Why Wyoming? This rugged Western State is arguably one of the most underrated in the US. Brimming with breathtaking national parks, dramatic mountain ranges, and abundant wildlife, Wyoming is a place of incredible natural beauty and fascinating history.
Whether you’re looking for the best snowboarding resorts in the USA, or a place to live out your Wild West dreams, Wyoming has it all.
In this article, we have put together a guide to some of the best places to visit in Wyoming. So what are you waiting for? Start packing!
Top Wyoming Tourist Attractions to See
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The Cowboy State, as it’s commonly known, is where you will get a taste of the Wild West.
A land rich in sweeping landscapes, natural wonders, and native history, you’ll find no shortage of things to do and places to see in Wyoming. These are some of the top tourist attractions that simply can’t be missed.
Yellowstone National Park
This wonder of nature is one of the more well-known Wyoming sights and, having been established in 1872, is the oldest national park in the world. Regardless of what time of year you visit, you will encounter awe-inspiring landscapes, teeming with a diverse menagerie of wildlife. This includes herds of bison and elk, moose, grizzly bears, grey wolves, and magnificent bald eagles.
Due to its location atop a volcanic hotspot, the park flaunts a host of hydrothermal phenomena — explosive geysers, steaming hot springs, and gooey mud pots. The most famous of these include the Old Faithful geyser, which was named for its frequent, reasonably predictable eruptions. There is also the lesser-known but most photographed thermal feature of Yellowstone, the Grand Prismatic Spring. This pool displays a myriad of ever-changing rainbow hues, with orange, yellow, and green bands surrounding the deep turquoise-blue waters in its centre — it is an absolute sight to behold!
You can drive through the park, but the best way to experience all that the park has to offer is by hiking one of the many scenic trails. You can also spend a night or two in one of the park’s numerous campsites.
Cody
If you are interested in immersing yourself in the history of the Old Wild West, then Cody is one of the best cities to visit in Wyoming. Named after William Cody (better known as Buffalo Bill), this frontier town is where you will find the famous Buffalo Bill Historical Center, a complex comprising of five individually-themed museums highlighting the history of the West.
These museums house a massive collection of historical exhibits and artefacts, making them an exciting place for history buffs to visit and learn more about life in the Old West. Visit the Old Trail Town to get a rare glimpse at an old Western frontier town and retrace the footsteps of Buffalo Bill himself.
From Cody, take a scenic drive along the Beartooth Pass, at dizzying elevations of around 10,947 ft (approximately 3,337 m) above sea level. This mountain highway offers stunning views, incredible photo opportunities, and easy access to Yellowstone National Park’s northeast entrance. Whether you choose to take a motorcycle ride or travel by car, this is a fantastic route to take to see more of Wyoming’s natural beauty.
Cheyenne Frontier Days Rodeo
Cheyenne, named after the native tribe that once inhabited the area, is the capital of Wyoming, and home to the Cheyenne Frontier Days Rodeo. This 10-day rodeo festival (which takes place in late July) has been held annually for almost a century and draws thousands of visitors every year.
With thrilling rodeo shows, festive carnivals, and concerts headlining some of the USA’s most popular country stars, the Cheyenne Frontier Days Rodeo should definitely be high on your list of Wyoming things to do.
The Hole-in-the-Wall, Willow Creek Ranch
If you’re a fan of the old classic Western movie “Butch Cassidy and the Sundance Kid”, then this is one of the attractions in Wyoming that you won’t want to miss. Set in the magnificent red cliffs of the Big Horn Mountains, this hideout was host to some of the most infamous outlaws of the Old West, including Jesse James, Butch Cassidy and the Sundance Kid.
The “hole” is located on the beautiful Willow Creek Ranch, a working cattle and horse ranch where guests can have an authentic cowboy experience. Daily activities include riding fence, branding and moving the herd, as well as trout fishing, target practice, and exploring the vast stretches of land on horseback.
Things to Do in Wyoming
If tourist attractions and sightseeing aren’t really your cup of tea, or you’re looking to do something a little more active while still getting to appreciate your surroundings, then look no further. We’ve put together a selection of unique activities to inspire your sense of adventure.
Soak in the Hot Springs in Thermopolis
One of the popular Wyoming vacation spots, Thermopolis is where you will find the world’s largest mineral hot spring! Known as the state’s “Hot Spring City,” visitors can enjoy soaking in the soothing springs where the water remains a toasty 104°F (40°C). Travelling with kids? No problem — there are plenty of adjacent water parks offering indoor and outdoor pools, waterslides, and hot tubs.
Hike the Devils Tower National Monument
This imposing geologic landmark is a sacred monument to the Lakota tribe and was the first national monument to be named by American President Franklin D. Roosevelt. Standing at 827 ft (approximately 250 m) tall, the Tower offers several hiking trails, the most popular of which is the Tower Trail Loop. If you are looking to avoid the crowds, opt for the Red Beds Loop, which showcases 360-degree views of the surrounding plains.
Skiing in Jackson Hole
If you happen to be visiting in winter, then Jackson Hole is one of the best places to go in Wyoming. Nestled at the foot of the magnificent Teton Mountains, this area oozes old-school Wild West charm and offers numerous world-class ski resorts. Choose from one of the best snowboarding resorts in the USA, including Jackson Hole Mountain Resort, Grand Targhee Resort, and various others. Get ready to hit the slopes!
Ready to Visit Some Wyoming Attractions?
And that rounds up our list of the best Wyoming places to visit! Rich in native history, cowboy culture, and exquisite natural wonders, Wyoming is worth a visit during any season, and will make the perfect destination for your next holiday.
