Despite being one of the largest states in terms of area, Wyoming is among the least populous. Nonetheless, the place holds a lot of interesting history, locations, and activities for you to know about. Wyoming boasts a lot of “firsts"—being the first state to allow women to vote and the first state to establish a national monument! In addition, many historic ranches and sites are well-maintained for tourists and locals to discover. Check out the local establishments, go sightseeing at nature parks, and marvel at the amazing architecture. Read on to find out some of the interesting things to do in Wyoming, USA.
1. Tour the artifacts at Heart Mountain Interpretive Center
Editor's Note: There's no photo available at the time of writing
Locals and tourists easily access the interesting history of Wyoming thanks to museums like this. Heart Mountain showcases the artifacts and scripts revolving around the Second World War and caters to other interesting events such as a Teacher’s Camp, Music Fest, and much more! The location is steeped in Wyoming’s history, being a relocation camp during the war. Learn more facts about this significant time in the past with just a visit to Heart Mountain Interpretive Center. Make this destination a part of your itinerary, and watch how it brings Wyoming’s rich history to life.
Heart Mountain Interpretive Center
Address: 1539 Rd 19, Powell, WY
Website: Heart Mountain Interpretive Center
Opening hours: Thu - Sat: 10am - 5pm (closed on Sun - Wed)
Price: 9 USD
2. Enjoy water slides at Star Plunge
Editor's Note: There's no photo available at the time of writing
For some water action while you’re here in Wyoming, try out Star Plunge! There are lots of both indoor and outdoor pools for you to enjoy. Water slides also won’t disappoint as kids can freely wade in the pool without worry. A surplus shop is available in case you forgot to bring your swimsuit or if you would like to purchase other clothes. Food and beverages are for sale in the shop too. The presence of lifeguards adds to the sense of security during your time here. So all that’s left for you to do is have fun!
Star Plunge
Address: 115 Big Springs Dr, Thermopolis, WY
Website: Star Plunge
Opening hours: 9am - 9pm (daily)
Price: 12.5 USD
3. Hike through Fossil Butte National Monument
Hiking is about not just feeling the glory upon reaching the peak but also the journey in itself. Your trek at Fossil Butte National Monument will keep your eyes entertained through and through. Discover stunning views of the mountain ranges and learn more about the cultural value of the place. If you are coming here during the late summer months, do not forget to bring sunscreen and a summer hat to keep you comfortable. During warmer seasons, the place may look dry, but you will be surprised to know that there are some hidden ponds and streams.
Fossil Butte National Monument
Address: 864 Chicken Creek Rd, Kemmerer, WY
Website: Fossil Butte National Monument
Opening hours: 8am - 4:30pm (daily)
Price: Free
You might be interested in these Airbnbs!
4. See dinosaur skeleton at University of Wyoming Geological Museum
It is fascinating to see an enormous spectacle of historical finds and geological features. Just look at this gigantic dinosaur skeleton displayed at the University of Wyoming Geological Museum! Here you can marvel at the complete Allosaurus fossil ever found and get to know more about dinosaurs and their way of life. Do not hesitate to read the manuscripts and ask questions about these fossils at the museum. Outside the place, there is a huge copper Tyrannosaurus rex made by a legendary geologist from Wyoming.
University of Wyoming Geological Museum
Address: 200 N 9th St, Laramie, WY
Website: University of Wyoming Geological Museum
Opening hours: Mon - Sat: 10am - 4pm (closed on Sun)
Price: Free
Wyoming Tour Guide
Stephanie Eley
I'm a graduate of ITMI, International Tour Management Institute and 17 years as a licensed Tour Director and Program Director. My expertise began in NYC and Washington, DC where I'm a licensed guide and has expanded to Europe, South America, Cuba and the Western / Southwestern National Parks of the US. I'd love to introduce you for a day or a week to Denver, Colorado and the 4 corners region of the US: Colorado, Utah, New Mexico and Arizona! Let's GO!! stepheley@gmail.com
Tours by Stephanie
5. Drink and relax at The Historic Occidental Hotel Museum
Spend at least a couple of hours chilling at The Historic Occidental Hotel Museum. Since it was built way back in the 1800s, the building maintained its historic look and atmosphere. This is a must-see for those who are curious about the way of living back then. Charming rooms where you can book a stay, bars with live music, and delicious food are available. Meet some locals along the way while taking yourself back in time.
