If you’re planning a road trip along I‑80 or looking for a small Western town with big personality,
is a great place to stop and explore. Tucked into
, right near the Utah border, this railroad town mixes outdoor adventure, Old West history, and wide‑open Wyoming skies.
Below are
that are perfect for families, couples, and solo travelers alike.
1. Stroll Through Historic Downtown Evanston
Downtown Evanston feels like stepping into a Western movie set, but with coffee shops and murals.
Walk along Main Street and you’ll find:
- Colorful brick buildings from the late 1800s
- Local shops with Western wear, antiques, and gifts
- Casual spots to grab burgers, tacos, or a sit‑down dinner
- Street art and historic markers that tell the town’s railroad story
If you enjoy small‑town vibes where people still hold the door open for you, you’ll like it here. Take your time, pop into a few stores, and then grab a cup of coffee or an ice cream while you watch the world go by.
2. Visit the Evanston Roundhouse & Railyards
Evanston was born as a
Union Pacific Railroad town, and the
Evanston Roundhouse & Railyards are a huge part of that history.
This massive stone roundhouse once serviced steam locomotives. Today, it’s being restored and used for events, tours, and community gatherings.
Why it’s worth a stop:
- Unique architecture – big stone arches and heavy timber beams
- Photo‑worthy spots for train and history buffs
- Occasional markets, festivals, and events inside the roundhouse
Even if you’re not a big railroad fan, it’s pretty cool to stand in a building that once saw huge steam engines roll through every day. Check local listings or the city’s website to see if there’s an event when you’re in town.
3. Relax at Bear River State Park
Just east of town, right off I‑80, you’ll find
Bear River State Park—one of the easiest and most relaxing things to do in Evanston.
Here’s what you can do at the park:
- Walk or bike along paved and gravel trails beside the Bear River
- Look for the park’s small herds of bison and elk in fenced viewing areas
- Enjoy a picnic at one of the shelters or tables
- Watch birds and other wildlife along the water
Most trails are flat and easy, so it’s great for kids or anyone just looking for a peaceful stroll. On a sunny day, it’s hard to beat sitting by the river with a sandwich and listening to the water.
4. Explore the Bear River Greenway
Connected to the state park is the
Bear River Greenway, a local favorite. This pathway runs along the river through town and gives you a quiet escape without ever leaving Evanston.
Highlights of the Greenway:
- Miles of walking and biking paths
- Access points to the river for fishing or just dipping your toes
- Benches and small picnic spots
- Pretty views in every season—especially fall, when the trees turn gold
If you’re on a long drive across Wyoming, the Greenway is the perfect place to stretch your legs for 30–60 minutes instead of sitting at a gas station.
5. Step Inside the Joss House and Historic Chinatown Site
One of the most unique historical stops in Evanston is the
Joss House, connected to the town’s old
Chinese community that worked on the railroad in the late 1800s.
At this small but meaningful site, you can:
- Learn about the Chinese railroad workers who helped build the West
- See exhibits about Chinese culture and religion in frontier days
- Understand a side of Wyoming history that often gets overlooked
If you’re traveling with kids or teens, this is a good place to spark conversations about immigration, hard work, and how different cultures helped shape the American West.
6. Enjoy Outdoor Fun at the Uinta County Fairgrounds
The
Uinta County Fairgrounds are a major gathering place for Evanston and the rest of the county, especially in summer.
Depending on when you visit, you might catch:
- The Uinta County Fair with rides, food, and 4‑H animals
- Rodeos featuring bull riding, barrel racing, and roping
- Horse shows, livestock events, or truck pulls
- Seasonal festivals, concerts, and community celebrations
Nothing says “Wyoming” like dusty boots, the smell of funnel cake, and a rodeo announcer’s voice echoing through the arena. Check the local calendar to see what’s happening during your stay.
7. Take a Scenic Drive into the Uinta Mountains
One of the best things about Evanston is how close it is to the
Uinta Mountains, a beautiful range stretching across the Wyoming–Utah border.
From Evanston, you can head south or southwest toward high country and find:
- Scenic byways with huge mountain and forest views
- Cooler temperatures in summer, often 10–20 degrees cooler than town
- Trailheads for hiking and access to alpine lakes
- Plenty of spots to pull over, take photos, or have a picnic
Even if you’re not planning a long hike, just driving up into the mountains for an hour or two feels like hitting a reset button. Bring a light jacket—mountain weather changes fast.
8. Fish, Camp, or Boat at Mirror Lake (and Nearby Lakes)
If you don’t mind a bit of a drive,
Mirror Lake and the surrounding lake country in the Uwinta region (mostly on the Utah side, but easy from Evanston) make a fantastic day trip.
What you can do there:
- Fish for trout in clear, cold mountain water
- Camp under star‑filled skies with almost zero light pollution
- Take short hikes around the lakes or to nearby viewpoints
- Enjoy a simple lakeside picnic with postcard‑worthy views
You’ll want to check local regulations for fishing licenses and camping rules, and it’s smart to bring layers, rain gear, and plenty of water. The combination of mountain air and silence is hard to beat.
9. Step Back in Time at the Fort Bridger State Historic Site
About a 30‑minute drive east of Evanston, still within
Uinta County, you’ll find
Fort Bridger State Historic Site, one of the most important waypoints on the old
Oregon, California, and Mormon Trails.
At Fort Bridger, you can:
- Walk among reconstructed and preserved frontier buildings
- See exhibits about fur trappers, pioneers, and the U.S. Army
- Learn about trail life and what it took to cross the West by wagon
- Attend the famous Fort Bridger Rendezvous (usually late summer), where reenactors dress in period clothing and bring the old trading days to life
If you like U.S. history, this is a must‑see while you’re in the Evanston area.
10. Hit the Slopes or Trails at Nearby Ski & Recreation Areas
While Evanston itself doesn’t have a ski resort, it’s a handy base for reaching nearby
year‑round mountain fun.
In winter and early spring, you can:
- Drive to regional ski areas in the Uinta Mountains and northern Utah
- Enjoy cross‑country skiing and snowshoeing on local trails
- Bring or rent a snowmobile and explore designated riding areas
In summer and fall, the same areas offer:
- Mountain biking and day hiking
- Wildflower viewing in mid‑summer
- Brilliant fall color drives in late September and early October
If you’re building a Western road trip focused on outdoor recreation, Evanston makes a practical and more affordable base than some of the bigger resort towns.
Planning Your Trip to Evanston, Wyoming
To make the most of your stay in
Evanston and Uinta County, keep these tips in mind:
- Altitude: Evanston sits over 6,700 feet above sea level, and nearby mountains go much higher. Drink water and take it easy your first day if you’re coming from lower elevation.
- Weather: Summers are sunny and dry, winters are cold and snowy. Even in July, evenings can feel cool—bring a light jacket.
- Driving: Distances can be longer than they look on the map. Fill up on gas in town before heading into remote mountain areas.
- Gear: For hiking and fishing, bring sturdy shoes, sunscreen, and layers. Wyoming weather can change quickly.
Whether you’re just passing through on I‑80 or staying for a few days, Evanston offers a friendly introduction to
small‑town Wyoming life with easy access to big landscapes.
What Would You Add to This Evanston, WY Bucket List?
Have you visited Evanston or explored other parts of
Uinta County?
- Which spots did you enjoy the most?
- Do you have a favorite hike, fishing hole, or local restaurant?
I’d love to hear your suggestions and experiences.
Share this post with friends or family planning a
Wyoming road trip, and drop a comment with your own tips on the best things to do in and around Evanston, Wyoming. Your ideas can help other travelers discover this underrated corner of the West.
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