Things To Do In Wyoming

Wyoming is a gorgeous state residing in the mountain west region of the United States. Sometimes referred to as Big Wyoming, the Equality State, or the Cowboy State, there are tons of things to do in Wyoming, especially if you are a fan of history, the wild west, and incredible natural wonders.

If you do not live in this state, you may not know much about Wyoming outside of well-known attractions like Yellowstone National Park and Grand Teton National Park. While those two parks are enough to thrill any visitor, there is so much more that this state has to offer.

In addition to national parks with spectacular scenery that will change the way you view the world, there are wildlife refuges, old west towns, amazing ski resorts for snow sports fans, historical museums dedicated to the story of the frontier, sweeping landscapes, and plenty of adventures for young families to enjoy. A visit in Wyoming can be worth your while, especially with this article as a guide to some of the top tourist attractions in the state. So whether you are a lifelong resident who wants to explore your home state more or a world traveler who has never even heard of this state, let’s take a look at some of the many things to do in Wyoming.

Unforgettable Landscapes

Perhaps the biggest attraction in Wyoming is the landscape itself. This region of the mountain west boasts incredible views of unique geographies that have formed over thousands and thousands of years.

Yellowstone National Park

You knew it was coming. Yellowstone National Park is the oldest national park in the United States. Each year, it sees millions of visitors from across the world explore its vast acreage. Yellowstone National Park has endless features to get excited about, including vast canyons, geysers like Old Faithful, alpine rivers, hot springs, and plenty of wildlife. Situated on top of a volcanic hot spot, this park is truly a unique location not only in Wyoming but in the entire world. Yellowstone National Park has multiple mountains to explore, a vast lake, the Old Faithful Visitor Center, the Lamar River, and more.

If you are looking for wildlife, then you will be happy to know that you can find grizzly bears, wolves, elk, and bison in Yellowstone National Park, among other species. In fact, the Yellowstone National Park bison herd is the oldest and largest public herd in the country. This park features hiking trails, boardwalks for safe viewing of the various hot springs and geysers, and plenty of scenic drives to make your visit worthwhile.

Grand Teton National Park

Not far from Yellowstone is another top attraction, the Grand Teton National Park. The park encompasses the Teton mountain range, Grand Teton peak, and the Jackson Hole valley. With over 200 miles of hiking trails to explore, any nature-lover or avid hiker would love a visit to Grand Teton National Park. The mountains themselves rise above a beautiful scene of sweeping plains and forests, making the perfect backdrop for a photo to remember your Wyoming trip. This park lies in bear country, so make sure you brush up on safety tips for any wildlife encounters that you may have. Otherwise, enjoy the many views and activities that are available in Grand Teton National Park.

Jackson Hole

Part of the Grand Teton National Park, this valley includes the National Elk Refuge and multiple ski resorts. Visit Teton Village to learn more about what this valley has to offer.

National Elk Refuge

With trails that are perfect for both biking and walking, and which also connect to larger paths in Grand Teton National Park, there are easy ways to take in the Jackson Hole valley while viewing the large numbers of Elk in the refuge.

Jackson Hole Mountain Resort

Known for incredible ski locations and terrain parks, the Teton range has multiple resorts where you can experience a luxury vacation, including the Jackson Hole Mountain Resort. Located right in Teton Village, you can explore the town and hit the slopes all in one place.

Snow King Mountain Resort

Also in this valley is Snow King Mountain. Head to this resort for scenic gondola rides, the Cowboy Coaster, and snow sports opportunities, all based in the town of Jackson, WY.

Grand Targhee Ski Resort

Another skiing option you can enjoy is the Grand Targhee Ski Resort in Alta. Ski the Ghee by day and explore the surrounding area as you like, then return to the Grand Targhee Ski Resort for luxury accommodations. Whether you are traveling solo or with family, you’ll find extremely cozy lodging at this resort.

