Nestled in the southeastern corner of Wyoming, Cheyenne is a city that combines a rich history with modern amenities. Known as the “Magic City of the Plains,” Cheyenne is a hub for Western culture and outdoor recreation. The city is home to iconic landmarks like the Wyoming State Capitol Building and the Cheyenne Depot Museum, as well as unique attractions like the Terry Bison Ranch and the Cheyenne Frontier Days Rodeo. With its beautiful parks, vibrant downtown area, and friendly community, Cheyenne offers something for everyone. Whether you’re a history buff, an outdoor enthusiast, or just looking for a fun and unique travel experience, Cheyenne is a destination that should not be missed. In this blog post, we will explore some of the top things to do in Cheyenne, Wyoming, and why this city is a must-visit destination in the American West.
Legacy Terra’s History with Cheyenne WY
Sometimes It feels like we need to move to Cheyenne because Sam practically lives there. With our trucking company we have spent endless time in Cheyenne. We have driven on every road in the city, eaten at every restaurant, and spent many nights in this western city.
Most people will pass through Cheyenne on a road trip because it is located at the intersection of I-25 and I-80. I do not assume that many people plan vacations to go to Cheyenne. It is more likely that you happen to end up in Cheyenne for a few days because your car broke down on your road trip. Have no fear you broke down in the right city!
Cheyenne will treat you to yummy food, western culture, and a lot of cows. You may even want to move here when you hear about no state income tax. Cheyenne is a great city that has always been kind to our family. If you have some time to kill and you find yourself in this small city, here is our list of things to do to in Cheyenne WY.
1. Visit the Wyoming State Capitol Building
The Wyoming State Capitol Building is an iconic landmark and must-visit attraction in Cheyenne, Wyoming. Completed in 1890, the Capitol Building is one of the most historic buildings in the city and a symbol of Wyoming’s rich history and culture. The building underwent a major renovation in 2019 and is now fully restored to its original grandeur.
Visitors can take a guided tour of the building and learn about its history and significance. The tour takes you through the building’s various chambers and halls, including the House of Representatives and Senate chambers, the Governor’s office, and the Supreme Court. You’ll also have the opportunity to see the building’s stunning rotunda, which features intricate artwork and stunning stained glass windows.
One of the highlights of the Capitol Building is the collection of historical artifacts on display throughout the building. These artifacts showcase the state’s history and include everything from pioneer wagons and firearms to antique furniture and artwork. You can also see the original Wyoming state flag, which was adopted in 1917 and features a bison and a blue field.
In addition to its historical significance, the Wyoming State Capitol Building is also a masterpiece of architecture. The building features a stunning neoclassical design and is made from local sandstone and granite. The interior of the building is equally impressive, with marble floors, ornate columns, and intricate murals and paintings.
2. Explore the Cheyenne Depot Museum
Another must-visit attraction in Cheyenne, Wyoming, is the Cheyenne Depot Museum. Located in the city’s historic Union Pacific Depot building, the museum is a treasure trove of artifacts and exhibits that showcase the city’s railroad history.
The Cheyenne Depot Museum is a great place to learn about the history of the Union Pacific Railroad and its role in shaping the American West. The museum features a various exhibits, including historic locomotives and rail cars, antique equipment and tools, and interactive displays that allow visitors to experience what life was like for railroad workers and travelers.
One of the highlights of the museum is the Big Boy locomotive, which is the largest steam locomotive ever built. The Big Boy was used to transport freight across the country and played a significant role in the development of the American West. Visitors can climb aboard the locomotive and see firsthand the immense size and power of this historic machine.
Another interesting exhibit at the Cheyenne Depot Museum is the “Railway Post Office” exhibit, which showcases the process of sorting and delivering mail on trains in the early 20th century. Visitors can see original mail cars and learn about the challenges and innovations involved in transporting mail across the country.
In addition to its exhibits, the Cheyenne Depot Museum also features a gift shop where visitors can purchase unique souvenirs and gifts. The museum is located in the heart of Cheyenne’s historic downtown district, making it a convenient stop on your tour of the city.
3. Take a stroll in Lions Park
This beautiful park is located on the banks of Crow Creek and offers outdoor activities and amenities for visitors of all ages.
