2024's 9 Most Adorable Small Towns in Wyoming for 2024
Regardless of the time of year, Wyoming is an adorable state, dotted with cute shops and attractions, as well as majestic landmarks for visitors to explore. People from different parts of America plan vacations to see the spectacular views of Wyoming, but it is not all about the infamous and popular ones that are worth planning a trip to. Wyoming shelters humble retreats such as Sheridan, Ten Sleep, Hulett, and many more to include on your itinerary. The following list of towns offers an adventurous journey through some of the most adorable, low-populated towns in Wyoming.
Thermopolis
In Greek, Thermopolis means “hot city,” and this city in Wyoming lives up to that name. The Hot Spring State Park along the Bighorn River is the foremost attraction in town, drawing visitors into the beauty of Thermopolis.
This charming town in the Bighorn Basin offers a wealth of history, including the Legend Rock Petroglyph Site, which shelters 283 ancient Native American rock drawings over 10,000 years old. Witness the majesty of thunderous bison herds at Wind River Canyon and Boysen State Park or uncover the skeletal remains of dinosaurs at the Wyoming Dinosaur Center. After a day of exploration, rest at El Rancho or the Hot Springs Hotel and Spa.
Jackson
Only two hours from the renowned Yellowstone National Park, Jackson is a winter paradise in Wyoming’s Jackson Hole Valley. With three ski areas that can compete with Europe’s Alps, you will find endless opportunities to enjoy the snow and slopes. Start at Jackson Hole Mountain Resort, home to the longest continuous vertical rise in any US ski area, leading to the summit of Rendezvous Mountain. In Teton Village, the Grand Targhee Resort offers adventures through the Targhee Mountains and Tetons. This is an adventure outdoor enthusiasts will not want to miss.
The iconic arches made of shed antlers at the National Elk Refuge & Greater Yellowstone Visitor Center are quite the attraction, and tourists stop to take pictures here. If you are interested in artwork, you will love the works of Andy Warhol and Georgia O’Keeffe at the National Museum of Wildlife Art.
Hulett
Named after Mr. and Mrs. Louis Hulett, who were the first to settle in the town in 1881, Hulett is a friendly neighborhood town with a small population nestled in a valley with the Belle Fourche River flowing through it and surrounded by beautiful red rimrock.
Although mostly quiet, which makes it perfect for leisure trips, the town has other beautiful attractions, such as the Hulett Museum and Art Gallery, which displays local art for all to see. Visit the Lake Guest Ranch for a countryside experience. For some of the best food in town, R Deli serves excellent pizza and gourmet meals. You should also try Ponderosa Cafe and Bar. The Motel Pioneer and Best Western Devils Tower Inn are top choices to get the best accommodation in town.
Ten Sleep
Ten Sleep is a quaint town named for its location, which was a ten-night stop for Native Americans traveling between important sites. It promises a delightful escape into nature and history.
Begin with a trip through the Ten Sleep Canyon. This stunning natural wonder offers a breathtaking view of its spectacular rock formations and world-class climbing opportunities. The canyon is a must-see whether you are an avid climber or just looking to enjoy the scenic views.
For those interested in local history, the Ten Sleep Pioneer Museum offers a fascinating look into the town's past, showcasing artifacts and stories from the early settlers and Native American tribes. The town's heritage is further celebrated during the annual Ten Sleep Rodeo, a lively event held every July 4th that brings together the community for thrilling rodeo performances and festive activities.
Sundance
Dance beneath the sun and soak up the vibrant atmosphere of the sunny town of Sundance. Known for giving the Sundance Kid his moniker, this town is rich in history and culture. The Sundance Kid earned his name by performing the Sun Dance ceremony in the movie Butch Cassidy and The Sundance Kid. The ceremony is a tradition of the local Native American groups. This historical figure and his performance inspired the renaming of the Utah/United States Film Festival to the renowned Sundance Film Festival, beloved by cinephiles worldwide.
Explore the Crook County Museum and 1875 Gallery to see the Sundance Kid’s likeness and get insights about the town’s history. Visit the Devil’s Tower, America’s first National Monument for breathtaking views. The Sundance Bearlodge District in Black Hills National Forest is home to diverse wildlife and is perfect for nature enthusiasts. Learn more about Sundance’s past on the Sip ‘n Walk Historical Tour, which combines refreshments with fascinating history lessons. For accommodations, consider Bear Mountain Resort or Bear Lodge Motel.
Dubois
Dubois is a charming town in Wyoming and offers visitors an unparalleled escape to enjoy nature's beauty. Visit the National Bighorn Sheep Interpretive Center to spot magnificent bighorn sheep and explore the Dubois Museum to uncover the town's pioneering history.
Join yourself with nature in the Shoshone National Forest, which houses ancient Shoshone artifacts and free-roaming horses. Experience the Wild West at Dubois' annual rodeos every Friday from June to August. Rest at the Chinook Winds Lodge after enjoying an exhilarating day explaining the magnificent landscape of Dubois.
Green River
Set in the picturesque landscapes of southwestern Wyoming, Green River is a hidden gem perfect for travelers seeking adventure and tranquility. Surrounded by stunning rock formations and the scenic Green River, this town offers a blend of natural beauty and rich history.
Begin your journey with a visit to Expedition Island, a National Historic Landmark where John Wesley Powell launched his famous expedition down the Green River. The island features parks, trails, and picnic spots for lovers and family gatherings. For watersport adventures, explore the Flaming Gorge National Recreation Area.
History enthusiasts will appreciate the Sweetwater County Historical Museum, which provides historical insights from Native American heritage to the railroad era. Take a trip to the Seedskadee National Wildlife Refuge for a time out with fishes and animals.
Sheridan
Sheridan is a small, attractive town between Yellowstone National Park and Mount Rushmore. This charming town boasts over ten historic sites, including the renowned Blacktooth Brewing Company, which serves Wyoming's finest craft ales.
Explore the Red Grade Trails, Bighorn National Forest, and Cloud Peak Wilderness, surrounded by Medicine Mountain's scenic trails and treks. Outdoor enthusiasts will love venturing into the Tongue River Canyon. Partake in or spectate the annual Eaton's Horse Drive in May, where hundreds of cowboys ride through Sheridan's streets. Book accommodations at the Ramada Plaza or Budget Inn Express for comfort while on holiday in Sheridan.
Laramie
Home to the University of Wyoming, an academic and cultural hub that exudes excellence, Laramie is an endearing town set at 7,200 feet in the Snowy Range Mountains. This town enchants visitors with its rich history, including the Wyoming Territorial Prison State Historic Site, which once held the infamous Butch Cassidy. Laramie has been home to the Arapaho and Cheyenne peoples since the 1600s, with artifacts and articles about these cultures along the Overland and Cherokee Trails as evidence of its cultural heritage.
The Historic Laramie Union Pacific Train Depot showcases the town's significant role in the railroad industry, while Fort Sanders highlights its military history in protecting the Overland Trail. Explore Laramie’s version of Jurassic Park at the University of Wyoming’s Geological Museum. For breathtaking adventures, visit the Medicine Bow-Routt National Forest.
If you want to take time away from the vicissitudes of everyday life and you are looking for a holiday destination that is not overly populated, Wyoming is the place. The City, as you know it, is already beautiful, but its small, adorable towns make the trip even more special. The ideal weather and landscape make it even more perfect. Experience the charm of a picturesque and quaint excursion in Wyoming.