Bridger Teton National Forest

More than 3.4 million acres of public land are ready for your enjoyment in the Bridger Teton National Forest. It is the third-largest national forest in the country outside of Alaska. Climb Gannett Peak of the Wind River Mountains, (the highest point in the region), explore the pristine watersheds, admire the abundant wildlife, and check out some of the largest glaciers outside of Alaska. Sweeping conifer forests create a landscape darkened by pine, fir, and spruce trees. Bridger Teton National Forest is truly a sight to behold for nature lovers and is interconnected with the greater Yellowstone ecosystem.

Flaming Gorge National Recreation Area

In the southwest corner of Wyoming, you will find the Flaming Gorge National Recreation Area. With hundreds of miles of shoreline, camping sites, trails, and incredible views of the gorge, this hidden gem is a great place to visit to take in the sights of the natural world. If you want to truly immerse yourself in nature, there are opportunities for extremely secluded camping to escape even further from civilization during your stay.

Thunder Basin National Grassland

Between the Black Hills and the Big Horn Mountains in northeastern Wyoming lies the Thunder Basin National Grassland. This preserve is a great location for scenic driving, camping, picnicking, or walking. You’ll find plenty of wildlife in addition to the sweeping landscape to admire, including deer, prairie dogs, jackrabbits, foxes, coyotes, and many species of birds. This underrated attraction can make for a peaceful afternoon that will increase your appreciation of Wyoming’s diverse ecology and biology.

Devils Tower National Monument

A butte composed of igneous rock, Devils Tower National Monument stands out from the surrounding landscape in Crook County, WY. If you are a rock-climbing thrill seeker, then you will love the hundreds of parallel cracks that run up and down Devil’s Tower. This incredible feature protrudes above the prairie surrounding the Black Hills region in northeastern Wyoming, making it a truly unique geological occurrence. If you love rock formations, then make sure Devils tower National Monument is in your travel plans for your Wyoming visit.

Fossil Butte National Monument

Another butte that stands above the surrounding landscape, this feature is well-named for its plethora of fossil remains that have been discovered nearby. Fossilized insects, reptiles, fishes, plants, and other living things tell the story of life in a freshwater lake in the region. Combine views of a towering butte with a history of nature told through fossilized remains in the visitor center with a visit to the Fossil Butte National Monument in southwestern Wyoming.

Hot Springs State Park

Want to experience bathing in hot water from natural springs? Then you’ll want to head to the Hot Springs State Park in Thermopolis. Colorful terraces where water from the Big Horn River flows over into natural hot springs make for an incredible experience. Be sure that you hit up the Hot Springs State bath house to experience 104-degree water for therapeutic bathing. There are also 6.2 miles of hiking trails to explore around Hot Springs State Park so you can make an afternoon of it.

Rich History and Culture

In addition to the beautiful scenery that this state offers, Wyoming also boasts a deep and rich history of both the wild west and Native American cultures. This means there are many things to do in Wyoming that can teach you or your family about the history and culture of the region.

Buffalo Bill Center of the West

Are you fascinated by western culture and want to visit an old west museum? then head to the town of Cody, founded by William F. “Buffalo Bill” Cody east of Yellowstone National Park. The Buffalo Bill Center of the West is a collection of five museums dedicated to the various cultures and history of this area.

Buffalo Bill Museum

The legends of western personalities like Buffalo Bill and Annie Oakley can be discovered in this segment of the Center of the West. you’ll learn what is a fact, what is fiction, and what might be a combination of both.

Draper Natural History Museum

A great family-friendly museum to take the kids to, this facility features the sights, sounds, and even smells of Yellowstone. Interactive exhibits explore the unique geology, plant life, and animals that reside within the park.

Plains Indian Museum

The Plains Indian peoples of the area have a vast history and rich culture that is worth exploring during your visit to Wyoming. Admire their traditions, artifacts, and art during your travels through Cody.

Cody Firearms Museum

Another branch of the Buffalo Bill Center of the West, this museum houses the most comprehensive collection of American firearms in the world. Learn the history of modern arms technology by exploring its early iterations here.

