and feel like you’ve “done it all” in town, you’re in luck. Within just a couple of hours’ drive, you can hit quiet lakes, old-school main streets, rugged state parks, and even a few quirky roadside surprises.
In this guide, we’ll cover
Each getaway is perfect for a day trip or a relaxed weekend. So fill the gas tank, toss a cooler in the back, and let’s hit the road.
1. Laramie, Wyoming – College Vibes and Western History (Albany County)
About 50–60 miles west of Cheyenne,
Laramie makes a fun, easy day trip along I‑80. It’s just far enough away to feel like a change of scenery, but close enough that you won’t be wiped out from the drive.
Why go: Laramie mixes college-town energy with Old West history. You can grab a coffee, stroll around older brick buildings, and still feel the laid-back Wyoming pace.
Things to do in Laramie:
It’s an easy place to wander without a strict plan. Park the car, walk a few blocks, and let your nose (and stomach) pick a lunch spot.
2. Vedauwoo Recreation Area – Wild Rock Formations (Albany County)
On the way to Laramie, about 30–40 miles from Cheyenne, lies
Vedauwoo (locals say “Vee-da-voo”) in Albany County. If you enjoy big views and short hikes, this is a must.
What makes Vedauwoo special?
Massive granite rock formations rise up out of the rolling land like something from a sci‑fi movie. It feels otherworldly, and yet it’s just off I‑80.
What to do at Vedauwoo:
- Short hikes: There are family-friendly trails that loop around the rocks.
- Picnics: Pack sandwiches, grab a picnic table, and enjoy cool mountain air.
- Wildlife spotting: Look for birds, deer, and maybe even a moose if you’re lucky.
Bring layers. Even in summer, the breeze at higher elevation can surprise you.
3. Curt Gowdy State Park – Lakes, Trails, and Mountain Biking (Albany County)
Just west of Laramie County’s border in Albany County,
Curt Gowdy State Park is one of the most popular outdoor spots near Cheyenne—and for good reason.
Why people love it:
You get three lakes, miles of trails, and a nice mix of easy and more challenging paths, all within a short drive.
Top activities at Curt Gowdy:
- Hiking & mountain biking: Trails range from short strolls to serious rides.
- Fishing & paddling: Hit Granite or Crystal Reservoir for fishing, kayaking, or paddleboarding.
- Camping: Stay overnight in a tent, RV, or one of the cabins and stretch your “day trip” into a weekend.
If you’re escaping Cheyenne’s wind, the canyons and trees here offer a bit of shelter and a different feel.
4. Guernsey State Park & Oregon Trail Ruts – Step Into Pioneer History (Platte & Goshen Counties)
Head north from Cheyenne toward Platte and Goshen Counties, and you’ll find one of the most fascinating historic areas in the region.
Guernsey State Park (Platte County) sits along the North Platte River. Not far away, in Goshen County near Guernsey, you’ll find the famous
Oregon Trail Ruts.
What to see and do:
- Oregon Trail Ruts Historic Site (Goshen County): See deep grooves worn into the rock by wagon wheels during the 1800s westward migration. It’s powerful to stand there and imagine the thousands of people who passed by.
- Register Cliff (Goshen County): A sandstone cliff where pioneers carved their names. It’s like a centuries-old guest book.
- Guernsey State Park (Platte County): Enjoy scenic drives, lakeside views, and stone structures built by the Civilian Conservation Corps.
This trip is perfect if you like a mix of
outdoor fun and
American history. It’s also a great spot to bring kids who are learning about the Oregon Trail in school.
5. Fort Laramie National Historic Site – Classic Old West Fort (Goshen County)
From Cheyenne, keep heading north and you’ll reach
Fort Laramie National Historic Site in Goshen County. It was once a major military post and a key stop along the Oregon, California, and Mormon Trails.
Why it’s worth the drive:
The restored buildings and grounds make it easy to picture what life looked like in the 1800s. You can walk through officers’ quarters, the parade ground, and old barracks.
Highlights at Fort Laramie:
- Self-guided tours through preserved buildings
- Ranger talks (seasonal) that share stories of soldiers, settlers, and Native American tribes
- Peaceful walking paths along the river and open grasslands
Bring a hat and some water. There’s limited shade, and you may be out exploring for a couple of hours.
6. Greeley, Colorado – Small City Feel, Big Event Energy (Weld County)
Looking for something a little more urban than open range? Drive southeast from Cheyenne into
Weld County, Colorado, and you’ll reach
Greeley, a growing city with a friendly, down-to-earth vibe.
Why visit Greeley:
It offers more dining, shopping, and arts options than you’ll find in most small towns, but it still feels relaxed and approachable.