The Historic Occidental Hotel Museum
Address: 10 N Main St, Buffalo, WY
Website: The Historic Occidental Hotel Museum
Opening hours: 24 hours (daily)
6. Enjoy skiing at Jackson Hole Mountain Resort
Famous for being one of the best ski and snowboard destinations in the world, this mountain resort is adored by winter sports enthusiasts! The snow here is deep, and there are some challenging yet awesome spots for seasoned skiers and snowboarders. Early at dusk, consider riding the car cable to get incredible views of everything, including Corbet’s Couloir! What’s awesome about this spacious resort is that there are terrains for skiers of any level, so do not hesitate to ask about your options. Anyone can surely enjoy outdoor recreation in this exciting resort.
Jackson Hole Mountain Resort
Address: 3395 Cody Ln, Teton Village, WY
Website: Jackson Hole Mountain Resort
Opening hours: 9am - 4pm (daily)
Price: 100 USD
7. Visit the magnificent Old Faithful Visitor Education Center
Editor's Note: There's no photo available at the time of writing
Yellowstone National Park itself has marvelous natural wonders, but Old Faithful Visitor Educational Center is a place not to be missed, especially if you have kids with you. Have an interactive educational experience as you get to know about Yellowstone through movies, activities, manuscripts, displays, and much more. For keepsakes, there is a gift shop with fun items to purchase. Besides looking at the beauty around Yellowstone National Park, it would be great to know how those sites have formed throughout the years.
Old Faithful Visitor Education Center
Address: View Avenue, Yellowstone National Park, WY
Website: Old Faithful Visitor Education Center
Opening hours: 8am - 8pm (daily)
Price: Free
8. Admire stupendous views from Buffalo Bill Dam
Being one of the earliest high dams made in America, Buffalo Bill Dam is worthy of a visit. It is an arch-gravity dam—targeting most of its water against the canyon rock walls. Adding to the picturesque view are granite rock formations in the area. You may have heard of dangerous dams, but Buffalo Bill Dam surely won’t be part of it, given that there had been very few rock fragments in the vicinity. Still, be cautious—but don’t forget to enjoy the view. After exploring the dam and its visitor center, you may drop by Buffalo Bill Museum, which is only an 11-minute drive from this attraction.
Buffalo Bill Dam
Address: 4808 N Fork Hwy, Cody, WY
Website: Buffalo Bill Dam
Opening hours: Sat - Sun: 9am - 5pm; Mon - Fri: 8am - 6pm
Price: Free
9. Tour the educational displays at Fort Laramie National Historic Site
This old military garrison is a critical piece of history symbolizing the United States and its transformation. Situated on Grey Rocks Road, Fort Laramie hosted treaty negotiations with Northern Plains Indian Nations just after it was made into a large fort by the army. The fort also witnessed numerous campaigns launched by the military against Plains Indian tribes as developments moved west. It had stood against the mercy of time to remind everyone of how the history of the United States is long and thorough. You can watch films and hear bugle calls while you go through each of the twelve restored buildings built throughout the 1800s.
Fort Laramie National Historic Site
Address: 965 Grey Rocks Rd, Fort Laramie, WY
Website: Fort Laramie National Historic Site
Opening hours: 8am - 4:30pm (daily)
Price: Free
10. Explore historical artifacts at Old Trail Town
Experience the West at another time and visit the authentic Old Trail Town in Cody, Wyoming. The place is more than just artifacts—it preserved and reconstructed the architecture of the old West. Experience the lifestyle and heritage of Old Trail Town with its large collections of old buildings, artifacts, and well-preserved details of how it was before. There are many Instagram-worthy spots around the area, so make sure to ready your camera at all times.
Old Trail Town
Address: 1831 Demaris Dr, Cody, WY
Website: Old Trail Town
Opening hours: 8am - 7pm (daily)
Price: 8 USD
11. Enjoy boating at Flaming Gorge National Recreation Area
Flaming Gorge is the serene escape any outdoor enthusiast could wish for—away from the big cities and into the embrace of nature. This large reservoir will be the best place to boat, fish, and have the most unforgettable outdoor adventures you will ever experience. The reservoir is less likely to be packed with people due to the countless activities and adventures you can do in the area. Find some action, meet new friends, and rest in the comfort of cabins around the site.
Flaming Gorge National Recreation Area
Address: 25 Utah 43, Manila, Northwest UT, Southwest WY
Website: Flaming Gorge National Recreation Area
Opening hours: Mon - Sat: 8am - 4:30pm (closed on Sun)
Price: Free
12. Head to the majestic Trail End
If you are into history and want a clear picture of how life was in the early days, you must visit the Trail End mansion. Imagine having to visit a majestic piece of work that has witnessed radical changes around it throughout the times. You can see history through this piece of architecture intentionally preserved to keep the details of the past up to this moment. You will find exhibits of artifacts originally owned by the generations of families owning the place.
