, you’re in for a treat. This college town in
is surrounded by wide‑open spaces, mountain views, and a laid‑back Western vibe that feels a world away from big‑city stress.
Whether you’re road‑tripping across Wyoming, visiting a student at the
, or just looking for a new weekend getaway, Laramie has more to do than you might expect.
Below are
that will help you make the most of your time in this part of southeast Wyoming.
1. Wander Historic Downtown Laramie
Start your visit right in the heart of town.
Downtown Laramie is compact, walkable, and full of character.
You’ll find:
- Colorful brick buildings with old Western charm
- Locally owned coffee shops and bakeries
- Outdoor gear stores and quirky boutiques
- Murals and public art on alley walls
Grab a coffee, stroll along 2nd and 3rd Street, and just soak it in. On my first visit, I thought I’d only spend 30 minutes downtown. Two hours later I was still poking around bookshops and chatting with locals about winter storms and Wyoming winds.
It’s an easy way to get a feel for Laramie’s personality before you head out on bigger adventures.
2. Explore the University of Wyoming Campus
Even if you’re not a student, the
University of Wyoming campus is worth a walk. It sits right in Laramie and has a relaxed, open feel.
Things to check out:
- The main green spaces and sandstone buildings
- The Wyoming Union – a good place to grab a bite or people‑watch
- Public art and statues scattered around campus
On a sunny fall day, with the trees turning yellow and students walking to class, the campus feels almost like a movie set. It’s also a safe, easy place to stretch your legs if you’ve been driving I‑80 for hours.
3. Visit the Wyoming Territorial Prison State Historic Site
Want a real Old West story? Just west of town you’ll find the
Wyoming Territorial Prison State Historic Site, one of the most popular things to do in Laramie.
This 19th‑century prison once held some serious outlaws, including the famous train robber
Butch Cassidy.
When you visit, you can:
- Walk through the cell blocks and prison yard
- See historic photos and exhibits about prisoners’ lives
- Learn how the building later became part of an agricultural experiment station
It’s fascinating and a little spooky. The thick stone walls and narrow cells really make you imagine what life here felt like over 100 years ago.
Tip: Plan at least 1–2 hours. It’s a great stop if you’re traveling with history buffs or teens who like true‑crime stories.
4. Hike or Bike in Curt Gowdy State Park
If you’re ready to get outdoors,
Curt Gowdy State Park should be near the top of your Wyoming bucket list. It’s about halfway between Laramie and Cheyenne, roughly a 30–40 minute drive from town.
This park is known for:
- Miles of scenic hiking and mountain biking trails
- Three reservoirs: Granite, Crystal, and North Crow
- Fishing, kayaking, and paddleboarding in calm water
The trails range from easy to challenging, so you can pick what fits your day. Even a short walk gives you big‑sky views, red rock, and rolling hills.
If you love mountain biking, this area is a hidden gem in the region. People drive from Colorado just to ride these trails.
5. Soak in the Views at Vedauwoo Recreation Area
Just east of Laramie, off I‑80, lies one of the most unique spots in southeast Wyoming:
Vedauwoo Recreation Area (pronounced “Vee‑da‑voo”).
Here you’ll see:
- Massive granite rock formations stacked like giant building blocks
- Short hiking trails winding through boulders and pines
- Picnic areas and basic campgrounds
It feels a little like you’ve stepped onto another planet. Kids love climbing around the rocks, and photographers love the sunsets here.
If you’re road‑tripping across Wyoming, Vedauwoo makes a fantastic quick stop right off the highway. But it’s also worth a half‑ or full‑day if you like to hike, scramble on rocks, or just sit and enjoy the quiet.
6. Discover the Snowy Range in Medicine Bow National Forest
If you’re visiting Laramie in late spring, summer, or early fall, don’t miss a drive into the
Snowy Range in
Medicine Bow National Forest. It’s about 35–60 minutes west of town, depending on where you stop.
The
Snowy Range Scenic Byway (Highway 130) climbs to over 10,000 feet and offers:
- Alpine lakes just a short walk from parking areas
- Trailheads for hikes ranging from easy strolls to tougher climbs
- Spectacular mountain views and wildflowers in summer
Even if you’re not a big hiker, just driving the byway and stopping at viewpoints is worth it. On one early July visit, I still found snow patches along the road while standing in a T‑shirt under bright sun. You really feel how wild Wyoming can be.
