4.5Old Trail Town(1.178 reviews) - Old Town Trail Temporarily closed - Closed until May 15, 2023 Spent 2-3 hours Historic Sites
OPEN May 15 through SEPTEMBER 30, 7 days a week Take a walk through history. 28 historic frontier buildings have been reconstructed on the original townsite of Cody City, furnished with period artifacts. Old Trail Town is also home to the Museum of the Old West.See more..
Mormon settlers came here beginning in the 1890’s. They chose this area for the fertile alluvial soil and the proximity to water for irrigation. I bet they also fell in love with the views of the Grand Teton Range which are spectacular, especially in the morning.See more..
The Wyoming Territorial Prison State Historic Site has an incredibly rich history. Run as a federal (territorial) and state prison from 1872 to 1903, it then became the Agricultural Experiment Station for the University of Wyoming after the State Prison relocated to Rawlins. The site is now operated as a Historic Site by the State of Wyoming.See more..
4.5Fort Laramie National Historic Site(465 reviews) - Great place to visit for the entire family. Friday: 9:00 AM - 7:00 PM Historic Sites • National Parks
This is a great National Park to visit. It's very interactive and educational. They have done a wonderful job preserving a piece of history. There are many "ruins" yet also many maintained and furnished buildings to explore. The kids had a great time and even earned their ranger badges. Stop at the "bar" on the way out for a root beer or cream soda. They also have cannon firing demonstrations at certain times of the day/week.See more..
4.5Wyoming Frontier Prison(286 reviews) - A story well told Friday: 9:00 AM - 5:00 PM Spent 1-2 hours Speciality Museums • Historic Sites
The eighty year history of Wyoming’s first state penitentiary, now known as the Wyoming Frontier Prison, is as colorful and elaborate as the plot of a classic western movie. The cornerstone of the prison was laid in 1888, but due to funding issues and Wyoming’s notorious weather, the doors wouldn’t open for thirteen years. In December of 1901, the prison opened and consisted of 104 cells (Cell Block A), no electricity or running water, and very inadequate heating. Throughout the prison’s operation, approximately 13,500 people were incarcerated, including eleven women. Overcrowding was an almost constant concern, and the first of several additions to the penitentiary was completed in 1904, adding 32 cells to the west end of the original cell block (Cell Block A). Women were housed in the prison until 1909, until the last woman was transferred to Colorado. The addition of the second cell block (Cell Block B) in 1950 temporarily relieved the overcrowding, and also included solitary confinement cells, a much more efficient heating system, and hot running water which wouldn’t be installed in the original cell block for another twenty-eight years. A maximum security addition (Cell Block C) was completed in 1966, but the addition only included thirty-six cells and was reserved for serious discipline cases. The prison was equipped with several different means of disciplining inmates throughout its operation, including a dungeon, several variations of solitary confinement and a “punishment pole” to which men were handcuffed and whipped with rubber hoses. The prison also used different execution methods.. The first two executions were carried out using the “traveling” Julien Gallows which were used to hang Tom Horn in Cheyenne in 1903. In 1916, the penitentiary completed the addition of a “death house” which consisted of six cells to house inmates on death row, and a unique indoor version of the Julien Gallows. The building also housed the gas chamber when it was chosen t...See more..
You are greeted with fascinating time line on the way to the visitors center that puts into perspective the changes in the earth. The Visitor is really what you are here for with a film and many incredible fossils on display. The actual Butte is quite a long walk in high dessert environment. There is a nice picnic area. We lucky enough to encounter a shepherd and herd of sheep.See more..
4.5The Historic Sheridan Inn(210 reviews) - Love this Historical Hotel Historic Sites • Points of Interest & Landmarks
Constructed in 1892, the Historic Sheridan Inn gave adventurous travelers a taste of Eastern luxury in the West. Through the years, the Inn has remained a hub of activity, offering elegant New Year's Eve balls and the town's first electric lights. Buffalo Bill Cody sat on the front porch of the Inn auditioning acts to join the "Buffalo Bill's Wild West Show." The Inn is on the National Register of Historic Places. In October 2013, Bob and Dana Townsend became the newest owners of the Inn, bringing 21st century luxury to the 19th century building. The Inn is now open for overnight stays, banquets, weddings, business meetings and tours.See more..
