Header Notice

Winter is here! Check out the winter wonderlands at these 5 amazing winter destinations in Montana

Top 10 Things To Do In Wyoming, USA

Published:

Modified: December 27, 2023

by David Jefferson

Yellowstone National Park, Wyoming
©Photo by derwiki from Pixabay

Visiting Wyoming gives any traveler a unique experience. It’s a place where you are treated to the untapped wilderness, natural wonders, and historical sites of the Wild West. Home to many beautiful spots to explore, there truly are many amazing things to do in Wyoming. Located in the Rocky Mountain Range of the United States, Wyoming is the 10th largest state regarding the total area. This beautiful gem is surrounded by six states, namely Montana, Colorado, South Dakota, Idaho, and Utah.  

 

If it’s your first time, we give you a rundown of the best things to do and enjoy in Wyoming. From the best sceneries, outdoor adventures, to historical sites, there’s a long list waiting for you.

 

Best Time to Visit Wyoming

For the best Wyoming vacations, June or September is a great month to visit. These months let you enjoy smaller crowds and moderate weather. Outside these months, however, has a good chance of snow. Generally, any time is a good time depending on what you intend to do in Wyoming.

 

Let’s explore the 10 best things to do in Wyoming.

 

1.

Visit the Yellowstone National Park

Summer hiking in yellowstone national park

©Photo by Kedar Gadge on Unsplash

 

Yellowstone National Park is one of the most iconic Wyoming landmarks. With that recognition, this park is not one to miss. Yellowstone is the world’s first — thus the oldest — national park. Spanning 2.2 million acres, this gem is described as America’s wonderland. How can it not be with its many spectacular natural landmarks and wildlife? 

 

Things to do in this National Park

 

Hike the mountains:

They say the best way to explore Yellowstone is to get off the beaten path and venture its trail system. Have a grand time hiking or enjoying the view at Mt. Washburn or Bunsen Peak. Other hidden gems worth exploring are Mammoth Hot Springs, Old Faithful, Lamar Valley, West and Thumb Geyser Basin, among others. 

 

To fully enjoy your time in the park, make sure to know the best time to visit Yellowstone National Park.

 

Go paddling or rafting

Aside from hiking, paddling or rafting the shores of Yellowstone Lake is among the best things to do in Wyoming. Paddling the waters allows you to get up close to the many geothermal ecosystems in the park.

 

See wild animals in their natural habitat

Yellowstone is home to a large concentration of wildlife. This includes bears, moose, wolves, badgers, elk, bison, and otters, among others. While it’s allowed to roam around the park with the animals, observe the right distance in specific locations. Use binoculars for safe viewing. This also avoids disturbing the animals. 

 

Go camping

Yellowstone Park is too beautiful and big to be explored in one day. To fully appreciate the park, spend the night under the stars. There are many safe campsites inside the park to enjoy the night and continue exploring the next day. 

 

2.

Hike the Trails of Grand Teton National Park

Grand Teton National Park, Wyoming

©Photo by chascar from Flickr

 

Grand Teton is among the Wyoming landmarks you simply can’t miss. The national park is home to many natural wonders, staggering mountains, historic sites, and wildlife. Grand Teton is one of Wyoming’s jewels. 

 

One of the iconic spots in the park is the Grand Teton. Standing 13,775 feet high, the majestic Grand Teton is home to many great adventures. Aside from that, Grand Teton Park houses abundant wildlife. The park has more than 300 species of birds, 60 species of mammals, and various freshwater fish. We curated some of the things you can do here.


Climb Grand Teton

Standing 13,770 feet in height, Grand Teton is the highest mountain in the park. This snow-covered mountain, however, is only hiked by experienced climbers. In the meantime, there are other routes and spots for amateur hikers to get a gorgeous view of Grand Teton. 

 

Explore Jenny Lake

Jenny Lake is a breathtaking spot to simply take in all the beauty of this 2-mile-long lake. Photographers will have a grand time taking one amazing shot after another in this place. Jenny Lake is an excellent spot to enjoy swimming, fishing, paddling, or boating.  

 

Enjoy boat tours

One of the best ways to explore and enjoy the Wyoming scenery in Grand Teton Park is via boat. Choose among the many reputable boat tour companies that offer float, rafting, or mini-cruise trips around the park. You can also opt to rent a kayak or canoe for a self-guided tour of the rivers and lakes. 

 

3.

Discover the Colors of Grand Prismatic Spring

Grand Prismatic Spring, Wyoming

©Photo by MikeGoad from Pixabay

 

The Grand Prismatic Spring is among the stunning Wyoming landmarks worth a visit. This huge hot spring displays a rainbow ring and its beauty never fails to amuse visitors. Grand Prismatic Spring is the largest hot spring in the U.S. and bagging the third spot in the world. What causes its vivid layers of colors, you may ask? The microbes and bacteria in the water cause the formation of these colors. A fun fact about the rainbow colors is how it changes with each season. 

