The Most Picturesque Small Towns In Wyoming
Wyoming's charming blend of picturesque geography, captivating history, and unique cultural norms make it a bucket-list destination for travelers on a Western United States itinerary. The Equality State has something for everyone, from its celebrated national parks offering majestic forest and mountain scenery to its quaint small towns steeped in frontier heritage. Nestled across Wyoming's diverse landscapes are various hidden gems perfect for soaking in postcard-worthy mountain views.
The following small towns in Wyoming are perfect for leisure exploration, immersing visitors in the rare beauty of the Cowboy State. Whether discovering living history along Main Streets or simply taking in panoramic vistas, each locale promises stunning photo backdrops and memorable encounters with Western hospitality amid awe-inspiring surroundings.
Jackson
Jackson has remained a sought-after tourist destination due to its proximity to Grand Teton and Yellowstone National Parks. The town is surrounded by picturesque landscapes punctuated by rolling mountains, snow-capped peaks, and sparkling lake waters. Such mountains allow the town to host popular skiing areas, including Snow King Mountain, which draws snow sports enthusiasts to the town in winter. A thriving wildlife community roams the Jackson territory, and tourists can encounter native species like bison, elk, bighorn sheep, and bald eagles at the National Elk Refuge.
Jackson Town Square is a lovely oasis in the heart of the town, offering a way to escape the crowds and relax in grassy picnic areas. The town particularly stands out for its artistic elk-antler arches. Surrounding the park is a bustling business community with a cluster of attractions worth exploring, including watching a live performance at the Jackson Hole Playhouse.
Buffalo
A rich Western heritage and scenic natural landscapes define this small town in Johnson County. Once considered the "most lawless town" in the country, Jackson's captivating history is impressively preserved and documented at the Jim Gatchell Memorial Museum. This lovely facility hosts a collection of artifacts with detailed information about Native American tribes, white settlers, and other fascinating communities that have lived in Buffalo. Travelers interested in outdoor pursuits can enjoy a relaxed session at the Buffalo Golf Club and perfect their swing while soaking up the lush surroundings.
The local art scene should not be overlooked; the various galleries in Buffalo promise connoisseurs something to look forward to. A tour of the Hitching Post Gallery encourages visitors to sample and buy unique works by various local and regional artists.
Dubois
For a small community of about 1,000, Dubois hits way above its weight class when it comes to touristy experiences. The town hosts a cluster of fascinating museums displaying its rich heritage. At the National Bighorn Sheep Center, guests can learn about the biology of this native species and their habitat in the Rocky Mountains. Meanwhile, the Dubois Museum offers a detailed account of the town's heritage by preserving and interpreting people-related, cultural, and historical artifacts.
Not too far from the Dubois Museum, a beautiful green oasis welcomes tourists to relax in a serene environment away from the crowds. The Dubois Town Park features around 13 acres of green space with meandering trails and secluded picnic areas. Furthermore, golf lovers may prefer playing with friends or peers at the Antelope Hills Golf Course.
Thermopolis
"Thermopolis" translates to "hot city" in Greek, alluding to the natural hot springs scattered throughout this adorable community in Hot Springs County. The town is a popular stop for tourists craving a dip in the healing water of its natural swimming holes. Hot Springs State Park is among the most visited venues in Thermopolis, known for its incredible hot springs, picnic shelters, and overnight camping sites. Besides the springs, newcomers to the town find enjoyment through exploring the Wyoming Dinosaur Center. This is an excellent spot for a family outing and exhibits a vast fossil collection, including specimens like the Archeopteryx.
Ardent outdoorsmen are in for a treat in Thermopolis, a credit to the wealth of adventures awaiting in the open spaces. An adrenaline-inducing rafting excursion with Wind River Canyon Whitewater and Fly Fishing is a once-in-a-lifetime experience for many first-timers.