Whitney Western Art Museum

Admire all things western art by visiting this segment of the Buffalo Bill Center. It is truly a hidden gem among the many Wyoming attractions that can be found in the small town of Cody.

Old Trail Town

Stay in the town of Cody to check out a well-preserved western civilization called Old Trail Town. This area features almost 30 buildings that date back to 1879, so you can get a real taste of old western Wyoming with a visit to the Old Trail Town. Take a historical tour through one of the most popular tourist attractions in the state.

Old West Museum

Want to know more about the history of the largest outdoor rodeo show in the world? The Old West Museum in Cheyenne, WY tells the story of the Cheyenne Frontier Days spectacle, a regular western celebration and rodeo that has been happening since 1897. If you want to hear more about this live event and how you can attend during your Wyoming visit, head to the visitor center for more information.

National Museum of Wildlife Art

The wildlife that can be found in Wyoming has had a massive impact on the culture of the region, including the arts. You can explore the wildlife of the area through various media, from paintings to life-size sculptures, while walking along the outdoor trail or staying inside the National Museum of Wildlife Art. The trails also include great views of the National Elk Refuge.

Heart Mountain Interpretive Center

WWII had a massive impact on the world and the country. One of the darker moments was the internment of many Japanese civilians. The Heart Mountain Interpretive Center tells the story of the lives of these individuals during their enforced internment at this facility. Photographs, artifacts, oral histories, and interactive exhibits reveal the true story of Japanese internment in the country during one of the darkest periods of history.

National Historic Trails Interpretive Center

Northwest of Casper, WY is the National Historic Trails Interpretive Center. This museum details the history of various pathways to the West in the region. It seeks to preserve the heritage of these frontier explorers and share the history of trails like the Oregon Trail, the Mormon Trail, the Pony Express Trail, and the California Trail. Each of these roads played a huge role in western development, so visit the National Historic Trails Interpretive Center to discover the incredible history of these pathways and the people that traversed them.

Fort Laramie National Historic Site

Fort Laramie was a very important trading post and military installation in the 19th century. It is located at the meeting of the Laramie and North Platte rivers. The Fort Laramie National Historic Site tells the story of the largest military post in the Northern Plains before it was abandoned in 1890. Now, you can learn about westward expansion and Native American resistance to land encroachment through virtual tours and interactive exhibits.

Other Museums to Visit

Wyoming is full of history and culture, so there are plenty of museums to choose from to get a full experience of what makes this state unique. The Wyoming Geological Museum in Laramie is full of natural history, with fossils and exhibits telling a rich story. Head to the Wyoming Frontier Prison Museum to get a look at the state’s first penitentiary, originally opened in 1901. The Wyoming State Museum was established in 1895 in Cheyenne and has been run by the state since then, focusing on the subjects of history, art, anthropology, and natural-based history.

For the Family

While there are plenty of Wyoming attractions listed above that are perfect for travelers of all ages like the Buffalo Bill Center and the National Museum of Wildlife Art, perhaps you are looking for some other ideas that your little ones will love. Fortunately, there are interesting locations like historic ranches, historic buildings, and fun parks to keep them busy.

Green River

The town of Green River is a unique location that would suit a visiting family well. First, the Flaming Gorge National Recreation Area is not too far south of the town. Second, there is the Pilot Butte Wild Horse Scenic Loop with high-desert views and herds of wild horses to see. Third, Expedition Island is a national historic landmark with a public park and unique exploration history to learn about. This town is a great place to visit if you are looking to avoid larger metropolitans but still want a lot of nearby attractions to check out with the kids.

Jackson Hole Children’s Museum

Educational programs, summer camps, interactive exhibits, and play combine in this museum to create a memorable experience for children. After you hit up the slopes during your stay in Jackson Hole, make sure to head to this facility for some fun discovery activities for the whole family.

Star Plunge Water Park

Indoor and outdoor pools, water slides, a vapor cave, and more water-based attractions can be found at Star Plunge Water Park in Thermopolis, WY. While you visit the nearby hot springs, take the kids to a fun-filled afternoon in the soothing waters of the park, and don’t forget to head to the gift shop to pick up some souvenirs before you leave.

