10 Best Things To Do Near Douglas, Wyoming (Converse County)

on

10 Fun Things To Do Near Douglas, Wyoming (Converse County Travel Guide)

Looking for a laid-back Wyoming getaway that still has plenty to see and do? Douglas, Wyoming in Converse County might surprise you. This friendly small town sits right off I‑25, about an hour east of Casper, and it’s a perfect base for exploring central Wyoming’s wide-open spaces, wild history, and classic Western charm. Whether you’re road-tripping through the state, visiting family nearby, or planning a simple weekend escape, here are 10 things to do in and around Douglas, Wyoming that are worth your time.

1. Say Hello to the Jackalope in Downtown Douglas

If you’ve never heard of a jackalope, you will in Douglas. The town proudly calls itself the “Home of the Jackalope” – a mythical creature that’s part jackrabbit, part antelope. Stroll through downtown Douglas and you’ll spot:
  • Large jackalope statues perfect for fun photos
  • Murals and signs with jackalope artwork
  • Shops selling jackalope souvenirs and postcards
It’s a lighthearted stop, but it also gives you a feel for the town’s personality. If you’re traveling with kids, they’ll love climbing up on the statues for photos. And let’s be honest – adults usually end up doing it too.

2. Explore the Wyoming Pioneer Memorial Museum

Right next to the fairgrounds, the Wyoming Pioneer Memorial Museum is one of the best things to do in Douglas if you enjoy local history. Inside, you’ll find:
  • Old wagons, saddles, and cowboy gear
  • Military uniforms and weapons from different eras
  • Everyday items from early homesteaders
  • Displays on frontier life, ranching, and railroads
What I like about this museum is that it pulls you into the stories of real people who tried to build a life in what was once a very harsh place. It’s not a huge museum, so you can easily see it in about an hour or two, making it a great stop on a road trip through Converse County.

3. Visit the Wyoming State Fairgrounds (Events & Off-Season Exploring)

Douglas is home to the Wyoming State Fair, usually held in late summer. If you can time your visit with the fair, you’ll get:
  • Rodeos and horse events
  • Livestock shows and 4‑H competitions
  • Carnival rides and fair food
  • Live music and family-friendly activities
Even if you’re not there during the actual fair, the fairgrounds often host smaller events, like local rodeos, car shows, and craft fairs. It’s worth checking the schedule before your trip. And if nothing’s going on? It’s still a pleasant place for a walk, especially in the evening when the sun drops behind the hills.

4. Walk or Fish Along the North Platte River

The North Platte River runs right by Douglas, and it’s one of the town’s simple pleasures. You can:
  • Take a relaxing walk along the riverfront
  • Try your hand at fishing for trout
  • Enjoy a quiet picnic by the water
If you’re driving through Wyoming and need to stretch your legs, the riverfront makes a peaceful break from the highway. Bring a camp chair, a good book, or just sit and listen to the water for a bit. In a state known for wide-open spaces, this is one of Douglas’s most peaceful spots.

5. Step into Railroad History at the Douglas Railroad Interpretive Center

Love trains, or have kids who do? The Douglas Railroad Interpretive Center is a must-see. Right near downtown you’ll find:
  • Historic railroad cars
  • A classic locomotive you can walk around
  • Displays about how the railroad shaped Douglas and Converse County
It’s not a huge museum complex; that’s actually what makes it fun. You can stop by for 30–45 minutes, explore the train cars, snap a few photos, and hit the road again. If you’re traveling through Wyoming on I‑25, it’s an easy and interesting detour.

6. Spend Time at Riverside Park & Campground

If you like simple, low-key outdoor time, Riverside Park in Douglas is a great local hangout. Here you can:
  • Camp in a shady campground right by the river
  • Let the kids burn off energy on the playground
  • Walk the park’s paths and look for deer or birds
  • Use it as a base while you explore Converse County
Many travelers use Riverside Park as an overnight camping spot on a longer Western road trip. Others stay a couple of nights and explore local attractions from there. Either way, it gives you that quiet “small town in Wyoming” feel without being far from services like gas, groceries, and restaurants.

