best city to visit wyoming

9 amazing places to visit in Wyoming for big nature, outdoor adventure and cool towns

Jun 19, 2022 • 8 min read

Explore the best places in Wyoming – and don't forget your camera © Ray Wise / Getty Images

One thing you won't find in Wyoming are bustling metropolises – the largest city, Cheyenne, has just 65,000 residents . But if you’re searching for a touch of the West – wide-open spaces, tall peaks, Native American history, wildlife, geysers, hot springs, hiking, skiing, horseback riding, fly-fishing and staged “gunslinger duels” – you’ll find it, along with plenty of small-town charm.

Different parts of the state feature different types attractions, from ski-town Jackson Hole to college-town Laramie and outdoor-icon Lander. Pick your destination – or opt for a few – and explore the best of Wyoming .

Yellowstone National Park

Best national park for geysers, wildlife.

Yellowstone is not only the country's first national park, it’s also packed with over 10,000 hydrothermal features, gorgeous scenery, and some of the best wildlife viewing in the world. Walk the boardwalks and peer into colorful multi-hued hydrothermal features, watch geysers erupt, and spend some time gazing at boiling mud – it’s far more mesmerizing than you would expect.

Old Faithful’s eruptions are so predictable that the park puts out a schedule of predicted eruption times for the iconic geyser and a few others. Be sure to show up early, though, since the predictions are just estimates, and you wouldn’t want to be a minute late.

Spend some time in wildlife hotspots like Lamar and Hayden valleys – dawn and dusk are considered prime time for wildlife viewing, though you can often spot some critters in Yellowstone – like bison herds – throughout the day.

Grand Teton National Park

Best national park for hiking.

Pull on your pack, clip your bear spray to your belt and get ready to hike. Grand Teton National Park is a favorite destination for trail lovers, encompassing great options for everything from an hour-long stroll to a multi-day hard-core adventure. For a scenic day hike, consider Jenny Lake, or hike up one of the park’s mountain canyons.

To snag an overnight backcountry permit , try for an advanced permit months ahead of time, or try for a first-come, first-serve permit, available in-person a day before the trip begins – competition for permits can be fierce, so have a backup plan.

Be well-prepared and equipped for any hike in the park, and check current conditions and weather, keeping in mind that mountain conditions can change very quickly. Be prepared for wildlife encounters, and practice good bear safety.

Jackson Hole

Best town for skiers.

Receiving over 500 inches of snow per year – which blankets some of the best terrain in the world – Jackson Hole Mountain Resort is on every avid skier’s bucket list. Get a reservation early and spend days cruising down the groomers or getting fresh powder turns out in Teton Village. Or stay in town and try out Jackson’s “Town Hill” – Snow King Mountain Resort – which is walkable from town.

Like any good ski town, Jackson also offers plenty of top-notch aprés-ski selections. Check out Teton Village’s range of options, from the Alpenhof to the Mangy Moose – where you can often catch live music – or venture into the town of Jackson to check out the Snake River Brewery , and other spots.

Best place to learn about the past

Spread across five different museums and a research library, the Buffalo Bill Center of the West tells the beautiful, grand and often chaotic story of the American West. All five museums are worth a visit, but if you're short on time, be sure to visit the Plains Indian Museum to learn about the Indigenous people who lived here long before Europeans arrived.

Founded in 1979, the museum showcases the Plains Indian peoples' rich cultures, histories, traditions and what their lives look like today. Peruse both historical artifacts, like an authentic buffalo hide tipi from around 1850, and contemporary works from local artists.

Cody is also home to the Plains Indian Powwow, which generally takes place in June.

The center’s other museums include the Buffalo Bill Museum, Whitney Western Art Museum, Draper Natural History Museum, and Cody Firearms Museum.

Best place for guest ranches

With fewer than 1000 residents, Dubois is tiny, but it’s one of the best places in the state to sign up for a week-long stay at one of the nearby guest or “dude” ranches. Experience life on the ranch, saddle up to explore, cast a fishing line, or sign up for a multi-day horsepacking trip deep into the wilderness.

In town, swing by the Dubois Museum , National Museum of Military Vehicles , and the National Bighorn Sheep Center , and be sure to check out the Dubois Friday Night Rodeo in the summer. Grab a deli sandwich, a slice of pizza, or even a steak in town, before heading out to immerse yourself in the world of ranching.

Thermopolis

Best place to enjoy hot springs.

Best known for its hot springs, Thermopolis is a must-visit soaking paradise great for couples, groups, solo travelers and families. Opt for a relaxing soak at Hot Springs State Park ’s bathhouse or get ready for some hot springs water park action at Star Plunge, which has water slides, pools, and even a “vapor cave,” a natural steam room.

Thermopolis has more to offer than hot springs, though. Hike six miles of trails at the state park, visit the Wyoming Dinosaur Center , or hire a guide for a fishing trip or sign up for a horseback riding tour. Unwind or find the action – it’s all up to you.

Best outdoorsy town

Lander is home to the headquarters of the National Outdoor Leadership School (NOLS), so it’s no surprise there are lots of great outdoor adventures nearby. The town is full of people who are involved with NOLS in one way or another, and you’ll find no shortage of outdoor enthusiasts eager to climb some rock, go for a mountain bike ride, or scale a peak. And with Sinks Canyon State Park just down the road, you’ll find plenty of places to play.

After a day out and about, settle into town for a fun evening. Lander Brewing Company is a favorite spot to rehash the day’s adventures while sipping a pint of Rock Chuck Rye or Half-Tanked Hefe.

Best college town vibe

Laramie is home not only to the University of Wyoming and Cowboys football, but also to the country’s highest elevation Division 1 stadium , at a sky-high  7220ft.

This vibrant college town always has some sort of event, party, live music, art walk, farmers market or other activity going on that keeps you hopping around town. Don’t miss Laramie Jubilee Days in July.

Laramie also has one of the most diverse food scenes in the state, with an array of cuisines including Indian, Mexican, Italian, Thai, and Japanese. Find a coffee shop perfect for studying or cozying up with a good book, and drop by one of the many local watering holes to watch a game or just hang out.

Best place for a classic Wyoming experience

Cheyenne isn’t just Wyoming’s capital city – it also occupies a special place in every country music lover’s heart. From George Strait’s “I Can Still Make Cheyenne” to Garth Brooks’ “The Beaches of Cheyenne,” the city keeps coming up in country music, decade after decade, for a reason. Head to the Cheyenne Frontier Days Old West Museum for a touch of rodeo history or visit during rodeo season to see what all the fuss is about. If you're there during the rodeo, check out the “Indian Village” where Native American performers have shared dance, culture and music each year since 1898.

Cheyenne is rich in history, so be sure to spend some time immersing yourself in local lore and history at the Wyoming State Capitol , Wyoming Historic Governors Mansion , Cheyenne Depot Museum for railroad history. The Nelson Museum of the West showcases a number of Native American exhibits, including Art of the Pueblo Indians and Art of the Plains Indians. In summer, head to “Gunslinger Square” downtown to watch a staged Wild West gunfight, and hop on the Cheyenne Street Railway Trolley to learn all about Wild West history.

All around Cheyenne, you’ll see 8ft-tall “ Big Boots ” on display. These large-scale creations are custom-designed by a variety of Wyoming artists as pieces of public art.

Best fly-fishing town

A river town through and through, Casper is known for its top-notch fly-fishing. Venture out to the “Miracle Mile” for trout, or stay in town and fish the North Platte River as it runs through Casper. While the North Platte is a blue-ribbon fishing destination, you can also cast your rod in other waters nearby, including Alcova Reservoir and Fremont Canyon. Stop by a fly shop to learn about local conditions or hire a guide to make your day out fishing even better.

Stop by the Fort Caspar Museum and Historic Site , National Historic Trails Interpretive Center , and Salt Creek Museum to learn more about local history, or visit the Casper Planetarium for a peek out into the cosmos. With half a dozen breweries, Casper has earned a spot on the Wyoming Beer Trail , and Gruner Brothers Brewing offers tours for a peek behind the scenes.

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Touropia Travel

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10 Best Places to Visit in Wyoming

By Fiona Fiorentino · Last updated on June 17, 2024

With nearly half of Wyoming designated as public land, the Cowboy State is the ideal destination for anyone who wants to explore the dramatic natural beauty of the American West. The most sparsely populated state in the Union, the best places to visit in Wyoming are filled with spectacular landscapes, ranging from the thermal geysers of Yellowstone to the jagged mountain peaks of Grand Teton.

The mountainous state is rightfully proud of its Wild West heritage too. Whether watching a bronco-busting rodeo, chowing down on a chuckwagon dinner or rollicking the night away at a country-music dance hall, it’s clear that cowboy culture is alive and well in Wyoming.

10. Fossil Butte National Monument [SEE MAP]

Millions of years ago, three great lakes covered much of what is now a high desert in the southwest corner of Wyoming. The smallest body of water known today as Fossil Lake has proved to be a treasure trove of fossilized fish, animals and plants. Located around 15 miles (24 km) west of the City of Kemmerer, the Fossil Butte National Monument features a butte that rises 1,000 feet (300 meters) above the ancient lake bed.

Fossils are found all over the butte, and during the summer, visitors can join paleontologists to dig for prehistoric remains. The Monument’s visitor center displays more than 300 fossils found in the region.

9. Hot Springs State Park [SEE MAP]

The largest hot springs in North America is the main attraction in Hot Springs State Park. Located near the aptly named town of Thermopolis, the steaming hot water from the Big Spring is used to supply several spa resorts and water parks.

Run by the state, the State Bath House is open to the public. Visitors can soak in an indoor or outdoor pool free of charge for 20 minutes. With its open and enclosed twisting water slides, indoor and outdoor pools and bubbling hot tubs, the Star Plunge water park is a family favorite. The park is also home to a herd of around 25 bison.

8. Cheyenne [SEE MAP]

Located in the southeast corner of Wyoming, Cheyenne is the Cowboy State’s capital and largest city. Founded in 1867, Cheyenne’s many historic buildings and museums are its main attractions. Built in 1887, the Renaissance rival-style Capitol Building features a gold leaf dome that’s visible from almost anywhere in the city, and the building’s stained glass interior, grand staircase and checkerboard marble floors make it worth a visit.

The Nelson Museum of the West features Native American art and artifacts from the United States Cavalry. In July Cheyenne hosts the Cheyenne Frontier Days, the largest outdoor rodeo in the US. Established in 1897 it includes numerous rodeo events, free pancake breakfasts, night-time concerts, and parades.

7. Bighorn Canyon [SEE MAP]

The Bighorn Canyon National Recreation Area owes its existence to the Yellowtail Dam built on the Bighorn River in Montana during the 1960s. Much of the dam’s reservoir, which extends 71 miles (114 km) upstream into Wyoming, lies within the Crow Indian Reservation.

Steep canyon walls rise above Bighorn Lake, making the reservoir a scenic place to enjoy boating and water sports. The Wyoming side of the park lies adjacent to the Pryor Mountain National Wild Horse Range, offering visitors the chance to see herds of wild horses riding along the canyon’s summit.

6. Devils Tower [SEE MAP]

Rising 1,267 feet (386 meters) above the surrounding terrain, Devils Tower is the core of an ancient volcano exposed from erosion. It is located in the Black Hills in Crook County, northeastern Wyoming and was declared a United States National Monument in 1906 by President Theodore Roosevelt.

The mountain became world famous in 1977 when it was chosen as the location of the alien-human rendezvous point in Steven Spielberg’s Oscar winning science fiction film, Close Encounters of the Third Kind. Nowadays it’s one of the most popular places to visit in Wyoming.

5. Flaming Gorge Recreation Area [SEE MAP]

Formed by a dam built on the Green River in 1958, the Flaming Gorge reservoir is the primary attraction of this National Recreation Area straddling the border between Utah and Wyoming. Equipped with five full-service marinas, the manmade lake is the perfect vacation destination for water sports, boating and fishing.

With more than 100 miles (160 km) of trails, hiking, mountain biking and horseback riding are popular activities as well. Named after the flame-colored cliffs that rise up from the Green River, Flaming Gorge is most scenic at sunrise or sunset when the canyon glows with brilliant colors.

4. Cody [SEE MAP]

No visit to Wyoming is complete without exploring the state’s cowboy heritage, and the city of Cody is a great place to peer into the Cowboy State’s past. Located near Yellowstone, the city was founded in 1887 by the legendary Buffalo Bill Cody. The Buffalo Bill Center in the center of Cody has five Western themed museums filled with engaging exhibits, including artifacts that chronicle William F. Cody’s colorful life.

The Old Trail Town, which features more than 25 restored Western buildings, is a must-see attraction too. Known as the Rodeo Capital of the World, Cody holds rodeos almost every night during the summer.

3. Jackson Hole [SEE MAP]

Located near Wyoming’s border with Idaho, the upscale Jackson Hole resort area began life as outpost for trappers attracted by the region’s many fur-bearing animals. A river basin at the base of the Teton Range, Jackson Hole attracts visitors in every season. Rafting in Snake River is a popular pastime in summer, and with more than 500 inches of snow each winter, the region is a favorite skiing destination too.

The City of Jackson is the only incorporated town in the valley, but there are resorts, homes and communities scattered all over the valley. Dining in Jackson ranges from campfire barbeque cookouts to cuisine like wild salmon, buffalo burgers and elk chops.

2. Grand Teton National Park [SEE MAP]

Sparkling lakes nestle against the foot of the mountains, and moose, bison and elk are among the many animals that make the park their home. With more than 250 miles (400 km) of hiking trails and hundreds of campgrounds, motels and lodges, visitors have their pick of activities and accommodations.

1. Yellowstone [SEE MAP]

Formed by volcanic fire and glacial ice, the nation’s first national park is arguably its most spectacular too. Underground thermal waters bubble up to the surface and explode into geysers. Water draining from Yellowstone’s high plateau forms into rivers and tumbles down waterfalls.

The largest herd of bison in America roams freely through Yellowstone, and elk, bighorn sheep, grizzly bears and wolves range the park as well. Yellowstone National Park is so popular that visitors must make plans well in advance to secure lodging or campsites. Attracting more than three million visitors each year, Yellowstone is more than a national park. It’s a national treasure.

Map of Wyoming

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Reader interactions.

June 4, 2017 at 5:55 pm

I am planning a trip to Wyoming again in a month or so and hope to stay in a cabin or simple motel by one of the great attractions there. I am more interested in the northern part of the state but have seen all the major attractions which are spectacular. One thing to keep in mind is that temps in the summer are hot but with little humidity.

August 1, 2016 at 9:54 am

I have always wanted to visit Jackson Hole. That photo makes me want to even more! It looks so beautiful there. I think I will be planning a winter trip there soon so I can go snowboarding!

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• North America
• The 10 Most Beautiful Towns...

The Most Beautiful Towns in Wyoming

Fiftieth alphabetically among the US states and 50th in terms of population, Wyoming is the perfect place to escape the crowds and take in the vast beauty that America’s heartland has to offer. The western part of the state mostly consists of the Rocky Mountains , while the east features the vast High Plains. From national parks to historic trails, the state invigorates visitors with the splendor of the American wilderness. Here are the 10 towns most representative of this beauty, with hotels bookable through Culture Trip.

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Buffalo is a historic town nestled in the foothills of the Bighorn Mountains. For those who want to discover more about the state’s past, Buffalo houses a number of historic buildings in its downtown district. For example, the 131-year-old Occidental Hotel, whose famous guests include Butch Cassidy and Teddy Roosevelt, and the Jim Gatchell Memorial Museum, which first opened its doors in 1900, are frequent hits with tourists. This area of the town perfectly preserves the architectural styles of the turn-of-the-century Midwest . If you take just a short drive out of town, you will be able to experience a variety of activities in the mountains, from skiing and boating to just taking in the scenery.

Wildlife, history, and the rodeo are all rolled into one small town. It is named after William Cody , better known as Buffalo Bill, who founded it. Cody takes great pride in its namesake, with a number of museums, statues, and the Buffalo Bill Historical Center all serving as a reminder of the town’s past. It also prides itself on being the rodeo capital of the world and hosts a number of prestigious rodeos throughout the year. Breathtaking scenery can be found at every turn, with the town acting as a gateway to Yellowstone National Park and the starting point of scenic drives along the Beartooth Highway. Wyoming’s wild west is still alive and kicking.

A town originally known as Never Sweat due to its warm, dry winds, Dubois is an authentic Western town where cowboys work and play. This quaint, traditional cowboy town is located along the Wind River and neighbored by the Absaroka and Wind River Mountains, which offer stunning views from the town. It was previously voted one of American Cowboy Magazine’s best rural towns and, with the nature trails, ranch activities, and splendid natural beauty, it is easy to see why. If you’re looking to explore more of Wyoming’s natural beauty, the town also serves as the starting point of the Centennial Scenic Byway, a slice of the real West, from the badlands to the high peaks.

From its roots as a small camp settlement in the 19th-century to its present-day status as a tourist center, has always found a way of attracting people, with its glowing natural beauty and growing number of activities. Tourism is driven by the nearby dude ranches and year-round events, such as the Pioneer Days Rodeo, the world’s oldest paid rodeo, and the Wyoming State Winter Fair. This first-class city is “where the rails end and the trails begin”, with the heart-pounding activities of the Wild West being combined with the stunning vistas of the nearby hills and Sinks Canyon State Park, where the river disappears into the mountainside.

Posturing itself as Wyoming’s Jewel, certainly makes the most of its western history and dramatic mountain backdrop. It has won accolades including being one of Outside Magazine ‘s Best Towns and North American Hunter ‘s Top 10 Mountain Towns, and True West ‘s Top Western Town. Sheridan keeps the spirit of the West alive with its annual rodeo and the ever-popular Bighorn Country USA festival. Visitors flock to the area due to its proximity to the site of the Battle of the Little Bighorn but stick around to take in the well-preserved buildings of historic downtown, several of which are listed on the National Register.

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The town of Jackson, lying in the Jackson Hole valley, is the largest town in Teton County. It serves as a major gateway to the Grand Teton national park , Yellowstone, the National Elk Refuge, as well as an interesting mountain formation known as the Sleeping Indian. Jackson’s wooden sidewalks have been strolled upon by dudes and cowgirls for more than 100 years, and was the location where disagreements would be resolved through gunfights. Now it is a popular area for wildlife watching, skiing, or flying above the mountains and rivers on the aerial tram.

Nestled in the base of the Big Horn mountains lies Ten Sleep, a town that is home to only a few hundred people and which keeps the spirit of small-town America alive. Cattle and sheep ranching still form the basis of the community. The historic main street is dotted with local businesses, most notably Ten Sleep Mercantile, a typical example of a small-town general store which is listed on the National Register. The area has a rich and volatile history, playing host to numerous battles between westward settlers and Native American tribes. Today, the vibe is much more relaxed, with most visitors coming to the area to enjoy the camping, hiking trails, fishing holes and wildlife viewing.

Though it’s the gateway to the Wind River Mountains and Jackson Hole, don’t let the areas beyond Pinedale make you rush through this small town as there is plenty to be admired within. This mountain town has both a rugged and intimate feel, with astonishing scenery to be found at every turn and activities to keep you occupied in every season. The nearby Fremont Lake and Bridger Wilderness are vast playgrounds of the West. As a popular tourist spot, visitors can learn more about Western culture and traditions that are prevalent throughout the town. The small size makes it a perfect step back in time, away from the regular bustle of modern living; even the buildings fit into the traditional ranch town aesthetic.

Powell is one of the friendliest communities in the state, having been recognized for its community work and distinguished as an All-American City in 1994. This welcoming town has a history rooted back several hundreds of years and has been a player in notable frontier stories and projects, including the Shoshone Project and Buffalo Bill Dam on the Shoshone River, one of the country’s first water-conservation projects. Powell lies between the Big Horn Mountains on the east and the Absaroka Range on the west. Its famed sunny, temperate climate makes it one of the state’s most popular towns, with a Western heart still largely driven by an agricultural and ranch-based economy.

Thermopolis

No, it’s not a town in Greece but instead is Wyoming’s hot-spring town. As part of the Hot Springs State Park, it boasts the impressive status of being home to the largest mineral hot spring in the world. The hot springs have been enjoyed for free since 1896, as part of a treaty signed with the local Shoshone and Arapaho tribes. Away from the springs, the town is neighbored by the Wind River and Bighorn canyons, and boasts popular tourist activities in the Dinosaur Center and traditional markets. Thermopolis has a past to behold, a future to uphold, and nature to truly marvel at.