Trail End
Address: 400 Clarendon Ave, Sheridan, WY
Website: Trail End
Opening hours: 24 hours (daily)
Price: 2 USD
13. Go adventurous at Grand Targhee Ski Resort
Editor's Note: There's no photo available at the time of writing
Skiing is always best when you bring the whole family and have cool outdoor adventures. Just a day would not be enough. That is why staying at a resort to continue the bonding, and the fun is the perfect decision you’ll make—as you try every activity out there. Have fun with your kids and let them ride the lifts and explore the hiking trails before trying different experiences. You will also not be disappointed with the community activities the management has set up for everyone and each age group.
Grand Targhee Ski Resort
Address: 3300 Ski Hill Rd, Alta, WY
Website: Grand Targhee Ski Resort
Opening hours: 8:30am - 5pm (daily)
Price: 150 USD
14. Tour Native American artifacts at Craig Thomas Discovery & Visitor Center
This visitor center was built at Grand Teton National Park thanks to federal grants and private donations. What’s nice about the center is that it is surrounded by many trees and rolling fields, giving that refreshing vibe throughout the place. It can get pretty busy here, but the friendly staff will gladly show you around! You’ll find exhibits of 3D models, informative manuscripts, and prints depicting the features of the beautiful park as well as the history of the place. However, note that the center is only open from early spring until fall. While in the national park, you may also want to visit the phenomenal Jenny Lake.
Craig Thomas Discovery & Visitor Center
Address: 1 Teton Park Rd, Moose, WY
Website: Craig Thomas Discovery & Visitor Center
Opening hours: 8am - 7pm (daily)
Price: Free
15. Visit the exceptional National Museum of Wildlife Art
This site houses thousands of artworks—photographs, paintings, sculptures, etc.—showcasing wildlife and nature all over the world created by amazing local, national, and international artists. Did you know that the fantastic Slains Castle inspired the rustic look of this museum in Scotland? You may also check out the outdoor sculpture garden trail, children’s area, outdoor cafe, and restaurant. After enjoying looking at the displays, you can chill in the dining areas and eat scrumptious meals. No matter the weather, the National Museum of Wildlife Art is an awesome place to visit.
National Museum of Wildlife Art
Address: 2820 Rungius Rd, Jackson, WY
Website: National Museum of Wildlife Art
Opening hours: Tue - Sat: 9am - 5pm; Sun: 11am - 5pm (closed on Mon)
Price: 15 USD
16. Explore the ancient Mormon Row Historic District
Where else can you find a simple yet stunning place like Mormon Row Historic District? While you’re in Wyoming, this is one you shouldn’t miss. Because of how remarkable this place is, it was listed on the National Register of Historic Places back in 1997. When you find images of this place, majestic views will greet you. Why not see just how beautiful it is in real life? How grassy the grounds are in contrast to the snow-capped mountains—providing such a dramatic backdrop.
Mormon Row Historic District
Address: 13040 Antelope Flats Rd, Moose, WY
Website: Mormon Row Historic District
Opening hours: 24 hours (daily)
Price: Free
17. See American firearms at Cody Firearms Research
Editor's Note: There's no photo available at the time of writing
Broaden your knowledge of guns and ammunition as you visit Cody Firearms Research. Find a vast display of all kinds of guns—revolvers, handguns, long guns, and much more! Thanks to the comprehensive guide, you can learn about gun parts in a simple way—one you can remember. You’ll find out how exactly are they assembled as well as the way they work. It’s always fascinating to learn about the inner workings of seemingly simple objects through this gun exhibit. Some gun types can be more complex than you initially thought.
Cody Firearms Research
Address: 720 Sheridan Ave, Cody, WY
Website: Cody Firearms Research
Opening hours: 8am - 6pm (daily)
Price: 41 USD
18. Check out the historic exhibits at National Historic Trails Interpretive Center
Check out this capacious center located northwest of Casper. It has many exhibits and events you would want to take part in. Depending on the calendar of events, there are temporary exhibits, contests, and much more! However, the main attraction is history—artifacts, hands-on displays, and documentation of Old West living. Learn how life was back then and how the turn of events gave way to the current setting we have. It’s such an informative way to get to know the city.
