Wyoming, an unassuming US state that sometimes falls by the wayside, deserves to be recognized for its small-town culture, rich history, and unbeatable natural features. Although Wyoming is the least populated state, it holds a special place in American history. Officially known as “the Equality State,” Wyoming was the first state to guarantee women the right to vote and hold public office. Upon entering the state, you’ll be flooded by views of majestic mountain ranges and vivid wildlife, which serve as an ideal backdrop to some of the most enchanting small towns perfect for summer visits. Each of the 11 towns selected here has fewer than 50,000 residents and embodies the spirit of the American West in its own unique way. Let’s dive into the small-town charm of Wyoming, where you can catch glimpses of the state’s past and present, all while being immersed in nature's brilliance. Whether exploring historic museums, sampling local cuisine, or hiking along picture-perfect trails, these towns offer memorable summertime experiences.
Jackson
Nestled in the Jackson Hole valley, between the Teton and Gros Ventre mountain ranges sits Jackson, Wyoming. Probably most famous as a destination for skilled skiers, Jackson is a mere 20-minute drive from Jackson Hole Mountain Resort, while Snow King Mountain is literally next door. However, these picturesque mountain ranges provide amazing hiking and wildlife-watching opportunities during the summer months. There’s Cache Creek, Josie’s Ridge, and Philips Canyon, to name only a few popular local hiking trails. Jackson features an iconic Town Square in the form of a park, where visitors enter under arches made of elk antlers. This is the commercial heart of town, surrounded by charming shops and mouthwatering local eateries like Snake River Grill, Hand Fire Pizza, and Persephone Bakery. If you’re looking to learn more about the area’s wildlife and history, take a trip down to the National Museum of Wildlife Art, which offers fascinating exhibits by some of the country’s greatest wildlife artists. The legendary Jackson Hole Playhouse, which has been open since 1949, is also worth a visit. You’ll get to experience an incredible show in a historic setting and, if you wish, couple it with a tasty meal.
Cody
Cody, Wyoming, is a small-town gateway to nearby Yellowstone National Park. The town is renowned for its beautiful scenery and wildlife, and visitors often spot deer, elk, bears, and bighorn sheep near roadways. But this town is not only a top-notch summer destination for nature enthusiasts’s but also chock full of incredible museums any history buff will love. The Buffalo Bill Center of the West is Cody’s cultural and commercial heart. This sprawling complex of five museums serves as a window into the region’s history and Buffalo Bill Cody’s legacy. The nearby Old Trail Town Museum transports visitors to the frontier days with its unique collection of historic buildings and artifacts. Additionally, the Cody Dug Up Gun Museum showcases an impressive array of historic firearms, each with its own in-depth description and backstory. With its proximity to Yellowstone, local wildlife, and host of top-notch museums, Cody offers a well-rounded experience for any traveler.
Lander
The charming town of Lander, Wyoming, sits in the shadow of the Wind River Mountains. The town and surrounding area are filled with stunning riverside parks, hiking trails, rolling, forested hills, and shrub-dense plains. Some of the best hikes are in Sinks Canyon State Park, about a 15-minute drive southwest on Highway 131 - look for the North Slope, Popo Agie Falls, and Fossil Hill trails. Many of the local parks in and around town also offer camping, fishing, and birdwatching opportunities in pleasant, scenic environments. If you’re looking for grub beyond the fish you catch, look no further than Highway 297 and Main Street. You’ll find delectable grub in comforting digs at El Vaquero, Cowfish, The Middle Fork, and Maverick Restaurant, all located along this central drag.
Sheridan
Another mountainside town, Sheridan, Wyoming, sits against the picturesque backdrop of the Bighorns. This charming town's heart is its Main Street Historic District, lined with quaint boutique shops, quirky cafes, tasteful restaurants, and well-curated art galleries, making it a great place for leisurely local exploration. If you’re interested in mixing a historical experience with a bit of fun, head over to the Trail End State Historic Site, the lavish mansion of John B. Kendrick, an early 20th-century cattle baron and U.S. senator. Additionally, King’s Saddlery is a must-see landmark for anyone interested in the early Western frontier. You’ll find yourself immersed in extensive Western memorabilia and get a detailed look into the region’s cowboy culture.
Dubois
Looking for a hidden gem bordered by red rock badlands and lush forests? Look no further than Dubois, Wyoming. Along this quaint town’s main drag is the Rustic Pine Tavern, an authentic bar and restaurant that exudes an atmosphere of the Old West, making it a favorite for locals and travelers. It’s the perfect place to meet new people, try some truly flavorful wings, and have a cold draft beer. If you want to learn more about the local landscape and wildlife, a tour from the National Bighorn Sheep Interpretive Center offers insights into the local bighorn sheep population and educates visitors on regional history and the ancient petroglyphs that can be found nearby.