Culture Trips launched in 2011 with a simple yet passionate mission: to inspire people to go beyond their boundaries and experience what makes a place, its people and its culture special and meaningful. We are proud that, for more than a decade, millions like you have trusted our award-winning recommendations by people who deeply understand what makes places and communities so special.

Our immersive trips , led by Local Insiders, are once-in-a-lifetime experiences and an invitation to travel the world with like-minded explorers. Our Travel Experts are on hand to help you make perfect memories. All our Trips are suitable for both solo travelers, couples and friends who want to explore the world together.

All our travel guides are curated by the Culture Trip team working in tandem with local experts. From unique experiences to essential tips on how to make the most of your future travels, we’ve got you covered.

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19 Beautiful Places to Explore in Wyoming

With windswept plains and crowd-drawing national parks, I think this state is a gem! Bordering Montana , South Dakota , Nebraska, Colorado, and Utah, the landlocked state in the Western United States attracts millions of visitors annually. Although it’s also one of the most sparsely populated, it has an outlawish vibe.

Home to the most dramatic peaks, unique geology, and diverse wildlife, it’s hard to know where to start, but I’ve made this guide to help you…

1. Bighorn Scenic Byway, Bighorn National Forest 

While the Bighorn National Forest is undoubtedly a stunning spot, driving through the scenic byway is, in my opinion, just as extraordinary!

If you’re tired of hiking or want to see some stunning natural scenery, I suggest jumping in your car and heading out on the byway to enjoy views of the mountains, valleys, and waterways—they’re sublime! 

Every view will take your breath away, and there are miles and miles to enjoy! If you love Mother Nature, and even if you don’t, I personally think this byway is a must-see! 

My favorite highlights…

• Taking a drive along the scenic road and stopping at viewpoints to see breathtaking views.
• Take the easy-to-moderate trail to Coney Creek Trail Stull Lakes, and Coney Lake.
• Packing a picnic and stopping off to eat at a spot surrounded by gorgeous scenery.

2. Cody 

This scenic former Wild West town is named after frontiersman William “Buffalo Bill” Cody.

Cody offers excellent hiking, rafting, rock climbing, and camping opportunities like other outdoorsy towns.

There are lots of mountain ranges near the town that you can enjoy, as well as a museum dedicated to Buffalo Bill ( which I loved!) that contains tons of artefacts and educational opportunities. I personally think it makes an excellent spot for a weekend getaway! 

My personal highlights…

• Visiting the Buffalo Bill Museum and seeing interesting exhibits (such as a stuffed buffalo!) and learning all about the area’s history.
• Trying rock climbing with an experienced guide.
• Photographing the incredible historic architecture.

3. Old Faithful, Yellowstone National Park 

If you come to this state for sightseeing, this is one of the most iconic landmarks and world-famous!

It’s one of nearly 500 geysers in  Yellowstone National Park, but it is the most popular and impressive.

The cone geyser is also very active. It has erupted every 44 minutes to two hours since 2000 and can spew water around 180 feet into the air. 

• Seeing the stunning Grand Prismatic Spring from the overlook on the Fairy Falls Trail.
• Checking out the Grand Canyon of Yellowstone and see the tallest waterfall in the park (which stands at 308 feet high).
• Kayaking on Yellowstone Lake.

4. Devils Tower National Monument

This monument stands out in the area, surrounded by green grass and beautiful trees. If you love any geographic wonder, I highly recommend stopping by!

It is a cool place to visit if you love different landscapes. If the day is obvious, you’ll feel surreal when you view the monument against the blue sky.

• Stopping by the visitor center, I learned about the monument’s history and discovered all the hidden gems in the area.
• Hiking along the Tower Trail that loops around the magnificent rock formations.
• Being amazed by the grand landmark that stands at 870 feet tall.

5. Wyoming State Capitol building, Cheyenne

This is a beautiful building and a great tourist attraction, so add it to your list of things to do when visiting the state. 

It’s located in Cheyenne, the capital of Wyoming. In addition to being a beautiful and elegant building, it’s one of twenty state capitols designated as a historic landmark.

300 E. 21st Street dates back to 1888 and is the seat of Wyoming’s executive and legislative branches of government. It is open to visitors from Tuesday to Saturday .

While here, take a little time to explore the rest of the city of Cheyenne and head for attractions such as the Frontier Days Old West Museum , Cheyenne Botanic Gardens, Wyoming State Museum , the 1904 Historic Governors’ Mansion, and the Cheyenne Depot Museum .

• Exploring the interesting exhibits hosted in the building.
• Exploring the nearby beautiful Botanic Gardens , which were filled with vibrant colors.

6. Flaming Gorge National Recreation Area 

Whether you love the water, hiking opportunities, or simply driving and enjoying some extraordinary scenery, Flaming Gorge is a sight to behold.

With red rocks that attract attention regardless of why you’re there, this area is excellent if you love natural beauty and many things to do.

The Flaming Gorge Dam separates the gorge from the Green River, which is impressive. Whether you visit this recreation area to hike or simply because you love all of the sites to look at, you will not be disappointed.

• Staying in the cozy cabins in Flaming Gorge Resort.
• Going white water rafting! 
• Hiking the scenic Red Canyon Overlook via Canyon Rim Trail (rated moderate) took me past stunning scenery.  

7. Grand Canyon of Yellowstone National Park

This is the first canyon downstream of Yellowstone Falls and is worth every minute spent there. It is 24 miles long and varies in width from 800 to 1,200 feet at various points.

It isn’t easy to comprehend how humongous this canyon is until you see it with your own eyes.

The Grand Canyon of Yellowstone is a wonder; visiting it is one decision you’ll never regret. If you’re near this area, you owe it to yourself to go and see this canyon. It is truly a sight to see if you’re a nature-lover and a lover of the great outdoors.

My highlights…

• Capturing an Insta-worthy shot overlooking the breathtaking landmark.
• Taking the 328 steps into the canyon for a unique viewpoint at Uncle Tom’s Trail.
• Admiring the spectacular river at the Brink of the Upper Falls.

8. Taggart Lake, Grand Teton National Park 

Although this lake is considered one of the smaller lakes in Grand Teton National Park , it should never be forgotten or omitted from your to-do list when visiting this gorgeous state!

It is set against a background that boasts mountains, many trees, and beautiful breathtaking scenery. If you want to enjoy the picturesque Grand Tetons from a fantastic viewpoint, this is where you want to be.

I recommend not missing this one while visiting the many lakes in the park!

• Checking out the scenic giant boulders located along the Taggart trail.
• Cooling down with a swim in the lake on a hot day.
• Gazing in awe at the magnificent scenery surrounding the lake.

9. Hayden Valley, Yellowstone National Park

If you love wildlife, I suggest adding this place to your list! It is filled with animals such as elk, grizzly bears, coyotes, and buffalo, and there is more wildlife here than anywhere else in Yellowstone.

Add that to the beautiful scenic views you experience wherever you are, and you’ll understand why Hayden Valley is an unknown but extraordinary place to visit whenever you love nature and wildlife and experience something you’ve never done before.

• Exploring the muddy hot springs, also known as mud volcanoes.
• Taking a drive and stopping at the Sulphur Caldron viewpoint.
• Check out the wonderful LeHardys Rapids, where I found I could walk down to the Yellowstone River.

10. Hot Springs State Park, Thermopolis

At the center of this state park lies the largest single-mineral hot spring in the world, but that doesn’t mean the rest of the area isn’t as beautiful.

The water from the spring channels directly into bathhouses and two separate pools and is always a pleasant, comfortable 104 degrees Fahrenheit.

Also in the area are hiking trails, flower gardens, and even a field where you can see bison roaming the area. There is even a bathhouse inside the premises if you’d prefer, over the outdoor waters.

• Soaking in the mineral-filled hot springs in the Bathhouse.
• Camping overnight at Ten Sleep Brewing Co., next to the striking, beautiful red cliff Signal Butte. 
• Hiking the T Hill Hiking Trail (moderate), which took me nearly 2 hours to complete but the incredible views made it worth it!

11. Buffalo

This historic former Frontier town dates from 1879. It has a stunning backdrop of stunning scenery and a very quaint main street lined with historic buildings, including the Jim Gatchell Museum dedicated to the Old West and the infamous Occidental Hotel,  where Owen Wister’s Virginian finally “got his man.”

Other famous guests include Butch Cassidy and the Sundance Kid, “Buffalo Bill” Cody, Tom Horn, Teddy Roosevelt, and Calamity Jane.

It’s nestled at the foot of the Big Horn Mountains, attracting outdoor lovers looking to ski, boat, camp, or hike in the wonderful landscapes filled with lakes, streams, mountains, and wildlife. 

Buffalo is home to a good range of accommodations, restaurants, and bars, and it was once voted the state’s most beautiful town (by Expedia). It’s easy to see why!

• Taking a stroll around the cute and quaint buildings in the town.
• Learning about the area’s history by visiting the historic buildings and museums; my favourite was the Historic Occidental Hotel Museum; the historic western-style saloon was incredible! 
• Dining on a hearty veggie brunch at the super-cute Busy Bee Cafe.

12. Sinks Canyon, Lander

Located at the base of the Wind River Mountains, the water alone makes this a place you won’t want to miss when because it seems to blend in with the canyon itself once you get to this area.

The canyon is deep but contains many hiking trails. Once you get down to the Sinks, you can see the canyon and water coming together.

Sinks Canyon is consistently voted one of the best beauty spots in the state, and it’s a favorite of mine too! 

• Hiking the North Slope Trail took me over scenic elevations.
• Having a picnic at Bruce Picnic Site, where I watched the gushing river as I ate.
• Taking beginner’s rock climbing lessons with Wind River Climbing Guides. 

13. Jackson

If you’re an outdoor lover, I recommend checking out this place! Jackson is 6,000 feet above sea level and is filled with pristine sites, trees, and streams.

Town Square and AKA George Washington Memorial Park are at the town center, both worth visiting.

You can kayak in the Snake River, ski and snowmobile in the winter, and enjoy many restaurants, gift shops, spas, and art galleries anytime. If you visit the right area of town, you can even enjoy some old-fashioned shootouts. There is never a shortage of things to do here!

• Snowboarding in the winter!
• White-water rafting down the Snake River which was a very thrilling experience!

14. Jenny Lake, Grand Teton National Park

While it’s true that there are many smaller lakes in the beautiful Grand Teton National Park, Jenny Lake is one of the most unforgettable.

Its water is so clear that you can see right down to the bottom of it, and it looks like a mirage because it is so clear.

With peaks and valleys in the background, this lake is fun to take pictures of and fun to wet your feet in, and even though it isn’t as big of a draw as Jackson Lake, this is still one lake you will not want to miss if you’re visiting the park.

• Taking a scenic drive up to Signal Mountain and seeing panoramic views overlooking the park.
• Discovering the Hidden Falls and Inspiration Point located on the western side of Jenny Lake. 
• Hiking along the trail from String Lake to Leigh Lake which was a scenic, easy and quick trail.

15. Knapsack Col, Wind River Range

One of the state’s best-hidden gems, this is the perfect place to visit if you love to hike. Not only is it gorgeous, but it offers tons of hiking opportunities for both experienced and beginning hikers.

Knapsack Col is located between Winifred Peak and Twin Peaks, and it’s a place you’ll want to visit if you enjoy camping, hiking, and any other outdoor activity. It isn’t always mentioned in magazines, which makes it even more special!

• Well known for the popular trails, going hiking is a must-do activity.
• Camping overnight in a tent above the upper Titcomb Lake – the scenery was incredible!
• Stopping by The Cirque of the Towers and photographing the epic landmark.

16. Medicine Bow Peak, Snowy Range

Of all the Medicine Bow Mountains, this one is the tallest, and its majestic character is a sight. Unless you’re an experienced hiker, you shouldn’t attempt to climb to the top of this mountain, even though the view is extraordinary.

If you’re not a hiker, however, you can still enjoy the beauty of the place by visiting Lake Marie and taking in the unique sights and sounds of the area. I think this mountain should be on everyone’s bucket list.

• Capturing an Instagrammable shot of the insane mountain range.
• Driving along the scenic byway and stopping at several viewpoints to take photos.
• Visiting the tranquil Lake Marie was a calming, zen-like experience.

17. Oxbow Bend, Grand Teton National Park 

With the mountains and trees reflecting off the water, there is no shortage of sights to enjoy. If you love natural beauty, Oxbow Bend is a must-visit.

Throughout the area, some overlooks allow you to enjoy and appreciate this beauty even more, giving you lots of ways to enjoy the area.

If you love overlooks, Oxbow Bend has one that promises to be one of the best in the entire park. You won’t have to go far to view numerous gorgeous sites.

• Capturing an Insta-worthy shot of the stunning scenery.
• Taking a guided tour and finding out all the best viewpoints.
• Going stand-up paddle boarding (there are rentals available in the areas).

18. Grand Targhee Ski Resort

Located roughly 90 miles from Jackson Hole, this ski resort is perfect for those who love to ski but don’t like other resorts’ long wait times.

Snowfalls average about 500 inches per year, with five lifts to utilize.

Best of all, there are areas of the resort that are great for all levels of skiers, from beginners to the most advanced. In addition, you also get access to snowshoeing and Nordic trails to enjoy, which is the icing on the cake for adventurous people.

This is also a great place to have a fun family outing. Enjoy!

• Going on a scenic snowshoe tour in the winter, the snowy scenery here is just stunning! 
• Going skiing and then retiring to a cozy lodge.
• Enjoying tubing, which was a fun, family-friendly experience! 

19. Sheridan

Sheridan is a charming place in a Western setting surrounded by panoramic mountain views. The city caters to all as it offers many activities, such as parks, picnic areas, wildlife, festivals, and much more.

You will find things to do all year round whenever you decide to visit. Whether you prefer a busy activity or a quiet time, you will find excellent options!

Those who love to explore culture and history won’t be disappointed, as every inch of this place has something to tell. The locals are passionate about their community, and I love that they will ensure they deliver the best hospitality to their visitors.

• Hiking the moderate Story Penrose Trail which took me through the famous peaks of the Bighorn Mountains – the views are stunning! 
• Dining at the quaint Cowboy Cafe, I highly recommend the Apple rhubarb pie! 
• Discovering local art at the Sheridan Russell Gallery.

1 thought on “19 Beautiful Places to Explore in Wyoming”

WOW! Magical places. Thanks for this post, Scott! Regards

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15 Best Places to Visit in Wyoming — Unique & Fun Places to Go!

By: Author Grace Morgan

Posted on Published: July 4, 2021  - Last updated: June 25, 2023

A breath of fresh air amidst massive forests and towering mountains is what you’re going to get when you go on a trip to Wyoming.

Most of its popular sites are sprawling national parks and Old West historic places that nature lovers and history buffs will definitely enjoy.

What’s more, the Cowboy State also has unique attractions you won’t be able to find anywhere else.

So start packing for your trip down to this nature destination.

Here’s a list of the best places to visit in Wyoming.

1. Yellowstone National Park — Yellowstone

Yellowstone National Park, WY 82190 (307) 344-7381

Yellowstone National Park is a 3,500 square-mile wilderness park located nearest to West Yellowstone.

It was established in 1872.

Why You Should Visit This Place

This recreation area has geological features that are one-of-a-kind because it is found atop a volcanic hot spot.

Its powerful geysers, distinctive hot springs, and vast forests make it one of the cool and unique places to visit in Wyoming.

An Expert Tip Before You Go

When looking for what to do in Wyoming, make sure to add the Grand Prismatic Spring to your itinerary.

This hot spring located inside the park is the largest hot spring in the country and the third-largest in the world.

Plus, it has gorgeous, bright colors that are unique to this hot spring alone.

Related: Best Places to Eat in Yellowstone

2. Grand Teton National Park — Moose

Grand Teton National Park Moose, WY 83012 (307) 739-3399

Grand Teton National Park is about 310,000 acres big and is located nearest to Jackson.

It was established in 1929.

Vivid green forests and calm waters with a backdrop of snow-capped mountains?

The views of the Teton Range that you can see from this park are reason enough to add this to your places of interest.

It’s best to plan your trip beforehand.

The park is considered among the top places to visit in Wyoming because you can do many outdoor activities.

Knowing if you’re hiking, camping, boating, and mountaineering before reaching the park will allow you to reach the spots best for each activity without wasting precious time.

Related: Best Things to Do in Wyoming

Jackson, WY 83001 (888) 838-6699

Jackson is a town located in Jackson Valley that is known for its three ski locations.

It is near Grand Teton National Park and Yellowstone National Park.

When it comes to the best cities to visit in Wyoming, Jackson tops the charts for its pretty small-town vibes.

Also, being near ski resorts is a huge plus.

Don’t just settle for skiing while you’re here.

This town has a fantastic museum that houses works by well-known artists like Georgia O-Keeffe and Andy Warhol.

Spending some time in the museum and the city is a great way to take a break from going down the slopes.

Recommended Hotel Nearby: The White Buffalo Club

4. Bridger-Teton National Forest — Jackson

Bridger-Teton National Forest Jackson, WY 83001 (307) 739-5500

Bridger-Teton National Forest is the third-largest national forest at about 3.4 million acres.

It was established in 1908.

Out of the many places to travel in Wyoming, this national forest is definitely a standout for its incredibly scenic views.

With crystal clear watersheds and verdant grounds, you’ll find it hard to see anything as peaceful as this place.

The easiest way to visit the forest is to go to the nearest ranger district from where you’re staying.

There are five to choose from: Kemmerer, Big Piney, Greys River, Jackson, Blackrock, and Pinedale.

You can do almost every activity available in one district when you’re in another, from biking and hiking to camping and scenic driving.

Recommended Hotel Nearby: Togwotee Mountain Lodge

5. The Wind River Range — West Wyoming

The Wind River Range, WY 82513 (888) 285-7282

The Wind River Range is part of the Rocky Mountains located in western Wyoming.

The scenery you can find in the Winds is breathtaking because of the range’s grandness amidst teeming green forests.

Once you see the idyllic views for yourself, you won’t find it surprising why this is included in the top Wyoming tourist attractions of today.

Each trail you take in the Winds will offer unique views of the mountains, from jagged views of the peak to vistas from the alpine lakes.

If you’re after a spectacular panorama of the entire range, take the Elkhart trailhead up to Photographer’s Point.

Recommended Hotel Nearby: Lakeside Lodge Resort and Marina

6. Hot Springs State Park — Thermopolis

220 Park Street Thermopolis, WY 82443 (307) 864-2176

Hot Springs State Park is a 1,108-acre big recreation area known for its hot springs and herds of bison.

It was established in 1897.

If you can’t choose between nature and history, this park is definitely one of the places to see in Wyoming for you.

It houses a few historic bath houses located in Bathhouse Row.

Of course, who can forget its incredible forest grounds which you can explore through its many hiking trails?

You don’t need to soak in a hot spring bathhouse to enjoy the water here.

You can touch the thermal water from the displays or drink from the thermal spring fountains around the park.

Recommended Hotel Nearby: Best Western Plus Plaza Hotel

Related: Weekend Getaways in Wyoming

7. The Buffalo Bill Center of the West — Cody

720 Sheridan Avenue Cody, WY 82414 (307) 587-4771

The Buffalo Bill Center of the West is a museum complex located in Cody that focuses on American West history.

It was founded in 1917.

When it comes to where to go in Wyoming for some Old West learning, this complex is definitely the place to be.

Its massive collection of American West art and artifacts (like the personal possessions of Buffalo Bill and Annie Oakley) is sure to be enjoyed by any fan of the Wild West.

There are 5 different museums in the complex.

Try to plan your visit in a way that you can visit all of them as each museum offers distinct experiences that fans of cowboys are sure to enjoy.

Recommended Hotel Nearby: Best Western Premier Ivy Inn & Suites

8. Devils Tower National Monument — Devils Tower

149 WY-110 Devils Tower, WY 82714 (307) 467-5283

Devils Tower National Monument is an 867-feet igneous rock formation located in the Black Hills.

It was established in 1906.

The towering rock formation can definitely be considered part of the best of Wyoming attractions for its sheer grandness and uniqueness.