National Historic Trails Interpretive Center
Address: 1501 N Poplar St, Casper, WY
Website: National Historic Trails Interpretive Center
Opening hours: Varies
Price: Free
19. Discover historic collections at Cheyenne Frontier Days Old West Museum
Let’s journey to the Old West by visiting Cheyenne Frontier Days Old West Museum! With the aim of preserving the way of living back in the 18th century, the museum brings you paintings, prints, clothing, and other objects showcasing the culture and customs during that period. Depending on the season, there are interactive exhibits focused on certain aspects such as transportation. Check out the site to see the upcoming displays.
Cheyenne Frontier Days Old West Museum
Address: 4610 Carey Ave, Cheyenne, WY
Website: Cheyenne Frontier Days Old West Museum
Opening hours: 9am - 5pm (daily)
Price: 10 USD
20. Try hands-on activities at Tate Geological Museum
Editor's Note: There's no photo available at the time of writing
Although it’s nice to observe in a museum, being hands-on with the displays offers a whole new experience to remember! To have that thrill in Wyoming, visit Tate Geological Museum. Located at Casper College, the museum focuses on historic things—mostly dinosaurs and other extinct or rare animals. You’ll find grand displays of preserved fossils. Witness just how magnificent the animal kingdom could be! A sweet part about this attraction is that you can enter for free.
Tate Geological Museum
Address: 125 College Dr, Casper, WY
Website: Tate Geological Museum
Opening hours: Sat: 10am - 4pm; Mon - Fri: 9am - 5pm (closed on Sun)
Price: Free
21. Explore the spectacular Yellowstone National Park
You shouldn’t miss the famous Yellowstone National Park when in Wyoming This enormous recreational spot is home to volcanoes, canyons, hydrothermal features such as hot springs and geysers, forests, and alpine rivers. Yellowstone Lake, which is the largest body of water in this destination, Lamar Valley, and Mammoth Hot Springs are other must-visit places within the park. The natural beauty and the outdoor recreations of this place are no stranger to many. In fact, it had been featured in prestigious magazines, shows, and brands.
The fauna is also rich here, with hundreds of species such as antelopes, black bears, wolves, and much more. Because of how incredibly huge Yellowstone National Park’s grounds is, it is recommended to tour with a vehicle. Visitors are also encouraged to bring bear sprays for protection against rare and unlikely encounters with grizzly bears.
Yellowstone National Park
Address: Yellowstone National Park, WY
Website: Yellowstone National Park
Opening hours: 24 hours (daily)
Price: 25 USD
22. Tour the remarkable Smith Mansion
We will not be doing tours this year, but we are in the planning phase for a poker run, BBQ and silent auction at the...
Posted by Smith Mansion Preservation Project on Monday, 19 June 2017
What place has made you stop along a concrete road because your mind simply cannot immediately register how it looks? Smith Mansion would probably be one of those, especially if you have not visited the site before. What makes it so remarkable is its “psychedelic” appeal while still having a sustainable overall construction. Located on top of the hill, Smith Mansion looks as if it came from a cartoon! Inside this unconventional venue, you will see some hints on how the structure was made, trippy displays, and entertaining interior design concepts. Let the weird be normal during the time you spend here—you’ll find the spot magical.
Smith Mansion
Address: 2891-2903 N Fork Hwy, Cody, WY
Website: Smith Mansion
Opening hours: Sun: 1pm - 4pm; Mon - Fri: 9am - 5pm (closed on Sat)
Price: Free
23. Go horseback riding at A-OK Corral
Editor's Note: There's no photo available at the time of writing
To have a fun and interesting way of getting around the place, try horseback riding! With the soothing natural environment and calming views all around, you can take this easy even if people tend to feel an adrenaline rush as the horses run faster. Don’t worry—the guides here are experienced and oriented when it comes to safety. At the same time, you can discover ways to handle a horse and marvel at the amazing views of many sites. To the experienced riders, go ahead and make the most out of your time finding fantastic panoramic spots.
A-OK Corral
Address: 9600 US-89, Jackson, WY
Website: A-OK Corral
Opening hours: Sat: 8am - 5pm; Mon - Fri: 8am - 7pm (closed on Sun)
Price: 40 USD
24. Enjoy rafting at Grand Teton National Park
The natural views over here in Wyoming are always eye-catching, but you will definitely find Grand Teton National Park such a beauty! Visiting here at any time of the day is great, but the view during dawn when the sky’s hues play around or when it is sheer azure blue can create an undeniably inviting atmosphere. From this point, you can see the distinction between the low, verdant areas as compared to the cold, alpine terrains above. Check out the view from Jenny Lake or the river, where all these features are brilliantly reflected by the water. Take an intermediate hiking activity here and make sure to capture lots of photos to remember this amazing place.
