Map Of Eastern Wyoming Travel Guide
Introduction
Eastern Wyoming is a hidden gem that offers a wide range of attractions for travelers. Whether you are looking for outdoor adventures, historical landmarks, family-friendly activities, or cultural immersion, this region has something for everyone. In this travel guide, we will take you on a journey through the top attractions, hidden gems, food scene, budget-friendly tips, and more.
Top Attractions
One of the must-visit attractions in Eastern Wyoming is the Devils Tower National Monument. This natural wonder is a 867-foot tall rock formation that offers stunning views and hiking trails. Another popular attraction is the Wyoming State Capitol Building, which is a beautiful example of Renaissance Revival architecture. For a unique experience, you can visit the Fossil Butte National Monument, which features over 300 species of fossils.
Hidden Gems
If you are looking for off-the-beaten-path experiences, Eastern Wyoming has plenty to offer. The Heart Mountain Interpretive Center is a museum that tells the story of Japanese-American internment during World War II. The Bighorn Canyon National Recreation Area is a hidden gem that offers stunning views of the canyon and opportunities for boating, fishing, and hiking. For a unique cultural experience, you can visit the Wind River Indian Reservation, which is home to the Eastern Shoshone and Northern Arapaho tribes.
Food Scene
Eastern Wyoming has a diverse food scene that offers something for every palate. For a taste of the region, you can try the bison burgers at the Proud Cut Saloon in Sundance. For a fine dining experience, you can visit the FireRock Steakhouse in Casper, which offers delicious steaks and seafood. For a casual meal, you can visit the Wonder Bar in Cheyenne, which is famous for its burgers and onion rings.
Budget-Friendly Tips
Traveling on a budget? Eastern Wyoming has plenty of affordable options. You can camp at one of the many state parks, which offer stunning views and plenty of outdoor activities. You can also visit the Wyoming State Museum in Cheyenne, which offers free admission and a wealth of information about the state’s history. For a budget-friendly meal, you can visit the Sandwich Bar in Laramie, which offers delicious sandwiches and salads at affordable prices.
Outdoor Adventures
Eastern Wyoming is a paradise for outdoor enthusiasts. You can hike the trails at the Medicine Bow National Forest, which offers stunning views of the mountains and wildlife. You can also go fishing at the North Platte River, which is one of the best trout fishing destinations in the country. For a unique experience, you can go hot air ballooning over the Wyoming landscape.
Historical Landmarks
Eastern Wyoming has a rich history that is reflected in its many landmarks. The Fort Laramie National Historic Site is a must-visit for history buffs, as it was once a major trading post on the Oregon Trail. Another historical landmark is the Wyoming Territorial Prison State Historic Site, which was once a prison that housed notorious outlaws such as Butch Cassidy. The Ames Monument is another historical landmark that pays tribute to the Union Pacific Railroad’s chief financier.
Family-Friendly Activities
Eastern Wyoming is a great destination for families, as it offers plenty of activities for all ages. You can visit the Cheyenne Botanic Gardens, which features a butterfly house, a children’s garden, and a greenhouse. For a fun day out, you can visit the Wyoming Dinosaur Center in Thermopolis, which has over 30 mounted dinosaur skeletons and a working dig site. You can also visit the Terry Bison Ranch, which offers bison tours, horseback riding, and a petting zoo.
Natural Wonders
Eastern Wyoming is home to some of the most spectacular natural wonders in the country. The Grand Teton National Park is a must-visit destination, as it offers stunning views of the Teton Range and opportunities for hiking, camping, and wildlife watching. Another natural wonder is the Hot Springs State Park in Thermopolis, which features hot springs, a bison herd, and beautiful hiking trails. For a unique experience, you can visit the Ayres Natural Bridge Park, which features a natural bridge that was formed over a million years ago.
Vibrant Nightlife
Eastern Wyoming may be known for its natural beauty, but it also has a vibrant nightlife scene. You can visit the Crown Bar in Cheyenne, which is the oldest bar in Wyoming and has a lively atmosphere. For a more laid-back vibe, you can visit the Coal Creek Tap in Laramie, which offers a wide selection of craft beers and live music. The Beacon Club in Casper is another popular spot, with its outdoor patio and live music.