Note: The byway usually closes in winter due to deep snow, so check road conditions before you go.
7. Step Back in Time at the Wyoming State Museum of Art & History…Laramie‑Style
Laramie might be small, but it has some surprisingly good
museums and cultural stops, perfect for a cold or windy day (and yes, Wyoming winds are the real deal).
In and near Laramie, look for:
- University of Wyoming Art Museum – rotating exhibits, modern and classic art, free admission
- American Heritage Center – archives and exhibits about Western history, books, and pop culture
- Smaller local history displays around town
The University of Wyoming Art Museum, in particular, is an easy add to a campus visit. It’s not overwhelming, and you can walk through in under an hour if you’re short on time.
8. Grab a Local Beer or Bite at a Laramie Brewery
After a day of hiking or exploring, it’s hard to beat a cold drink and a hearty meal. Laramie has a growing craft beer and local food scene that surprises a lot of visitors.
You’ll find:
- Local breweries with house‑made beers on tap
- Casual pubs with burgers, sandwiches, and comfort food
- Family‑friendly spots where kids are welcome
This is where you’ll often meet locals and university folks unwinding after work or after a game. If you’re not a beer drinker, don’t worry—most places offer good non‑alcoholic options and classic pub food.
Tip: Ask what’s local on the menu, whether it’s Wyoming beef, regional trout, or small‑batch brews.
9. Go Wildlife Watching and Stargazing Around Albany County
One of the best parts of visiting
Laramie and Albany County is how quickly you can get out into true open country.
Not far from town, you can:
- Spot pronghorn (often called “antelope”) grazing in open fields
- See mule deer at dawn and dusk
- Look for birds of prey circling above the plains
At night, the skies around Laramie can be incredibly dark, especially if you drive a bit away from town lights. On a clear night, it feels like someone turned on extra stars.
If you’re into photography or just love a good night sky, bring a tripod or a blanket and spend some time stargazing. High elevation and low light pollution make this area a quiet little paradise for night views.
10. Experience Local Events, Rodeos, and Game Day Energy
Depending on when you visit Laramie, you might be able to catch:
- University of Wyoming Cowboys football or basketball games
- Local rodeos and Western events in the region
- Street festivals, art walks, and seasonal markets downtown
Game days, especially in the fall, give Laramie a fun, lively feel. You’ll see fans in brown and gold, tailgates, and packed local bars and restaurants.
If you’ve never been to a college football game in a smaller town, this is your chance to feel that energy—mixed with Wyoming’s own rugged style.
Planning Your Trip to Laramie, Wyoming
Here are a few quick tips to make your Laramie getaway smoother:
- Altitude: Laramie sits around 7,200 feet above sea level. Drink plenty of water, take it easy the first day, and don’t be surprised if you get winded faster than usual.
- Weather: It can change fast. Pack layers, even in summer. Winters are cold and snowy; summers are usually mild but sunny.
- Driving: Distances in Wyoming look short on a map, but roads can be remote. Keep gas in your tank and snacks in the car, especially if you’re heading into the Snowy Range or Medicine Bow National Forest.
Why Laramie Belongs on Your Wyoming Road Trip
Laramie may not be as famous as Yellowstone or Jackson Hole, but that’s part of its charm. It’s a real working town with:
- Easy access to mountains, forests, and rock formations
- A friendly, relaxed downtown
- Plenty of things to do for couples, families, and solo travelers
From hiking in the
Snowy Range to stepping inside the
Wyoming Territorial Prison, you get a true Western experience without huge crowds or sky‑high prices.
Share Your Laramie Experience
Have you been to
Laramie, Wyoming or anywhere in
Albany County?
- Which hike or viewpoint was your favorite?
- Did you find a great coffee shop or brewery downtown?
- Have any tips for visiting the Snowy Range or Vedauwoo?
Drop your thoughts, questions, and travel stories in the comments below—I’d love to hear how your trip went and what you discovered.
And if you know someone planning a
Wyoming road trip,
share this post to help them find the best things to do near Laramie. It might just inspire their next great Western adventure.
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