 

Visiting the Grand Prismatic Spring is one of the best things to do in Wyoming. This real wonder is definitely not to be missed. Aside from witnessing its beauty up-close, enjoy taking photos to your heart’s content.

 

To have a better view, head to the overlook found at the Fairy Falls trailhead. From here, you can take in all the mystical beauty of this spring. The Grand Prismatic Spring is one of the best and most photographed spots in Yellowstone Park. It truly has taken Wyoming scenery standards to greater heights. A friendly hike on the nearby slopes is a great idea if you are visiting with some friends or kids.

 

4.

Relax at Hot Springs State Park, Thermopolis

Hot Springs State Park, Thermopolis, Wyoming

©Photo by Jordan Fischer from Flickr

 

Complete your Wyoming vacations with the best spot to relax and unwind. One of the excellent options to do this is in Hot Springs State Park. They say you’ll come here for the hot springs but stay for the adventures. 

 

Hot Springs is the oldest state park in Wyoming. It’s a public recreation place, which means you can enjoy everything the park has to offer at no cost. Try these activities out. 

 

Relax in the hot springs

One of the best things to do in Wyoming is to connect with nature and relax. What better way to do this than to unwind in its hot springs. Aside from the mineral hot springs, you can relax your body in the park’s Free Bath House. Soothe your pains and aches away in the Bath House’s 104-degree water.  

 

Get up-close with the bison

If adventure is your thing, Wyoming’s state Bison Herd is in Hot Springs State Park. Get an up-close view of these wild animals through public roads that loop through the large pastures. This saves you from overcrowded spots and keeps you in a good distance from the bison. 

 

Enjoy the Rainbow Terraces

If walking along a rainbow has been a childhood fantasy, now’s your chance to do it. There’s a paved walkway near the Rainbow Terraces. This walkway lets you walk along a rainbow of colors formed by the minerals of the hot springs water. These colors are naturally formed, which makes it such a stunning sight to see. 

 

Have a picnic

Visting the park with kids is fun. Not only can they witness the beauty of the Hot Springs, but they can enjoy other activities, too. Hot Springs State Park is home to picnic shelters. You can bring the kids here for a delicious snack or a relaxing nap. There are also boat docks and flower gardens to keep them busy and entertained.  

 

5.

Feel the Cowboy Spirit at Buffalo Bill Centre of the West 

The Buffalo Bill Centre of the West, Wyoming

©Photo by Paul Hermans from Wikimedia Commons

 

If you feel like tapping your inner cowboy, hold on to your hat because we’ll give your Wyoming vacations a yee-haw.

 

Among the best things to do in Wyoming is to immerse yourself in the spirit of the Wild West. Out of the many Wyoming landmarks, The Buffalo Bill Center has been keeping the spirit of the old west alive. Boasting five fascinating museums, this iconic spot is nothing short of exciting.  

 

Explore and enjoy your time in the five museums of Buffalo Bill Centre. In the Cody Firearms Museum, feast your eyes on its large collection of firearms. These pieces are collected from around the world. The Draper Museum, meanwhile, offers themes of Wyoming wildlife and geology. 

 

Moving to the Plains Indian Museum, you’ll be treated to exhibits and shows. This museum lets you learn about the culture of its first inhabitants. Aside from history, art lovers would be happy to know that there’s a museum for them. The Whitney Gallery of Western Art showcases works by Charles Russell, George Catlin, and Frederic Remington.

 

The last museum, Buffalo Bill, is the flagship museum of the Buffalo Bill Centre. It focuses on the life of William F. “Buffalo Bill” Cody, the noted soldier, showman, and icon, among other titles.

 

6.

Float Along the Stretch of Flaming Gorge National Recreation Area

Flaming Gorge National Recreation Area, Wyoming

©Photo by David Brossard from Flickr

 

Flaming Gorge National Recreation Area paints natural landscapes at their most dramatic. Boasting rugged mountains, gorgeous alpine forests, and calm rivers, it’s no wonder it’s become one of the best Wyoming landmarks. A favorite spot among locals and tourists, Flaming Gorge is a great start or finish to your Wyoming vacations. Check out these activities you can do here. 

 

Float on rafts, canoes, or kayaks: Floating is a favorite activity between the dam and Gates of Lodore. This allows you to take in the beauty of Flaming Gorge from a different perspective. However, it is recommended that only experienced ones tackle the river. 

 

For those without river experience, there are guided trips available from the Flaming Gorge Resort.

