Cheyenne is the capital of Wyoming, and, as such, brings in more than 1.1 million tourists per year thanks to its diverse range of attractions, for the curious, adventurous, and brave.
Here, history buffs can explore and appreciate everything from old-fashioned railway deports to old colonial houses.
Similarly, outdoor enthusiasts are sure to love the dry, desert-cracked mountains, sparkling rivers, and green, rolling hills – perfect for hikers and campers alike.
Those who are a lover of culture can dine, shop, or even attend a show at one of the numerous live performance halls.
Plus, there are even a number of playgrounds and parks where children can run around and release some energy. Essentially, there is something for everyone.
First settled in the 1800s, the city makes sure to highlight this, displaying everything from its frontier days and celebrating its heritage in events such as week-long historic festivals to cowboy and rodeo museums.
Whatever your interest, you will certainly be entertained at Cheyenne, Wyoming. With this in mind, we have outlined 15 amazing things to do in the city while on vacation.
1. Cheyenne’s Big Boots
Make your way into town and keep an eye out for the 24 handpainted Big Boot Statues in Cheyenne. Each boot features something different, for instance, some depicting people, places, and things notable to the area.
Plus, to make the most out of your scavenger hunt, you can even download a free audio tour to help you locate all boots since some can be found in the city limits while others are located just outside.
These boots – which are a part of the “These Boots are Made for Talking” project – were created and distributed with the help of the Downtown Development Authority and the Cheyenne Depot Museum Foundation to raise money for the Cheyenne Depot Museum Endowment Fund.
2. Cheyenne Street Railway Trolley
Take an old-fashioned tour all around Cheyenne with the help of a bright red trolley. Tours take place in 90-minute increments, with the Cheyenne Street Railway Trolley providing a ‘jump on, jump off’ experience.
As such, you are able to stop at restaurants, museums, shops, and other attractions whenever you please.
Plus, there are also themed tours on special occasions. Therefore, if you’re traveling around the holidays, make sure to keep an eye out.
Some notable examples include the ‘festive tours’ over the Christmas period and the ‘ghost tours’ on Halloween.
There are tons of ways to explore the city but nothing is as convenient, easy, or quick as hopping onto the Railway Trolley.
If you just arrived in the city then this is one of the best ways to see what Cheyenne truly has to offer.
3. Curt Gowdy State Park
Located in the middle of Cheyenne and Laramie is Curt Gowdy State Park – a public recreation site spread across 3,395 acres.
In the park, you’ll find over 35 multi-use trails, providing you access to rolling landscapes, sweeping views, waterfalls, and interesting geological features.
Here, the trails are considered to be some of the best mountain biking tracks in the whole of Wyoming. In fact, the International Mountain Biking Association (IMBA) awarded the park the title of ‘epic.’
In addition, you’ll also find an overnight campground in the park, an archery range, a visitor’s center, and a boat ramp for access to the Granite and Crystal Reservoirs.
To make the most out of all the different activities, you’ll definitely want to spend the weekend here. Plus, you can take in the views of the park’s birds and wildlife, too.
4. Cheyenne Frontier Days
One of Cheyenne’s many annual festivals, the Cheyenne Frontier Days is held in late July and is dedicated to the Wild West.
Each year, 200,000 people flock to the area where week-long celebrations take place. This includes history, art, culture, food, and some old-fashioned fun, too.
The activities that take place here range from rodeos and parades to Air Force demonstrations and concerts.
History comes alive at the festival thanks to reenactments and demonstrations of what life was like in the colonial era.
Plus, there is even a saloon where you can stop and kick up your legs and enjoy a fresh beer from the tap.
If you’re looking for something quintessentially Wyoming, then you need to make a visit.
5. Cheyenne Civic Center Concerts
The Cheyenne Civic Center hosts 1,500 people and holds various events, including worship services, children’s programs, and holiday happenings.
When you’re in town, see what shows they’re offering and book yourself a seat at the theater to enjoy the show.
