Wyoming, known for its breathtaking landscapes and rich Western heritage, offers an array of attractions for travelers.
From majestic national parks to historical sites, and from outdoor adventures to cultural experiences, this detailed itinerary explores Wyoming’s diverse offerings across eight key sections: landmarks, food, entertainment, culture, outdoor activities, shopping, history, and wellness.
Each section delves into must-visit spots and activities that will make your stay in Wyoming an unforgettable experience.
Landmarks
Yellowstone National Park
Yellowstone National Park, the first national park in the world, is a must-visit landmark in Wyoming. Spread across 3,500 square miles, the park features geothermal wonders like the iconic Old Faithful geyser and the colorful Grand Prismatic Spring. Visitors can explore numerous hiking trails, observe diverse wildlife such as bison, elk, and grizzly bears, and marvel at the majestic Yellowstone Falls. The park’s unique geothermal features and stunning landscapes make it an unforgettable destination.
Grand Teton National Park
Grand Teton National Park, located south of Yellowstone, is renowned for its rugged mountain peaks, pristine lakes, and abundant wildlife. The Teton Range offers breathtaking views, with Grand Teton standing at 13,775 feet. Visitors can hike scenic trails, enjoy boating on Jackson Lake, or take a scenic drive along Teton Park Road. The park also offers excellent opportunities for wildlife viewing, with moose, black bears, and bald eagles frequently spotted.
Devils Tower National Monument
Devils Tower National Monument, located in northeastern Wyoming, is a striking geological formation that rises 867 feet above the surrounding landscape. This iconic landmark is sacred to many Native American tribes and is popular with rock climbers and hikers. The park features several hiking trails, including the Tower Trail, which circles the base of the tower and offers stunning views. Visitors can also learn about the monument’s geological and cultural significance at the visitor center.
Food and Cuisine
The Gun Barrel Steak & Game House
For a taste of authentic Western cuisine, visit The Gun Barrel Steak & Game House in Jackson. This restaurant is renowned for its rustic ambiance and menu featuring wild game and locally sourced meats. Highlights include bison ribeye, elk chops, and venison bratwurst. The restaurant’s decor, with mounted game and antique firearms, adds to the Western dining experience. Don’t miss their signature desserts, like the huckleberry cheesecake, for a sweet finish.
Snake River Grill
Snake River Grill, located in Jackson, is an upscale dining destination known for its innovative American cuisine. The restaurant’s menu changes seasonally to highlight fresh, local ingredients. Popular dishes include the steak tartare pizza, elk tenderloin, and seared sea scallops. The cozy, yet sophisticated, setting and extensive wine list make it a perfect spot for a special dinner. The grill’s dedication to quality and creativity ensures a memorable dining experience.
Bubba’s Bar-B-Que Restaurant
For a more casual dining experience, head to Bubba’s Bar-B-Que Restaurant in Jackson. This family-friendly eatery is famous for its hearty portions of smoked meats and classic Southern sides. Try their tender pulled pork, beef brisket, or baby back ribs, accompanied by baked beans, coleslaw, and cornbread. The relaxed atmosphere and friendly service make it a great place to enjoy a satisfying meal after a day of exploring.
Entertainment
Jackson Hole Playhouse
The Jackson Hole Playhouse, located in downtown Jackson, offers a unique entertainment experience with its lively dinner theater performances. The playhouse, housed in a historic building dating back to the late 1800s, presents a variety of Western-themed musicals and comedies. Guests can enjoy a delicious meal in the Saddle Rock Saloon before the show, featuring hearty Western fare. The talented cast and interactive performances make for a fun and memorable evening.
Cheyenne Frontier Days
Cheyenne Frontier Days, held annually in late July, is one of Wyoming’s most famous events. Known as the “World’s Largest Outdoor Rodeo and Western Celebration,” the event features a week of rodeo competitions, parades, concerts, and a carnival. Visitors can watch thrilling rodeo events like bull riding and steer wrestling, enjoy live music from top country artists, and explore the Old West Museum. The festival’s rich history and lively atmosphere make it a highlight of Wyoming’s entertainment scene.
