Overview

Wyoming is a state of wide-open skies, towering mountains, and untamed wilderness. Known as the Equality State (the first to grant women the right to vote), it offers some of the most iconic landscapes and national parks in the U.S. From geysers and grizzlies to rodeos and ranches, Wyoming is a destination where the spirit of the American West still thrives.

  • Capital: Cheyenne
  • Largest Cities: Cheyenne, Casper, Laramie, Gillette, Rock Springs
  • Population: ~580,000 (2024 est.)
  • Time Zone: Mountain Standard Time (UTC−7) / MDT (Daylight Saving)
  • Climate: Semi-arid to alpine — dry with cold winters and warm summers

Top Destinations in Wyoming

Yellowstone National Park

America’s first national park, home to geysers, wildlife, canyons, and hot springs.

Grand Teton National Park

Jagged peaks, alpine lakes, and some of the most breathtaking mountain scenery in the country.

Jackson Hole

A resort town nestled between national parks, known for skiing, art, dining, and cowboy charm.

Cheyenne

The capital city hosts the world-famous Cheyenne Frontier Days and offers classic Western experiences.

Cody

Founded by Buffalo Bill, Cody is the gateway to Yellowstone and rich in frontier history.

Must-See Attractions

  • Old Faithful (Yellowstone) – The world’s most famous geyser erupts like clockwork
  • Grand Prismatic Spring – A vibrant, rainbow-colored hot spring in Yellowstone
  • Snake River Overlook (Grand Teton) – A classic photo op of the Teton Range
  • Buffalo Bill Center of the West (Cody) – Five museums under one roof
  • Cheyenne Frontier Days Arena – The largest outdoor rodeo in the world

Things to Do

  • Hike or backpack through national parks and wilderness areas
  • Go wildlife watching for bison, elk, bears, and wolves
  • Raft or kayak the Snake River or Green River
  • Attend a rodeo or county fair and experience Western traditions
  • Ski or snowboard at Jackson Hole Mountain Resort in winter

Getting There & Around

Major Airports

  • Jackson Hole Airport (JAC), Casper-Natrona County International (CPR), Cheyenne Regional (CYS)

Transport

  • Rental cars are essential for exploring national parks and rural areas
  • Yellowstone and Grand Teton are accessible by scenic drives
  • Scenic byways like the Beartooth Highway and Snowy Range Road are travel highlights

Best Time to Visit

  • Spring (Apr–Jun): Waterfalls peak and wildlife are active
  • Summer (Jul–Aug): Best for hiking, park access, and festivals
  • Fall (Sep–Oct): Foliage, elk bugling, and fewer tourists
  • Winter (Nov–Mar): Ski season and quiet snowy landscapes in Jackson and Yellowstone

Local Food & Culture

  • Cuisine: Cowboy-style meals, game meats, and hearty comfort food
  • Specialties: Bison burgers, elk steaks, trout, fry bread, chuckwagon dinners
  • Drinks: Local craft beer, whiskey, and huckleberry cocktails
  • Events & Festivals:
  • Cheyenne Frontier Days (Cheyenne)
  • Jackson Hole Fall Arts Festival
  • Cody Stampede Rodeo
  • Wyoming State Fair (Douglas)
  • Teton County Fair (Jackson)

Souvenirs from Wyoming

  • Bison jerky or huckleberry treats
  • Western apparel: cowboy hats, boots, belts
  • Native American or Western-style jewelry
  • Yellowstone or Grand Teton prints and artwork
  • Locally made soaps, candles, or rustic home decor

Fun Facts

  • Wyoming was the first state to grant women the right to vote (1869)
  • Yellowstone was established in 1872 as the first national park in the world
  • The state has more pronghorn antelope than people
  • Devils Tower in northeast Wyoming was the first U.S. national monument
  • Wyoming is the least populous state in the U.S., offering plenty of solitude

Suggested Itineraries

3-Day National Parks Sampler

  • Day 1: Jackson Hole – explore town and drive to Grand Teton viewpoints
  • Day 2: Grand Teton – hike Jenny Lake and visit Snake River Overlook
  • Day 3: Yellowstone – see Old Faithful, Grand Prismatic, and wildlife in Lamar Valley

5-Day Western Wyoming Adventure

  • Day 1: Arrive in Jackson – visit local galleries and eat at a cowboy steakhouse
  • Day 2: Grand Teton – hike, float trip, or scenic drive
  • Day 3: Yellowstone – geysers, waterfalls, and canyons
  • Day 4: Cody – Buffalo Bill Center and evening rodeo
  • Day 5: Scenic return via Beartooth Highway or explore more of Jackson

Cities

  • Cheyenne