6 Most Eccentric Towns in Wyoming

What makes the small towns of Wyoming eccentric? In the Mountain West region, Wyoming shares borders with Montana to the north, Colorado to the south, and South Dakota to its east, offering not only a stunning variety of landscapes but also a rich tapestry of diverse histories. The state's geography ranges from the towering peaks of the Tetons in the northwest to the wide-open plains of the southeastern high desert. Wyoming's past is rich with Native American heritage, frontier pioneers, Old West legends, landmarks, and stories shaping its identity. From the quirky melding of history and natural wonder in northwest corner towns like Cody to Jackson, just south of Grand Teton National Park, to Thermopolis in the middle of the state, each town has its quirky character. Ready to Explore? Hit the road and start an unforgettable drive to explore Wyoming's eccentric towns.

Cody

The town of Cody was founded by none other than Buffalo Bill, and it reflects the spirit of the Old West.

One place that must not be missed is the Buffalo Bill Center of the West, replete with an outstanding collection and engaging exhibits on frontier past. Old Trail Town, only a few minutes outside downtown, carries one back to the 1800s when many lived within its confines of now-preserved wood houses that stood along this quiet route.

The most critical would be a stop at the Heart Mountain Interpretive Center between Cody and Powell. Here, visitors get the story about the internment of Japanese Americans in the country during the outbreak of World War II.

As the sun sets, the town is alive with the thrill of the Cody Nite Rodeo horsemanship displays and a bit of that Western flair that's kept with pride in the city.

Finish the day off with a tasty prime rib dinner in historic surroundings at The Irma Hotel, once belonging to Buffalo Bill himself.

In September, Cody is even brighter during the week-long Rendezvous Royale, a showcase of art and Western culture.

Sheridan

Sheridan is not just a place you should see but an experience altogether.

Visit King's Saddlery & Western Gear Collection, where an outstanding collection of handcrafted saddles, braided horsehair ropes, and antique bridles speaks volumes of the area's rich ranching past. A tour at the Historic Sheridan Inn, which has seen the likes of Buffalo Bill, brings the golden days of the frontier alive during its guided tours. Head a little south, and you will reach Fort Phil Kearny State Historic Site, which tells the gripping tale of 1860s battles and skirmishes between the U.S. Army and Native American tribes.

Back in town, the Trail End State Historic Site offers a peek into early 20th-century life through its preserved architecture and the personal stories it holds.

For the outdoorsy, local Bighorn Mountains offer trail after trail to spot wildlife, listen to babbling brooks, and take in incredible views.

Refuel at the Cowboy Café, where hearty stews and homemade pies celebrate local flavors.

Sheridan's WYO Rodeo attracts many people every July for exciting events and Wyoming cowboy spirit.

Lander

Lander is a town in central Wyoming on the Popo Agie River, packed with antiquity, art, and nature.

The Fremont County Pioneer Museum contains many heirlooms, photographs, and artifacts of what early settlers' lives were like. The Lander Art Center brings modernity with its rotating exhibits showcasing local perspectives on life in Wyoming. The eagle's spirit soars in mighty bronzes manufactured with world-class quality, just a drive from town, down the road from Eagle Bronze Foundry.

For all nature lovers, it is Sinks Canyon State Park, where the mystical disappearance of the Popo Agie into an underground cavern only to magically show up again downstream is at least one sight to drink in.

On July 4th, there will also be the Lander Pioneer Days Rodeo- which presents festivals marked with parades, bronco rides, and communal dances.

Thermopolis

This town is famous for its mineral hot springs and a rich past.

The crown jewel is the Hot Springs State Park, which offers hot mineral baths that have been warming and healing people for over a century. Just nearby, the Wyoming Dinosaur Center wows with actual dinosaur fossils and displays interpreting prehistoric Wyoming. For a deeper look at the region's pioneer background, the Hot Springs County Museum displays antique photographs, clothing, and personal letters of early settlers.

Fill up after your soak or adventure with a bowl of rich bison chili or a slice of pie from the Black Bear Café. For one-of-a-kind souvenirs, visit Avas Silver & Rock Shop, where polished stones and handmade jewelry sparkle.

Every August, Thermopolis celebrates the Gift of the Waters Pageant, a festival commemorating the 1896 treaty that gave the springs to the public.

Buffalo

A charming town sits at the foot of the Bighorn Mountains in north-central Wyoming; Buffalo is a feast of tradition and natural beauty.

The Occidental Hotel dates back to the 1880s, and an overnight stay there comes complete with rowdy nights of fiddle music and storytelling to live the Old West. The Jim Gatchell Memorial Museum contains within its walls a large portion of the area's frontier history, including an astonishing amount of firearms, photography, and personal testimonies left by settlers and indigenous families alike.

For the more outdoorsy among you, there is plenty in the nearby Bighorn Mountains: trails meander alongside pure streams and ancient rock.

For a filling, head to the Busy Bee Café serving comfort food of sandwiches and pies in a friendly, casual atmosphere. Antique shops and local emporiums invite people to browse a collection of carved figurines and other collectibles.

Every summer, Longmire Days are held here in Buffalo, attracting fans of the popular TV show and series of books based on Wyoming's rugged ranch life.

Jackson

Jackson embodies Wyoming's character: a town with wildlife and a little local flavor.

Iconic Town Square features elk antler arches, its centerpiece, and tribute to the surrounding wilderness. Just out of town, the National Elk Refuge allows views of massive herds during the winter.

Many visitors will find lots to love at the Jackson Hole Historical Society & Museum, which tells the area's story of fur trading and ranching through photographs, documents, and oral tales.

For a glimpse of the Wild West, don't miss the Town Square Shootout, an evening re-enactment with lots of flair.

Foodies should stop by Persephone Bakery for a fresh pastry or head to Café Genevieve, which spotlights local ingredients in every course.

Every May, Jackson celebrates Old West Days with stagecoach rides, live music, and civic events that pay homage to its cowboy heritage.

Embracing Wyoming's Unique Small-Town Ambiance

These towns in Wyoming encourage people to step into living history and connect with stories shaped over generations. With their small populations, it’s easy to strike up conversations with locals who take pride in preserving their tradition through beautifully maintained buildings, unique art, and delicious regional dishes. Here, traditions are personal, nature is close enough to touch, and heritage finds modern expression in creative ways. Visiting these towns isn’t about checking them off a list—it’s about experiencing Wyoming’s enduring legacy. Add one, or better yet, more of these remarkable spots to your next journey, and let their character make your trip unforgettable.