It was the first national monument named by President Roosevelt, which makes it quite historic as well.

The Tower Trail Loop is the most popular and used trail in the park.

If you’d rather avoid the crowd, it’s better to hike the Red Beds Loop for sweeping views of the surrounding land.

Recommended Hotel Nearby: Devils Tower Lodge

9. Wyoming Frontier Prison Museum — Rawlins

500 W Walnut Rawlins, WY 82301 (307) 324-4422

The Wyoming Frontier Prison is a prison museum located inside the Wyoming State Penitentiary.

It was open from 1901 to 1981.

The bleak look of the old prison is equally as grim as its history.

You’ll be touring different cell blocks, their cafeteria, a genuine gas chamber, and more.

There are also authentic artifacts taken from the prison, from old ropes used in successful hangings to an actual gas chamber.

Some people might feel like the tour is too creepy, but if you’re a fan of history, you shouldn’t miss out on this place.

Despite being a bit desolate, there is still a lot to learn during the guided tour.

Recommended Hotel Nearby: Hampton Inn Rawlins

10. Flaming Gorge National Recreation Area — Green River & Rock Springs

S of I-80, W of US-191 Green River & Rock Springs, WY 82901 (800) 225-5996

The Flaming Gorge National Recreation Area is 207,360 acres big and is located between Wyoming and Utah.

It was established in 1968.

Avid hikers will enjoy the stunning red canyon walls and expansive green forests that make up this recreation area.

It’s a top choice for places to go in Wyoming for an amazing vacation if you’re outdoorsy and adventurous.

The summer season is when crowds flock to this area.

But if you want to see the recreation area in a different and more peaceful light, try going here in the off-season.

You’ll still be able to do favorite activities like hiking and climbing, so it’s a win-win.

As far as vacation spots go, this recreation area during spring is pretty unforgettable.

Recommended Hotel Nearby: Flaming Gorge Resort

11. Cheyenne Frontier Days Rodeo — Cheyenne

1226 W 8th Ave Cheyenne, WY 82001 (307) 778-7200

Cheyenne Frontier Days Rodeo is an annual event hosted in the 19,000-seater arena of the same name.

It is usually held in the last week of July.

This outdoor rodeo celebration is a Wyoming classic that’s been held since 1897.

It’s a western experience that fans of cowboys and the American West should not miss, as they have tons of events lined up for the week.

If you want to maximize your western experience, go to the rodeo on multiple days.

Watch an event, go to the night concerts, discover Western Art from the shows, and more.

Recommended Hotel Nearby: Little America Hotel & Resort Cheyenne

12. Jackson Hole — Teton Village

3395 Cody Lane Teton Village, WY 83025 (888) 333-7766

Jackson Hole is a valley between the Gros Ventre and Teton ranges that is also well-known for being a ski resort.

When it comes to alpine activities in the state, it’s pretty hard to beat this place.

It’s definitely an excellent addition to your list of must-visit destinations if you’re a fan of skiing, ice skating, and other snow-related activities.

If you’ve gone to the valley in winter before, try going here during the warmer season.

Its lush green grounds and exciting waters are also great for horseback riding, mountain biking, and even whitewater rafting.

Recommended Hotel Nearby: Hotel Terra Jackson Hole, a Noble House Resort

Related: Best Places to Eat in Jackson Hole

13. Bighorn Canyon — Lovell

20 US Highway 14A Lovell, WY 82431 (307) 548-5406

Bighorn Canyon is a five-million-year-old canyon located inside the national recreation area.

It is surrounded by the Bighorn River and Bighorn Lake.

This canyon is absolutely included in the list of beautiful places near you when between Wyoming and Montana.

The snaking river between great rocky walls lined with greenery is a sight that any visitor to the canyon will find hard to forget.

Besides looking for spots with spectacular canyon vistas, you can also relax inside the recreation area.

Bighorn River is a favorite local fishing spot that you might want to try.

Recommended Hotel Nearby: Cattlemen Motel

14. Fossil Butte National Monument — Kemmerer

864 Chicken Creek Road Kemmerer, WY 83101 (307) 877-4455

Fossil Butte National Monument is 8,200 acres big and is located in Lincoln County.

It is most known for having some of the most well-preserved fossils in the world.

Natural history fans will definitely enjoy visiting the monument’s museum as it displays more than 80 types of fossils, from fish to crocodiles.

After spending some time in the visitor center, make the most out of your trip by choosing one of the hiking trails nearby.

The Historic Quarry Trail is a great way to get sweeping views of the surrounding landscape.

You can even go on a short side trail to see an old fossil quarry.

Recommended Hotel Nearby: Best Western PLUS Fossil Country Inn & Suites

15. National Historic Trails Interpretive Center — Casper

1501 N Poplar Street Casper, WY 82601 (307) 261-7700

The National Historic Trails Interpretive Center is a history museum that focuses on Native American history.

It was established in 2002.

When it comes to the cheap things to do, learning about historic trails and early exploration in the West is a great way to pass the time.

This large center is one of the best places to visit in Wyoming because it has a few interesting hands-on exhibits that are sure to keep Wild West fans entertained.

Allocate a few hours when you visit the center to really get the most out of your experience.

The exhibits are designed to make you feel like you’re also making the journey that pioneers did in the 19th century.

Recommended Hotel Nearby: Ramkota Hotel – Casper

Related: Restaurants in Casper, WY

Wyoming Places to Visit: The 15 Best Places to Go for [currentyear]

• Yellowstone National Park — Yellowstone
• Grand Teton National Park — Moose
• Bridger-Teton National Forest — Jackson
• The Wind River Range — West Wyoming
• Hot Springs State Park — Thermopolis
• The Buffalo Bill Center of the West — Cody
• Devils Tower National Monument — Devils Tower
• Wyoming Frontier Prison Museum — Rawlins
• Flaming Gorge National Recreation Area — Green River & Rock Springs
• Cheyenne Frontier Days Rodeo — Cheyenne
• Jackson Hole — Teton Village
• Bighorn Canyon — Lovell
• Fossil Butte National Monument — Kemmerer
• National Historic Trails Interpretive Center — Casper

• Destinations

25 Best Places to Visit in Wyoming

Last Updated By VI in Wyoming on June 10, 2024

Yellowstone National Park

• Complete List & Map

Activities like hiking, camping, biking, boating, skiing, snowshoeing, fishing, horseback riding, and wildlife viewing entertain individuals and families year-round.

The Snake River runs through town and provides kayaking, fishing, floating, and white water rafting experiences. During the winter, downhill and cross-country skiing, and snowmobiling reign. More great weekend getaways in WY

In town, guests will be impressed by the Buffalo Bill Center of the West, a complex of museums with a research library. The complex is also home to Stampede Park, the self-proclaimed rodeo capital of the world.

Must-see highlights in the area include the Terry Bison Ranch, the Bit-O-Wyo Ranch trail rides and cowboy dinner shows, and the 10-day Cheyenne Frontier Days outdoor rodeo.

Nature lovers will enjoy a trip to Casper Mountain for downhill and cross-country skiing, and snowmobiling. Casper Map

Thermopolis

Other activities in and around Thermopolis include viewing nearly 300 petroglyphs at Legend Rock Petroglyph Site, a Wyoming Whiskey Distillery Tour, and a two-day DINOmite Loop Tour.

Rock Springs

Nearby natural attractions include area hiking and mountain biking trails, Pilot Butte Wild Horse Scenic Loop Tour, and White Mountain Petroglyphs.

Visitors can view over 15,000 Old West artifacts at the Jim Gatchell Museum, and visit the nearby Hole-in-the-Wall Outlaw Hideout of the Sundance Kid, and the Wild Bunch.

Grand Teton National Park

201 Headquarters Loop Moose, WY, Phone: 307-739-3300

Yellowstone Lake

Lake Village provides visitors with a store and restaurants, and Lake Yellowstone Hotel & Cabins offers historic Colonial accommodations. Hiking trails are on the lake’s southern and eastern sides.

The Bighorn Mountains are visible from Thermopolis to Shell Creek at Signal Cliff, a historic point for Native American smoke signals.

Visitors can share a beer with local cowboys at the 1907 Mint Bar, take a horse and carriage ride, or experience a cattle drive at a guest ranch.

Visitors can also check out the Lander Historic District with unique shopping opportunities, the Grand Theater, and monuments like the Bucking Horse and Rider statue.

Outdoor activities are abundant throughout the year, from off-roading and fishing to dog sledding and Nordic skiing.

Grand Canyon of the Yellowstone

Thomas Moran, a 19th century painter, described the canyon best when he said, “Its beautiful tints were beyond the reach of human art.”

Devils Tower National Monument

Round out your visit to the Devils Tower by seeing the Circle of Sacred Smoke sculpture, scrambling the boulder field, and stopping by the Visitor’s Center to check out the interpretive exhibits, and cultural and history programs.

Upper Geyser Basin

There are hundreds more geysers and hot springs, plus a Morning Glory Pool, unique observation points, and asphalt and dirt trails all along the Firehole River.

Grand Prismatic Spring

Visitors can view the spring by hiking the Fairy Falls trail, or walking the 0.8-mile boardwalk that passes Excelsior Geyser.

Laurance Rockefeller Preserve

Visitors can also hike the 8-mile trail network which features views of the Teton Range, Phelps Lake, and Death Canyon. Scenic drives from Moose to Teton Village provide views of forests, wetlands, and wildlife.

Bridger-Teton National Forest

The Snake River Canyon is another gem famed for its peculiar geology, clear waters, and various outdoor adventure opportunities.

Bighorn National Forest

Bighorn National Forest has more than 30 campgrounds and cabins, several scenic drives, picnic areas, and observation areas to experience. There are numerous outdoor recreation activities, from hiking, fishing, bicycling, and swimming to hunting, horseback riding, off-roading, and more.

National Elk Refuge

Bald Eagles, Trumpeter Swans, bison, and wolves are just a few of the other animals the National Elk Refuge provides for and preserves.

Castle Gardens Petroglyph Site

The unusual technique and distinguished style are what make them unique to Wind River and Bighorn Basin.

Thunder Basin National Grassland

The adjacent Medicine Bow and Routt National Forests provide guests with opportunities to engage in additional outdoor recreational activities like climbing, horseback riding, off-roading, swimming, kayaking, and bicycling to name a few.

• 1. Yellowstone National Park
• 4. Cheyenne
• 6. Thermopolis
• 7. Rock Springs
• 9. Grand Teton National Park
• 10. Yellowstone Lake
• 11. Ten Sleep
• 12. Sheridan
• 15. Grand Canyon of the Yellowstone
• 16. Devils Tower National Monument
• 17. Upper Geyser Basin
• 18. Grand Prismatic Spring
• 19. Laurance Rockefeller Preserve
• 20. Bridger-Teton National Forest
• 21. Bighorn National Forest
• 22. National Elk Refuge
• 23. Castle Gardens Petroglyph Site
• 24. Thunder Basin National Grassland

More Wyoming Getaways:

Resources: Travel Wyoming , Yellowstone National Park

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12 Best Small Towns in Wyoming

With charming downtown districts and plenty of outdoor spaces to explore, these are 12 of the best small towns to visit in Wyoming.

Lindsay Cohn is a writer, editor, and avid traveler who has visited 45 countries across six continents — and counting. She contributes to Travel + Leisure, Hotels Above Par, InsideHook, Well+Good, The Zoe Report, and more.

Jeffrey Kaphan/Getty Images

For many folks, the Cowboy State symbolizes the American West. Bordered by Montana, South Dakota , Nebraska, Idaho, Utah , and Colorado, it’s a vast land of mountains, farms, and plains. Just 578,800 people call Wyoming home, and many live in small towns dotted across the rugged, 97,914-square-mile expanse, so that means there are countless wide-open spaces to roam. If you want to escape the crowds, commune with nature, and experience frontier life, there’s truly no better place. 

Here are 12 of the best small towns in Wyoming to visit on your next adventure out west.

Related : 20 Most Beautiful Small Towns in the U.S.

benedek/Getty Images

One of the best adventure destinations in the United States and a four-season fan favorite, Jackson puts two national parks, three ski resorts, an elk refuge, and heaps of outdoor recreation — from hiking and biking to horseback riding and zorbing — within easy reach. The walkable, Western downtown has saloons, restaurants, galleries, shops, and the famous antler arch.

Related: 21 Best Things to Do in Jackson Hole — Including National Parks, Hot Springs, and Cowboy Bars

Tourists love Lander because of the mix of nature, adventure, and fringed fun. Sinks Canyon State Park is amazing for trout fishing, gawking at sunsets, and camping. This vibrant town on the upper plains of the Rockies is also home to local breweries, the Museum of the American West, and the Lander Art Center. You might want to consider timing a trip to the Pioneer Days Rodeo or the Wyoming State Winter Fair.

Wyoming Office of Tourism

Though technically a city, a population of just 4,469 residents gives Buffalo a characteristic Old-West, small-town feel. Nestled in the Bighorn Mountains, this historic community has many interesting landmarks including the Occidental Hotel, where both Teddy Roosevelt and Butch Cassidy stayed, and the Jim Gatchell Memorial Museum. Outdoor recreation ranges from fishing and hiking in the summer to snowmobiling and skiing in the winter.

Solange_Z/Getty Images

Fans of bull riding, steer wrestling, and barrel racing should head to Cody, also known as the Rodeo Capital of the World. So much excitement centers around these entertaining and competitive events that are fun for all ages (kids can even participate in the calf scramble). Buffalo Bill also casts his influence on the town with statues and a cultural center that includes various museums and hands-on activities dedicated to the American soldier.

Mike Lyvers/Getty Images

Rugged, remote, and ringed by mountains, Dubois embodies the true spirit of the West. Opportunities for hiking, biking, fishing, rock climbing, wildlife peeping (look out for elk, moose, and grizzly bears), snowshoeing, skiing, and drives on the Centennial Scenic Byway abound. You can also get your cowboy on with horseback riding and ranch activities and shop for the appropriate gear (boots and hats, anyone?) at the trading post downtown. And be sure to visit the National Bighorn Sheep Center.

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Backed by dramatic peaks, the town of Sheridan is one of the many crown jewels of this state. Several buildings are listed on the National Register of Historic Places, providing a glimpse into the past. On the more modern side of things, downtown has vibrant arts, culture, and dining scenes. Not surprisingly, there’s excellent hiking, biking, and fishing. The Sheridan WYO Rodeo, which traces its roots back to 1931, is also a huge draw for locals and visitors alike.

Melissa Kopka/Getty Images

The name Ten Sleep gives off a rather snoozy impression. While this spot in the Bighorn Basin leans into relaxation and makes for a great place to unwind in between outdoor activities, it’s certainly not boring. Visitors can hit the hiking trails, gawk at the scenic lookouts, go rock climbing, catch fish in the creek, drive through the surrounding area that’s dotted with cattle and sheep ranches, and then head back into town to browse the historic mercantile.

Jordan Siemens/Getty Images

Known as the gateway to the Wind River Mountains and Jackson Hole, Pinedale has more going for it than just being an access point to bigger and better things. Nature takes center stage in this rugged Wyoming town with parks, mountain peaks, and wilderness areas within arm’s distance. It’s quite popular with snowbirds who flock here for skiing, snowboarding, snowmobiling, skating, and ice fishing on frozen lakes. Sommers Homestead Living History Museum gives visitors a peek at the past.

Thermopolis

In need of a spot to relax and soothe sore muscles during a break from the endless outdoor action? Head to Thermopolis, the site of one of the largest natural hot springs on the planet. (Did we mention that soaking in the mineral-rich waters is free?) You’re also bound to see local bison out and about. The Wyoming Dinosaur Center displays prehistoric fossils including the "Thermopolis Specimen" of Archaeopteryx, the only real specimen of this genus outside of Europe.

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An all-American town with heaps of family vacation potential and access to both Yellowstone National Park and the Bighorn Basin, Powell is friendly, with great weather and an abundance of outdoor activities. Enjoy mountain biking, horseback riding, hiking, fishing, and camping? It’s all waiting. Don’t miss the Homesteader Museum and the Heart Mountain Interpretive Center .

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Tucked away in the valley of the Bearlodge Mountains in northeastern Wyoming near the South Dakota border, Sundance is a small town with a deep connection to Native American heritage and culture. The Vore Buffalo Jump remains a significant archaeological site of the Plains Native Americans. Keyhole Reservoir and Sand Creek are favorite spots for anglers to cast a line. Hiking, horseback riding, and ATV adventures also bring outdoor thrills.

Robert_Ford/Getty Images

Set at the base of the Snowy Range Scenic Byway and entry point to white-capped mountains, the tiny town of Centennial, which was home to the Plains Native Americans and later settlers, has just 300 current residents but ample reasons to visit. That list includes Nici Self Historical Museum and outdoor adventure in the form of hiking, fishing, and camping as well as skiing, snowboarding, and snowmobiling. It’s also a springboard for exploring the Thunder Basin National Grassland and Medicine Bow-Routt National Forest.

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The 9 Best Places to Visit in Wyoming

• Post last modified: December 18, 2022
• Post category: North America / Wyoming

Wyoming is filled with so much natural beauty. From mountains, to forests, to geothermal fields, to geological wonders, Wyoming has plenty to see. And that doesn’t even get into the living wonders in Wyoming. There are amazing animals roaming the state and a bountiful Wild West heritage that can be seen at the bustling rodeo or the western themed restaurants and bars. Check out our list of the best places to visit in Wyoming to start planning your own Wyoming vacation .

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Yellowstone National Park

Yellowstone National Park is consistently one of the most visited National Parks in the United States. And it deserves this level of popularity. The park has so many different features to offer. From amazing geological features, to rare wildlife, to beautiful landscapes, there is something for everyone in Yellowstone.

Check out our list of our favorite things to see in Yellowstone here to start planning your own Yellowstone vacation.

Cody is one of the best places to visit in Wyoming to experience the “Wild West” culture. The city was founded by the famous Buffalo Bill Cody and this heritage continues today. The town has several western themed museums, restaurants and rodeos. Cody is home to 5 museums celebrating the history of Wyoming. Because of the many things to do in town, Cody is the best place to visit in Wyoming for families.

This town, which is close to Yellowstone National Park, is a great stop to add to your Wyoming road trip to give you a sense of the cowboy culture still present in Wyoming today.  

Devils Tower National Monument

This is one of the most awe-inspiring places we’ve visited. Okay, so we had low expectations but this really is one of those things that you have to see to understand. Rocks towering 1,200 feet from the ground, this is impressive. It’s like a geological skyscraper in the middle of a field.  

For a full guide to Devils Tower National Monument, check out our complete post here.

Visiting the Rodeo is a must-do when visiting Wyoming. Cody and Cheyenne have two of the best rodeos in the country. Cheyenne holds some of the most competitive rodeos and Cody has a rodeo nearly every night.

Grand Teton National Park

Grand Teton National Park is one of the most popular places to visit in Wyoming. And with Wyoming famous for the mountainous landscape, it’s no wonder that so many visitors want to play in the shadows of these dramatic mountain ranges. This park is also one of the most popular places to visit in Wyoming to see wildlife like moose and elk.

For a list of our favorite things to see in Grand Teton, check out our list here.

Hot springs state park.

Located in central Wyoming, this may be a bit out of the way for most travelers. However, those willing to make the extra drive will find the world’s largest hot spring. The water from the spring is channeled into bathhouses and outdoor pools that you can swim in. Hot Springs State Park also has plenty of hiking trails and other fun geological features to see.

Beartooth Pass

Beartooth Pass consistently ranks with some of the top roads in the world. A road trip through Beartooth Pass will take you through the beautiful Rocky Mountains and allow you to see some pristine landscapes and rare wildlife. This makes a perfect day trip from Yellowstone that you can add to a perfect Yellowstone vacation.

Visit Jackson Hole

Jackson is one of the most popular places to visit in Wyoming. Located just south of Grand Teton National Park, it makes a great base camp for a Grand Teton vacation . But with plenty of things to do, it’s worth exploring Jackson itself.  

For a full list of things to do in and around Jackson, check out our post here.

Fossil butte national monument.

If you love rocks, or have ever wanted to dig for a dinosaur, you’ll love Fossil Butte National Park . The butte was once the bottom of a giant lake. And now you can see fossils all over the rocks in the park. While you can’t take home any fossil you may find, you do get to feel like a paleontologist as you explore the park.