 

Hike the Canyon Rim Trail

Hikers, campers, mountain bikers, and the likes can pursue their endeavors at several trails in the vicinity. These include the 6.5-mile route of the Canyon Rim Trail. Biking or hiking along this trail gives you expansive views of beautiful Wyoming scenery. For a more relaxed activity, head to the overlook at the Red Canyon Visitor Center. Nestled high above Flaming Gorge Lake, you are treated to some of the most breathtaking views. 

 

Fish on the lake

Another popular thing to enjoy in Flaming Gorge is fishing. Known to house one of the best trophy lake trout waters in the country, Flaming Gorge offers the best trout fishing experience. Aside from trout, you can also catch some smallmouth bass, kokanee salmon, and rainbow trout. You can either fish from a boat or from the shore. Either way, you are guaranteed to have a fun time. There are also many campgrounds and access points for anglers to make use of. 

 

Meanwhile, for a world-class fly fishing experience, head below Flaming Gorge Dam to the Green River.

 

7.

Partake in the Cheyenne Frontier Days Rodeo

Cheyenne Frontier Days Rodeo, Wyoming

©Photo by Chief National Guard Bureau from Flickr

 

Another way to ignite the Wild West spirit in Wyoming is during the Cheyenne Frontier Days Rodeo. The event happens in the Cheyenne Frontier Days Arena in Cheyenne Wyoming. It’s celebrated during the ten days centering around the last full week of July. Every year, this event celebrates the good old Wild West days. 

 

Also known as “Daddy of ‘em All,” the rodeo event is one of the best things to do in Wyoming. The festival lasts 10 days and offers more than 1 million in prizes. It also includes parades, concerts, a carnival, and a western art show.

 

For car enthusiasts, don’t miss the antique car show. 

 

Watch or join the outdoor rodeos: The festival celebrates its roots each year with an outdoor rodeo event. This event is heavily cheered on both by locals and tourists. Watch how professional cowboys compete for more than $1 million in cash and other prizes.  

 

Enjoy the night shows: The festivities extend until the night. Enjoy the nightlife at Frontier Days with some country and rock music, as well as drinks.   

 

Watch the parades: The Grand Parade is one of Cheyenne Frontier Days’ most famous events. In the parade, you’ll see marching bands, floats, horses with riders in period dresses. It’s a 90-minute-long fun. 

 

8.

Enjoy Skiing in Jackson Hole Mountain Resort

1280px Jackson hole new tram - Top 10 Things To Do In Wyoming, USA

©Photo by Enricokamasa from Wikimedia Commons

 

For world-class skiing and snowboarding experience in Wyoming, head to Jackson Hole Mountain Resort. 

 

Also known as “The Big One,” Jackson Hole is frequented by ski enthusiasts of all levels. The resort offers gorgeous terrains and convenient slopeside for the best experience. The views are also breathtaking and worth the hike. 

 

The resort houses restaurants and bars, which make it perfect for families and friends. Jackson Hole also boasts the longest continuous vertical for skiing in the U.S. No wonder it’s become one of the best Wyoming ski resorts.

 

9.

Enjoy Outdoor Activities in Bridger-Teton National Forest

Bridger-Teton National Forest, Wyoming

©Photo by Bridger Teton NF from Flickr

 

Imagine 3.4 million acres of land open for outdoor activities. Bridger-Teton National Forest is a public recreation space that offers unspoiled rivers, lush landscapes, abundant wildlife, and miles of trails. 

 

Make your Wyoming vacations extra memorable by spending a day in the beautiful Bridger Teton National Forest. Here, outdoor enthusiasts can enjoy hunting, hiking, mountain climbing, or fishing, among other fun activities. 

 

10.

Explore the Biggest City in Wyoming

Cheyenne, Wyoming

©Photo by Michel Rathwell from Flickr

 

It’s hard to imagine a Wyoming scenery without Cheyenne in it. Visiting the capital, Cheyenne, is one of the best things to do in Wyoming. With the town’s high-energy for rodeos and historic and cultural sites, there’s always something fun happening in Cheyenne Wyoming. 

 

Cheyenne is a must-visit landmark in Wyoming. Boasting with museums and historic sites, this town has so much to tell about Cheyenne’s beginnings. They’re also testimonies of how much the town has preserved its culture. Aside from the Cheyenne Frontier Days Rodeo, visit the Wyoming State Capitol Building, Wyoming State Museum, and Cheyenne Depot Museum.

 

Wyoming Is Calling!

 

Wyoming is an excellent destination choice for its unique blend of Wild West spirit and natural beauties. Add to that the festivals, celebrations, and hospitality from its people. If you think about it, there’s a long list of fun things to do in Wyoming. So, cowboy or not, Wyoming is calling you to visit soon!