4.5Fort Caspar Museum and Historic Site(207 reviews) - Very well done - interesting and a reasonable entry fee. Small museum Friday: 8:00 AM - 5:00 PM Historic Sites
The museum is near the town but far enough out at parking isn’t an issue and there are plenty of free spaces. Entry is reasonably priced. Its a small museum but very well done with good exhibits which show the history of Casper and Fort Caspar (and explain the spelling discrepancy). Outside there is a recreation of the fort with a number of rooms laid out as they would have been when the fort was occupied. Great history and very well done.See more..
4.5Legend Rock Petroglyph Site(183 reviews) - Amazing site Friday: 7:00 AM - 6:00 PM Historic Sites • Historic Walking Areas
At Legend Rock Petroglyph site, visitors step back in time to A.D. 500-1700. Well-preserved prehistoric and American Indian etchings of animals and humans are located along Cottonwood Creek. The site is maintained by agents of Hot Springs State Park.See more..
Built in 1904, this grand Colonial Revival-style mansion was home to 19 of Wyoming's First Families, including the First Female Governor in the United States. Docents will gladly orient you to the home before sending you on a self guided tour of the Mansion. We are happy to welcome you as our guest to Wyoming's First Executive Mansion!See more..
4.5Fort Phil Kearny State Historic Site(143 reviews) - Fantastic Historical Fort. Temporarily closed - Closed until May 1, 2023 Spent 1-2 hours Historic Sites • Points of Interest & Landmarks • Historic Walking Areas
Built to protect travelers heading north along the Bozeman Trail to the Montana gold fields, Fort Phil Kearny witnessed the events of Red Cloud’s War, between 1866 and 1868. Outdoor locations are open year-round, and the interpretive center from May-Oct.See more..
I’m so glad we stopped at this! Only go during their open hours, otherwise you can’t see anything. It was so interesting. My entire family loved it. We were there for about 45 minutes. It is ran by a non profit organization, they accept donations for entrance. See more..
Established in 1843 by Jim Bridger and Louis Vasquez as a trading post for travelers along the Overland Trails. Between 1853 and 1857 it was a Mormon Trading Post for emigrants to Utah. From 1857 to 1890 it was a US Army Post with several companies of infantry assigned to frontier protection. In addition to an authentic reconstruction of the Bridger-Vasquez fort, many historic structures from the military period still exist on site and are open for tours daily 9-5 from May 1 through September 30. In the off season from October 1 to April 30, the Museum building and grounds are open Fri-Sun 9-5 (weather permitting).See more..
I wish I would have known you can climb the rock before I got there because I wasn't wearing the best shoes but I was able to climb 2/3 of the way up easily. It was so fun to mix history with some physical activity here. It should be noted that the area around the rock is surrounded by open range, and we watched two bulls fighting at a distance of about 200 ft for almost an hour. If you're nearby I highly recommend a visit here.See more..
4.5Trail End State Historic Site(106 reviews) - The highlight of our trip Temporarily closed - Closed until Apr 1, 2023 Spent < 1 hour Historic Sites • State Parks • History Museums
Trail End State Historic Site is a fully furnished historic house museum that interprets the time period 1913-1933. Visitors step back into time to catch a glimpse of what life was like for John B. Kendrick, a rancher politician, and his family. Hours: April 1- May 31: 1:00-4:00pm daily June 1-August 31: 9:00 am- 6:00 pm daily September 1-December 14: 1:00-4:00pm daily Closed: Veteran's Day Thanksgiving Day December 15-March 31See more..
The ghost town itself has over 20 old buildings. The self-guided booklet gives you just enough information on each building without getting boring. My favorites were "Fort Bourbon", the Saloon, and the Hotel. Try to get there on a weekend so you can take a 90-minute tour of the Carissa Gold Mine (included in your $8 fee for the town).See more..
If you are into the History of the west, especially the Indian wars of the late 1800s thn this is a much.See more..
4.5Lincoln Highway(31 reviews) - Very Nice! Historic Sites • Points of Interest & Landmarks
Wanted to stop here 5 years ago, but was unable to because my son was a skateboarding nut and would have attempted to skate the stair set, so we skipped it. This year it was just my daughter and I so we decided to stop! Glad we did! Nice rest area/monument. Wandered around the little museum display they have, collected our free "sticker", which we did not know that throughout the state of WY, you can get stickers! We found out a little late, so we only received one, but will go back next time for more at each stop! They ladies at the stop were very nice and informative! If you are headed West, and traffic is bad, you could stop and wait for the traffic to let up (it was bumper to bumper for about 5 miles before and after this exit) or skip it until you are heading East and its easy on and off to see the monument! Definitely do not skip the chance to see this bit of history!See more..