For a full list of our Wyoming articles to help you plan your own Wyoming vacation, check out our Wyoming posts here .  

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10 Best Places to Visit in Wyoming

Author: Destinations.ai · Updated on: April 16, 2024

Wyoming stands as a tribute to the untamed spirit of the West, a place where the landscapes command awe and offer solitude in equal measure. Here, the majesty of nature is on full display, with half of the state reserved for public exploration.

You’ll find that the tranquility is profound, amplified only by the occasional geyser eruption or the distant call of a wild animal. From Yellowstone’s geothermal wonders to the Grand Teton’s imposing peaks, Wyoming’s vistas are textbook definitions of natural grandeur.

The essence of the Wild West isn’t just preserved here; it thrives in the daily lives of its people. Engage with Wyoming’s rich cowboy heritage by experiencing the thrill of a rodeo, savoring the heartiness of a chuckwagon meal, or tapping your boots to the rhythm of country music in a local dance hall.

These timeless traditions are woven into the very fabric of the state, offering you a sincere taste of cowboy culture amidst the stunning backdrop of the American wilderness.

1. Glimpse into Prehistory at Fossil Butte

In the vast expanses of southwestern Wyoming, where sagebrush deserts dominate, a 1,000-foot natural elevation stands as a gateway to yesteryear. Fossil Butte National Monument , not far from Kemmerer, houses a remarkable record of ancient life preserved in stone.

• Historic Highlight : Once a freshwater lake, Fossil Lake left an unparalleled fossil cache behind.
• What You’ll Discover : Marvel at over 300 fossil specimens, ranging from fishes to flora.
• Summer Excursions : Roll up your sleeves alongside paleontologists and excavate history embedded in the butte’s layers.
• Location Tip : The region’s natural heritage centerpiece is roughly 15 miles west of Kemmerer.

Here, every stone has a story. Wander through the visitor center, where the bygone era of Fossil Lake comes to life, offering an authentic peek into the Earth’s vibrant past.

2. Experience the Thermal Wonders of Thermopolis

Amid Thermopolis, the North American continent’s most expansive hot spring beckons beneath the expansive Wyoming skies. At Hot Springs State Park, the Big Spring’s steamy waters roll out an invitation to rejuvenate in multiple spa establishments and aqua parks.

The State Bath House operates under state management, welcoming you to immerse yourself in comforting warmth at no cost. Choose between the embrace of an indoor soak or the openness of their outdoor pool, limited to 20 minutes that promise to enliven your senses.

If you’re in the mood for playful splashing, Star Plunge never disappoints, where enclosed spirals, outdoor pools, and frothing tubs promise laughter and relaxation for all ages.

Amidst these watery delights, a group of bison—a symbol of the region’s wild grandeur—grazes, adding a touch of untamed beauty to your thermal retreat.

3. Cheyenne

Cheyenne, the heart of Wyoming’s cowboy heritage, invites you to enter a world where historic architecture is a portal to the past. The city’s centerpiece is the majestic Capitol Building, erected in 1887, graced with a shimmering gold dome that catches the eye from vantage points throughout town.

Within its walls, you’re treated to the intricate dance of light through stained glass, an exquisite grand staircase, and floors laid out in marble patterns that tell tales of bygone splendor.

• Capitol Building: Renaissance revival-style with a stunning gold dome.
• Interior Highlights: Stained glass windows, a grand staircase, and marble floors.

In Cheyenne, the Nelson Museum of the West offers a treasure trove of Native American craftsmanship and a nod to the valor of the United States Cavalry.

As summer unfolds, you’re invited to the Cheyenne Frontier Days, renowned as the grandest outdoor rodeo across the country. Since 1897, it has delivered a symphony of rodeo feats, communal pancake breakfasts, evening concerts, and vibrant parades that capture the indomitable spirit of the West.

• Cheyenne Frontier Days: The most expansive outdoor rodeo in the US, featuring a variety of events and entertainment in July.

4. Bighorn Canyon

Straddling the borders of Wyoming and Montana, the Bighorn River created the dramatic Bighorn Canyon following the construction of Yellowtail Dam in the 1960s. Bighorn Lake’s resulting reservoir stretches an impressive 71 miles upstream, partially winding through the Crow Indian Reservation.

• Scenery : Expect to be enthralled by the sheer canyon walls as they tower over the tranquil Bighorn Lake.
• Activities : Boating and water sports are popular here, with the canyon providing a majestic backdrop.
• Wildlife : The Pryor Mountain National Wild Horse Range is adjacent to the recreation area, which is home to herds of wild horses. Keep your eyes peeled at the canyon’s crest for a chance to spot these majestic creatures.

Remember to respect the natural habitat and the area’s cultural significance while enjoying the views and wildlife.

See Related:   Best State & National Parks Like Yellowstone National Park

5. Gaze Upon the Majestic Devils Tower

As you look up at the astonishing geological feature known as Devils Tower , you’re greeted by a monolith that towers high above the Wyoming plains. This remarkable natural tower stands as a solitary giant with a height of over 1,200 feet, serving as the remains of an ancient volcanic core revealed through ages of erosion.

Fast Facts:

• Elevation: 5,112 feet above sea level
• Height: 1,267 feet from base to summit
• Location: Black Hills, Crook County, Wyoming
• Designation: First U.S. National Monument (1906)

Not merely a geological wonder, the tower gained cinematic glory as a key location in Spielberg’s “Close Encounters of the Third Kind.” Nowadays, it magnetizes outdoor lovers and serves as a beacon for climbers, hikers, and those drawn to its mysterious allure.

Visiting this iconic site promises an encounter with a majestic piece of Earth’s history and offers a wealth of adventure in its grassland surroundings.

6. Flaming Gorge Recreation Area

Nestled on the Utah-Wyoming border, the Flaming Gorge reservoir emerges as a jewel amidst red rock canyons. Since its creation by the Green River Dam in 1958, this vivid body of water has become a haven for aquatic enthusiasts.

• Water Activities: Revel in five equipped marinas, perfect for boating, fishing, and water sports.
• Trails and Outdoor Fun: Over 100 miles await your footsteps for hiking or wheels for mountain biking, with trails also open for horseback exploration.
• Sunrise and Sunset Views: Witness the geological spectacle as the canyon walls, ignited in color by the rising or setting sun, come to life in an array of brilliant hues.

Immerse yourself in the splendor of Flaming Gorge, where the water shimmers against the fiery backdrop of the cliffs—a feast for the eyes and a playground for the soul.

7. Glimpse Into the Wild West: Cody

Encounter the essence of Wyoming’s frontier spirit in Cody. Established by the famed showman Buffalo Bill Cody in the late 19th century, this town is a treasure trove of Western heritage.

• Buffalo Bill Center : At the heart of the town, this complex of five museums celebrates the Old West with fascinating collections and stories of Buffalo Bill’s life.
• Old Trail Town : Step directly into history among over 25 original structures dating back to the pioneering days.
• Rodeo Events : Embrace the title of ‘Rodeo Capital of the World’ with nightly rodeos throughout summer, capturing the true American cowboy experience.

Adjacent to Yellowstone, Cody serves as a portal to natural grandeur and ensures a rich dive into the past.

8. Exploring Jackson Hole

Nestled in the embrace of the majestic Teton Range, Jackson Hole is your portal to the ultimate Wyoming adventure. Whether you’re paddling down the Snake River in the warmth of summer or carving down slopes glazed with over 500 inches of yearly snowfall, the valley’s natural splendor never ceases to amaze.

Imagine the thrill of white-water rafting by day and the cozy comfort of a fireside meal by night, featuring local specialties such as scrumptious wild salmon or savory buffalo burgers.

In the valley’s heart lies Jackson, a vibrant town that stands alone in its incorporation yet unites a scattering of resorts, homes, and communities.

Here, every meal has the potential to be an adventure in itself, from rustic campfire barbecues to gourmet dining experiences that tantalize with dishes like tender elk chops. Ready your senses to savor all that Jackson Hole has to offer.

See Related:   Do You Need a Car in Jackson Hole?

9. Explore Grand Teton National Park

Nestled in Wyoming’s majestic landscape, Grand Teton National Park beckons with its awe-inspiring mountain panoramas. The iconic Teton Range stands as a monument to the forces of nature, presenting an impressive backdrop to the lush Snake River valley below.

Amid this natural splendor, you’ll find a habitat teeming with wildlife. Watch for moose, bison, and elk as they roam freely. Adventure awaits with over 250 miles of trails inviting you to hike and numerous sites for camping.

From luxurious lodges to cozy motels, the park offers a variety of stays to suit every preference.

10. Yellowstone: A Journey to the Wild Heart of Wyoming

Imagine treading on a land where fire and ice craft the scenery, geysers shoot sky-high, and rivers dance through canyons. Welcome to Yellowstone, America’s pioneering national park.

Here’s where thermal wonders and wildlife spectacles await, and you become an explorer among the free-roaming bison herds, spotting elk and maybe even the elusive grizzly.

Prepare your visit diligently; accommodations are treasures sought by many. As you’re amidst three million enthusiasts yearning for a peek at this national marvel, planning secures your spot to witness the untamed beauty more intimately.

Wyoming’s Cartography Unveiled

Your compass to adventure lies in the map of Wyoming, where Yellowstone marks its territory boldly. Navigate through and let each contour guide you to a land revered as a national gem.

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16 Top-Rated Tourist Attractions in Wyoming

Written by Anietra Hamper and Karen Hastings Updated Feb 22, 2024

The Wild West comes alive in Wyoming. It's one of the most sparsely populated states in the US and a land of rugged landscapes, rich tribal legends, rodeos, ranches, cowboy towns, and some of the world's great wilderness areas.

Yellowstone National Park , with its geothermal wonders, together with spectacular Grand Teton National Park are two of the big highlights when it comes to attractions. Both parks are home to an astounding diversity of wildlife, from grizzlies and golden eagles to wolves, elk, moose, bison, and black bears. And these stunning national parks draw the biggest crowds to the state.

Further afield, you can explore red-walled gorges; hot springs; historic prairie towns; pioneer museums; and the historical attractions of Wyoming's capital, Cheyenne . With all this wilderness and wide-open space, outdoor adventures abound. Wyoming offers excellent hiking, mountain biking, kayaking, climbing, and fishing, as well as some of the best skiing in North America .

Discover the best places to visit in this rugged Western state with our list of the top tourist attractions in Wyoming.

1. Yellowstone National Park

2. grand teton national park, 4. hot springs state park, thermopolis, 5. bridger-teton national forest, 6. the buffalo bill center of the west, cody, 7. flaming gorge national recreation area, 8. the wind river range, 9. grand targhee ski resort, 10. national historic trails interpretive center, casper, 11. fort laramie national historic site, 12. devils tower national monument, 13. bighorn canyon national recreation area, 14. cheyenne, 15. curt gowdy state park, 16. old trail town, cody.

Established in 1872, Yellowstone National Park is the world's first and oldest national park . It's home to one of the most awe-inspiring wilderness areas on the planet. Huge herds of bison still roam free in the valleys, and the abundant wildlife includes grizzly and black bears, gray wolves, elk, antelope, trumpeter swans, and majestic bald eagles.

Yellowstone National Park is a geothermal wonderland. You can see four types of geothermal features throughout the park: hot springs, mud pots, geysers, and fumaroles (steam vents). In some spots like the Lower Geyser Basin and Norris Geyser Basin , you can see all four geothermal features in one place. These locations have nice boardwalks so visitors can get close enough to the features to smell the sulfur and get Instagram-worthy photos while staying at a safe distance.

Some of the must-see highlights of Yellowstone National Park include the famous Old Faithful geyser, Yellowstone Lake , and the jaw-dropping cascades of Lower Falls . Waterfalls are a dramatic feature in Yellowstone flowing down steep ravines, and glittering lakes and rivers that stretch for miles.

You can drive around the park along the Grand Loop and navigate the top half one day, and the lower half another while staying overnight at one of the park's lodges or campgrounds .

Hayden Valley is where you have the best chance at spotting wildlife, especially from one of the many road lookout spots giving you panoramic vantage points over the vast landscape. It is also home to the second largest bison herd in the park so you are likely to see quite a few.

If you want to up the adventure a bit you can explore Yellowstone's extensive network of hiking trails . Be sure to consult a park ranger before heading out to make sure you know the latest trail conditions and take bear spray and rain gear with you.

The park draws about 4.4 million visitors a year, making it a top attraction in Wyoming. Sightseeing is excellent year-round, with each season painting the landscape in different hues. While most tourists visit in the summer, the winter months bring an entirely different landscape and experience to Yellowstone. If you are hoping to spot baby animals in the park, springtime is the best time to visit Yellowstone when the young wildlife are more visible.

Crowned by the craggy peaks of the mighty Teton Mountain Range , Grand Teton National Park is one of the jewels of Wyoming. These mountains, in the state's northwest, were formed millions of years ago, when a fault in the earth's crust buckled, creating 12 peaks reaching heights of more than 12,000 feet. The highest of these, Grand Teton , soars 13,770 feet above sea level.

Wildlife is abundant. More than 300 species of birds, 60 species of mammals, and many freshwater fish live within the park. Not surprisingly, the park is a paradise for wildlife lovers, photographers, climbers, kayakers, and hikers.

The best way to explore the spectacular scenery is by hiking the many trails and staying overnight in the campgrounds . Summer is by far the busiest season to visit and is the only time the high-mountain hiking trails are completely free of snow, but spring and fall are also lovely times to visit, with fewer crowds. Some of the roads and access points close during the winter months.

Tucked in a sprawling valley at the foot of the spectacular Teton Mountains , Jackson, Wyoming exudes the spirit of the Wild West. Rustic wooden buildings and boardwalks, quaint shops, galleries, and restaurants, add to the charm of this charismatic town. And the town square framed by elk-horn arches is hard to miss.

Jackson is also the gateway to beautiful Grand Teton National Park and a popular stop on the way to Yellowstone. Bordering town, the National Elk Refuge protects the largest herd of wintering elk in the world . In season, you can ride horse-drawn sleighs into the refuge to view these gentle creatures up close.

Camouflaged in a rocky hillside just south of town, the National Museum of Wildlife Art is another top attraction, with more than 4,000 paintings and many rotating exhibits.

Other Jackson highlights include scenic float trips down the Snake River , chuck wagon cookouts, the popular summer rodeo, and downhill skiing on Snow King Mountain . Jackson Hole is also one of the top fly fishing destinations in Wyoming .

A 20-minute drive from Jackson, the Jackson Hole Mountain Resort at Teton Village offers some of the best skiing in the United States , as well as a diverse lineup of summer mountain sports and outdoor concerts.

• Read More: Top-Rated Hiking Trails in Jackson Hole

Built around the world's largest single mineral hot spring , Hot Springs State Park is a great place to stop for a relaxing soak. The steamy mineral water gushing from Big Spring is channeled into bathhouses and kept at a constant 104 degrees Fahrenheit. You can soak in the warm waters indoors at the State Bath House or in the two outdoor pools.

Also in the area are hiking trails; petroglyphs; summer flower gardens; and the Rainbow Terrace , where water from another stream tumbles into the Bighorn River . Look for the herd of bison grazing in the hills.

In the beautiful Bridger Teton National Forest , outdoor enthusiasts can explore more than 3.4 million acres of western Wyoming's rugged mountain wilderness.

Within the forest's boundaries lie three Wilderness Areas: The Bridger Wilderness in the Wind River Mountains is home to the headwaters of the Green River, some of the world's largest glaciers, and Wyoming's highest point, Gannett Peak . The Teton Wilderness provides critical habitat for wildlife such as grizzlies, wolves, and bison, and the Gros Ventre Wilderness encompasses fascinating geological features.

In 1925, the Gros Ventre Slide carved down a mountainside, creating Lower Slide Lake. You can still see evidence of the slide today.

Crisscrossed by miles of trails, the entire region is excellent for hiking, hunting, fishing, ski touring, and mountaineering.

The Buffalo Bill Center of the West retraces an important chapter of American history in a complex that houses five Smithsonian-affiliated museums. This should be one of your first stops if you are staying in Cody to learn about the area's history which is significant to the entire state of Wyoming.

In the Buffalo Bill Museum, you can view artifacts from the life of Buffalo Bill Cody, the legendary American soldier and showman.

The Cody Firearms Museum has more than 10,000 pieces in its collection spanning 800 years of history. Wyoming wildlife and geology are the main themes of the Draper Museum of Natural History, and you can learn about the culture of the prairies' first inhabitants at the Plains Indian Museum through exhibits and a multimedia show.

In addition to all these historical exhibits and artifacts, the center offers a treat for art lovers. At the Whitney Gallery of Western Art , works by Frederic Remington, Charles Russell, and George Catlin continue the Wild West theme.

While you will be tempted to spend most of your visit exploring the indoor museums, be sure to allocate time to see the outdoor sculpture garden. You can do this by planning to see one of the Raptor Experience shows that take place twice a day outside.

The Buffalo Bill Center of the West is tough to experience in just one visit which is why admission tickets are good for two days . It is best to plan on visiting several of the museums one day and then coming back to see the others on a different day.

Address: 720 Sheridan Ave, Cody, Wyoming

• Read More: Top-Rated Attractions & Things to Do in Cody, WY

Named for the area's striking red sandstone cliffs, Flaming Gorge National Recreation Area stretches from Green River, Wyoming, south and into Utah.

Fed by the waters of the Green River, Flaming Gorge Reservoir is a popular spot for boating, fishing, swimming, camping, and kayaking. Adventure seekers can also raft the area of the Green River downstream from Flaming Gorge Dam .

Perched above the canyon, the Red Canyon Vista and Visitor Center offers impressive views of the gorge. From the visitor center, the Canyon Rim Trail threads along the lip of the canyon, with lookouts along the way.

In addition to the colorful rock formations, some of the rock walls display petroglyphs, and prehistoric fossils are often found in the area.

Looking for the spectacular alpine scenery of Grand Teton National Park or Yellowstone without the crowds? Head to the Wind River Range in Western Wyoming. Its 2.25 million acres encompass seven of the largest glaciers in the Lower 48 states; lush meadows dappled with wildflowers; glacier-carved valleys; snowcapped peaks; and thousands of sparkling trout-filled waterways, including the headwater for the Green River. No wonder it's a haven for hiking, hunting, fishing, camping, and climbing.

Hikers, in particular, will be in heaven here. More than 600 miles of trails radiate through the region, including part of the Continental Divide Scenic National Trail , which runs from Canada to Mexico. The 80-mile stretch through this region ascends to an elevation of 11,000 feet and is best hiked during August and September, when the trails are most likely to be free of snow. Keep your eyes peeled for wildlife. This is grizzly country, but you can also see moose, mountain lions, deer, elk, wolves, and hundreds of different species of birds.

The Wind River Range is also one of the best fly fishing destinations in Wyoming. Anglers can catch many species of trout, as well as grayling and mackinaw, in the crystal-clear streams and rivers.

Rock climbers come here to scale the granite peaks, including the famous Cirque of the Towers in the southern region of the range.

Looking for a dose of culture and history? You'll find that here, too. At the Wind River Indian Reservation , you can participate in a powwow, visit museums, or explore the area on a 70-kilometer scenic drive along the Wind River Indian Reservation Trail. Pick up a self-guided Wyoming tourism map at local chambers of commerce.

The rustic town of Pinedale is the gateway to this remote section of the Bridger Wilderness, and it makes a great base to stock up on supplies. From here, you can don your backpack, lace up your boots, pack your fly rod, and head into one of the most breathtakingly beautiful wilderness areas in the country - minus the crowds.

If you hate standing in lines and paying exorbitant prices for lift tickets, Grand Targhee Ski Resort is a hot pick for your next Wyoming ski vacation. About a 90-minute drive from Jackson Hole Mountain Resort , this family-friendly resort on the western slopes of the Tetons is a much cheaper option than its famous sister resort, with way fewer people.

Snowfall here averages an impressive 500-plus inches of light, fluffy powder, with 2,270 feet of vertical accessed by five lifts. You'll find trails for all abilities here, but intermediate skiers are especially well served, with more than 70 percent of the terrain classified as suitable for them. Other amenities include two terrain parks, snowshoeing, and Nordic trails. Backcountry skiers and snowboarders can also sign up for Wyoming's only cat skiing, and private snowcat skiing is also available.