Local Markets
Eastern Wyoming is home to many local markets that offer fresh produce, handmade goods, and a glimpse into the local culture. The Cheyenne Farmers Market is a must-visit, with its wide selection of locally grown produce, artisanal breads, and handmade crafts. The Lander Farmers Market is another popular spot, with its fresh fruits and vegetables, live music, and food vendors. The Gillette Farmers Market is a great place to shop for locally made jams, honey, and baked goods.
Beaches and Mountains
Eastern Wyoming may not have a coastline, but it does have some beautiful beaches and mountains to explore. The Glendo State Park is a popular destination for beachgoers, with its sandy beaches and swimming areas. For a mountain adventure, you can visit the Snowy Range Mountains, which offer stunning views and opportunities for hiking and camping. The Black Hills National Forest is another mountain destination, with its granite peaks and wildlife.
Cultural Immersion
Eastern Wyoming has a rich cultural heritage that is reflected in its museums, art galleries, and cultural events. You can visit the Nicolaysen Art Museum in Casper, which features contemporary art from Wyoming and the West. The Wyoming Frontier Prison Museum in Rawlins offers a glimpse into the state’s history of crime and punishment. For a cultural event, you can visit the Cheyenne Frontier Days, which is a celebration of the state’s western heritage.
Art and Music Scene
Eastern Wyoming has a thriving art and music scene that offers something for every taste. The Cheyenne Civic Center is a popular venue for concerts and theater performances. The Laramie Plains Museum is a great place to explore the state’s history through art and artifacts. For a unique experience, you can visit the Hole in the Wall Gallery in Casper, which features artwork by local artists.
Walking Tours
Eastern Wyoming is a great destination for walking tours, as it offers plenty of historic sites and scenic routes. You can take a walking tour of the Cheyenne Depot Museum, which features exhibits on the state’s railroad history. The Douglas Railroad Interpretive Center is another great spot for a walking tour, with its historic railroad buildings and scenic views. For a more scenic walk, you can explore the trails at the Vedauwoo Recreation Area.
Architectural Marvels
Eastern Wyoming has many architectural marvels that are worth a visit. The Wyoming State Capitol Building is a beautiful example of Renaissance Revival architecture, with its gold dome and murals. The Historic Plains Hotel in Cheyenne is another must-visit, with its Art Deco style and luxurious amenities. For a unique architectural experience, you can visit the Ames Monument, which was built to honor the Union Pacific Railroad’s chief financier.
Historical Sites
Eastern Wyoming is home to many historical sites that offer a glimpse into the state’s past. The Fort Laramie National Historic Site is a must-visit, with its historic buildings and exhibits on the state’s military history. The Wyoming Territorial Prison State Historic Site is another popular spot, with its exhibits on the state’s outlaws and prisoners. For a unique historical experience, you can visit the Fossil Butte National Monument, which features over 300 species of fossils.
Biking Routes
Eastern Wyoming is a great destination for biking enthusiasts, with its scenic routes and challenging terrain. The Medicine Bow Rail Trail is a popular spot for mountain biking, with its scenic views and challenging hills. The Platte River Parkway Trail is another great route, with its paved paths and opportunities for wildlife watching. The Vedauwoo Recreation Area is a great spot for off-road biking, with its rocky terrain and scenic views.
Wellness Retreats
Eastern Wyoming is a great destination for wellness retreats, with its natural hot springs and scenic views. The Saratoga Hot Springs Resort is a popular spot for relaxation, with its hot springs, spa treatments, and scenic views. The Thermopolis Hot Springs State Park is another great spot, with its hot springs, swimming areas, and hiking trails. For a more adventurous wellness retreat, you can visit the Snowy Range Mountains, which offer opportunities for hiking, camping, and skiing.
Adventure Sports
Eastern Wyoming is a paradise for adventure sports enthusiasts, with its challenging terrain and scenic views. You can go rock climbing at the Vedauwoo Recreation Area, which offers challenging routes and scenic views. The North Platte River is