One of the highlights of Lions Park is its expansive network of walking trails. The trails wind through the park’s picturesque landscape and offer stunning views of the surrounding hills and mountains. Whether you’re looking for a leisurely stroll or a more challenging hike, there’s a trail for everyone at Lions Park.
In addition to its walking trails, Lions Park also features recreational facilities. The park is home to a large playground area, as well as several sports fields and courts for basketball, tennis, and volleyball. There’s even a miniature golf course for those who enjoy a friendly game of putt-putt.
Lions Park also offers the opportunity to see animals in their natural habitat. The park is home to a variety of birds, including bald eagles and great blue herons, as well as small mammals like beavers and muskrats.
4. Visit the Wyoming State Museum
If you’re interested in learning more about the history and culture of Wyoming you should the Wyoming State Museum. Located in Cheyenne, the museum is dedicated to preserving and sharing the state’s rich heritage through exciting exhibits and displays.
One of the highlights of the museum is its collection of artifacts and exhibits that showcase the state’s early history. Visitors can see everything from Native American artifacts to early pioneer tools and equipment, as well as learn about the state’s mining and ranching industries.
The museum also features exhibits that focus on Wyoming’s more recent history, including its role in the development of the American West and its contributions to the space program. Visitors can see original artifacts from the Apollo 14 mission, which was crewed by Wyoming native Alan Shepard, as well as learn about the state’s contributions to the development of rocket technology.
One of the most popular exhibits at the Wyoming State Museum is the “Wyoming’s Big Boy” exhibit, which features a massive steam locomotive that was used to transport freight across the country. Visitors can climb aboard the locomotive and explore this interesting machine.
In addition to its exhibits, the Wyoming State Museum also offers educational programs and events throughout the year. These programs include guided tours, lectures, and workshops, as well as special events like the annual Wyoming State Capitol Square Holiday Open House.
5. Attend the Cheyenne Frontier Days Rodeo
Be sure to attend the Cheyenne Frontier Days Rodeo. Held annually in late July, the rodeo is one of the largest and most prestigious events of its kind in the world, attracting top rodeo athletes and fans from around the globe.
The Cheyenne Frontier Days Rodeo is a week-long event that features rodeo competitions, including bull riding, steer wrestling, barrel racing, and more. In addition to the rodeo events, the festival also includes a parade, live music performances, and other exciting activities.
One of the highlights of the Cheyenne Frontier Days Rodeo is the “Daddy of ’em All” rodeo championship, which pits the top rodeo athletes in the world against one another in a series of intense competitions. The championship attracts thousands of fans each year, making it a truly unforgettable experience.
In addition to the rodeo events, the festival also includes a carnival, a Western art show, and a yummy food and drink vendors. Visitors can also explore the historic downtown district of Cheyenne.
6. Explore the Terry Bison Ranch
Located just a short drive south of Cheyenne, the ranch is a working bison ranch that offers activities and attractions for visitors of all ages.
One of the highlights of the Terry Bison Ranch is its bison herd, which is one of the largest in the country. Visitors can take a guided tour of the ranch in a customized train that allows them to get up close and personal with the bison herd, as well as other animals like camels and ostriches.
In addition to the train tour, the Terry Bison Ranch also offers horseback riding, fishing, camping, and other outdoor activities. Visitors can also enjoy a meal at the ranch’s on-site restaurant, which serves up delicious bison burgers and other western-style fare.
For those looking for a unique overnight experience, the Terry Bison Ranch offers accommodation options, including cabins, RV hookups, and even luxury train cars that have been converted into hotel rooms.
7. Check Out a Cheynne WY Event
“Visit Cheyenne” is a tourism organization that promotes and markets the city of Cheyenne, Wyoming as a travel destination. Their mission is to attract visitors to the city and showcase the unique culture, history, and natural beauty of the area. Visit Cheyenne provides information on local attractions, events, accommodations, and activities, and helps visitors plan their trips to the city.
They also work with local businesses and organizations to support and enhance the tourism industry in Cheyenne. Whether you’re interested in history, culture, outdoor activities, or just looking for a fun and memorable vacation, Visit Cheyenne can help you plan your perfect trip to this beautiful and unique city. Their website lists all the fun events you can attend in Cheyenne WY.