Sure, visibility can sometimes be an issue here, but you can ski the trees during foggy days, and the promise of pristine powder pockets helps compensate - Grand Targhee offers one of the lowest ratios of skiers to untracked powder acres in the country . Relatively affordable slope-side accommodation is another perk of a vacation here.

Summers are also packed with activities. Take a scenic ride on the chairlift, attend a music concert, bike the trails, and sample the restaurants and shops in this charming small town. No matter what the season, Grand Targhee makes a wonderful mountain getaway for everyone in the family.

The National Historic Trails Interpretive Center is more than a museum, it's an interactive experience recreating the old pioneer trails and their important role in American history. One of the top things to do in Casper, Wyoming, the museum is well worth a couple of hours of your time.

Full-scale dioramas and multimedia presentations tell the story of Wyoming's first settlers, the mountain men and fur trappers, the Oregon Trail, the Mormon Trail, the California Trail, and the Pony Express route. All the exhibits are in chronological order, which makes visiting this museum feel like a journey through time.

This is one of the best Wyoming attractions for families who want to learn about the country's history. Kids can climb in the back of a covered wagon, experience a simulated river crossing, and watch movies that highlight personal stories of the pioneers. Best of all, admission is free!

Before you leave, take time to admire the sweeping views of Casper from the overlook.

Address: 1501 North Poplar Street, Casper, Wyoming

Once a private fur-trading post, Fort Laramie , the first garrisoned post in Wyoming, became an important outpost serving pioneers emigrating west on the Mormon, Oregon, and California Trails. The area was also an important military post during the Plains Indian Wars. In 1938, President Roosevelt proclaimed the 214 acres of military reservation land a national monument. Today, the National Park Service manages the site.

Your first stop should be the visitor center, where a short audio-visual presentation tells the story of the fort's history. Artifacts such as uniforms and weapons are also on display here.

After the visitor center, a walking tour of the restored buildings brings the fort's fascinating history to life. See how the troops lived and ate by touring the barracks, and you can also visit the officers' quarters, post office, general store, and medical quarters, among other restored buildings. As you wander around the site, friendly volunteers in period costume help recreate the scene.

Most visitors take a self-guided tour, but interpretive talks are offered during the summer months. If you're looking for a way to keep the kids entertained, they can sign up for an educational scavenger hunt . Kids can even become Junior Rangers for their efforts in completing the scavenger hunt and take home a commemorative coin.

Address: 965 Grey Rocks Road, Fort Laramie, Wyoming

Rising more than 1,200 feet above Wyoming's eastern plains and the Belle Fourche River, Devils Tower National Monument is a geological gem. If you're looking for northeast Wyoming attractions, this is the big hitter. The Devils Tower Visitor Center details the geology of this flat-topped volcanic marvel and depicts the history and culture of the area through photos and exhibits.

After exploring the monument, you can hike along eight miles of nature trails , which circumnavigate the rock and thread through the surrounding forest and meadows. During the spring and early summer, abundant wildflowers create fantastic photo opportunities. Look out for the prairie dog colonies as you enter the site as well.

Other popular things to do here include rock climbing during certain months and fishing for black bullhead, catfish, and walleye in the Belle Fourche. Ranger-led tours of the area are also available.

Red cliffs rise more than 1,000 feet above a twisting ribbon of water at the Bighorn Canyon National Recreation Area on the Wyoming/Montana border.

Photographers love the panoramic views from Devil's Canyon Overlook , and the area offers a busy lineup of outdoor activities: Cast a line in the Bighorn River's world-class trout fishery , go boating or swimming at Bighorn Lake , camp in the wilderness, visit historic ranches, and hike more than 27 miles of scenic trails.

Animal lovers can see some of the largest herds of wild horses in the United States, as well as golden eagles, bears, and the namesake bighorn sheep. Stop by the visitor center in Lovell for details.

Cheyenne, the capital of Wyoming, offers a host of rewarding things to do in southern Wyoming. Named after the Cheyenne Indians, it was once the largest outpost of the United States Cavalry. Today, the town's museums and historic sites tell the story of Cheyenne's beginnings in 1867 as a station on the Union Pacific Railroad.

One of the town's top attractions is the Cheyenne Frontier Days Rodeo . Held annually since 1919, the late-July rodeo, featuring 10 days of fun-filled festivities, is one of the best in the country. For a taste of the Wild West at other times of the year, head to the Cheyenne Frontier Days Old West Museum , with rodeo exhibits and antique horse-drawn wagons.

Cheyenne's other top things to see and do include the Wyoming State Capitol Building , a National Historic Landmark; the Wyoming State Museum, with interactive child-friendly exhibits; and the historical railroad displays at the Cheyenne Depot Museum. Near the depot, in Holliday Park, look for the Big Boy locomotive, one of the largest steam engines ever built.

Curt Gowdy State Park is approximately halfway between Cheyenne and Laramie in southeast Wyoming. It's an expansive state park encompassing nearly 4,000 acres and a variety of landscapes, including lowland meadows and jutting rock formations. It's also a haven for wildlife and outdoor lovers.

The park's 35-plus-mile trail system is a favorite for mountain bikers and hikers. These scenic trails lace throughout the entire park, connecting three reservoirs that also attract their own attention. These three reservoirs all offer different fishing conditions and opportunities to put a boat on the water.

Twelve campgrounds at Curt Gowdy cater to overnight adventures. The campsites accommodate tent and RV camping and everything in between. Many of the sites are reservable ahead of time.

For a true taste of the Western Frontier, head to Old Trail Town , in the town of Cody. Walk through 28 original cabins that have been relocated from homesteads from within 100 miles and reassembled on the original proposed site for downtown Cody. Each cabin showcases examples of homesteading in Wyoming that range from livery barns and a hunter's cabin to a one-room schoolhouse.

Almost all the buildings on the property are furnished with period-authentic décor and artifacts, giving the real sense of how things were back before any paved roads navigated the state.

Walk to the back of the property to see the "Hole-in-the-Wall Cabin" made famous by western outlaws Butch Cassidy and the Sundance Kid where you can still see the actual bullet holes in the wooden frame. Also on the back of the property is a small graveyard with several notable names including Jeremiah "Liver Eating" Johnson with a monument erected on his re-burial site.

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More on Wyoming

The 18 Best Things to Do in Wyoming

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 the Native American and cowboy heritage to the development of the 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

TripSavvy / Alisha McDarris

Yellowstone National Park is truly one of the world's most natural wonders. The 2.2 million acres that make up the park—96 percent of which is located in Wyoming—boast jaw-dropping geysers, colorful hot springs, majestic mountain ranges, and vibrant rivers and waterfalls. The most popular attractions include Old Faithful Geyser , Mammoth Hot Springs, and the Grand Canyon of the Yellowstone River. Adventurous folks can wander into the backcountry to avoid both the traffic and crowds and catch a glimpse of wildlife, including wolves, elk, bison, and bears.

Play Outdoors in Grand Teton National Park

Grand Teton National Park is home to postcard-perfect scenery that rivals something you'd see in Europe or Patagonia, Chile. Rugged peaks, rushing rivers, serene lakes, and wildflower-filled meadows offer much solace for a city-dwelling visitor. Similar to neighboring Yellowstone, park wildlife ranges from large bison, elk, and bears to small mammals like pika and marmots. The National Park, the nearby Bridger-Teton National Forest, and the resort town of Jackson Hole combine to make one vast outdoor playground that offers something for every season. Whitewater rafting, hiking, horseback riding, fishing, lake cruises, snowshoeing, and skiing are just some of the seemingly endless activities.

Ski Jackson Hole Mountain Resort

Jackson Hole Mountain Resort 

With a 4,139-foot vertical drop and 2500 acres of in-bounds skiing terrain, Jackson Hole Mountain Resort rivals any resort in the world for the ultimate skiing experience. However, since 50 percent of the terrain is suitable for experts only, this isn't the place to go to get your bearings. Even still, the lower mountain offers beginner terrain and the mountain school provides superior lessons, should you need to sharpen your skills. Head to the base in Teton Village for gourmet restaurants, four- and five-star accommodations, and a hopping nightlife.

Wander Through the Buffalo Bill Center of the West

The Buffalo Bill Center of the West consists of five terrific museums, each worth a visit on its own. Experience a slice of American history by viewing artifacts from the life of Buffalo Bill Cody at the Buffalo Bill Museum. The Cody Firearms Museum features a huge collection of firearms from around the world. If flora and fauna is your thing, don't pass up the Draper Museum of Natural History's wildlife and geology exhibits. The Plains Indian Museum offers exhibits and a multimedia show depicting the true heritage of regional Native Americans. And a world-class collection of Western art—with works by Charles Russell, Frederic Remington, and WHD Koerner—can be found at the Whitney Gallery of Western Art.

Explore the National Historic Trails Interpretive Center

There's a lot to learn at the National Historic Trails Interpretive Center in Casper, Wyoming . During your visit, you'll find your way through galleries featuring Wyoming's first inhabitants, mountain men, and fur trappers. See the routes of the Oregon Trail, the Mormon Trail, the California Trail, and the Pony Express and discover the journey settlers took along the way. History comes alive in the center's multimedia presentation, living history demonstrations, guided hike, and special events.

Attend Cheyenne's Frontier Days Rodeo

Richard Oriez/Flickr

Held annually since 1919, the Cheyenne Frontier Days Rodeo is known as the "Daddy of 'em All" due to both the quality and the quantity of its rodeo action. The late-July festivities include 10 days of rodeo, concerts featuring national country-music acts, a carnival, a horse-filled Grand Parade, an Indian Village, complete with traditional dance and costumes, and a western art show. If you can't make to Cheyenne in July, wander into the Cheyenne Frontier Days Old West Museum to get a taste of the rodeo experience.

Visit Fort Laramie National Historic Site

Fort Laramie once was a fur-trading post in 1834, then the site went on to serve folks migrating west via the Oregon and California Trails. The Fort Laramie National Historic Site includes a number of restored historic buildings that you can explore by booking a walking tour. While there, stop at the visitor center and enjoy an 18-minute history video, a bookstore, and a museum. Museum exhibits include uniforms, weapons, and artifacts from Fort Laramie's colorful history.

Soak the Pools at Hot Springs State Park

Wyoming's most popular state park offers a year-round treat for visitors. The site of the world's largest mineral hot spring, the area draws not only human tourists but is also home to Wyoming's central bison herd. Visitors can enjoy a soak in the 104-degree mineral waters indoors at the State Bath House, or in two outdoor pools. If you're there in the summer, take in the interesting rock formations created by mineral waters by hiking their extensive trail system. The park's famous flower garden is a site to see, as well.

Rock Climb at Devils Tower National Monument

Off the beaten track in northeast Wyoming lies a stately rock formation made famous by the movie "Close Encounters of the Third Kind." Today, this tower is the focal point of Devils Tower National Monument and worshiped by nationwide rock climbers. Tower Trail, a 1.3-mile paved trail, circles the tower and can be enjoyed via a guided hike. Before you leave, check out the visitor center to learn about the natural history of Devils Tower and its surroundings. Then, take your turn at rock climbing the tower (if it's within your skill level) or marvel at the climbers who flock to this rock.

Drive Your Car Along the Bridger Valley Historic Byway

Napa/WikiCommons/CC 

This 20-mile loop offers you a remarkable glimpse of Wyoming's history. Follow the path of those who traveled cross-country via the Oregon Trail, the California Trail, the Pony Express, the transcontinental railroad, and the Lincoln Highway. Stop along the way at the Fort Bridger State Historic Site , complete with a museum and a walking tour of the old fort and restored historic buildings. This original trading post, founded by Jim Bridger, was taken over in 1853 by the Mormons when they sent militia to arrest Bridger for selling alcohol to the Indians.

Take a Sleigh Ride in the Elk Refuge

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No winter trip to Jackson Hole is complete without a sleigh ride through the National Elk Refuge. Located just north of town, this sanctuary houses up to 7,000 elk seasonally, while supplementing their feed so they can survive the long winters. The elk here are free to come and go, yet most of them congregate in the winter and leave in the summer, making a winter sleigh ride prime for sightings. In fact, a horse-drawn sleigh ride puts you up close and personal with the herds. Sleighs run from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. each day and tickets can be purchased at the Jackson Hole and Greater Yellowstone Visitor Center.

Ski Grand Targhee Resort

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On the western slope of the Tetons lies a mom and pop resort with some of the best snow in the Lower 48. Grand Targhee Resort is actually accessed by driving through Idaho and into the "town" of Alta, Wyoming. "Targhee" is known as a family resort with terrain that can accommodate all skill levels. So if you're wary about skiing Jackson Hole's expert terrain, pop over the hill to Targhee for easier trails and a ridiculous amount of powder snow. So much so, that the resort urges you to bring your snorkel.

Ride the Coaster at Snow King Mountain

 Snow King Mountain

Adrenaline junkies will love Snow King Mountain's Cowboy Coaster where individual, hand-operated coaster cars take you along miles of loops, curves, and drops. Check out the view of Jackson Hole and the surrounding Teton mountain range as you climb 456 vertical feet up Snow King Mountain, and then descend on a thrill ride. The coaster is only open in the summer and an all-day Big King Pass gives you access to Snow King's coaster, Treetop Adventure Park, mini-golf, alpine slide, and more.

Hike the Thunder Basin National Grassland

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Located in Northeastern Wyoming between the Big Horn Mountains and the Black Hills, Thunder Basin National Grassland is ripe for exploring. Hike the many trails that meander through rolling grasslands and native shrubbery. Pack your field guide so you can easily identify grasses, plants, birds, and any small mammals you may meet. You might even run into a grazing cow, as the grasslands provide forage for local livestock.

Boat and Fish the Flaming Gorge

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The dramatic landscape of the Flaming Gorge National Recreation Area provides ample opportunity for fishing, swimming, boating, and lakeside relaxing. In fact, the Flaming Gorge Reservoir is prized by local trout fisherman. To access this amazing fishery, drive south of Rock Springs, Wyoming, to Buckboard Marina where you can rent a boat and get the latest fishing report before you head out on the reservoir.

Visit the State Capitol Complex

jmoor17/Getty Images 

The Wyoming State Capitol Complex consists of the Wyoming State Museum, the Wyoming Supreme Court, the Governor's Mansion, the Wyoming State Capitol, and the Wyoming State Legislature. Visit each site to gain an inside look at the state's government facilities and processes. A tour of the entire complex makes a perfect outing for students and teachers (with advance reservations). Note: The capitol building is currently closed for renovation, however, a capital building exhibit is offered at the Wyoming State Museum until the site reopens.

Backpack the Wind River Range

Don Mason/Getty Images

This mountain range (which falls under the radar due to its majestic Teton neighbors) offers hikers and backpackers a way to escape crowds and truly experience isolation. Glacier-carved granite spires pepper this range, complete with high mountain lakes and meadows that offer perfect opportunities for camping. The three-day, 23-mile Cirque of the Towers Loop makes a great journey for experienced backpackers. Embark in late summer so you can avoid bugs, high stream crossings, and fickle weather.

Experience Nature at the Laurance Rockefeller Preserve

Eoghanacht/WikiCommons

Just south of Moose, Wyoming, and east of Jackson Hole, the Laurance Rockefeller Preserve offers an area to experience solitude. And, this can be a great reprieve from the national park crowds and tourists that frequent the Jackson Hole area in the summer. Here you can learn about Rockefeller's vision to preserve the wildlands in the region. Explore sensory exhibits, sit and journal, or just relax as you pay tribute to those who have come before us.

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Home » Travel Guides » United States » Wyoming (WY) » 15 Best Things to Do in Wyoming

15 Best Things to Do in Wyoming

Wyoming is one of the most visited and most beautiful of the 50 states. Home to Yellowstone National Park and Grand Teton National Park, this is the best of wild and natural America.

It’s a mecca for nature lovers and outdoor adventurers, but it’s also a testament to the country’s history, recalling the days of frontier life and the wild west. It’s a unique and inspiring visit from start to finish.

Lets explore the best things to do in Wyoming :

1. Yellowstone National Park

This is the world’s first, and therefore oldest, national park.

It’s 2.2 million acres are often described as America’s ‘wonderland.’ Bison still roam free in the valleys, sightings of grizzly and black bears are common, as are elk, antelope, gray wolves, and bald eagles.

The natural landmarks are just as spectacular: Lamar Valley, West Thumb Geyser Basin, Mammoth Hot Springs, Old Faithful, and the Grand Canyon of Yellowstone are just a few.

Most people drive through the park, but the absolutely best way to see it is by hiking.

Get up close with the many diverse geothermal ecosystems.

Don’t miss the Lower Falls or the visitors centre while you’re there. Plan to spend several days.

2. Grand Teton National Park

The Teton Mountain Range was formed millions of years ago after a fault buckled and created 12 unbelievable peaks.

All of them more than 12,000 feet high.

The national park that surrounds these peaks is one of Wyoming’s crown jewels.

You’ll find serene lakes, rushing rivers, lush valleys, rugged peaks, and more wildlife than you’ve got storage space in your camera.

Imagine 60 mammal species and over 300 bird species.

Just like Yellowstone, the best way to see the park is by hiking.

But don’t forget kayaking, rafting, mountain climbing, snowshoeing, and skiing.

Use the town of Jackson as your base for exploring the park as well as the nearby Bridger-Teton National Forest.

3. Grand Prismatic Spring

Discovered in the early 19th century within what is now Yellowstone National Park, the Grand Prismatic Spring has been astonishing and stumping visitors ever since.

This very large hot spring displays a vivid rainbow ring on its surface.

It’s the bacteria and microbes in the water that cause the coloration – and it changes with each season.

It’s a true wonder of the natural world, a destination of its own, and definitely not to be missed.

4. The Buffalo Bill Centre of the West

The American West is a unique chapter in the country’s history.

The Buffalo Bill Centre captures that history in five incredible museums.

Visitors can get their fill of the Cody Firearms Museum, the Buffalo Bill Museum, the Draper Museum of Natural History, The Whitney Gallery of Western Art, and the Plain Indians Museum.

If you’re there in the summer you can catch a rodeo, where some of today’s best cowboys ride.

The aim of the centre is to immerse guests in the spirit of the old west through culture, science, art, and, of course, history.

5. The National Historic Trails Interpretive Centre

This is so much more than a museum.

The National Historic Trails Interpretive Centre is an interactive look back at the role that this area played in shaping America.

The centre recreates life on the old pioneer trails through life size dioramas, and multimedia.

Learn what life was like for Wyoming’s first citizens, the importance of the Oregon Trail, the Mormon Trail, the California Trail, and the famous Pony Express route.

Enjoy a guided hikes and special events throughout the year.

6. Smith Mansion

In the heart of the lovely Wapiti Valley is the Smith Mansion.

The stories surrounding the mansion’s history are the stuff of Wyoming legend.

Rumoured to be built by a madman, or perhaps built over a profitable mine shaft, or maybe even built as a joke.

What’s the truth?  Lee Smith’s home is a random assortment of terraces and staircases – some that even seem to go nowhere.

A project for his wife and children, the house at first looked fairly normal.

But over time, Smith continued building, adding balconies, additional floors, and more.

Smith eventually fell to his death while working on the house, which has sat empty since.

His daughter has begun a preservation campaign to keep this unique and legendary home a part of the state’s history.

7. Flaming Gorge National Recreation Area

Stretching from Wyoming’s Green River all the way into Utah, the Flaming Gorge National Recreation Area is a glorious ode to the natural world.

Named after the red sandstone cliffs of the region, this is a great spot for fishing, boating, camping, kayaking, and swimming.

Near the top of the canyon is a visitor’s centre and the start of the Canyon Rim Trail.

It has magnificent lookouts dotted along the path.

Prehistoric fossils have been found here and some of the rocks have ancient petroglyphs.

8. Fort Laramie

Originally a fur trading post, Fort Laramie went on to become the first garrisoned post in the Wyoming territory.

Almost all pioneers stopped here to replenish before heading out for the Mormon, California, and Oregon trails.

In addition, gold miners, American Indians, ranchers, missionaries, trappers, and more used the post – which appropriately came to be called the ‘Crossroads of a Nation Moving West.’ Over the years, treaties were signed here and wars begun.

