10 Fun Things To Do In And Around Cheyenne, Wyoming
Cheyenne, Wyoming may be known as the “Cowboy Capital,” but there’s a lot more going on here than rodeos and railroads. Whether you’re road‑tripping on I‑25, flying in for a long weekend, or passing through on your way to the mountains, this friendly city in Laramie County is packed with history, outdoor fun, and Western charm.
If you’ve ever wondered what to do in Cheyenne besides the famous rodeo, this guide is for you. Let’s walk through 10 great things to do in and around Cheyenne that are perfect for couples, families, and solo travelers.
1. Step Back In Time At The Wyoming State Capitol
The Wyoming State Capitol is one of the most beautiful buildings in Cheyenne and a must‑see if you love history or architecture. Inside, you’ll find:- Gorgeous stained glass and detailed woodwork
- Historic legislative chambers
- Exhibits about Wyoming’s role in women’s suffrage
2. Get Your Western Fix At Cheyenne Frontier Days & Old West Museum
Even if you don’t visit during the famous Cheyenne Frontier Days rodeo (usually held in late July), you can still dive into the spirit of the “Daddy of ’em All” at the Cheyenne Frontier Days Old West Museum. Inside the museum, you’ll find:- Dozens of historic carriages and wagons
- Rodeo and cowboy exhibits
- Memorabilia from more than a century of Frontier Days
- Pro rodeos and bull riding
- Big‑name concerts
- Parades, a carnival, and pancake breakfasts
3. Explore Downtown Cheyenne’s Historic Streets
Downtown Cheyenne is compact, walkable, and full of character. You don’t need a strict plan here. Just park your car and wander a bit. Look for:- Colorful murals and Western‑themed art
- Locally owned coffee shops and bakeries
- Antique stores and Western wear shops
4. Visit The Cheyenne Depot Museum & Watch The Trains
Cheyenne grew up as a railroad town, and the Cheyenne Depot Museum sits right at the heart of that story. The old Union Pacific Depot, built in the late 1800s, now houses a museum that explains how the railroad shaped Cheyenne and the American West. Inside, you’ll see:- Historic photos and maps of the rail lines
- Model trains and railroad tools
- Stories of the workers who built and ran the trains
5. Hike, Picnic, And Climb Around Curt Gowdy State Park
If you’re willing to drive about 25–30 minutes west of Cheyenne, Curt Gowdy State Park is one of the best outdoor spots in Laramie County. This park offers:- Miles of hiking and mountain biking trails
- Three scenic reservoirs: Granite, Crystal, and North Crow
- Fishing, boating, and paddleboarding
- Plenty of water (the air is dry and the elevation is high)
- Layers – it can cool down fast in the evening
- A picnic blanket and snacks
6. Get Up Close To Bison At Terry Bison Ranch
Just south of Cheyenne, near the Colorado line, the Terry Bison Ranch gives you a chance to see America’s largest land mammal up close. Popular activities include:- Bison train tours that take you right into the herd
- Pony and horseback rides (seasonal)
- A Western‑style restaurant on site
7. Meet The Herd At The Cheyenne Botanic Gardens & Paul Smith Children’s Village
If you’re looking for a relaxing, budget‑friendly outing in Cheyenne, head to the Cheyenne Botanic Gardens. It’s located inside Lions Park, just a short drive from downtown. Highlights include:- A glass conservatory with tropical and desert plants
- Colorful flower beds and walking paths outside
- The Paul Smith Children’s Village with hands‑on activities
- A walk around Sloan’s Lake
- A picnic under the trees
- Time at the playground or nearby ball fields
8. Discover Local History At The Wyoming State Museum
If you want a crash course in all things Wyoming, the Wyoming State Museum in Cheyenne is the place to go. Inside, you’ll learn about:- Native American cultures
- Frontier life and ranching
- Wyoming wildlife and natural history
9. Take A Scenic Drive To Vedauwoo (Just Over The County Line)
Okay, this one is technically beyond Laramie County, but it’s close enough that many Cheyenne locals make the trip regularly. About 35–45 minutes west on I‑80, between Cheyenne and Laramie, sits Vedauwoo Recreation Area (pronounced “Vee‑da‑voo”). Vedauwoo is known for:- Huge, rounded rock formations that look like giant building blocks
- Short hikes with big views
- Rock climbing and bouldering
10. Follow The “Western Experience” Trail: Ranches, Breweries, And Local Eats
Sometimes the best way to experience a place like Cheyenne is to mix a little bit of everything – food, drink, and local culture. Here’s a simple “Western experience” you can put together in a day or weekend:- Start with breakfast or coffee downtown (try a local café instead of a chain).
- Visit a museum in the morning: the Depot Museum, State Museum, or Frontier Days Old West Museum.
- Head out to Terry Bison Ranch for a bison train ride or to a nearby ranch or riding stable if you want a horseback experience.
- Return to Cheyenne and relax at a local brewery or taproom in the late afternoon.
- Finish with dinner at a steakhouse or casual grill featuring Wyoming beef.
Planning Your Trip To Cheyenne, Wyoming
Here are a few quick tips to make your visit smoother:- Weather: Cheyenne sits over 6,000 feet above sea level. It can be sunny and warm one minute and windy and chilly the next. Bring layers, even in summer.
- Getting around: A car makes things easier, especially if you want to visit Curt Gowdy State Park, Vedauwoo, or Terry Bison Ranch.
- How long to stay: You can hit several downtown sights in a day, but 2–3 days lets you add outdoor adventures and side trips.
- Events: Check local calendars for concerts, farmers’ markets, and, of course, Cheyenne Frontier Days.
What Will You Do First In Cheyenne?
Cheyenne may not be as famous as some big Western cities, but that’s part of its charm. It’s a place where you can:- Walk through cowboy history in the morning
- Hike among rocks and pines in the afternoon
- Watch the sun set over open prairie in the evening
Comments
Post a Comment