Looking for a laid-back Western getaway with big skies, mountain views, and real-deal local culture?
or Grand Teton—and that’s exactly why it’s so special.
Riverton sits in the middle of wide open country, where the
rises to the west and the plains stretch out in every direction. It’s quiet, friendly, and just wild enough to feel like an adventure.
Whether you’re road-tripping across Wyoming, visiting family, or planning a simple small-town escape, here are
that will make you glad you stopped.
1. Stroll the Riverwalk Along the Wind River
One of the simplest, most relaxing things to do in Riverton is walk the
Riverwalk along the Wind River. The paved path winds through town, with spots to sit, watch the water, or just take in the mountain views.
On a calm evening, you’ll see locals walking dogs, kids riding bikes, and anglers trying their luck.
- Great for: easy walks, families, morning jogs
- Keep an eye out for: deer, bald eagles, and colorful sunsets
If you’ve been driving for hours on Highway 26, this is the perfect place to stretch your legs and breathe some fresh Wyoming air.
2. Discover Local History at the Riverton Museum
For a deeper look at Riverton and Fremont County, stop by the
Riverton Museum. It’s small, friendly, and packed with local stories—from homesteaders and ranching to the arrival of the railroad.
You might find:
- Old photos of Riverton’s early days
- Native American artifacts from the surrounding region
- Displays on farming, mining, and pioneer life
The staff are usually happy to share tips on other things to do in Riverton, too. Ask them where to eat, hike, or fish—you’ll get real local advice, not a tourist brochure answer.
3. Step Back in Time at the Wind River Heritage Center
Just outside town, the
Wind River Heritage Center feels a bit like stepping into an old-time Western movie set packed with oddities. It often features:
- Taxidermy wildlife displays (think bison, elk, and bears)
- Old wagons and ranch equipment
- Historical photos and frontier memorabilia
If you’re traveling with kids or anyone who loves the Old West, this place is a fun stop. It gives a sense of what life was like in Fremont County long before air conditioning and paved roads.
4. Get Outdoors at Boysen State Park & Boysen Reservoir
About 20–25 minutes north of Riverton,
Boysen State Park and
Boysen Reservoir offer classic Wyoming outdoor fun. Think wide-open views, big water, and quiet campgrounds.
Popular things to do at Boysen:
- Fishing for walleye, trout, perch, and more
- Boating and kayaking on the lake
- Camping under dark skies full of stars
- Swimming and picnicking on warm summer days
If you like to wake up to water lapping the shore and the sound of birds instead of traffic, book a campsite here and use Riverton as your supply stop.
5. Explore the Wind River Indian Reservation
Riverton sits right next to the
Wind River Indian Reservation, home to the
Eastern Shoshone and
Northern Arapaho tribes. You’re just a short drive from places rich with culture and history.
Depending on the season and schedule, you may be able to:
- Attend a powwow (public events sometimes happen in summer)
- Visit local cultural centers or churches in nearby communities like Ethete, Fort Washakie, or St. Stephen’s
- See historic sites such as Chief Washakie’s gravesite (in Fort Washakie)
Always be respectful: this is not just a “tourist spot”—it’s home to many people. If you’re unsure where to go, ask at your hotel in Riverton or at a local museum for current, respectful ways to visit.
6. Take a Scenic Day Trip to Lander
About 25 miles south of Riverton,
Lander, Wyoming makes a great half-day or full-day side trip. The drive itself is easy and pretty, with the Wind River Range slowly filling the horizon.
Once you’re in Lander, you can:
- Hike or picnic in Sink’s Canyon State Park, just up the canyon
- Browse little shops and outdoor stores downtown
- Grab a burger or local craft beer
You might spend your nights in Riverton and bounce down to Lander for a few hours of hiking and exploring. It’s an easy way to add more mountain time to your Riverton visit.
7. Try Your Hand at Fishing on the Wind River
If you like to fish—or want to learn—Riverton is a great base. The
Wind River and nearby streams hold trout and other species, and many locals grow up fishing these waters.
Here’s how to get started:
- Pick up a Wyoming fishing license (check local sporting goods shops in Riverton)
- Ask for advice on where the fish are biting that week
- Consider hiring a local guide if you’re new to fly-fishing or want access to the best spots
Early mornings and evenings can be especially peaceful. Picture cool air, soft light on the river, and the sound of water moving past while you cast.
8. Enjoy Small-Town Events and Local Flavor
One of the best things to do in Riverton, Wyoming, might not be a specific attraction—it’s simply
showing up when something is happening.
Depending on the time of year, you might catch:
- Fairs and rodeos in Riverton or nearby towns
- Local farmers markets with produce, crafts, and baked goods
- Community events at the Fremont County Fairgrounds
Small-town events are friendly and low-key. Don’t be shy about chatting with folks in line or asking a local where to get the best cinnamon roll or steak in town—you’ll often end up with great tips and maybe even a new friend.
9. Take a Scenic Drive Toward the Wind River Range
If you have a car and a little time, use Riverton as your base for a
scenic drive toward the mountains.
A few ideas:
- Drive west toward Dubois for sweeping views and red rock badlands along the way.
- Head toward Lander and on up to Sink’s Canyon for tight canyons and river views.
- Wander backroads around Fremont County to find photo spots with barns, fields, and mountain backdrops.
Bring a camera and maybe a thermos of coffee. Even if you’re not hiking, the views alone are worth the gas.
10. Watch the Sunset and Stargaze Under Big Western Skies
One of the most underrated things to do near Riverton is completely free: just
look up.
On clear evenings:
- Turn west and watch the sun dip behind the Wind River Range.
- Stay out after dark to see stars pop out one by one.
- On moonless nights, you might even see the Milky Way stretching across the sky.
Compared to busy city life, the quiet in Fremont County can feel almost unreal. Find a pullout away from town lights, bundle up if it’s chilly, and just soak in the silence and the stars.
Where to Stay and How Long to Visit Riverton
Riverton has a good mix of
motels, chain hotels, and small locally owned places. It’s also a convenient stop if you’re driving between:
- Casper and Yellowstone
- South Dakota and Grand Teton National Park
If you’re just passing through, spend
one night to walk the Riverwalk, grab dinner, and see the sunset.
If you want to explore more of Fremont County—Lander, Boysen State Park, and the Wind River Reservation—plan for
2–3 days in and around Riverton.
Final Thoughts: Why Riverton, Wyoming Deserves a Spot on Your Road Trip
Riverton may not be a flashy tourist town, but that’s exactly the charm. It’s a real working Wyoming community surrounded by big landscapes and quiet, wide-open spaces.
From the
Wind River to
Boysen Reservoir, from small-town museums to star-filled skies, there are plenty of things to do near Riverton if you know where to look. It’s the kind of place where you slow down, talk to locals, and remember what a simple day can feel like.
Share Your Riverton Experience
Have you visited Riverton or Fremont County?
- What was your favorite thing to do near Riverton?
- Did you discover a great fishing spot, hiking trail, or local cafe?
Drop your stories, questions, and travel tips in the comments—your experience might help the next traveler plan their own Wyoming adventure.
And if you know someone mapping out a
Wyoming road trip,
share this post with them so they don’t just drive past Riverton without stopping to explore.
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