Named a national monument by President Teddy Roosevelt in 1938, it’s now part of the national park system.

The visitors centre provides a history of the place and you can join a guided tour that will bring the history of the fort to life.

9. Cheyenne Frontier Days Rodeo

Every year since 1919, the Cheyenne Frontier Days Rodeo has been celebrating its roots with an incredible festival that grows better and better.

Often called the ‘Daddy of ‘em All,’ the rodeo is one of the best in the state.

The outdoor rodeo offers more than one million in prizes and draws the best of the best.

The festival lasts ten days and includes major concerts, parades, a carnival, a western art show, and a re-enacted American Indian village.

You can also tour an old saloon, get lunch at a chuck wagon cook off, and enjoy the best pancake breakfast of your life.

Don’t miss the antique car show, the air show, trick riding, and the wild-horse race.

10. Devils Tower National Monument

You have to travel a bit to get there, but the Devils Tower National Monument is more than worth it.

Rising 1,200 feet from the Belle Fourche River, the monument is a geological masterpiece.

Made famous thanks to the film Close Encounters of the Third Kind, it’s got a unique history that you’d come to expect from Wyoming.

The visitors centre explains this volcanic marvel and shows the changing culture of the region.

Tower Trail is a paved 1.3-mile trail that goes around the entire tower and guided hikes are available.

Rock climbers love Devils Tower and in the spring photographers flock here thanks to the abundant wildflower meadows in the surrounding forests.

The Belle Fourche River is also a destination spot for fishermen.

Catch walleye, black bullhead, and more.

11. Medicine Mountain

At the top of Medicine Mountain, about 10,000 feet above the Bighorn Range, is a beautiful and mysterious pattern of stones.

Though covered by the areas heavy snows for most of the year, in the summer, the patterns purpose can be seen.

In the shape of a wheel that is 80 feet across, there are 28 spokes coming from the hub – which is large enough to sit in.

Known as a medicine wheel, these sacred hoops (found elsewhere in the mid-west) where built by American Indian tribes.

The wheel at Bighorn has been studied extensively.

Archaeoastronomer Jack Eddy discovered that the wheel helps predict sun positions as well as stars during the summer solstice.

You can feel the energy of this sacred place and its fascinating history make it a must visit when you’re in Bighorn.

12. Hole-in-the Wall Hideout

Butch Cassidy and the Sundance Kid were real outlaws in the American West and in the Bighorn Mountains you can visit their infamous hideout.

Beginning in the late 19th century, this area was a popular stop on the outlaw trail during the highly romanticized lawless period of Wyoming’s history.

Used not only by Cassidy’s Wild Bunch but also by the Logan Brothers and Jesse James, the Hole-in-the-Wall is a secluded and remote spot.

As you might imagine, it’s not easy to reach, even today.

To reach it, you have to pass through an eroded hole in the wall mesa, then make a steep climb over loose rock to reach the top.

From here you have a 360-degree view of the pass – absolutely no one can sneak up on you.

Once accessible only on horseback, today you can take a paved road to a foot trail that will take you to the top.

13. Bridger Valley Historic Byway

Once the crossroads for pioneers, this 20-mile loop is now a majestic drive through history.

Used by those on the California and Oregon trails as well as the transcontinental railroad, the Lincoln Highway, and the Pony Express.

It includes stops at the Fort Bridger State Historic Site and the towns of Lyman, Urie, and Fort Bridger.

It’s a perfect day for history buffs.

Stop at the historic site to visit the museum and take a tour around the historic buildings.

14. The Crow’s Nest

The Old Faithful Inn, adjacent to Yellowstone National Park, has a fun and interesting feature.

On the third floor, you’ll find a 76-foot stairwell that leads to an indoor tree house.

From the tree house, you can take a catwalk out on to a roof top deck.

Known as the Crow’s Nest, it was designed by Robert Reamer to create his childhood fantasy of a tall tree house.

Originally, the orchestra played there to entertain guests on the floors below.

Full of imagination, it’s a wonderful way to view the park.

15. Vore Buffalo Jump

Vore Buffalo Jump is a natural sinkhole and one of the most important archaeological digs in the state.

Once home to the pre-historic Plains Indians, it was used to trap bison over 500 years ago.

Historians estimate that several tribes used the area and that a minimum of 10,0000 bison where trapped there.

Visitors are welcome during the summer months when you can chat with staff members to learn exactly how the sinkhole was used and how the Indians made use of each part of the bison.

If you’ve never seen a natural sink hole, you’ll be fascinated by Vore.

15 Best Things to Do in Wyoming:

• Yellowstone National Park
• Grand Teton National Park
• Grand Prismatic Spring
• The Buffalo Bill Centre of the West
• The National Historic Trails Interpretive Centre
• Smith Mansion
• Flaming Gorge National Recreation Area
• Fort Laramie
• Cheyenne Frontier Days Rodeo
• Devils Tower National Monument
• Medicine Mountain
• Hole-in-the Wall Hideout
• Bridger Valley Historic Byway
• The Crow’s Nest
• Vore Buffalo Jump

12 Must-Do Summer Adventures in Wyoming: The Real Cowboy Season

Home » 12 Must-Do Summer Adventures in Wyoming: The Real Cowboy Season

There simply is no place in America with more untouched natural beauty, friendlier people, or real Western adventures than Wyoming.

Imagine yourself on a summer vacation in Wyoming, camping at the foot of the magnificent Devils Tower, hoofing in cowboy boots around a luxurious dude ranch, or staying cool indoors with activities you can only find here. Make your summer dreams a reality, and explore these 12 Wyoming summer vacation ideas to make lifelong memories.

Best Places to Visit in Wyoming this Summer

Lucky for travelers, Wyoming has a poorly-guarded secret: There are an unending amount of summer things to do in Wyoming, and most of them are easily part of an affordable vacation . Explore some of the most popular summer vacation ideas and find your inspiration!

1. National Parks & Monuments

Summer is the perfect time for a scenic road trip, and national parks and monuments make fantastic destinations. At the top of just about everyone’s Wyoming summer vacation bucket list is Yellowstone. The park has the world’s most extensive collection of geysers with unmatched wide-open natural beauty.

Grand Teton National Park is just two hours down the road, making it easy to check out two of America’s greatest natural treasures in one vacation. Continue road-tripping across the great state of Wyoming to Devils Tower National Monument, a one-of-a-kind natural wonder that rises 1,200 feet above the state’s eastern planes.

Camp out beneath breathtaking cliffs that stand over 1,000 feet at Bighorn Canyon National Recreation Area, explore a pivotal struggle for freedom at Fort Laramie National Historic Site or dig into the remnants of yesterday at the Fossil Butte National Monument.

Must-See Summer Places to Visit:

• Yellowstone National Park  
• Grand Teton National Park
• Devils Tower National Monument
• Bighorn Canyon National Recreation Area
• Fort Laramie National Historic Site
• Fossil Butte National Monument

2. Horseback Riding

This part of the country was meant to be seen from a saddle . With centuries of experience, outfitters and dude ranches are ready to take riders of all skill levels on some of Wyoming’s best horse trails. Embrace the heights and take in the scenery on Devil’s Leap in the Big Horn Mountains, or challenge yourself with a lakeside ride on Mistymoon Trail. Wind along the Continental Divide Trail in Bridger-Teton National Forest or saddle up slope-side in Jackson Hole. If you’re looking to couple incredible views with some of Wyoming’s best wildlife watching, try Taggart Lake Loop. Have you got kiddos along for the ride? Take them out to Popo Agie Falls Trail for a true all-ages experience.

• Devil’s Leap (Big Horn Mountains)  
• Continental Divide Trail (Bridger-Teton National Forest)
• Jackson Hole
• Taggart Lake Loop (Grand Teton National Park)
• Popo Agie Falls Trail (Shoshone National Forest)
• Mistymoon Trail (Cloud Peak Wilderness)

3. ATV & Off-Roading

If you prefer the power of 50 horses over just one, ATV and off-roading adventures are more your speed, and they are must-dos on your Wyoming summer vacation. Play in the country’s biggest (and most musical) sandbox at Killpecker Sand Dunes or witness the brilliant red cliffs of Flaming Gorge National Recreation Area right from your ATV. Zip up the shores of North Piney Lake in Cora, or explore the vast and varied trails in the Black Hills National Forest along the South Dakota border. Take a thrill ride where the wild horses roam at McCullough Peaks in Buffalo Bill State Park, or up the excitement with an obstacle course at Poison Spider OHV Park.

• Killpecker Sand Dunes
• Flaming Gorge National Recreation Area
• Black Hills National Forest
• Buffalo Bill State Park  
• Poison Spider OHV Park

4. Camping

Wyoming camping is waking up to crisp air, hiking among majestic peaks, discovering hidden mountain lakes and falling asleep under a blanket of stars. Try one of the top 40 campgrounds in America at Jenny Lake in Grand Teton National Park or see why Canyon Village Campground is Yellowstone’s most popular place to pitch a tent or park an RV.

The Belle Fourche River Campground offers a natural, back-to-basics way to get some tent space, or enjoy the creekside views at Big Sandy Campground. Choose from 10 campgrounds at Keyhole State Park and put yourself in the center of some of the state’s best outdoor activities, or cozy up in a woodsy cabin in Bighorn National Forest. 

• Jenny Lake Campground
• Canyon Village Campground
• Belle Fourche River Campground
• Big Sandy Campground (Bridger-Teton National Forest)  
• Keyhole State Park  
• Bighorn National Forest

5. Hiking

Wildlife and hiking trails abound in Wyoming’s 18 million acres of public lands. Bison, elk, pronghorn, moose and bald eagles enjoy the state’s untouched mountains and prairies, and visitors can too by backcountry hiking at Yellowstone Lake or taking in the jaw-dropping views of the Snowy Mountain Range in Medicine Bow-Routt National Forest. Hit up the famous Continental Divide Trail on foot around Fremont Lake, spend a day scaling the rocky summit of Table Mountain Trail, or take it easy on an all-ages hike beneath the majestic Devils Tower. For the whole Western wilderness experience, don’t miss the fan-favorite Cascade Canyon Trail, with plentiful wildlife and the Tetons for a scenic backdrop.

• Yellowstone Lake
• Medicine Bow-Routt National Forest
• Fremont Lake (Bridger-Teton National Forest)
• Table Mountain Trail (Jedediah Smith Wilderness) 
• Devils Tower Trail
• Cascade Canyon Trail

6. Fishing

Consistently named one of the best places to fish by anglers around the country, ample lakes and rivers are considered some of the best places to visit in Wyoming in summer. The ecological climate makes the state’s waterfronts a paradise for trout fishing, specifically for rainbow, cutthroat, and brown trout. If your dream Wyoming summer vacation means sitting beside a mountain stream, floating on a pristine lake or seeking out one of 22 game fish species, you can do it all and find local experts to guide you. Cast your rod in one of these fishing holes and create a fish tale of your own.

• Glendo State Park
• Fly-fishing in Seminoe State Park
• “Miracle Mile” of the North Platte River  
• Fitzpatrick Wilderness Area ( Wind River Range )
• Green River  
• Grayrocks Reservoir

7. Rodeos

It wouldn’t be the West without a good ‘ole fashioned rodeo, and lucky for you, Wyoming offers some of the best rodeos in the country. From the “Daddy of ’em all” at Cheyenne Frontier Days to the “Rose Bowl” of college rodeos at the College National Final Rodeo in Casper, you’ll have plenty of reasons to “yeehaw” on your next getaway. Popular enough to share the city’s name, the rodeo is among the best Jackson Hole summer vacation ideas.

The Ten Sleep Rodeo Association puts on a 4th of July classic, while the Cody Nite Rodeo is the perfect evening out for a traveling cowpoke. Pop by the Thermopolis Cowboy Rendezvous PRCA Rodeo in Hot Springs State Park to get in the spirit of the West and see what the hype is all about.

• Cheyenne Frontier Days
• College National Final Rodeo  
• Jackson Hole Rodeo
• Ten Sleep Rodeo Association
• Cody Nite Rodeo  
• Thermopolis Cowboy Rendezvous PRCA Rodeo

8. Dude & Guest Ranches

If you’ve ever dreamed of being a cowboy or cowgirl, spending a week on a dude ranch will allow you to walk in authentic Western boots. Dude ranches in Wyoming vary greatly from working to resort ranches, so you can get down and dirty with the cattle or choose a more luxurious vacation.

No matter your speed, guest ranches and dude ranches are some of the best places to visit in Wyoming in summer, allowing even city slickers to create memories they will cherish forever. These ranches will blow your boots off with incredible cowboy experiences.

• Hideout Lodge and Guest Ranch
• Moose Head Ranch
• Vee Bar Guest Ranch
• Willow Creek Ranch At The Hole-In-The-Wall  
• Triangle C Dude Ranch  
• The Lodge & Spa at Brush Creek Ranch

9. Shows & Festivals

It wouldn’t be summer in Wyoming without a slew of Western-style festivals. The Laramie Jubilee Days celebrate Wyoming’s statehood with nine days of rodeos, bull-riding competitions, slack barrel races and even a brewfest to top it off. If you’re a bluegrass fan, Grand Targhee Bluegrass Festival is a must-see, with music as impressive as its spectacular mountain scenery.

Ride the thrill rides cowboy carnival-style at Wyoming’s Big Show in Rock Springs, or treat the family to live animals, demolition derby rounds and delicious local eats at the Wyoming State Fair. Relive the Pony Express Era at South Pass City Gold Rush Days, and if you haven’t gotten your fill just yet, stop by the Chugwater Chili Cookoff for some authentic Western recipes.

• Laramie Jubilee Days
• Grand Targhee Bluegrass Festival  
• Wyoming’s Big Show
• The Wyoming State Fair (Douglas)
• South Pass City Gold Rush Days  
• Chugwater Chili Cookoff

10. Hot Springs

It’s time to ease your muscles with a soothing summer dip in the hot springs of Wyoming. From 90-degree pools with slides and diving boards to 112-degree steamy soaks, there are options for families and couples at all of the state’s hot springs. Enjoy the country’s cleanest air, natural minerals, and therapeutic hot springs. It’s the perfect combo for a relaxing Wyoming summer vacation.

• Hot Springs State Park
• Granite Hot Springs
• Saratoga Resort and Spa
• Hellie’s Tepee Pools
• Astoria Hot Springs  

11. Indoor Adventures & Experiences

Summer in the West means sunbathing and blazing saddles, but you may want to find an indoor place to chill out between your amazing outdoor activities. Luckily, plenty of the best places to visit in Wyoming in summer include a bit of time in the AC and rainy day activities.

A tour of the Tate Geological Museum at Casper College gets you up close and personal with the state’s prehistoric inhabitants, while a show at The Carriage House Theater will entertain and inspire. If you’re planning a Jackson Hole summer vacation, have dinner at the Jackson Hole Playhouse for live entertainment rooted in Wyoming’s cowboy heyday.

The Buffalo Bill Center of the West houses five unique museums on its grounds for a day of family fun and learning, while The Cody Cattle Company wants to close out the day with a meal, live country music, and a trip to the Cody Nite Rodeo. And if it gets too hot, remember to stop for a famous ice cream cone at Peter’s Cafe & Bakery.

• Tate Geological Museum at Casper College  
• The Carriage House Theater ( Sheridan Civic Theater Guild )
• Jackson Hole Playhouse
• Buffalo Bill Center of the West  
• The Cody Cattle Company
• Peter’s Cafe & Bakery

12. Make a Splash: Wyoming Water Attractions

While Wyoming is well known for natural hot springs, it’s likely that you and your travel crew might want a cool dip at the end of a summer day. The great news is that you have excellent options that only depend on where your adventure has you wandering. Whitewater Park in Casper is perfect for family fun, letting thrill seekers of all ages ride the rapids.

South Mike Sedar Park and Pool offers a more traditional outdoor pool and water slide experience that the whole gang will enjoy. The Cheyenne Aquatic Center, Rock Springs Family Recreation Center, and Pinedale Aquatic Center provide visitors with swimming and more, from water aerobics to indoor rock climbing and other sports.

Speaking of other sports, the Energy Capital Sports Complex in Gilette has batting cages, soccer fields, and a classic kiddo-friendly splash pad for cooling off when you’re done. 

• Whitewater Park
• South Mike Sedar Park and Pool
• Cheyenne Aquatic Center
• Rock Springs Family Recreation Center
• Pinedale Aquatic Center
• Splash Park in the Energy Capital Sports Complex

Truly experience the West this summer with one of these authentic Wyoming summer adventures or go ahead and create your own Wyoming adventure. The memories are sure to last a lifetime. For more Wyoming travel inspiration, order our free Travel Guide . What are you waiting for?

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10 Awesome Places To Visit In Wyoming: Famous Parks + Hidden Gems

by Mark and Kristen Morgan

Published: October 7, 2022

UPDATED: June 14, 2024

Wyoming is a wild and sparsely populated landscape filled with rugged natural beauty and unique geological features. It’s most famous for being home to Yellowstone and Grand Teton national parks, but there’s so much more to see and do when you visit the Equality State. We’ve driven east to west through the state twice and it’s such a peaceful place to explore.

In this guide we show you 10 fantastic places to visit in Wyoming, based on our experiences.

Our Wyoming Experience

Both times we drove through Wyoming, we originated in South Dakota’s Black Hills and ended in Jackson. It’s not an official road trip, but we call it the Mount Rushmore to Yellowstone road trip route, and it’s one of our favorites in the US.

We love how one day driving from Buffalo to Cody we barely see a single car pass by in 4 hours, then the next day we’re in nature’s theme park known as Yellowstone surrounded by thousands of tourists. Next time we’re in Wyoming, we plan to get way off the beaten path on its southern borders with Colorado and Utah. Read more about us .

Buffalo is a small city located at the base of the Bighorn Mountains on the intersection of I-90 and I-25 in northern Wyoming. It’s almost exactly the halfway point between Mount Rushmore and Yellowstone National Park, and it marks the eastern side of Cloud Peak Skyway scenic byway.

But Buffalo WY is more than just a stop gap on your road trip between the Black Hills and Yellowstone. The historic downtown includes the Occidental Hotel which hosted several legendary figures from the Wild West. It’s also a popular base for outdoor enthusiasts with an array of activities on the doorstep.

Here’s what you can do in Buffalo:

• Walk through historic downtown Buffalo
• Stay at the Historic Occidental Hotel
• Explore nearby Bighorn National Forest
• Visit the Jim Gatchell Memorial Museum
• Hike Clear Creek to the base of the Bighorns
• Shop for antiques, jewelry and art on main street
• Explore Crazy Woman Canyon

2. Cloud Peak Skyway

The Cloud Peak Skyway is a picturesque scenic byway connecting Buffalo with Ten Sleep. Also known as US-16, the Skyway is a fun road to drive across the southern portion of the mighty Bighorn Mountains. It’s filled with twists and turns, climbs and dips, stunning views and even hairpin bends like you can see in our drone photo above.

The highest point on the drive is 9,666 feet which means you’ll need to keep a close eye on weather conditions if you travel in shoulder seasons. There are a few different options for driving between the Black Hills and Yellowstone, but the Cloud Peak Skyway is our personal favorite. We especially enjoy the steep and narrow descent through tight canyons right into Ten Sleep.

Here’s what you can do:

• Stop at several Big Horn Peaks overlooks
• Grab lunch or a picnic at Meadowlark Lake
• Pull over to take photos of the awesome views
• Fly your drone to get aerial photos of the twisting roads

Cody is a small town in northwestern Wyoming that’s often used as a tourist base for entering Yellowstone National Park via its east entrance (Buffalo Bill scenic byway). The small town has a rich Wild West history, which you’ll find represented in its showpiece museum, the Buffalo Bill Center of the West.

Cody is our favorite of the three main towns on the immediate outskirts of Yellowstone. We prefer it to Gardiner and West Yellowstone because it feels less like a resort town and more like a place where people live. We’ve stayed in Cody twice and we enjoyed walking through the town, visiting museums and exploring the Old Town Trail with its western frontier buildings.