In addition, the Civic Center is conveniently located in the heart of Cheyenne where you can head for dinner and drinks before your show, or even experience the nightlife afterward.
6. Wyoming’s Rib And Chop House
At Wyoming’s Rib and Chop House, you can enjoy the delicious sizzle of baby back ribs that are sure to get your stomach rumbling. Here, you can eat some world-class food while taking in the downtown ambiance of the rodeo-style restaurant, too.
Here, the steaks are certainly succulent, and the seafood is fresh from the ocean, both served on organic platters.
In addition to this, you can also get soups, wings, salads, dries, pasta, and sandwiches.
7. Explore Downtown Cheyenne
Built around the mining, railroad, and cattle ranching blast during the Wild West period, Cheyenne has since thrived as Wyoming’s state incorporation in 1890.
The city is packed with a rich history. This is reflected in all its attractions including stately business buildings, grand hotels, and lavish homes.
Here, you can take a self-guided walking tour and explore everything downtown has to offer – with interesting facts and stories around every corner.
8. Cheyenne Botanic Gardens
Featuring gentle creeks, rolling hills, and rugged mountains, Wyoming is home to some of the most beautiful natural wonders in all of America.
That said, you don’t have to worry about hiking hundreds of kilometers to see it. Instead, you can enjoy this natural beauty straight from the city limits with a visit to Cheyenne Botanic Gardens.
The gardens themselves are open from dawn to dusk and are packed with every kind of flower you could imagine.
Whether you attend one of their many nature tours, or educational classes, or simply stroll around the gardens at your own pace – there is something for everyone.
9. Wyoming State Museum
At the Wyoming State Museum, you’ll find collections and exhibits showcasing the cultural heritage and natural history of Wyoming and everything within the Rocky Mountain region.
Here, you’ll learn all about the prairies and mountains of Wyoming, as well as the people who made Wyoming home all those years ago.
Displays highlight everything from the pioneer-era trails and dinosaur fossils to the city’s transition from a territory to statehood.
10. Antiques Central
With over two dozen vendors, you’re sure to find a keepsake worthy of your travels to Wyoming at Antiques Central.
It is situated in a large, red-brick building – that used to be a creamery – and is split over two different floors.
Here, you can find just about anything, for instance, clothes, furniture, books, jewelry, and even toys. However, one thing that everything shares in common is that it is all vintage.
11. Cheyenne Depot Museum
The railroad was one of the key developments that helped establish Cheyenne’s initial growth.
In 1887, the Cheyenne Depot served the Union Pacific Railroad, however, it is now preserved as a National Historic Landmark.
12. Happy Jack Road
Situated in the middle of Cheyenne and Laramie is Happy Jack Road – a stretch of highway that offers some incredible views and off-the-road attractions.
If you’re looking for a way to wind down – after a busy day of exploring – then this is the perfect place to do so.
13. Wyoming State Capitol Building
Finished in 1890, the exact year that Wyoming became a statehood, the Wyoming State Capitol Building is built in a grand classical architectural style featuring locally quarried stone.
On weekdays, the building is open for self-guided tours. However, there are also group and guided tours that only require some advanced planning.
Here, you can explore the building’s magnificent public spaces, including the gorgeous stained-glass dome and the rotunda.
14. Terry Bison Ranch
Known as the only bison train tour in the whole of America, Terry Bison Ranch combines fun and education to ensure an unforgettable day out.
Whether young or old, everyone is sure to love this stop.
15. Wyoming’s Historic Governor’s Mansion
These homes were occupied from 1905 to 1976 by Wyoming’s state governors and their families.
Today, they have been transformed into historic museums which you can explore on your own or as a guided tour
Final Thoughts
Heading to Cheyenne, Wyoming, then you certainly won’t be lost of things to do. With the help of this guide, you can make this vacation one of the most memorable.
Hopefully, this guide has informed you of 15 amazing things to do while in Cheyenne, Wyoming.