Sheridan
From historic sites to outdoor getaways and cultural centers, Sheridan has something to offer all types of travelers. Located halfway between Mt. Rushmore and Yellowstone Park, it is an ideal base for exploring some of the top tourist attractions in Wyoming. Historians should consider visiting Trail End State Historic Site on Clarendon Avenue. This historic mansion, built in 1908, harbors multiple artifacts depicting life as it was in early 20th-century Sheridan. Multiple park spaces offer visitors a reason to embrace the outdoor lifestyle, with a chance to relax in the quiet atmosphere of Kendrick Park.
For those traveling with family, 307 Discovery Center is an excellent venue to take children. The Center has fantastic interactive exhibits that delight young minds and provide hands-on activities culminating in a fun learning experience.
Cody
Cody is one of those towns in Wyoming that is popular among those who wish to discover the state's Western culture and Wild West reputation. The town is riddled with museums documenting several aspects of its colorful heritage, including the Buffalo Bill Center of the West. This five-museum complex exhibits numerous artifacts depicting Cody's Wild West experience. Among these, the Cody Firearms Museum is a quirky attraction worth checking out, especially if you are a gun enthusiast. This museum boasts the most comprehensive collection of American firearms inside a 40,000-square-foot facility.
Besides the history, Cody is a pleasant getaway to the outdoors, with multiple local outfitters offering adventurous excursions into the surrounding wilderness. For instance, Wyoming River Trips offers guests the experience of the raging whitewater of the Shoshone River and soak up unprecedented vistas of Red Rock Canyon.
Lander
Fantastic outdoor opportunities draw adventurers to this tiny village in Fremont County. Situated along the Popo Agie River, the town invites wild explorations in its rich natural surroundings. Lander is home to Sinks Canyon State Park, which sits at the foothills of the Wind River Mountains. The preserve is a hub for recreation like hiking, rock climbing, fishing, and kayaking. Conveniently, local outfitters like Wind River Climbing Guides offer the best way to indulge in these outdoor adventures by planning tailored climbing trips for tourists.
After a fulfilling experience exploring the wide outdoors, vacationers can slow down with a tour of the Museum of the American West. Here, visitors have the opportunity to browse several indoor and outdoor exhibits, which provide insight into life in the American West.
Pinedale
Pinedale is a four-season destination that encourages tourists to switch to something exciting to do around the year. The town has a balance of indoor and outdoor attractions, making it a prime destination for all travelers. During winter, most tourist traffic leads to White Pine Resort, which impresses with world-class slopes ideal for skiers, snowboarders, and tubers. On warmer days, Fremont becomes a tourist hub, delivering various water-based recreations, including boating, fishing, paddle boarding, and kayaking.
The town also offers many indoor pursuits, with historians finding the perfect pastime inside the Museum of the Mountain Man. Alternatively, you can sample different craft spirits by visiting Cowboy Country Distilling.
Ten Sleep
Ten Sleep's allure goes beyond the town's whimsical name. Situated in the foothills of the Bighorn Mountains, this town is the ultimate escape for outdoor adventurers and harbors remarkable opportunities. Salt Lick Trailhead invites hikers to explore the surrounding wilderness with a fulfilling 1.9-mile trek through a network of pine woods. However, if you desire to test your grit, you can take on the TenSleep Trailhead and brave the demanding climb to the summit of Bomber Mountain.
Furthermore, scenic outdoor landscapes aren't the only things you'll be taking in; Ten Sleep has a wide array of historical gems to interest you. Touring the Ten Sleep Pioneer Museum, which showcases insightful artifacts, lets you in on the rich history and culture of the communities that have occupied the town through the years.
Final Thought
From scenic rivers to picturesque mountain ranges, the vistas surrounding these treasured towns in Wyoming are as compelling as the histories written within their borders. Visitors are guaranteed striking natural backdrops at every turn, whether exploring awe-inspiring valleys, forested peaks, or open grasslands. By immersing in the enduring Western spirit, also seen in local art, architecture, and culture, travelers can appreciate the indelible bond between picturesque setting and character. Exploring these highlights allows visitors to experience Wyoming's beauty and folklore up close through memorable exploits off the beaten path.