Here’s what you can do in Cody:

• Visit the Buffalo Bill Center of the West
• Use Cody as a base to explore east Yellowstone
• Walk around Buffalo Bill Dam
• Drink a beer in Buffalo Bill’s Irma Hotel bar
• Explore the Cody Firearms Museum
• Visit Cody’s Old Trail Town

4. Devils Tower National Monument

Devils Tower National Monument is a unique 867 ft tall igneous rock formation located in northeastern Wyoming near its border with South Dakota. In fact, it’s often visited as part of a South Dakota road trip because it’s so close to the Black Hills. The Devils Tower formation is made up of tall hexagonal shaped tubes with deep cracks, and it’s regarded as one of the top rock climbing destinations in the United States.

We’ve traveled the US extensively and we have to say Devils Tower is one of the most striking and peculiar natural formations we’ve seen outside of national parks. We enjoyed walking around the base of the tower and finding fun perspective photo spots of the tower, like the one from Joyner Ridge.

• Walk around the base of the tower on a paved footpath
• Photograph Devils Tower from Joyner Ridge
• Hike around Prairie Dog Town
• See the Wind Circle sculpture
• Outside of June you can climb the tower

READ : How to visit Devils Tower National Monument

5. Flaming Gorge National Recreational Area

Flaming Gorge is a National Recreation Area located on the border between southwest Wyoming and northeast Utah. The Green River, which eventually flows into the Colorado River, carved out a 90 mile long reservoir in the Flaming Gorge and the entire area is flanked by dramatic red canyon walls.

We think Flaming Gorge is the perfect place for the whole family to hike, mountain bike, horseback ride, photograph, jet ski, fish and tour a dam. You can also camp underneath dark skies and relax in a picturesque tourist free landscape. This is one of those photogenic but off the beaten path places that’s only quiet because of its remote location.

• Photograph stunning canyons and still rivers
• Enjoy wonderful sunrises and sunsets
• Backcountry hiking, biking and camping
• Boating, swimming, tubing and waterskiing
• Fish for trout and other species
• Tour the Flaming Gorge Dam

6. Grand Teton National Park

Grand Teton is a spectacularly beautiful US National Park located one hour drive south of Yellowstone in the far northwest of Wyoming. Its visually stunning landscape is centered around the Snake River, pristine lakes and flat plains from which the rugged Teton mountain range suddenly bursts high into the sky.

We love Grand Teton because it has awesome hikes, easy camping, an abundance of wildlife and some of the most stunning photography spots in the US . It’s one of the most popular places to visit in Wyoming and we think it’s perfect for the entire family. This is one stop you simply must make if you’re driving through the Cowboy State!

Here’s what you can do in Grand Teton:

• Photograph the striking Teton mountain range
• Hike to Hidden Falls, Inspiration Point and Cascade Canyon
• Photograph the famous barns on Mormon Row at sunrise and sunset
• Drive up to Signal Mountain summit vista
• Swim, kayak and relax around Jenny Lake
• Spot Moose walking around Schwabacher Landing at sunrise

READ : Perfect 2 days Grand Teton itinerary

Jackson is a popular resort town and upscale residential area in the Jackson Hole Valley region of northwest Wyoming. Most visitors to Grand Teton use Jackson as a base thanks to its quaint downtown area with shops, saloons, restaurants and hotels. Then in winter, Jackson and nearby Teton Village transform into an upmarket ski resort.

When you consider towns on the doorstep to national parks, we’d say Jackson is one of our favorites in the US. The old Wild West town is located just 15 minutes drive from the Grand Teton loop road so it’s super convenient. But the town itself is also a relaxing and fun place for the whole family to enjoy.

Here’s what you can do in Jackson:

• Eat, drink, shop and see the antler arch around Jackson Square
• Visit the National Elk Refuge
• Explore the National Museum of Wildlife Art
• Hike around the Laurance S Rockefeller Preserve
• Watch bull riders at the Jackson Hole Rodeo
• Bathe in Granite Hot Springs Pool
• Ski at Jackson Hole Mountain Resort in winter

8. Medicine Bow-Routt National Forests

Medicine Bow-Routt National Forests encompasses an enormous area of north-central Colorado and south-central Wyoming. The region contains several mountain ranges including Medicine Bow Range and Laramie Mountains. And one of the most popular places to visit is called Snowy Range Pass scenic drive.

We think Medicine Bow Routt is a genuine hidden gem in Wyoming. It’s a scenic byway featuring pristine lakes, mountain hikes, stunning vistas, wildlife spotting, picnic areas and endless photography opportunities. And remember, it’s not far to Rocky Mountain National Park from Medicine Bow Routt.

• Drive scenic and hugely underrated Snowy Range Pass (closed Nov-May)
• Picnic at Mirror Lake and stop at several vistas
• Walk around the Libby Flats Observation Area
• Photograph the lakes and mountains at dawn or dusk
• Hike Medicine Bow Trail or West Lake Marie Trail to Medicine Bow Peak

9. Sinks Canyon State Park

Sinks Canyon State Park is a popular locals’ recreation area located at the southern end of the Wind River Mountain Range in central Wyoming. It’s so named because the Middle Fork of the Popo Agie disappears underground before resurfacing a quarter mile downstream at the Rise.

And we think Sinks Canyon is another bona fide hidden gem place to visit in Wyoming. Vibrant wildflowers bloom alongside a river that vanishes and plunges underground before bubbling back up into another pool nearby. And the older kids can even slide down a waterfall into the pool below, so it’s ideal for families.

Here’s what you can do at Sinks Canyon:

• Photograph wildflowers in bloom and waterfalls cascading over boulders
• Slide down Popo Agie Falls
• Swim in the pool and slide down the waterfall if you dare
• Go caving in Boulder Choke Cave
• Camp at one of several sites along Middle Popo Agie River
• Watch the river disappear underground
• Then see the river “rise” as it resurfaces in a trout pool

10. Yellowstone National Park

Yellowstone National Park is a volcanic landscape featuring hot springs, geysers and bubbling mud pots sitting atop a caldera measuring 30 by 45 miles. The Yellowstone supervolcano has created a truly unique experience for you to see erupting geysers and vibrantly colored hot springs like nowhere else on Earth.

Yellowstone is widely regarded as one of the most extraordinary landscapes on the planet and after several trips to the park ourselves, we find it hard to argue. Millions of people each year journey here to hike, see freely roaming wildlife and photograph remarkable geologic features. For us, Yellowstone up there among the best places to visit in the US .

Here’s what you can do in Yellowstone:

• Spot wildlife in Lamar Valley and Hayden Valley
• Explore several geyser basins and hot springs
• Hike Mt Washburn with the family or Avalanche Peak for a challenge
• Hike to multiple waterfalls
• Watch Old Faithful erupt and see the colorful Grand Prismatic Spring
• Photograph everything!

READ : Unmissable things to do in Yellowstone

Wyoming Map

Click or touch the map above to activate. Zoom in and out, move around the map and find the locations for the top places to visit in Wyoming that we’ve listed in this guide.

You can see that lots of the icons are spread out east to west across the northern portion of Wyoming. You’d pass right by those if you drove the Mt Rushmore to Yellowstone route we mentioned earlier. Take a look though our US road trip guides here for more information.

The Morgan Conclusion

We really enjoy driving through Wyoming’s peaceful and picturesque countryside, but we’re also huge admirers of both Yellowstone and Grand Teton which are much busier. So for us, there’s a wonderful balance. Next time we head out west we’ll be visiting lesser known destinations like Medicine Bow Routt, Sinks Canyon and Flaming Gorge because they look fantastic.

Here’s our top 5 things to do if you’re a family visiting Wyoming with kids:

• Walk around Cody’s Old Trail Town
• Camp under the stars at Flaming Gorge
• Visit the Elk Refuge and watch a rodeo in Jackson
• Slide down the waterfall in Sinks Canyon State Park
• Explore the best of Yellowstone National Park

And here’s our top 5 things to do in Wyoming for couples:

• Hike around and photograph Devils Tower
• Mountain bike around Flaming Gorge
• Explore the best of Grand Teton National Park
• Hike around stunning lakes on Snowy Range Pass
• Hit the top attractions in Yellowstone National Park

More US States

• Best places to visit in Arizona
• Popular places to visit in Utah
• Top places to visit in Vermont

Best Of The US

• Amazing US hikes
• Bucket list US road trips
• Our favorite US national parks
• Stunning US photo spots
• Top places to visit in the US

Want more USA content? Head over to our USA travel guides to explore the best cities, national parks and road trips in America.

We hope this Wyoming guide helps with planning your visit to the American northwest!

Please let us know if you have any questions in the comments below.

Happy Travels ,

Mark and Kristen

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All Rights Reserved © Where Are Those Morgans, LLC. Republishing this article and/or any of its contents (text, photography, maps, graphics, etc.) in whole or in part is strictly prohibited.

Mark and Kristen Morgan are travel, hiking and photography experts. Over the last 6 years traveling full time, they have explored more than 40 countries and 30 US states.

Where Are Those Morgans has been featured in USA Today, Gestalten, Get Your Guide, CityPASS and Condé Nast Traveler along with various other publications. Read more about us .

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Best of the West: a Western Wyoming Vacation You Won't Forget

O ur family has done so many trips through the West over the years, and the Wyoming vacation is always a favorite pick! From vacations to stops while moving across the country to focusing on Yellowstone, there’s nothing quite like the Western Wyoming road trip . With epic views, cowboy activities and more, we’ve enjoyed a wide variety of experiences on each visit. I’ve got to say though, our week exploring the West starting in fossil country and ending in Yellowstone National Park was our most awesome visit yet.

We always aim to make our family trips a mix of fun and learning, and always try to find new things to do for all of us. I think this particular region of Wyoming offers more diverse sights and activities than any other part we’ve been to, and it’s perfect to suit lots of different interests. Here’s what we loved and for sure recommend in Fossil Country, western towns and Yellowstone National Park .

If you have any questions about these towns or this region in Wyoming, please let us know. It’s a very different sort of trip than most people plan when they visit, so if you would like to share your own ideas or inquiries, please leave a comment or send us a note !

Favorite Fossil Country Things to Do

We visit so many museums in our travels and get to see lots of fascinating fossils, from dinosaurs to extinct giant sloths, but we rarely get to see where these pieces of history come from. Wow. Fossil country, aka the southwestern slice of Wyoming, is full of fossil sites where you can both see incredible specimens everywhere AND you can actually find them yourself. The town of Kemmerer is at the heart of fossil country and you’ll love it! This is the first place we HIGHLY recommend when you’re planning a Wyoming vacation.

Quarrying for Our Own Fossils on a Wyoming Vacation

Visiting the American Fossil Qu a rry was one of the coolest things our kids have ever done. They were naturals at carefully splitting limestone and finding some really beautifully preserved fossils (and us adults did alright too!). We learned about how this enormous fossil deposit formed and how to identify and preserve fossils. A week of adventures in Wyoming and quarrying for fossils was the highlight the kids continue talking about.

Book a fossil dig here!

Exploring Fossil Butte National Monument

We also really enjoyed our visit to Fossil Butte National Monument . Within the same gigantic fossil bed, this preserved area is absolutely striking! The views of the colorful landscape and the wildlife are incredible on their own, but add to that a really cool visitor center loaded with so many types of fossils, large and small, and engaging exhibits for all ages, and a half day here is a win for any itinerary for Western Wyoming.

There are actually quite a few Wyoming National Park sites , so if you have more time, you could add several other interesting stops on your Wyoming vacation.

Touring the Wyoming Dinosaur Center and Dig Site

Dinosaurs will never lose their wonder for me (or our kids), so we try to see their bones and learn about them whenever we can. The Wyoming Dinosaur Center in Thermopolis is a whole other level of fossils and discovery. Yes, there is a fantastic museum with specimens and exhibits, but there are also active dinosaur dig sites! Whether you just want to see what an active dino-dig is like or if you actually want to participate and learn more about paleontology, this is a must. Think about how much time you have, how important it is to those you’re traveling with (this may be something that is BUCKET LIST for some people) and if you can work a whole dinosaur themed day into your itinerary.

Fossil Country really is one of the best, most overlooked Wyoming vacation spots. It’s a great place to start travel planning for a completely different sort of trip. We’re planning another trip back for camping, dinosaurs, and a bunch of other great fossil country activities we’ve only just learned about (including awesome hikes!)

Great Ways to Enjoy a WESTERN Wyoming Vacation

Can you even say the word “Wyoming” out loud without thinking “The American West!”? I certainly can’t so a trip through Western Wyoming for us means doing all the western activities we can. From fun with horses to appreciating some of the most eye-catching western art, you’ll get your fill of The West here, with Cody, WY being the heart of it all. This is the Wyoming vacation plan you know you have been curious about but we’re sure how to research.

One of the most important elements of Wyoming’s history and equally important in having a balanced perspective during your visit, is taking time to appreciate and learn about the indigenous nations that did and do call Wyoming home. The state is the ancestral lands of the Shoshone, Arapaho, Lakota, Blackfeet, Cheyenne, Crow, Nez Perce (Nimiipuu), Sheep Eater, and other American Indian nations. Whether you observe a powwow or you take time engaging with educational exhibits, indigenous culture is one of the most vital aspects of the West.

The Cody Nite Rodeo

Rodeo culture is a totally unique experience, especially if you’re from the city or just didn’t grow up in a rural area. The Cody Nite Rodeo is THE place to experience it, from men’s bronco competition to kid events, it’s perfectly western. Even though rodeo events were all completely new to us, we got into it pretty quickly and learned what each event goal and process was. By the end of the night we had a great time and now are looking forward to our next rodeo experience!

Attend a Powwow or Land Acknowledgement

I can’t stress enough how important it is to take time to learn about the people who’ve always called Wyoming home. The history of the West is not good at times, with millions of people being both displaced and destroyed, and today, while we can’t change the past, we can all learn from it. The indigenous people of Wyoming, including the Shoshone and Lakota (our family) have a strong presence in the state and up into the Dakotas. While you’re exploring Western Wyoming, watch for events you can attend or participate in so you and your family can see up close the vibrant, incredible culture that lives today.

We attended the Eastern Shoshone Indian Days Powwow in Fort Washakie and it was awesome. We were completely welcome as visitors, both to observe and participate in open, friendly dances. The community vibe was amazing and seeing such a celebration of living culture was very meaningful for our family.

Another event to watch for as you travel through Wyoming, and the rest of the West, is a land acknowledgement. Sometimes this comes in the form of a simple statement at the beginning of a public event and sometimes the stage is given to local tribal members to offer a statement, prayer, dance or performance. Whichever it is, take a moment to listen and explain to anyone you’re with why this is important, and if you aren’t sure yourself, ask!

Buffalo Bill Center of the West

There are museums and then there are MUSEUMS. The Buffalo Bill Center of the West is five museums all in one central location and is the premier place to see all things Western. The Whitney Museum of Western Art and the Museums of the Plains Indian were our two favorite areas. The art, the stories, and amazing exhibits showing the West in a different light than we’re used to, these two museums really impressed us.

The Draper Natural History Museum and then, of course, the Buffalo Bill Museum are also great. Really, spending a few hours or a few days (it does take two days to do the whole museum complex) is one of the best ways to dig into the “western” side of a Wyoming vacation. When we talk with our kids about the West and what that means to most people, we are sure to explain that “cowboys” are the main story most people hear, but that the indigenous nations, including our great grand parents, are a very important part of that story. The Buffalo Bill Center of the West does a good job combining the histories.

Horseback Riding through Western Landscapes

Seeing Wyoming on horseback is a beautiful way to get a different perspective. Our family enjoys riding horses wherever we go, so getting to go up into the mountains and canyons of Cody was a blast. Craggy cliffs and flowing streams make for a different sort of horseback adventure than we’re used to.

If you don’t ride often but want to be sure it’s a part of your Western Wyoming experience, there are lots in Jackson, Lander, Dubois and beyond, so set aside a few hours during your adventure and experience the western landscapes for yourself!

Note: in Wyoming, kids under 18 are required to wear helmets when horseback riding. If a helmet isn’t offered for your children, wherever your Wyoming vacation takes you, ask for one before going out on the trail.

Old West Photo Souvenirs

One of our favorite souvenirs from Wyoming (and we have them from other places too) is our family Old West photo. If you haven’t done one before you have got to do a western photo shoot when you’re in Cody. You can find them in other towns too, but our experience at Way Back When Photography in Cody, WY was great. The kids got to pick out the type of Old West character they were, then us adults got dressed up too. Once in character you get to do a photoshoot with props and different sets, resulting in one of the best, most memorable Wyoming souvenirs you can find.

Things to consider when you’re doing an old west photo shoot, whether on your Wyoming vacation or in Carson City, NV or even Leavenworth, WA is what sort of props you’re okay with. Thinking about the context of the photo you’re creating, there are all kinds of things that aren’t okay in real life, like jugs of ale, beer mugs and a variety of weapons (real and replicas). We talk openly about the use of props and that they aren’t things kids would access in real life, and we talk DIRECTLY about guns and not pointing them, even fake ones, at people. When you’re doing a photo shoot like this, it’s important to put the times in context and draw a clear line between a photo prop and real life.

The Best of Yellowstone with Kids

Yellowstone National Park is so well known. It’s been our family’s favorite National Park destination since our kids were tiny, so even though we had a full and fun trip through Western Wyoming already, we just had to have a little time in the park. There are few places that compare to Yellowstone when it comes to wildlife, natural wonders and epic views. It’s the gem of Wyoming.

Easy Wildlife Viewing in Yellowstone

The thing about wildlife is just that: it’s wild. We saw so many beautiful places and learned so much during the rest of our Wyoming road trip that we could’ve gone home happy, but we love getting to just watch wildlife and Yellowstone is the perfect place for it. On this specific visit, we saw a bull moose, three grizzly bears, a black bear, countless bison and elk, deer, North American pelicans and so many more birds… all in one day!

The best route to drive in Yellowstone for the easiest wildlife viewing , especially if you have limited time, is the stretch from Cody, WY to Canyon Village. This drive takes you through the mountainous cliffs (watch for bighorn sheep), along Yellowstone Lake (look for moose, pelicans and more), through the Hayden Valley (bison, bears and trumpeter swans), and ends at Canyon Village (our favorite Yellowstone visitor center).

Best Kid-Geyser Experience

When we visit Yellowstone National Par k, we like to visit some of the lesser known spots, and that includes some of the overlooked geothermal areas. Old Faithful and Norris Geyser Basins are famous for good reasons, but they take a long time to explore and there are more people there than our top picks for visiting with kids or on a short timeframe. Our first pick is the Mud Volcano area. This is extra fun because it’s stinky gurgling mud. It’s full of cool sounds, crazy steam and is one of the most active geothermal sights you’ll see. It takes about a half hour to an hour to visit and is worth the stop.

Our next pick is a small geothermal area called the Biscuit Basin . It’s easy to drive past since it’s close to Old Faithful, but we love to stop here. This is a great place to see the variety of colors that Yellowstone’s hot springs are known for. It’s a small area, but beautiful. If you want to turn this stop into a hike, there are paths from here so bring your hiking pack and hit the trails.

The third geothermal stop that’s easy to add to a quick Yellowstone visit or is just great with kids is Firehole Lake Drive. This is a beautiful, quiet loop road with lots of small geysers, some gorgeous still waters, wildlife and a totally different Yellowstone experience than you might expect.

Favorite Family Photo Spots in Yellowstone

Of course our favorite viewpoint in Yellowstone for a family photo is at Artist Point on the Grand Canyon of the Yellowstone . How can it not be? With every visit we get a new family photo here and it’s just wild to see our kids growing up with new Wyoming vacation memories at each visit. While the main Artist Point lookout is the where most people go and snap a photo, the best spot is actually on the stair down to the viewing area. You’ll love it!

Another beautiful spot for a family photo is at the Calcite Springs Overlook. Here you’ll see a totally unique perspective across the canyon and surrounding mountains, including geothermal areas below. It’s awesome!

One more perfect spot for a family photo is on the lakeside boardwalk at the West Thumb Geyser Basin. Catch it on a sunny day for sparking water, turquoise and glowing dormant geysers in the lake, and just downright beautiful surroundings. The bonus is getting to see even more colorful springs in a lakeside setting.

For more Yellowstone travel plans check out our complete guide and podcast episodes all about our favorite National Park!

I hope you can tell how much we enjoyed our journey through the west on this Wyoming vacation. It’s been a family favorite for camping, hiking and science trips for a long time, but this most recent adventure really showed off how diverse the experiences are and how PERFECT Wyoming is for a family trip.

