cultural significance. It is a powerful landmark that evokes both natural wonder and deep cultural respect.

Medicine Mountain

Journey into the sacred heart of the Bighorn Mountains to discover Medicine Mountain, home to the enigmatic Bighorn Medicine Wheel. This ancient stone circle, situated at nearly 10,000 feet elevation, is a powerful and sacred site for numerous Native American tribes. You will walk a short trail to reach the wheel, a complex arrangement of stones radiating from a central cairn, aligned with celestial events.

Its exact purpose remains a subject of ongoing study, but it is believed to have been used for ceremonies, astronomical observations, and vision quests for thousands of years. As you stand by the wheel, surrounded by the vast wilderness of the Bighorns, you will feel a profound sense of history and spirituality. It is a place of quiet contemplation and immense cultural significance, offering a unique opportunity to connect with ancient traditions and the breathtaking natural beauty of the high country.

Hole-in-the Wall Hideout

Journey into the heart of outlaw country and explore the legendary Hole-in-the-Wall Hideout, a remote and rugged area in the Bighorn Mountains that served as a sanctuary for infamous figures like Butch Cassidy and the Wild Bunch. This natural fortress, characterized by its deep canyons, steep cliffs, and hidden trails, provided perfect cover for outlaws escaping the law. While there isn’t one single “attraction” building, the experience is about exploring the landscape itself and imagining the daring lives of these historical figures.

You can find interpretive signs along the roads and trails in the area, detailing the history. It requires some effort to reach, but for those fascinated by the Wild West’s most notorious characters, visiting Hole-in-the-Wall offers a tangible connection to their audacious past. It is a place where history and rugged wilderness intertwine, inviting you to step into the boots of a legendary outlaw.

Bridger Valley Historic Byway

Embark on a picturesque journey along the Bridger Valley Historic Byway, a scenic route that winds through the historic Bridger Valley in southwestern Wyoming. This byway offers a delightful blend of natural beauty and significant historical landmarks, telling the story of early pioneers and the development of the region. You will pass through charming small towns, see historic ranches, and discover interpretive signs detailing the area’s role in the Oregon Trail and the Pony Express.

The byway takes you past Fort Bridger State Historic Site, a meticulously preserved fort that was once a vital trading post and military outpost. The landscape itself is beautiful, with rolling hills, vast skies, and distant mountain views. This drive is perfect for those who enjoy leisurely exploration, history buffs, and families looking for an educational and scenic road trip experience.

The Crow’s Nest

Perched high in the Bighorn Mountains, The Crow’s Nest is an exceptional scenic overlook that offers breathtaking panoramic views of the vast landscape below. This viewpoint provides sweeping vistas of the Cloud Peak Wilderness, the Tongue River Canyon, and the surrounding forested mountains. It is a fantastic spot for photographers, nature lovers, and anyone seeking a moment of tranquility amidst magnificent scenery.

The drive up to the Crow’s Nest is part of the experience, winding through beautiful mountain terrain. Once there, you can simply soak in the expansive views, perhaps spotting wildlife in the distance, or use it as a starting point for more extensive hikes into the wilderness. The sheer scale and beauty of the Bighorns are on full display from this vantage point, making it a memorable stop on your Wyoming adventure, especially if you appreciate stunning mountain vistas.

Vore Buffalo Jump

Uncover a fascinating chapter of Native American history at the Vore Buffalo Jump near Sundance. This remarkable archaeological site preserves the remains of a natural sinkhole that was used by Plains Indians for centuries as an efficient and dangerous method of hunting buffalo. As you descend into the interpretive area, you will see layers upon layers of buffalo bones, artifacts, and tools, testifying to thousands of years of successful hunts.

The site is enclosed in a protective dome, allowing for year-round viewing of the excavation. Knowledgeable guides provide insights into the ingenious hunting techniques, the importance of the buffalo to Native American culture, and the archaeological methods used to uncover these findings. It is a powerful and educational experience that offers a direct glimpse into the ingenuity and survival strategies of early inhabitants of the Great Plains.

Plan Your Visit

Wyoming is more than just a destination; it is an unforgettable journey into the heart of America’s wild and storied past. From the explosive geysers of Yellowstone and the majestic peaks of the Grand Tetons to the sacred quiet of Medicine Mountain and the rugged history of outlaw hideouts, you will discover a land teeming with natural wonders, rich cultural heritage, and endless adventure. This guide has only scratched the surface of the incredible variety of experiences awaiting you, ensuring that every type of traveler, from the thrill-seeker to the history enthusiast, will find their perfect Wyoming moment.

So pack your bags, prepare for awe-inspiring landscapes and captivating stories, and get ready to create memories that will last a lifetime. Remember to plan your budget carefully, consider visiting during the shoulder seasons for a more intimate experience, and always be prepared for the ever-changing beauty of the Cowboy State. Your Wyoming adventure calls!