should be on your list. Tucked between the rolling plains and the
, Sheridan offers that small-town charm with a ton of outdoor and cultural experiences.
Whether you’re planning a weekend road trip from the Midwest, a longer Western vacation, or a stop on your way to Yellowstone, this guide will walk you through
.
1. Stroll Historic Downtown Sheridan
Downtown Sheridan feels like a Western movie set that people never stopped using. You get old brick buildings, neon signs, and friendly locals who still say “hello” when you walk by.
Here’s what to do downtown:
- Walk along Main Street and check out the Western storefronts.
- Pop into local shops selling boots, hats, outdoor gear, and handmade gifts.
- Grab a coffee at a local café and just people-watch for a bit.
- Look up at the historic signs and murals—there’s a story on almost every wall.
If you like places that still feel “real” and not overly polished,
downtown Sheridan will probably win you over in the first hour.
2. Tour the Historic Sheridan Inn
The
Sheridan Inn is one of Sheridan’s most iconic buildings, and it’s closely tied to
Buffalo Bill Cody. He helped manage the inn in the late 1800s, and it became a gathering spot for cowboys, railroad workers, and travelers.
Why it’s worth a stop:
- The inn is on the National Register of Historic Places.
- You can often take a tour or at least wander the lobby and learn about Buffalo Bill.
- Many of the rooms are themed after historical figures from the area.
If you love American history or you grew up watching Westerns, standing on that wide front porch feels like stepping back in time.
3. Explore the Bighorn Mountains & Bighorn National Forest
Just west of Sheridan, the land rises quickly into the rugged
Bighorn Mountains, part of the
Bighorn National Forest. If you enjoy fresh air and mountain views, you don’t want to skip this.
Popular things to do in the Bighorns:
- Hiking on well-marked trails with views that seem to go on forever.
- Fishing in cold, clear mountain streams and lakes.
- Camping under dark, star-filled skies.
- Off-roading or scenic drives on forest roads.
Bring layers, even in summer. The temperature can drop fast once you’re a few thousand feet above town. It’s only a short drive from Sheridan, but it feels like a different world.
4. Drive the Scenic Bighorn Scenic Byway (U.S. Highway 14)
If you love classic American road trips, don’t miss the
Bighorn Scenic Byway along
Highway 14. It runs from Sheridan up into the mountains and toward Dayton and beyond.
Along the way you’ll see:
- Twisting mountain roads with wide pullouts for photos.
- Deep canyons and forested slopes.
- Plenty of spots for a picnic or a short hike.
Plan a half day for this drive so you have time to stop, stretch your legs, and just soak in the views. It’s one of the best ways to experience the landscape near Sheridan without doing a full-on backcountry trip.
5. Visit the Trail End State Historic Site (Kendrick Mansion)
For a taste of early 1900s high society in Wyoming, head up to the
Trail End State Historic Site, also known as the Kendrick Mansion. It sits on a hill in Sheridan with great views over town.
Inside you’ll find:
- Beautiful woodwork, period furniture, and vintage décor.
- Exhibits about the Kendrick family and Wyoming’s political history.
- Guided or self-guided tours that explain how people lived here over 100 years ago.
It’s a nice change of pace if you’ve been hiking or driving a lot. Plus, the grounds and gardens are lovely for a slow walk on a summer afternoon.
6. Experience Real Western Culture at a Rodeo
If you’ve never been to a rodeo before, Sheridan is a perfect place to fix that. The town is known for its strong ranching tradition, and rodeo is a big part of the local culture.
Depending on when you visit, you might catch:
- The famous WYO Rodeo (usually in July).
- Smaller local rodeos and events at the fairgrounds.
- Parades, street dances, and Western concerts.
Watching bull riding or barrel racing under the evening sky, with the crowd cheering and the smell of dust and popcorn in the air, really does feel like classic
Wyoming.
7. Walk the Pathways Along Little Goose Creek
If you’re looking for something relaxed to do in Sheridan, check out the town’s network of
walking and biking pathways, especially near
Little Goose Creek.
Why locals love these paths:
- They’re mostly flat and easy, great for families or casual strolls.
- You’ll pass parks, trees, and often see deer or birds.
- They give you a peaceful way to explore town away from traffic.
It’s a simple activity, but sometimes a quiet walk along the creek is exactly what you need after a busy day of sightseeing.
8. Visit Local Museums & Art Galleries
Sheridan may be a small city, but it has a surprising amount of
art and history packed into it.
Here are a few spots to look for:
- Museum at the Bighorns – Learn about local history, ranching, and Native cultures.
- Local galleries downtown – Often showcase Western art, photography, and sculpture.
- Public art – Keep an eye out for statues, murals, and unique storefronts as you walk.
If you enjoy understanding the story behind a place, these museums and galleries help you connect the dots between Sheridan’s past and present.
9. Take a Day Trip to the Little Bighorn Battlefield (Just Over the State Line)
While it’s technically in
Montana, the
Little Bighorn Battlefield National Monument is close enough to make an easy day trip from Sheridan. Many visitors use Sheridan as a base for visiting this historic site.
At the battlefield, you can:
It’s a somber place, but also a meaningful one. If you care about American history, this visit tends to stay with you long after you leave.
10. Eat, Drink, and Relax Like a Local
After all that exploring, you’ll want to enjoy some of Sheridan’s
food and drink scene. The town has a laid-back vibe and plenty of options.
Some ideas:
- Try a locally owned diner for a hearty breakfast before heading to the mountains.
- Grab a burger or steak at a Western-style restaurant that sources local beef.
- Visit a brewery or bar downtown for a Wyoming craft beer or cocktail.
- Finish with ice cream or a fresh-baked dessert from a local bakery.
One of the best parts of travel is those simple moments—sitting at a local bar or café, chatting with folks who live there, and getting tips you won’t find on any map.
Planning Your Trip to Sheridan, Wyoming
Here are a few quick tips to make your visit smoother:
- Best time to visit: Late spring through early fall for hiking, scenic drives, and rodeos. Winter can be cold and snowy, but beautiful if you like that vibe.
- What to pack: Layers, a light jacket (even in summer evenings), comfortable walking shoes, and sunscreen. The sun at higher elevation can be strong.
- Getting around: A car makes it much easier to explore Sheridan County, the Bighorn Mountains, and nearby attractions.
Sheridan is the kind of place where you can do a lot—or do almost nothing—and still feel like your trip was worth it.
Ready to Experience Sheridan, Wyoming?
From
historic hotels and museums to
mountain adventures and Western rodeos, Sheridan offers a great mix of things to do without the crowds you’ll find in bigger tourist towns.
Have you been to Sheridan or somewhere else in northern Wyoming?
What was your favorite thing to do?
- Share this post with friends or family who love road trips and Western history.
- Comment below with your questions, tips, or your own Sheridan stories—I’d love to hear what you discovered there.
If you’re planning a trip now, save this guide so you can easily find the
best things to do near Sheridan, Wyoming when you hit the road.
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