If you have any questions about planning a Wyoming vacation, things to do around the state, stuff outside of Yellowstone or need tips for anything else in the Rocky Mountain region , please leave a comment or send us a note . We love this part of the USA and are always happy to share more vacation planning tips, in Wyoming or beyond!

• 6 Friendliest Towns to Visit in the Rockies in 2024

The Rocky Mountains are home to some of the friendliest towns in North America , each offering a unique blend of outdoor adventure, rich history, and vibrant local culture. From the old-meets-new charm of Kimberley, British Columbia , to the geothermal wonders of Glenwood Springs , Colorado, these towns provide a warm welcome and an array of attractions. Whether it's the stunning national parks surrounding Banff, Alberta , the cultural richness of Taos , New Mexico, or the lively year-round resorts in Park City, Utah , and Jackson, Wyoming, these small towns are perfect for exploring the scenic beauty and inviting spirit of the Rockies.

Kimberley, British Columbia

Named after the famous South African Kimberley diamond mine, Kimberley has a rich mining history. The discovery of lead and silver in the area led to the creation of the Sullivan Mine, once the world’s largest and most productive lead-zinc mine, until it closed in 2001. Today, visitors can explore the Kimberley Underground Mining Railway from the Downtown Station and learn about the history of the Sullivan Mine as they travel through the Mill Creek Valley, past the Train Shop and Powerhouse, before heading underground into the mine. The nearby Cominco Gardens is a 5-hectare property that boasts over 45,000 flowers annually and has an interesting connection to the Sullivan Mine. For more history of the area and occasional tales of epic adventures and rogue exploits, visit the Kimberley Heritage Museum.

During the '70s and '80s, the town was known as the “Bavarian City of the Rockies,” joining the ranks of similar Bavarian-themed towns like Leavenworth , Washington, Helen , Georgia, and Frankenmuth , Michigan, but has moved slightly away from the theme in recent years in a bid to attract new residents and embrace the old and new. The friendly town still has Bavarian-styled buildings, cafés, and unique shops in the town’s pedestrian-only shopping area, the Platzl, where the 22-foot-tall Happy Hans Cuckoo Clock still sits and yodels. The town is now a place where the old world meets the new, with shops like Kamu Sauna for an authentic Finnish sauna experience and the Bavarian Home Hardware, next to the Healing Hollow Essential Oil Co. and Moody Bee lip balms.

Banff, Alberta

Over 4 million tourists visit Banff annually, making it one of Canada ’s most popular national parks. The small town of just over 10,000 full-time residents is within Banff National Park , home to numerous top tourist attractions showcasing its stunning natural beauty and rich cultural heritage. For a spectacular view of six mountain ranges, the Bow Valley, and the town, book a ride on the Banff Gondola to the summit of Sulphur Mountain. At the top, enjoy interactive exhibits with the kids, a multi-sensory theater, dinner at the Northern Lights Alpine Kitchen, or drinks on the Peak Patio.

Banff is a hiker’s paradise, and there are so many trails to choose from, including low-elevation strolls along boardwalks to the heart-pumping 4-hour round-trip hike to the summit of Sulphur Mountain and the Sulphur Mountain Cosmic Ray Station National Historic Site and the 1903 Weather Observatory. After the hike, soak in the mineral waters of the Banff Upper Hot Springs before heading to downtown Banff for a little retail therapy at shops like the Rocky Mountain Soap Company and the Fudgery, or pick up a few Canadian souvenirs at Duck, Duck Moose or the Bare Moose. Be sure to visit the lobby of the famous “Castle in the Rockies,” the Banff Springs Hotel.

Park City, Utah

Park City is home to one of the largest ski areas in the United States . In the winter, there is excellent skiing and snowboarding; in the summer, there is hiking and mountain biking for all experience levels. Spread over six mountains, Deer Valley Resort has over 60 miles of mountain bike trails, easily accessible by three chairlifts. Moreover, they make it easy for beginners or advanced riders by offering experienced bike coaches to point out the fundamentals, pick out the right bike to rent, and choose the suitable trails. From June 18 to August 20, 2024, they even offer a Twilight Ride Series so visitors can explore the trails as the sun sets. Still, there’s always something happening on the mountain: from weekly Mountaintop Brews and Tunes to cooking and mixology classes to the 20th annual Deer Valley Music Festival from July 5 through August 9, 2024.

Discover historic downtown Park City at the Park City Museum on Main Street, and stop by the Meyer Gallery or the Old Towne Gallery to admire works by Picasso, Chagall, Warhol, and more. Support the local economy by purchasing souvenirs to take home from unique shops like Hemped Park City, Flight Boutique for cutting-edge fashion exclusive to Utah, or eco-friendly Cotopaxi for outdoor clothing and cool gear. End a jam-packed day in Park City by indulging in live music and a signature cocktail made for local spirits at the Spur Bar & Grill, or enjoy upscale dining in its sister location next door, 350 Main.

Taos, New Mexico

Although slightly outside the typical Rockies region, Taos offers a friendly atmosphere, rich cultural heritage, and stunning mountain scenery. The Taos Ski Valley is a premier ski resort that offers world-class skiing and snowboarding in winter and hiking, biking, rafting, and horseback riding in the summer. It also hosts events, like a weekly Farmer’s Market, yoga classes, and the Taos Ski Valley Arts Festival from July 20 to July 21, 2024.

The Taos Plaza is the center of downtown Taos, surrounded by shops, restaurants, and world-renowned art galleries, including the Harwood Museum of Arts, showcasing a diverse collection of Southwestern art and works by Georgia O'Keeffe; the Taos Art Museum at Fechin House—former home of Russian-American painter Nicolai Fechin; and the Kit Carson Home and Museum built in 1825 and once the former home of legendary frontiersman Kit Carson. Finally, Taos Pueblo , a UNESCO World Heritage site, showcases adobe dwellings that have been occupied for over 1,000 years.

Glenwood Springs, Colorado

Once famous for gambling dens, saloons, and brothels, Glenwood Springs is now a picturesque railroad town in the heart of Colorado ’s majestic Rocky Mountains. It has a thriving tourist industry and is renowned for its geothermal baths, world-class breweries, and Old West charm. Don’t miss the historic Hotel Colorado, an iconic landmark built in 1893 that was once a favorite retreat of President Theodore Roosevelt , which overlooks the geothermal hot springs at the Glenwood Hot Springs Resort. The resort has more than seven pools, including the original historic pool, the “world’s largest hot springs pool.” Other nearby hot springs include the Iron Mountain Hot Springs and the Yampah Spa and Vapor Caves. One of the town’s most unusual attractions, hot mineral waters flow through the Vapor Caves at 125 degrees Fahrenheit, creating natural geothermal steam.

After a few hours of relaxation, visit the taproom at Casey Brewery in downtown Glenwood Springs for an award-winning sour ale brewed with locally grown berries and stone fruit. For thrill-seekers, the Glenwood Caverns Adventure Park—a mountaintop theme park—is celebrating its 25th anniversary in 2024, so why not try out their new Defiance Roller Coaster, featuring a record-breaking 102.3-degree freefall in just 56 seconds? For a challenging 1.2-mile hike with a steep 1,000 feet of elevation gain, check out the trail to the stunning turquoise-colored Hanging Lake and waterfalls.

Jackson, Wyoming

Jackson is famous for its hospitality and stunning mountain views. It is also a gateway to Grand Teton National Park , which boasts 310,000 acres of alpine lakes, mountain meadows, and the majestic peaks of the Grand Teton Mountain Range—the highest of which is the Grand Teton at 13,775 feet (4,199 meters) in elevation. The perfect location for outdoor lovers and adventurers, visitors to the park can explore hiking, boating, wildlife tours, and rock climbing, but there’s no better way to spend a few hours than booking a float trip down the scenic Snake River . Several outfitters offer scenic raft trips and guided fishing trips down the river, like the 10-mile, 3-hour round trip from Deadman’s Bar to Moose from Triangle X and National Park Float Trips. They also offer evening dinner float trips.

Jackson’s Town Square is renowned for its iconic elk antler arches and is surrounded by one-of-a-kind shops, galleries, and restaurants. Wyoming ’s 1937 landmark watering hole, The Million Dollar Cowboy Bar, is on the square and is internationally known for its live entertainment and western dancing. A music lover’s town, Jackson also hosts the renowned Grand Teton Music Festival for eight weeks every summer, and this year’s 63rd season runs from June 17 - August 17. 2024.

The Takeaway

Visitors to these friendly Rocky Mountain towns can expect unparalleled outdoor adventures amidst breathtaking landscapes, from mountain biking and hiking in Park City and Taos to exploring national parks in Banff and Jackson. Relaxation comes naturally with soothing hot springs in Glenwood Springs and Banff. Each town offers unique attractions, ensuring every visitor finds something memorable, whether exploring historic sites, indulging in local cuisine, or simply enjoying the warm hospitality that defines these mountain communities.

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America’s Best Cities of 2024

The numbers are in: new data reveals how u.s. cities stack up in resonance’s annual list of the best in the country..

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New York City took first place again in 2024.

Photo by Ryan DeBerardinis/Shutterstock

Many factors that make the biggest cities in the United States great places to visit—good weather, world-class museums, and quality restaurants—also make them great cities to live in. Resonance , a consultancy group in real estate, tourism, and economic development, considered these factors as well as user-generated data from social media to create a comprehensive ranking of the best cities in the United States for travelers and residents.

This year, for the ninth annual list, the organization has also partnered with Ipsos for “perception-based data,” according to Resonance Consultancy President and CEO Chris Fair. That means “exploring what a city offers versus how it is perceived by the broader population, says Ipsos Executive Vice President, Head of U.S. Corporate Reputation Jason McGrath. “By merging the top-of-mind destinations where people tell us they want to live, work, and visit with the rigorous evaluation of place that Resonance has been conducting for nearly a decade, we have created a more comprehensive evaluation of cities and can better advise destinations on how to strengthen their reputation,” he adds.

How the cities are ranked

To determine which cities would be considered for this list, Resonance looked at U.S. cities with populations of more than 500,000. Each city was ranked based on a combination of core statistics and user-generated data from the likes of Tripadvisor and Instagram. Everything comes together for its proprietary Place Power Score.

In previous years, cities were ranked in six categories (People, Place, Product, Programming, Promotion, and Prosperity) but in 2024 they’re ordered by three larger pillars: Livability, Lovability, and Prosperity. In addition to Resonance’s data, Ipsos surveyed 2,000 adults on these topics, asking three key questions:

Livability: What are the top three towns or cities you would most like to live in?

Lovability: What are the top three towns or cities you would most like to visit?

Prosperity: Which three towns or cities do you think offer the best job opportunities?

These are the best cities in the United States to live in and visit in 2024, according to Resonance and Ipsos.

New York’s endlessly fascinating neighborhoods, including Queens, are constantly transforming themselves.

Photo by Dolly Faibyshev

1. New York City

Highlighted rankings: Livability (1), Prosperity (1)

Why we love it: New York City has (once again) taken the top spot in Resonance’s annual rankings. Make no mistake: Being at the top for the past few years is no easy feat. But the Big Apple has proved its staying power with renovated airports, world-class hotels , and museums enticing people to see the city. Nowadays, there’s a lot to explore in NYC’s neighborhoods . Museums like the beloved Met and the Louis Armstrong House Museum in Queens have undergone renovations and expansions in recent years alongside the introduction of new destinations like the Bronx Children’s Museum, the Museum of Broadway, and the Stonewall National Monument Visitor Center . Meanwhile, Central Park, the High Line, the Little Island —located on the Hudson near the Meatpacking District—and other outdoor spaces entice you to come outside to relax. Midtown Manhattan has also made a comeback with a revamped Tiffany’s, new hotels, and the opening of the Museum of Broadway. Getting here is even easier, too. As Resonance notes, Newark Liberty International Airport, LaGuardia Airport, and John F. Kennedy International Airport all have new terminals.

Plan your next trip with Afar’s Guide to New York.

Millennium Park is just one of Chicago’s many scenic outdoor spaces.

Photo by Thomas Barrat/Shutterstock

2. Chicago, Illinois

Highlighted rankings: Livability (2), Prosperity (3)

Why we love it: There’s plenty to celebrate in Chicago. The Resonance report notes its summer of world-class festivals, including Lollapalooza and the free Millennium Park Summer Music Series, as well as the 160 breweries. We love the city’s dining scene, with noteworthy restaurants including Venteux, a French brasserie from Michelin-starred chef Donald Young, and Bazaar Meat and Bar Mar under chef José Andrés. Live music has also fully bounced back post-pandemic. Check out the Salt Shed, based in a former factory warehouse, to get your fix.

We wouldn’t expect any less from a city that’s historically been able to thrive in the midst of adversity. More than 150 years ago, the Great Fire destroyed over 2,000 acres of central Chicago and left nearly 100,000 people without homes. But the city hasn’t let disaster define it; instead, it’s met obstacles with a resilience you need to see for yourself .

“Chicago sees itself, since the fire, as a city able to withstand whatever,” Shermann Dilla Thomas, a historian and lifelong resident who offers guided Chicago tours, told Afar . “It also makes us a city that doesn’t believe in small plans. After you get a blank canvas, the sky’s the limit.”

Plan your next trip with Afar’s Guide to Chicago.

The Hollywood sign turned 100 in 2023, but the city’s rank is as much about L.A.'s new openings and future events as its storied history.

Photo by Maks Urshov/Shutterstock

3. Los Angeles, California

Highlighted rankings: Prosperity (2), Lovability (3)

Why we love it: While Hollywood’s prowess is the most commonly associated aspect of Los Angeles, the city’s restaurant scene in all its richness and diversity is just as intertwined with L.A.'s identity. Vanguards like La Cha Cha Chá, Alma, and even LA Plaza Cocina (a museum and teaching kitchen that honors Mexico’s culinary heritage) offer outstanding dining experiences. Museums rank no. 2 only behind NYC, with the Broad, the Grand, and the Academy Museum of Motion Pictures all well worth a visit.

Big events are heading this way, too. The city will host some 2026 FIFA World Cup games, the NBA All-Star Game that same year, and the Olympic Games in Summer 2028.

Plan your next trip with Afar’s Guide to Los Angeles.

The beachside location of Miami is hard to resist.

Photo by pisaphotography/Shutterstock

4. Miami, Florida

Highlighted rankings: Livability (3), Prosperity (11)

Why we love it: Miami has historically been a meeting point for the Americas, making it a no-brainer that it ranked high on the list. But in this city, diversity goes beyond nationality; the city’s allure for the LGBTQ community and ex–Silicon Valley techies gives it a sense of welcome that many people are embracing.

In 2023 Miami moved into the top 10 for the first time, and this year it jumps from sixth to fourth. While it could rest on its open-minded reputation and beachside location to draw people, the city is also putting in the work to stay relevant. A new Waldorf Astoria Hotel is set to open in 2027, the most prominent construction amid a raft of new development.

Plan your next trip with Afar’s Guide to Miami .

The Sphere is just the latest eye-opening attraction in a city known for them.

Photo by ByDroneVideos / Shutterstock

5. Las Vegas

Highlighted rankings: Livability (7), Prosperity (16)

Why we love it: Vegas—a new entry in the top 10—was ranked the second-most lovable city in America, so perhaps it’s not surprising it was visited by almost 41 million people in 2023. What happens here might stay here, but its reputation precedes it.

Those visitors have even more options for accommodation and entertainment than ever before, including the $4.3 billion Resorts World Las Vegas (comprising three hotels) and the hotly anticipated Fontainebleau, which is “the largest residential/hotel structure on the strip,” according to Resonance, and boasts a casual 36 restaurants. Oh yeah, and then there’s The Sphere . And, from 2028, there will be a high-speed train to Vegas from Rancho Cucamonga in the Los Angeles area.

Plan your next trip with Afar’s Guide to Las Vegas .

Afar’s original hometown, San Francisco is one of our favorite cities for obvious reasons.

Photo by Sand Crain/Unsplash

6. San Francisco, California

Highlighted rankings: Livability (4), Prosperity (6)

Why we love it: San Francisco has long drawn people and companies alike—Afar included—to the West Coast. Thanks to the Bay Area’s world-renowned universities like Stanford and UC Berkeley, San Francisco has one of the most educated and prosperous populations. While the city’s lack of affordable housing cannot be ignored, the migration of big companies to lower-taxed havens like Texas and Florida has produced a silver lining in lower house prices and rents .

As Resonance points out, “The city is rolling out the most daring bike and pedestrian infrastructure in America and unlocking the public space potential of places like the Presidio (featuring the new Presidio Tunnel Tops , a 14-acre park built over the Presidio Parkway highway tunnels).”

Plan your next trip with Afar’s Guide to San Francisco.

Historical landmarks draw millions of tourists to Boston each year.

Photo by f11photo/Shutterstock

7. Boston, Massachusetts

Highlighted rankings: Prosperity (7), Lovability (9)

Why we love it: Boston is home to more than 75 institutions of higher learning—including Harvard and MIT—giving it the top spot in the University category and a high ranking in the Educational attainment category. But it’s not only students who come to Boston. As the oldest large city in America, it draws millions of tourists each year to see historical landmarks along the Freedom Trail , including the USS Constitution and the King’s Chapel .

The old city is getting some upgrades, including a 5,000-room increase in the next six years across planned hotels like the 1,055-room Omni Boston Hotel and the Raffles Boston. Things are also cooking in the entertainment realm, with Live Nation’s construction of MGM Music Hall at Fenway. This 5,000-seat concert hall, which opened in August 2022, extends the legendary ballpark to accommodate four new levels of event space.

Plan your next trip with Afar’s Guide to Boston .

In addition to its famous monuments, Washington, D.C.’s neighborhoods have become another major tourism draw for the capital.

Photo by Orhan Cam/Shutterstock

8. Washington, D.C.

Highlighted rankings: Prosperity (9), Lovability (10)

Why we love it: Unsurprisingly, the nation’s capital scores well for its many free museums, including the National Museum of African American History and Culture and other Smithsonian institutions like the National Air and Space Museum. In addition to all of its exhibitions are many neighborhoods worth exploring —Brookland, NoMa, Shaw, and the LGBTQ-friendly Logan Circle, to name a few—that show the city isn’t relying on its history to attract locals and visitors.

What makes D.C. a city worth visiting now is new developments—$9.6 billion of them, says Elliott Ferguson, president and CEO of Destination DC. “The city has added new hotels, museums, rooftops, Michelin-rated dining, and more for travelers to explore.”

Plan your next trip with Afar’s Guide to Washington, D.C.

The rooftop bar at the Thompson Seattle delivers some of the best views of Elliott Bay.

Thompson Seattle

9. Seattle, Washington

Highlighted rankings: Livability (5), Prosperity (13)

Why we love it: Off in the far-most corner of the Pacific Northwest, the pine-scented idyll of Seattle is one of the country’s best-kept secrets, with a high quality of life that comes from continued investment from big tech and (literally) greener pastures.

That commitment to sustainability makes it a big draw for tastemakers and creatives in various fields, many of whom spoke to Afar for our Great American Cities feature on Seattle .

Wondering what you’ll get when you arrive? Top-notch boating and hiking, food and drinks, theater and music, and—from next year—a fully opened walkable, bikable waterfront.

Plan your next trip with Afar’s Guide to Seattle .

Houston Heights—referred to by locals as the Heights—is one of the city’s earliest planned communities and a neighborhood favored by artists.

Photo courtesy of Greater Houston Convention and Visitors Bureau

10. Houston, Texas

Highlighted rankings: Prosperity (5), Lovability (14)

Why we love it: “Austin may get the attention, but the promise of the Lone Star State drawing Californians and New Yorkers is quietly being fulfilled in Houston,” says Resonance. “In the past year, the metro population swelled above 7 million for the first time ever, and the city today is one of America’s most ethnically diverse, with more than 145 languages spoken at home.”

It’s easy to see why it’s so popular. For starters, the food is some of the best in the Lone Star state . Then there are the festivals, including film fests and Juneteenth bashes, and starting next year, the city will be home to the first Ismaili Center in the United States, a space “designed to embody a spirit of openness and dialogue.”

Plan your next trip with Afar’s Guide to Houston .

To see the full list of the 100 best cities in the United States, visit Worldsbestcities.com.

This article was originally published in 2020 and was updated in June 2024 to reflect new rankings.