4.5Wyoming Veterans Memorial Museum(27 reviews) - Finding my father. Friday: 9:00 AM - 4:00 PM Spent 1-2 hours Military Museums • Historic Sites • History Museums
Located in the heart of an old Army Air Force Base, the Wyoming Veterans Memorial Museum preserves and shares the personal and intimate stories of Wyoming's Veterans. From the Spanish-American War to the present day, the WVMM covers all branches of service. Visitors to the Museum can explore the individual experiences of World War I doughboys in France or those of a naval aviator in Vietnam. Our collection includes over 25,000 military and veterans-related items. Beyond veteran history, the Museum also explores the history of the Casper Army Air Base. Built after Pearl Harbor, the base trained B-17 and B-24 bomber crews. Over 16,000 men passed through Casper on their way to Europe, Africa, or the Pacific. The Museum occupies the former Enlisted Men's Service Club, one of many base buildings remaining.See more..
We made Meeteetse a destination day in our vacation plans and enjoyed the Cowboy Bar totally. The food was great and the service great. The owner included us in a conversation that gave us history and enchantment! See more..
4.5Wagon Box Fight Monument(17 reviews) - American history in a very remote area. Historic Sites • Monuments & Statues
This monument is situated in Fort Phil Kearny, Story, Wyoming. It is a very remote location and not a lot more than a large open area where the fort once stood and a battle took place. The sign tells the story and we were totally alone when we visited, probably because of its remoteness.See more..
4.5Roundhouse and Railyards(16 reviews) - Evanston Small Businessman Event Friday: 8:00 AM - 5:00 PM Spent 1-2 hours Historic Sites
A great time meeting the many beautiful people of Evanston, WY. This town has all the classic charm of yesteryear, with all benefits off modern life. The landscape, history and wildlife makes a visit to Evanston a great destination spot for the traveler whose looking for something truly unique.See more..
4.0Douglas WWII P.O.W. Camp(14 reviews) - Well Worth Your Time and Support Spent < 1 hour Speciality Museums • Historic Sites • Points of Interest & Landmarks
During WWII Camp Douglas was the primary prisoner of war (POW) camp for Wyoming. Visit the last remaining building of what was once a square mile, 180-building site; where 2,000 Italian, 3,000 German POWs, and 500 army personnel were accommodated. At the time, the camp was larger than the town of Douglas. Unique highlight: Western murals painted by Italian prisoners and historic photographs.See more..
I stopped here several times while traveling through the area on business trips. The first time was purely by accident just to get a travel break. But then I planned subsequent stops here as a good place to take a lunch break and stretch my legs. The remnants of the fort are interesting, but be sure to stop and view the cemetery and caretaker's house to gain more insights of what this place was like years ago.See more..
4.5Nici Self Historical Museum(13 reviews) - Historic Museum Friday: 12:00 PM - 4:00 PM Historic Sites • History Museums
Explore what life was like in 20th Century Wyoming and experience history preserved at the The Nici Self Historical Museum. Exhibits depict the history of ranching, mining, timber, lumbering, railroading, recreation, regional culture, early Western lifestyle, and homesteading life in the region. Celebrating southeast Wyoming’s Centennial Valley and the West, the museum and is located at the base of the Snowy Range Mountains and Medicine Bow National Forest.See more..
Being a Chinese citizen myself, I stood in front of the Joss house with a hard feeling. I only read about the Chinese labors in the nineteenth century — how pivotal they were in developing the American West engaging in heavy labors, laying down Trans-continental railroads and mining - yet living in squalor, paying hefty and discriminative taxes, governed under Chinese Exclusion Act and racial tension, and even massacred in some places like Rock Springs. Evanston took custody of some of the survivors from the Riot and a few of them spent the rest of their lives here. Although there are few Chinese families living in Evanston nowadays, people here rebuilt the Joss house. It reflects the daily life of those early Chinese labors despite many hardships, and connects me back to their days in the old American West. I mourn the tragic passing of my fellow countrymen. May the history never forgets. Thank you for resurrecting the Joss house for the public.See more..
It's just a sign, a very informative one, but just a sign. It looks kind of out of place, no mini museum or artefacts. Just in front of a motel.See more..