8. Vedauwoo Recreation Area
Vedauwoo Recreation Area, located just 18 miles east of Cheyenne, Wyoming, is a beautiful natural wonder that offers visitors a unique outdoor experience. Visitors will be blown away by its stunning rock formations, hiking trails, and overall peaceful atmosphere.
The area is known for its unique rock formations, which are made of granite and were formed over 1.4 billion years ago. The rocks are a popular destination for rock climbers, but even if you’re not a climber, they’re still worth seeing up close. Walking amongst the rocks is an otherworldly experience, and you can’t help but feel a sense of awe at their size and scale.
In addition to the rocks, Vedauwoo offers several hiking trails that range from easy to moderate. Turtle Rock Trail, is a fairly easy 1.3-mile loop that offered great views of the rock formations and the surrounding landscape. The trail is well-maintained and clearly marked, making it easy to follow.
One of the things that is loved about Vedauwoo was how peaceful and quiet it was. Despite being close to the city of Cheyenne, it feels like a world away. The only sounds were the occasional bird or rustle of leaves, and it was easy to forget about the stresses of daily life and just enjoy being in nature.
9. Cheyenne Boots Tour
The Cheyenne Big Boots Scavenger Hunt is a popular scavenger hunt activity that takes place in Cheyenne, Wyoming. The scavenger hunt involves searching for and locating large, painted cowboy boots that are scattered throughout the city. These boots are decorated by local artists and are designed to represent the city’s western heritage and culture.
The Cheyenne Big Boots Scavenger Hunt typically takes place during the summer months and is organized by the Downtown Cheyenne Business Co-op. Participants can pick up a map at the downtown visitor center or online, which shows the locations of the boots. They then set out to find each boot, take a photo with it, and mark it off their list.
The Cheyenne Big Boots Scavenger Hunt is a fun and interactive way to explore the city and its western heritage. It also helps to support local businesses and artists by encouraging visitors to spend time and money in the downtown area.
10. The Cheyenne Wyoming Street Railway Trolley
The Cheyenne Street Railway Trolley is a historic streetcar system located in Cheyenne, Wyoming, United States. The system consists of a fleet of vintage streetcars that run on a fixed route through downtown Cheyenne.
The Cheyenne Trolley was originally established in 1987 as a tourist attraction and historic preservation project. The trolleys themselves were purchased from other cities that were retiring their streetcar systems, and were restored to their original condition by local volunteers.
The trolly is open year round and offers 90-minute fully immersive tours of the city of Cheyenne. They even offer a fun option for those who love to learn about the haunted past of Cheyenne in their evening ghost tour.
11. The Cheyenne Botanic Gardens
The Cheyenne Botanic Gardens is a public garden located in Cheyenne, Wyoming, United States. The garden covers nine acres of land and features a variety of gardens, including an arboretum, a children’s garden, a rose garden, a rock garden, and a meditation garden.
The Cheyenne Botanic Gardens was founded in 1977 and has since grown to become a popular attraction in the city. The garden’s mission is to promote horticulture, conservation, and education in the community.
One of the main attractions at the Cheyenne Botanic Gardens is the Grand Conservatory, which features a variety of tropical plants and a koi pond. The garden also has a greenhouse, a gift shop, and a cafe. Admission to the Cheyenne Botanic Gardens is free, though donations are accepted to help support the garden’s programs and operations.
The Cheyenne Botanic Gardens is a beautiful and tranquil oasis in the heart of the city, and a must-see for anyone interested in gardening or nature.
Childrens Village at the Botanic Gardens
The Paul Smith Children’s Village is a children’s garden located within the Cheyenne Botanic Gardens in Cheyenne, Wyoming, United States. The garden covers 1.5 acres of land and is designed to provide an interactive and educational experience for children.
The Paul Smith Children’s Village was named after a former mayor of Cheyenne who was a strong supporter of the garden. The garden features a variety of themed areas, including a vegetable garden, a sensory garden, a dinosaur garden, and a fairy garden. There is also a treehouse, a water play area, and a stage for performances and events.