Wyoming Symphony Orchestra
The Wyoming Symphony Orchestra, based in Casper, offers a rich cultural experience with its classical music performances. The orchestra presents a diverse range of concerts throughout the year, featuring works by renowned composers and contemporary pieces. Attending a performance at the John F. Welsh Auditorium provides an opportunity to enjoy world-class music in a beautiful setting. The orchestra’s commitment to excellence and community engagement makes it a cultural gem in Wyoming.
Culture
National Museum of Wildlife Art
The National Museum of Wildlife Art, located in Jackson, is dedicated to the appreciation and preservation of wildlife art. The museum’s extensive collection includes works by renowned artists such as Georgia O’Keeffe and John James Audubon. Visitors can explore galleries featuring paintings, sculptures, and photography that celebrate the beauty and diversity of wildlife. The museum’s stunning location, overlooking the National Elk Refuge, adds to the experience. Special exhibitions and educational programs further enrich the visit.
Wyoming Dinosaur Center
The Wyoming Dinosaur Center, located in Thermopolis, offers an exciting journey into the prehistoric past. The center features an extensive collection of dinosaur fossils, including a complete skeleton of a T. rex. Visitors can explore interactive exhibits, watch paleontologists at work in the preparation lab, and even participate in a dig site tour. The center’s engaging displays and hands-on experiences make it a great destination for families and dinosaur enthusiasts.
Buffalo Bill Center of the West
The Buffalo Bill Center of the West, located in Cody, is a complex of five museums dedicated to preserving the history and culture of the American West. The center includes the Buffalo Bill Museum, which explores the life and legacy of William F. “Buffalo Bill” Cody, and the Whitney Western Art Museum, showcasing Western art. Other highlights include the Plains Indian Museum, the Cody Firearms Museum, and the Draper Natural History Museum. The center’s comprehensive exhibits and educational programs provide a deep dive into the Western heritage.
Outdoor Activities
Grand Teton National Park Hiking
Grand Teton National Park offers some of the best hiking opportunities in Wyoming, with trails ranging from easy walks to challenging climbs. Popular hikes include the Cascade Canyon Trail, which offers stunning views of the Teton Range and access to Hidden Falls and Inspiration Point. The Taggart Lake Loop is a moderate trail that provides picturesque views of the lake and mountains. For a more strenuous hike, the Paintbrush Canyon Trail offers a challenging route with breathtaking scenery. Hiking in Grand Teton National Park allows visitors to experience the park’s natural beauty up close.
Wind River Range Backpacking
The Wind River Range, located in western Wyoming, is a premier destination for backpacking and wilderness adventures. The range features over 2,900 lakes, glaciers, and some of the highest peaks in the state, including Gannett Peak, Wyoming’s highest point. The Cirque of the Towers, a stunning glacial basin surrounded by towering granite peaks, is a popular destination for backpackers and climbers. The Wind River Range offers solitude and pristine wilderness, making it an ideal destination for outdoor enthusiasts.
Hot Springs State Park
Hot Springs State Park, located in Thermopolis, is home to the world’s largest mineral hot spring. The park features free public bathhouses where visitors can soak in the therapeutic waters, which are maintained at a comfortable 104 degrees Fahrenheit. The park also offers hiking trails, picnic areas, and the Rainbow Terrace, a colorful mineral formation created by the hot springs. The nearby Wyoming Dinosaur Center and petroglyphs add to the park’s attractions. Hot Springs State Park is a perfect place to relax and enjoy the natural hot springs.
Shopping
Jackson Town Square
Jackson Town Square, located in the heart of Jackson, is a bustling shopping destination with a mix of boutiques, galleries, and specialty shops. Visitors can find Western apparel, handcrafted jewelry, and unique souvenirs. Highlights include the Jackson Hole Hat Company, known for its custom cowboy hats, and Made, offering locally crafted goods. The square’s iconic elk antler arches and lively atmosphere make it a great place to shop and explore.