Things to do in Greeley:
- Historic Downtown: Cafes, breweries, murals, and local boutiques make it easy to spend a few hours wandering.
- Colorado Model Railroad Museum: A surprisingly impressive setup, especially fun if you have kids—or just like trains.
- Greeley Stampede (seasonal): If you visit around late June or early July, you can catch this big rodeo and western celebration.
If you’re craving more restaurant choices than you have near Cheyenne, Greeley makes a nice target for a day of “eat, walk, repeat.”
7. Windsor & Severance, Colorado – Lakeside Relaxing and Country Drives (Weld County)
For a quieter Weld County escape, head a bit farther south toward
Windsor and
Severance.
What to expect:
These towns blend new neighborhoods with farm country, and they’re ringed by small lakes and open views of the Front Range.
Ideas for your day trip:
- Boardwalk Park in Windsor: Stroll around the lake, let kids play at the park, and enjoy the mountain views.
- Casual dining: Try local grills or cafes in Windsor’s downtown for burgers, pizza, or a cold drink on a patio.
- Country backroads: Take the long way home on quieter roads and soak in that wide-open sky.
If you want an easy, low-stress day—maybe with a picnic, a book, and a bench by the water—this area is a solid choice.
8. Kimball, Nebraska – Classic Plains Town and Wind Farm Views (Kimball County)
Head east from Cheyenne into Nebraska, and you’ll reach
Kimball in Kimball County. This is small-town Great Plains life at its core.
Why go to Kimball:
You get simple, friendly streets, a slower pace, and big sky views. On the way, you’ll likely spot wind farms turning slowly out on the horizon.
Things to check out in and around Kimball:
- Downtown Kimball: Stop for coffee, a bite to eat, or a short walk past older storefronts.
- Golfing: If you like to golf, look into local courses for a relaxed round.
- Scenic drives: The open plains and distant views can be surprisingly calming. This is “roll the windows down, turn up the radio” country.
This is a good trip if you want to unplug and get away from busy roads and crowds.
9. Banner County Backroads – Quiet Nebraska Countryside (Banner County)
Just north of Kimball County is
Banner County, a rural area that’s all about space, quiet, and big horizons.
What makes Banner County special?
There’s no big city scene here—just farmland, ranches, and that endless Nebraska sky. It’s a perfect “Sunday drive” destination.
How to enjoy it:
- Scenic driving: Take your time on country roads. Watch for wildlife and changing light over the hills.
- Photography: If you love landscape photos, you’ll find plenty of wide-open shots.
- Stargazing: If you stay late, the low light pollution means bright, clear night skies.
Pack snacks, water, and a full tank of gas. Services can be spread out, which is part of the charm—but also something to plan for.
10. Glendo State Park – Boating, Beaches, and Big Water (Platte County)
If you’re craving a real “lake day” from Cheyenne, point your car north and head for
Glendo State Park in Platte County.
Why Glendo is a favorite:
It offers one of the larger reservoirs in the region, with coves, campgrounds, and room for boats, jet skis, and paddleboards.
Top things to do at Glendo:
- Boating & water sports: Bring your own boat or meet up with friends who have one.
- Swimming & beach time: Some areas have sandy or pebbly shores where you can relax by the water.
- Camping: Make it a full weekend with lakeside camping and sunrise views over the water.
On a hot summer day, Glendo can feel like an entirely different world compared with windy, high-plains Cheyenne.
Tips for Planning Your Cheyenne Road Trips
To make these
Cheyenne day trips and weekend escapes smoother:
- Check conditions: Wyoming, Colorado, and Nebraska weather can change fast. Look up road and park reports before you go.
- Fuel up early: In rural areas—especially Banner, Kimball, and parts of Platte and Goshen—gas stations can be far apart.
- Pack a simple kit: Water, snacks, sunscreen, a light jacket, and a paper map or offline directions.
- Watch for wildlife: Deer, antelope, and other animals often cross roads near dawn and dusk.
If you like mixing
outdoor adventures with
Western history and small-town charm, the region around Cheyenne is a treasure chest of short drives.
Where Will You Go First?
From the rock towers of Vedauwoo to the lakes of Glendo and the historic forts along the North Platte River, there’s a lot to explore just beyond Cheyenne and Laramie County. You don’t need a week-long vacation to feel like you’ve gotten away—sometimes a few hours behind the wheel is enough.
Have you taken any of these
road trips from Cheyenne?
- Which spot is your favorite?
- Did we miss a hidden gem in Weld, Albany, Goshen, Platte, Kimball, or Banner County?
Share your experiences and tips in the comments—your story might inspire someone else’s next adventure.
If you found this guide helpful, please
share it with friends or family who are looking for new things to do near Cheyenne. Happy travels and safe driving!
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