The Paul Smith Children’s Village offers educational programs and events for children, including gardening classes, science workshops, and art activities. The garden is designed to promote hands-on learning and exploration, and is a popular destination for families and school groups.
12. See a Play at Historic Atlas Theatre
The Historic Atlas Theatre is a historic theater located in downtown Cheyenne, Wyoming, United States. The theater was built in 1887 and has since undergone several renovations to maintain its historic charm and appeal.
The Historic Atlas Theatre has a rich history and has served many different purposes over the years. It was originally built as an opera house and later served as a movie theater, a vaudeville house, and a community center. In 2003, the theater underwent a major renovation and was restored to its original grandeur, complete with a new stage, lighting, and sound system.
Today, the Historic Atlas Theatre is a popular venue for live performances, concerts, and community events. It has hosted a wide range of performers, including musicians, comedians, dancers, and theater troupes. The theater also features a bar and lounge area, and is available for private events and rentals.
Check out a play through the Little Cheyenne Theater Players Company.
The Historic Atlas Theatre is a treasured landmark in Cheyenne, and is a testament to the city’s rich cultural history. It provides a unique and intimate setting for live performances and events, and is a must-see for anyone interested in theater or architecture.
13. Flippers Family Arcade
Flippers Family Arcade is an indoor entertainment center located in Cheyenne, Wyoming, United States. The arcade features a variety of classic and modern arcade games, including pinball machines, video games, and ticket redemption games.
Flippers Family Arcade is a popular destination for families and groups of friends looking for a fun and nostalgic gaming experience. The arcade is designed to be family-friendly and offers a safe and welcoming environment for people of all ages.
In addition to arcade games, Flippers Family Arcade also features a mini-golf course, laser tag arena, and bumper cars. The facility also has a snack bar and party room for birthdays and other special occasions.
Flippers Family Arcade is a fun and affordable attraction in Cheyenne, and provides a great way to spend an afternoon or evening with family and friends. It offers a range of gaming options for all ages and skill levels, and is sure to bring out your inner child.
Conclusion,
Cheyenne, Wyoming offers so many activities and attractions for visitors of all interests. From exploring the rich history and culture of the state at the Wyoming State Capitol Building and the Wyoming State Museum, to experiencing the beauty of nature at Lions Park and the Terry Bison Ranch, there is something for everyone to enjoy in Cheyenne.
If you happen to be in Cheyenne during the holiday season, be sure to attend the Cheyenne Christmas Parade, which is a beloved local tradition that celebrates the magic of the holidays with a festive parade, live music, and a visit from Santa Claus.
Cheyenne has something to offer you. So, pack your bags and head to Cheyenne, Wyoming, for a truly unforgettable trip.
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Cheyenne WY FAQ
1. How big is Cheyenne Wyoming?
Cheyenne is the capital and largest city of the U.S. state of Wyoming. According to the United States Census Bureau, as of the 2020 census, the estimated population of Cheyenne was 64,019.
2. How many days do you need to explore all of Cheyenne Wyoming?
You can open as many days as you want in Cheyenne Wyoming and you will never run out of things to do. However, if you are wondering how fast can you experience all the main western culture activities in Cheyenne Wyoming, then I would say 2 to 3 days.
Day 1: Arrive and get settled into hotel. Eat a yummy steak or bison dinner and walk the streets of downtown Cheyenne Wyoming.
Day 2: Capital Building, Museum, Boots tour
Day 3: Hike or horse back riding and head home that evening or the next morning.
3. What is the weather like in Cheyenne Wyoming?
Short answer: Half the year is freezing and windy, and the other half is hot and windy.
Long answer: Cheyenne, Wyoming has a semi-arid climate, with long, cold, and dry winters, and short, warm summers. The weather in Cheyenne can be highly variable, with frequent changes in temperature and weather conditions.
Historically, the average high temperature in Cheyenne in January, the coldest month, is around 38°F (3°C), while the average low temperature is around 15°F (-9°C). In July, the warmest month, the average high temperature is around 83°F (28°C), while the average low temperature is around 52°F (11°C).
Cheyenne also receives an average of 56 inches (142 cm) of snowfall per year, mostly occurring from October to April. The city is also known for its high winds, with gusts often exceeding 60 miles per hour (96 km/h) during the winter months.
