6 Most Overlooked Towns in Wyoming

With its wild cowboy past, Wyoming has become synonymous with the Old West, embodying a spirit of freedom and adventure. The vast and rugged wilderness of Yellowstone National Park exemplifies this spirit, attracting over 3 million visitors each year. While Yellowstone is the state's most-visited attraction for good reason, there are many underrated towns and sights often overshadowed by the park's fame. From mountain towns boasting world-class ski resorts to historic towns with fascinating Old West origins, here are 6 overlooked Wyoming towns you won't want to miss in 2024.

Lander

Nestled in the heart of Wyoming along the middle fork of the Popo Agie River, Lander is as breathtaking as it is underrated. Although familiar to locals and nearby residents, its modest population of around 7,500 may cause out-of-towners to overlook it. Yet, as the locals attest, this outdoor haven is not to be missed.

After exploring Lander's quaint Main Street and sampling local fare at places like the Lander Bake Shop, make your way to Wild Iris Mountain Sports. It's the ideal spot to gear up and gather insights on Lander's crown jewel: Sinks Canyon State Park. Just a 15-minute drive from downtown, the park is renowned for its namesake, Sinks Canyon, in the foothills of the Wind River Mountains. Here, the Popo Agie River vanishes beneath the canyon, reemerging in a pool about a quarter mile away, as if by magic. This natural phenomenon creates a stunning swimming hole, perfect for cooling off in the summer. Additionally, the 1.5-mile hike to Popo Agie Falls is a rewarding experience.

Speaking of summer, if you're planning a trip to Lander, it's an excellent time to visit, not only for the natural beauty but also for the vibrant local festivities. Lander's annual Pioneer Days Rodeo, scheduled for July 3rd and 4th, 2024, is a highlight, with the July 4th weekend known for its parade and spectacular 360-degree fireworks show.

Jackson

For those planning a winter getaway in Wyoming, Jackson is the destination of choice. Located in the scenic Jackson Hole valley, Jackson offers unparalleled access to Wyoming's natural beauty across all seasons, from whitewater rafting on the Snake River to skiing in the Teton mountains. Despite its charm, Jackson is sometimes overshadowed by the proximity of Yellowstone National Park, with its South Entrance about 57 miles from town, making Jackson a prime gateway to the national park.

However, Jackson is also a world-class destination in its own right, particularly in winter. Home to three incredible ski areas within a short drive, Jackson becomes a winter wonderland, with the mountainsides blanketed in snow. Snow King Mountain Resort boasts over 500 skiable acres, Grand Targhee Resort is favored for its 500 annual inches of snow, and Jackson Hole Mountain Resort is celebrated for having the longest continuous vertical rise of any ski area in the U.S. Although spring may seem like an early time to plan for winter, it's never too early to start thinking about your next adventure.

Cody

Just 52 miles from Yellowstone’s East Entrance, Cody, similar to Jackson, often finds itself in the shadow of the world-renowned national park. As a key gateway to Yellowstone's natural wonders, Cody is not only a passage to nature but also a town rich in history. Its famous founder, Colonel William F. “Buffalo Bill” Cody, has left a lasting legacy that the town diligently preserves. Discover more about this historic figure at the Buffalo Bill Museum and experience the old “Western way of life” at Old Trail Town, an authentic replication of a Wild West village constructed by historians with buildings from the era of saloons and shootouts. When hunger strikes after touring, continue the historical journey at Buffalo Bill’s Irma Hotel & Restaurant. Named after Buffalo Bill’s youngest daughter, this iconic establishment has been offering cozy accommodations and hearty meals since 1902.

Buffalo

Founded in 1879 at the foothills of the Big Horn Mountains, the scenic town of Buffalo, Wyoming, reportedly received its name from a draw of names out of a hat at the Occidental Hotel. Remarkably, you can still visit the site of this unique naming ceremony. The Historic Occidental Hotel & Saloon, with its beautifully restored Old West-inspired interior, stands as one of Buffalo's prime attractions. Whether you stay in one of its uniquely themed historic rooms or dine at one of the three on-site restaurants (The Saloon, The Virginian Restaurant, and the Busy Bee Cafe), this historic venue offers an underrated yet spectacular experience.

For those interested in delving into Buffalo's Wild West history, the Jim Gatchell Memorial Museum is an excellent next stop. The museum showcases life during this era, focusing on its namesake, Jim Gatchell, the town’s beloved first pharmacist. Today, the museum honors his memory by displaying his personal items, such as medicine bags and clothing, alongside gifts from patients, including Wild West weaponry.

Sheridan

Situated about 35 minutes north of Buffalo, the quaint town of Sheridan, founded in 1882, shares in the allure of a cowboy past. Although it may not be as well-known as other Old West towns in Wyoming, its incredible attractions will leave you wondering why. Celebrating its Old West heritage, Sheridan boasts numerous museums such as King’s Saddlery & Museum and The Brinton Museum. The latter, a free public gallery, “connects people to the past, present, and future of the American West” through its collection of Western and Native art.

Like Buffalo, Sheridan is also home to remarkable historic inns and saloons. The Mint Bar, an authentic cowboy tavern and the oldest bar in Sheridan, offers a glimpse into the past. For a unique lodging experience, the Historic Sheridan Inn, once co-owned by Buffalo Bill, has been welcoming guests since the late 1800s. The hotel features 22 distinct rooms, each themed after a significant figure in Buffalo Bill’s life.

Sundance

Nestled in the heart of the Wyoming Black Hills, along the eastern slope of the Rocky Mountains, the town of Sundance offers adventure at every turn. This is where the infamous Wild West outlaw, Harry Alonzo Longabaugh, known as the “Sundance Kid,” earned his iconic nickname after being jailed for horse theft. The local Crook County Museum, housed in the historic “Old Stoney” building, features the original courtroom where the Sundance Kid was tried, alongside 7,000 other artifacts, including a gun exhibit.

For Old West enthusiasts eager to explore the outdoors and tread the same paths once roamed by cowboys, the Sundance White Ranch Park offers over 100 acres of scenic land for hiking, biking, and exploration. Additionally, Sundance serves as a gateway to the United States' first national monument: Devils Tower.

Final Thoughts

With its expanse covering 2,221,766 acres—larger than the states of Delaware and Rhode Island combined—it's no wonder that many travelers make Yellowstone National Park their primary destination in Wyoming. However, even if Yellowstone is your main focus, consider visiting one of these charming Wyoming towns along the way. Whether you join the celebrations in Lander during the 4th of July weekend or stop in Buffalo for some authentic cowboy cuisine, these towns possess a warmth and spirit that could rival the majesty of Yellowstone tenfold.