Grand Teton National Park
Address: Grand Teton National Park, WY
Website: Grand Teton National Park
Opening hours: 24 hours (daily)
Price: 20 USD
25. Admire nature at Cheyenne Botanic Gardens
Editor's Note: There's no photo available at the time of writing
Chilling out with nature is never a bad idea, so why not do it at Cheyenne Botanic Gardens? Here, you won’t only find trees and flowers. There are also pristine lakes with fish, a greenhouse, plantations, statues, and a variety of displays that you can enjoy without an extra cost. You won’t run out of things to see in this magical place. The venue is fit for a family outing, and taking a tour around for a couple of hours brings much joy and fulfillment. Make the most out of your time and explore every bit of the place—there are lots of spots great for picture-taking too!
Cheyenne Botanic Gardens
Address: 710 S Lions Park Dr, Cheyenne, WY
Website: Cheyenne Botanic Gardens
Opening hours: Sun: 12pm - 5pm; Tue - Sat: 10am - 5pm (closed on Mon)
Price: Free
26. Connect with nature at Devils Tower National Monument
Some of the many things Wyoming is known for are the amazing natural wonders it possesses. One fine example is Devils Tower National Monument, which is a butte made out of igneous rocks. It is a prominent landmark because of its towering height and magnificent natural design thanks to its composition. With the many verdant trees all around, the butte looks distinctive and majestic. Because of this, the monument is considered to be sacred among the indigenous people. Interesting fact: there are hundreds of parallel cracks in there, making it famous for experienced rock climbers.
Devils Tower National Monument
Address: WY-110, Devils Tower, WY
Website: Devils Tower National Monument
Opening hours: 24 hours (daily)
Price: 25 USD
27. Explore the beautiful Museum of the Mountain Man
Editor's Note: There's no photo available at the time of writing
Have you ever heard of mountain men? They are the ones who fearlessly traversed through the harsh routes of the mountains so they can explore the region and harvest its riches back in the 19th century. Imagine going to an unknown place with unanticipated scenarios, including bear attacks! The museum might be small, but the management makes sure that you get a well-rounded experience—with great displays of statues, related objects, and animals. There is even a short film you can watch to learn more. Get entertained while absorbing lots of information about this side of Wyoming.
Museum of the Mountain Man
Address: 700 E, Hennick St, Pinedale, WY
Website: Museum of the Mountain Man
Opening hours: 9am - 5pm (daily)
Price: 10 USD
28. Visit the stunning Medicine Mountain
Editor's Note: There's no photo available at the time of writing
Situated at Bighorn National Forest is this one-of-a-kind landmark you would want to see for yourself. Now known as Medicine Mountain, this site features a gigantic structure made out of local white limestone. They say that other than being a symbol of health and the life cycle, the medicine wheel was used as a landmark by Native Americans back then. Because of unverified ownership even by the earlier civilizations and previous indigenous people, it is believed that this had been made as long as thousands of years ago. Drop by to check out this cool structure.
Medicine Mountain
Address: Lovell, WY
Opening hours: 24 hours (daily)
Price: Free
29. See the historic weapons at Cody Dug Up Gun Museum
Editor's Note: There's no photo available at the time of writing
If you are fascinated by stories of wars and significant historical events—World War I, World War II, Gold Rush, and Civil War, for example—then you’ll find this historical site interesting. The wide array of relic guns and other weapons is on display. If you think you are knowledgeable about the many types of guns, test your knowledge here! These antique and vintage weapons had been the trademark of warfare in American history, and now, they are just here for the public to see. Do take time to look around for you to appreciate the collections and read the manuscripts. You might be looking at a deadly weapon that made a huge difference to the outcome of a war!
Cody Dug Up Gun Museum
Address: 1020 12th St, Cody, WY
Website: Cody Dug Up Gun Museum
Opening hours: 9am - 9pm (daily)
Price: Free
Enjoy the natural beauty and serenity of Wyoming
History and nature are regarded highly in this state, and with that, it is no wonder why there are many interesting and popular spots and things to try here. Get away from the usual city life and feel the soothing rhythm of nature as you enjoy scenic drives, natural formations, and much more in Wyoming.
History
Get Trip101 in your inbox
Unsubscribe in one click. See our Privacy Policy for more information on how we use your data
Create an account to