7. Drive Out to Ayres Natural Bridge (One of Wyoming’s Hidden Gems)

One of the best day trips from Douglas is Ayres Natural Bridge, about 10–15 miles west of town (roughly a 15–20 minute drive). This beautiful county park features:
  • A natural stone bridge carved out by LaPrele Creek
  • Grassy picnic areas under big shade trees
  • Short walking paths with great photo spots
  • Opportunities to wade in the creek on warm days
The natural bridge itself feels like a secret spot, tucked down in a little canyon. It’s especially pretty in late spring and early summer when everything is green. If you’re road-tripping across Wyoming and want one standout stop near Douglas, make it Ayres Natural Bridge. Pack a lunch, bring some water shoes if you like to splash around, and just relax for a while.

8. Explore Converse County’s Backroads and Prairie Landscapes

Douglas sits in the heart of Converse County, an area full of wide-open prairies, rolling hills, and distant mountain views. One of the best things to do in Douglas, Wyoming, is simply to drive the backroads and see where the day takes you. Consider:
  • Sunset drives on quiet county roads
  • Spotting antelope and deer in the open fields
  • Watching storms roll across the plains (from a safe spot, of course)
If you’re used to crowded cities or long lines at attractions, this part of Wyoming can feel almost unreal. Sometimes the best “activity” is just pulling over, stepping out of the car, and listening to the wind and the birds with no other sounds around.

9. Visit Nearby Glendo State Park for Boating & Beach Time

If you’re willing to drive about 30–40 minutes south of Douglas, Glendo State Park makes a fantastic day trip. At this large reservoir, you can:
  • Swim or relax on sandy and rocky beaches
  • Launch a boat or kayak
  • Fish for walleye and other species
  • Camp right near the water
On hot summer days, Glendo is a favorite playground for people from Douglas, Casper, and even Cheyenne. It’s a nice contrast to the dry prairie – suddenly you’ve got a big blue lake and plenty of shade trees to enjoy. If you’re building a Wyoming itinerary, pairing a stay in Douglas with an afternoon at Glendo State Park gives you both small-town charm and lake time in one trip.

10. Enjoy Local Events, Rodeos, and Small-Town Flavor

Throughout the year, Douglas and the rest of Converse County host a variety of small-town events that give you a taste of local life. Depending on when you visit, you might find:
  • Local rodeos and horse events
  • Parades and holiday celebrations
  • Farmers markets or craft fairs
  • Live music at bars or community venues
Check bulletin boards around town, the Converse County tourism website, or social media pages to see what’s happening. Sometimes the best travel memories come from events you didn’t even plan on – a small rodeo at the fairgrounds, a local fundraiser dinner, or a street festival you just stumble into.

Planning Your Trip to Douglas, Wyoming

Here are a few quick tips to make your visit smoother:
  • Best time to visit: Late spring through early fall for comfortable weather and more events.
  • Getting there: Douglas sits right off I‑25, about 50 miles east of Casper and roughly 130 miles north of Cheyenne.
  • How long to stay: You can see the highlights in a day, but 2–3 days lets you explore Ayres Natural Bridge, Glendo State Park, and the local museums at an easy pace.
  • Who will enjoy it: Road-trippers, families, history buffs, campers, and anyone who needs a quiet break from big-city life.

Final Thoughts: Is Douglas Worth a Stop?

If you’re looking for glitzy nightlife or giant theme parks, Douglas, Wyoming isn’t your place. But if you want:
  • Friendly people
  • Big skies and open roads
  • Fun roadside photo ops
  • Real Western history and quiet outdoor spots
…then Douglas in Converse County is absolutely worth a stop – or even a full weekend. Maybe you come for the jackalope, stay for the state fair, and end up falling in love with the calm of the North Platte River or the shade of Ayres Natural Bridge. That’s how small towns in Wyoming work on you – slowly, but deeply.

Share Your Douglas, Wyoming Experience

Have you visited Douglas or Converse County?
  • Which spot was your favorite – the Wyoming Pioneer Memorial Museum, Ayres Natural Bridge, or Glendo State Park?
  • Did you get a photo with a jackalope?
Drop your stories, tips, or questions in the comments – they help other travelers planning their own Wyoming road trip. If you found this guide to things to do near Douglas, Wyoming helpful, please share it with a friend or family member who loves exploring small towns and hidden gems in the USA.
Location: Georgetown, IN, USA

Comments

Post a Comment