Its the same house that James C Penney lived in when he opened his first store. The cradle is the only thing original but the pictires and story is delightful. There is also a video.See more..
5.0College Inn Bar(8 reviews) - Stop here; this place is great! Historic Sites • Points of Interest & Landmarks
Have a couple of drinks and something to eat with the good people of Douglas, at the recently restored Institution that is the College Inn Bar. Owner Jacey and her team have done an amazing job of restoring this town landmark and making it into a community watering hole again. We had such a great time, great beer, and the flatbread pizza is excellent!See more..
4.0Battle Pass Scenic Byway(5 reviews) - A 60 mile Jaunt over the Continental Divide on fine Wyoming Highway. Spent 2-3 hours Historic Sites • Battlefields
One of the newest Wyoming Scenic Byways. Low traffic, fine highway, two spectacular museums, crosses the Continental Divide and the National Continental Divide Trail, sites of historic ghost towns, well marked signage about region, wild game, wild flowers, ranching and camp grounds.See more..
4.0Aladdin Coal Tipple(5 reviews) - Great Piece of History Historic Sites • Architectural Buildings • Mines
We were driving through the countryside from Devils Tower and passed through Aladdin population 15. We stopped by the store but it hadn't opened yet, I think they were just going to open as I saw a lady coming from around the building. We kept going and just out of town saw a sign for Aladdin Coal Tipple so we decided to stop. A great piece of history. Yes the path could use a little tender loving care, But considering Aladdin is a town of 15 simply amazing. Thank You or sharing this piece of history.See more..
If you like history and don’t mind driving a few minutes outside town, you’ll enjoy this. Coal production started here in about 1906. My husband and his brother used to visit the area for the mines and in a time before destruction and graffiti. Now you see broken glass and graffiti inside. It’s a shame people feel it’s okay to destroy our history. If it wasn’t for the plaques outside with information and a cool phone code to hook up to google, we wouldn’t know the Importance to the community. While here take a drive up and look at the old houses and old school. (Now they are apartments.)See more..
This is very easy to get to and only takes a few minutes to see but it is very interesting to see. The ruins are still there and there is a replica so you can see what it would be like to travel on the stagecoach and stay here for the night. It is great to learn about this time in American history.See more..
4.5Wyoming House for Historic Women(3 reviews) - Best place to learn American women's history Spent < 1 hour Historic Sites • Educational sites Did you know Wyoming had the first woman voter? First woman voter? First woman juror? Well, there is all that and a lot more to learn hereSee more..
4.5Split Rock Historic Site(2 reviews) - SPLIT ROCK HISTORIC SITE, GREAT STOP FOR PICNIC AND FOR KIDS TO RUN AROUND ON THE ROCKS! Friday: 12:00 AM - 11:59 PM Spent < 1 hour Historic Sites • Points of Interest & Landmarks • Scenic Walking Areas
SPLIT ROCK HISTORIC SITE, GREAT STOP FOR PICNIC AND FOR KIDS TO RUN AROUND ON THE ROCKS! One and half hours from Rawlins or Riverton/Lander is the Split Rock Historic Site, a important landmark on the Oregon, California, Mormon trail! If you are traveling with 4-16 year old kids, and they are getting crazy in the car, this is a great place for them to run around, climbing rocks for 30-45 minutes. Stop and have lunch at the picnic tables! No water! There are outhouses, picnic tables, and garbage cans.See more..
Perfect stop on a girls trip across the nation! Stopping at all the funny names cemeteries to help my bffl cope with the death of her fiancée, Travid. She’s really coming to terms with death. GREAT McDonald’s nearby btw!See more..
4.5Piedmont Charcoal Kilns(2 reviews) - Interesting spot Spent < 1 hour Historic Sites • Points of Interest & Landmarks • Ghost Towns Interesting history here. It includes kilns that were used to make charcoal and the ghost town of Piedmont. It was freezing cold with deep snow when we were there. It would be more meaningful in decent weather. There is a small cemetery, the 3 kilns, a railroad station and several other buildings.See more..
National Historic Landmark, established in 1903, the Big Horn Mountain Stage Company is a seasonal mercantile, coffee shop and concert hall, located in the first general store in the Big Horn Basin. Open from May-October, the Stage Company features tourist items, coffee and cold drinks, camping gear, clothing and t-shirts, and Wyoming arts and crafts.See more..