Cheyenne Frontier Days Rodeo

The greatest rodeo and western celebration in the world cannot be missed and makes for a super fun day for the whole family. The Cheyenne Frontier Days show is a truly western experience that will provide entertainment for travelers of all ages. Bull-riding, night shows, carnival rides, delicious food, and plenty of competitions make the Cheyenne Frontier Days event a necessity to be included on your trip itinerary. It is one of the top Wyoming attractions that will provide your family with a memory they will never forget.

Horseback Riding

If your kids are a little older, then perhaps they are ready to participate in a pastime of Wyoming culture. There are many horseback riding facilities for riders of all skill levels that you can bring your older kids to. Some even provide rides with amazing backdrops in Bridger Teton National Forest. Give your children a memorable experience with this fun experience.

Historic Occidental Hotel Museum

If you want a unique place to stay during your Wyoming trip, then you can hardly do better than the Historic Occidental Hotel. This unique facility combines the old charm of a 19th-century western hotel with modern amenities to make your stay comfortable. A fun place for the whole family to stay, you can discover the history of this unique location by visiting the Historic Occidental Hotel Museum.

Live Entertainment

Is your family a fan of the performing arts? Then you can head to the Cheyenne Civic Center for some live events that will entertain both you and your children. Concerts, stand-up comedians, musicals, and other performances will give you something fun to do for an afternoon or evening in this state capital venue.

Wyoming Dinosaur Center

Featuring one of the largest and most unique collections of fossils in the country, the Wyoming Dinosaur Center is sure to thrill visitors of all ages, especially the little ones. You can view multiple live dig sites and interact with exhibits that demonstrate the incredible fossilized remains of these historic animals.

Buffalo Bill Dam

Want to show your kids the marvels of human engineering? Then a visit to the Buffalo Bill Dam near Cody, WY is the perfect solution. Enjoy views of the 280-foot drop down to the Shoshone River from the top of the dam, or turn around and see the Buffalo Bill Reservoir. If you are near this region of the state, then make sure you add a quick stop at Buffalo Bill Dam.

Plan Your Trip Through Wyoming Today

Do you need any more convincing that there are plenty of things to do in Wyoming? Nature lovers, adventurers, young children, retirees, thrill fanatics, history buffs, art connoisseurs…all types of personalities can find something to fall in love with in this great state.

Hit the slopes with a visit to the Grand Targhee Ski Resort or admire the wildlife art sculptures in the Jackson Hole region. Check out the National Historic Trails Interpretive Center to learn about the westward expansion. Visit Fort Laramie National Historic Site to see one of the most significant trading posts and military bases to ever grace the frontier. Attend the Cheyenne Frontier Days rodeo while in the capital. Experience five museums at once at the Buffalo Bill Center of the West. Marvel at the history of the landscape at the Wyoming Geological Museum.

This Guide is Just the Beginning

There are other attractions that haven’t even been mentioned yet. The Ford Wyoming Center in Casper hosts many live events, including rodeos, monster truck tours, basketball games, and local wrestling tournaments. Lamar Valley is often referred to as the American Serengeti for its diverse wildlife. Yellowstone features multiple canyons that many compare to the Grand Canyon itself. The Snake River Lodge and Spa in Teton Village is the pinnacle of luxury vacation hotels and is the closest hotel to Grand Teton National Park. Fossil Lake in the Fossil Butte National Monument is worth seeing for the vast species that are preserved within its bed.

Wyoming is truly a marvel of epic proportions, with its unique history, cultures, landscapes, and wildlife. There are so many things to do in Wyoming, whether you enjoy live entertainment, ancient artifacts, difficult hiking trails, unbeatable views, or close encounters with incredible animals. Throughout the state, you’ll find numerous attractions that can give you a full experience of what this region has to offer. Plan your mountain west trip soon so that you can knock Wyoming off of your bucket list, (which it absolutely should be a part of).