Frontier Mall
Frontier Mall, located in Cheyenne, is a convenient shopping destination with a variety of national retailers and local stores. The mall features popular brands such as Dillard’s, JCPenney, and Bath & Body Works, as well as specialty shops offering clothing, accessories, and gifts. The mall’s food court provides a range of dining options, and the AMC Classic Frontier 9 theater offers a chance to catch a movie. Frontier Mall is a great place to spend a day shopping and enjoying entertainment.
Cody’s Main Street
Cody’s Main Street, located in the heart of Cody, offers a charming shopping experience with its mix of Western boutiques, art galleries, and antique shops. Visitors can browse unique items such as Western wear, Native American crafts, and vintage collectibles. Highlights include the Cody Trading Company, featuring Western gifts and souvenirs, and By Western Hands, showcasing handcrafted furniture and art. Cody’s Main Street captures the spirit of the Old West and offers a delightful shopping experience.
History
Fort Laramie National Historic Site
Fort Laramie National Historic Site, located in southeastern Wyoming, is a significant landmark in the history of the American West. Established as a fur trading post in 1834 and later a military fort, Fort Laramie played a crucial role in the westward expansion. Visitors can explore restored buildings, including officers’ quarters, barracks, and a cavalry barracks. The visitor center offers exhibits and interpretive programs that provide insights into the fort’s history and its impact on the region. Fort Laram ie is a fascinating destination for history enthusiasts.
Oregon Trail Ruts
The Oregon Trail Ruts, located near Guernsey, are well-preserved remnants of the historic Oregon Trail. The ruts were carved into the sandstone by the wheels of thousands of wagons that traveled westward during the mid-1800s. Visitors can walk along the ruts and imagine the challenges faced by pioneers on their journey. The nearby Register Cliff, where travelers carved their names into the rock, adds to the historical significance of the site. The Oregon Trail Ruts offer a tangible connection to the pioneer era and the westward migration.
Heart Mountain Interpretive Center
The Heart Mountain Interpretive Center, located near Cody, tells the story of the Japanese American internment camp that operated during World War II. The center features exhibits, photographs, and personal stories of the more than 14,000 Japanese Americans who were incarcerated at Heart Mountain. Visitors can learn about the experiences of internees and the impact of the internment on their lives. The center also offers educational programs and guided tours. The Heart Mountain Interpretive Center is a poignant reminder of this dark chapter in American history.
Wellness
Saratoga Hot Springs Resort
Saratoga Hot Springs Resort, located in the town of Saratoga, is a premier wellness destination known for its natural hot springs. The resort features a large mineral hot spring pool and several smaller pools with varying temperatures. Guests can enjoy soaking in the therapeutic waters, which are rich in minerals and believed to have healing properties. The resort also offers spa treatments, including massages, facials, and body wraps. The serene setting and luxurious amenities make Saratoga Hot Springs Resort an ideal place to relax and rejuvenate.
Granite Hot Springs
Granite Hot Springs, located in the Bridger-Teton National Forest near Jackson, offers a rustic and tranquil hot spring experience. The hot springs are set in a picturesque mountain valley, surrounded by lush forests and scenic views. The spring-fed pool is open year-round, providing a warm and soothing soak in a natural setting. In the winter, the hot springs can be accessed by snowmobile or dogsled, adding to the adventure. Granite Hot Springs is a hidden gem and a perfect spot for relaxation and connection with nature.
Brush Creek Ranch
Brush Creek Ranch, located in Saratoga, is a luxury wellness retreat offering a range of outdoor activities and wellness programs. The ranch features a spa with treatments inspired by the natural surroundings, including massages, facials, and hydrotherapy. Guests can participate in yoga and meditation sessions, horseback riding, hiking, and fly fishing. The ranch’s farm-to-table dining emphasizes fresh, locally sourced ingredients. Brush Creek Ranch provides a luxurious and holistic wellness experience in a stunning natural setting.
Wyoming, with its vast landscapes and rich cultural heritage, offers an abundance of experiences for travelers. This itinerary provides a comprehensive guide to exploring Wyoming’s diverse attractions, ensuring that visitors can fully immerse themselves in the beauty and history of the Cowboy State. Whether you’re seeking adventure, relaxation, or cultural enrichment, Wyoming has something to offer every traveler.