The Best Small Towns in Wyoming for a Weekend Retreat
If you want to get away for a long weekend, these seven small Wyoming towns will melt away your stress. Escape the noise of the city, and set your mind to auto-pilot in the heart of the mountains. From mineral hot springs to trails that hike along paths with evidence of ancient volcanic activity, there is always something to discover in Wyoming. If you want a little more adventure in your life, stop in Cody, also known as the Rodeo Capital of the World! These towns prove Wyoming is one of the most beautiful states in the country for a weekend retreat.
Saratoga
If you are looking for a beautiful town to unwind after a long week, look no further than Saratoga! It’s famous for its hot springs, small-town charm, and spectacular sunsets. While the Hobo Hot Pool (aka the natural hot spring) is open to the public year-round, the best time to visit is during the winter. Nothing feels better than slipping into a natural hot spring when the weather is chilly!
When you are not soaking your tired bones in Saratoga’s famous hot springs, explore the downtown area! Head to the Saratoga Museum to learn a little more about the historic town, or grab a burger and a brew at the Snowy Mountain Brewery & Pub. The best way to experience the peaceful beauty of Saratoga and to recharge is at the Saratoga Hot Springs Resort.
Thermopolis
The sleepy town of Thermopolis is the ideal blend of relaxation and adventure. To unwind, head to Hot Springs State Park, home to one of the world’s largest natural mineral hot springs. After a dip in their hot springs, get ready for fun adventures! Outside of their hot springs, one of Thermopolis' biggest attractions is the Wyoming Dinosaur Center. Visitors can explore dinosaur fossil exhibits, observe a live dig site, or even participate in a fossil dig!
Situated near the Wind River Canyon, visitors can hike the scenic canyon, fish, canoe, or go white water rafting for more adventure. Thermopolis is even home to bison, so keep a lookout for local wildlife! The downtown area boasts plenty of affordable hotels, but check out the Safari Club! It’s a fun lodge with a quirky safari theme for the whole family.
Ten Sleep
If you love outdoor adventure, you have to visit Ten Sleep! The town of Ten Sleep got its name from the Native Americans who described the area as "ten sleeps" away from bigger destinations like Yellowstone Park. Situated at the base of the Bighorn Mountains, Ten Sleep is known for its stunning beauty, outdoor adventure, and charming small-town feel. Ten Sleep Canyon is the biggest attraction in the area, and it is a great spot for hiking, fishing, and camping. The rock climbing opportunities in Ten Sleep Canyon are world-famous among the rock climbing community!
After a long day in the canyon, there is no better stop than the Ten Sleep Brewery. Relax with a beer and enjoy the amazing views of the Bighorn Mountains amongst the backdrop of live music. One of the best places to stay in Ten Sleep is the The Carter Inn, situated in the heart of the downtown area.
Cody
If you are a big fan of the Wild West, there is no better spot than Cody. Founded by Buffalo Bill Cody (hence the town’s name), it honors its old-west roots with cultural and historical attractions. It’s home to five unique museums, including the Whitney Western Art Museum, Buffalo Bill Museum, Cody Firearms Museum, Draper Natural History Museum, and the Plains Indian Museum.
Looking for a little more excitement? The humble town of Cody is also known as the Rodeo Capital of the World! Every night during the summer, the town hosts the Cody Nite Rodeo. If you can, be sure to visit around the Fourth of July for the Cody Stampede Rodeo, which is one of the top rodeos in the entire country. When you are ready to hang up your cowboy hat, head to the Cody Cowboy Village for a stay in a rustic cabin near the Cody Nite Rodeo.
Sheridan
Sheridan is a beautiful town with amazing views, historical landmarks, and so much to discover. The perfectly preserved downtown district is a great place to shop, eat, and sightsee. Head to the Don King’s Western Museum for a history lesson in cowboy culture and memorabilia. While in the downtown area, you can also catch a show at the WYO Theater.
Outside of the bustling downtown district, there are many parks for outdoor adventure and amazing views. Located near the iconic Bighorn Mountains, visitors can hike the Soldier Ridge Trailhead or the Red Grade Trails. These parks are also great spots to fish, hunt, and camp. When visiting Sheridan, make sure you book a reservation at the historic Sheridan Inn, managed by Buffalo Bill Cody in the late 1800s.
Jackson
There is no better weekend retreat than Jackson (aka Jackson Hole) for ski enthusiasts! The Jackson Hole Mountain Resort has the longest continuous vertical rise of any ski area in the United States, making it one of the top ski resorts in the country. However, there is so much more to see in Jackson, even if you don’t like to ski!
Be sure to check out the National Elk Refuge, which has one of the largest wild elk herds in North America. If you visit during the winter, you can take a fun guided sleigh ride through the elk refuge. Situated in the Teton Range and near the Snake River, there is no shortage of stunning views wherever you look. When visiting Jackson, there are so many relaxing and luxurious resorts to choose from. Hotel Jackson is located in the heart of town, and a great place to stay near the town square.
Buffalo
If you love the Old West and small-town charm, head to Buffalo. Nestled in the heart of the Bighorn Mountains, it’s the perfect spot to unwind for a long weekend. While in town, check out its amazing museums like the Jim Gatchell Memorial Museum, or take a short drive to explore historical sites like Fort Phil Kearney, Fetterman's Massacre Site, or the Wagon Box Fight site.
For outdoor adventure, make a stop at the Cloud Peak Wilderness Area. Hike the trails to discover geological wonders like glacial remnants, and evidence of ancient volcanic activity among the majestic beauty of the Bighorn Mountains. It’s also a great spot for stargazing in the evening! When visiting Buffalo, you have to stay at the iconic Occidental Hotel. Built in the 1880s, it hosted famous guests like Buffalo Bill Cody, Calamity Jane, Butch Cassidy's Hole-in-the-Wall Gang, and Teddy Roosevelt.
Prepare for a Peaceful Weekend Retreat
A weekend in these small Wyoming towns is an invitation to slow down, unwind, and savor every moment. Bask in the glory of the Bighorn Mountains, admire the geological wonders of the Cloud Peak Wilderness Area, or enjoy a quiet evening under a blanket of stars. While the views are amazing, you can’t forget about the charming downtown areas with friendly locals, ample shopping, and some of the most amazing food in the Western United States. So, pack your bags, leave your worries at the door, and explore these beautiful Wyoming towns on your next weekend retreat!