Thermopolis
The tiny town of Thermopolis, Wyoming, cradled in the Wind River Canyon, has under 3,000 permanent residents but remains a celebrated destination due to its therapeutic hot springs. The Hot Springs State Park is a colorful and manicured park where visitors can indulge in gorgeous picnicking spots and take relaxing dips in the natural hot springs. There’s also a free bathhouse if you’d like a more controlled version of a hot-spring soak. On the east side of the Bighorn River, you’ll find the magnificent Wyoming Dinosaur Center, which offers guided, captivating tours through prehistoric times and a sizeable exhibit of fossils. And if getting up close and personal with the natural landscape is your idea of a great time, head on down to Wind River Canyon Whitewater & Fly Fishing. They offer rafting and fishing tours that are highly rated, with visitors from around the nation lauding their expertise and service.
Pinedale
The Bridger-Teton National Forest and numerous pristine lakes wrap all around Pinedale, Wyoming, making it a nature enthusiast’s dream. Fremont Lake, Half Moon Lake, and Willow Lake are three of the largest and closest, and each offers campgrounds and hiking trails. Plenty of natural beauty can be found within the town itself, at Veteran’s Memorial Park and Boyd Skinner Park, both of which are complemented by Pine Creek, which winds through them. Pinedale is also home to some excellent restaurants, such as The Grazing Goat, Pitchfork Fondue Western Cookout, and Baked & Wired. Lovers of history will also find Pinedale appealing, with the Trapper's Point Site (labeled “Trapper’s Point Location” on Google Maps) and the Museum of the Mountain Man. The former offers a panoramic view into the Green River valley, the location of the great fur trapper rendezvous in the 1830s. The latter offers a deep dive into the history of the Rocky Mountain fur trade, showcasing 19th-century rifles, authentic trapping gear, and traditional leather and felt clothing.
Buffalo
A little over half an hour south of Sheridan, you’ll find the quaint little town of Buffalo, Wyoming, also set against the stunning backdrop of the Bighorn Mountains. The historic Occidental Hotel is located on N Main Street and is a lovingly curated nod to 19th-century Western culture. There’s a famous saloon on site as well, making the hotel a commercial landmark where you can experience the real Old West. Buffalo is a town steeped in history, as the Jim Gatchell Memorial Museum reveals to all patrons. This is a must-see historical stop with more than 20,000 items in its collection, where you’ll learn about local history, Native American-U.S. engagements, and more. Another worthwhile historical stop is the Fort Phil Kearny State Historic Site, featuring the remaining portion of a fort used during the Indian Wars. It gives you a glimpse into what life was like as a soldier on the plains, as well as how Native peoples attempted to stop the loss of their territories.
Saratoga
Saratoga, Wyoming, sits along the North Platte River and is well-known across the state for its revitalizing hot springs and excellent fishing spots. If you’re looking for a more luxurious experience, you can check out the Saratoga Hot Springs Resort, an excellently maintained and rustic hotel featuring natural hot springs and notable service. If you’re uninterested in the resort but want to experience hot springs, the completely free Saratoga Hobo Hot Springs-open 24 hours per day, is close by. When you get hungry and watch a bite to eat, the town has several local favorites to choose from, including Italian at Bella’s Bistro, incredible salads and sandwiches at the Saratoga Sandwich Company, and incredible burgers and shakes at The Malt. And if you’re in the mood for some history, the Saratoga Museum provides a deep dive into the region's history and showcases tons of interesting memorabilia from the area, as well as an extensive mineral and rock display.
Powell
Encircled within the Shoshone National Forest, Powell, Wyoming, is a special small town that attracts outdoor enthusiasts year-round. The forest is literally the town’s backyard and provides plenty of hiking, wildlife viewing, and scenic drives amidst towering pine trees. One very unique historical stop just 15 minutes southwest of town is the Heart Mountain Interpretive Center, which honors the area's complex past. The Center gives visitors a look into a darker, lesser-known chapter of US history, namely the internment of Japanese-Americans during World War II. Be sure to visit the guard tower, honor roll, restored barracks, and root cellar. The Homesteader Museum, in the heart of Powell, is a local and tourist favorite. The museum puts on excellent local events, including the renowned Homesteader Days, and tourists get to enjoy detailed stories of the homesteading and pioneer days from museum staff.
Enjoy A Summer Excursion In Small-Town Wyoming
The unique allure and natural dazzle of Wyoming's small towns make them unforgettable destinations for solo, couple, or family summer excursions. From the history-drenched streets of Cody and Sheridan to the marvelous natural features of Jackson and Pinedale, each town has its own recognizable mixture of culture, nature, and history. Whether hiking trails with majestic mountain views, relaxing in therapeutic hot springs or soaking up the region’s vibrant past at local museums, these storied communities offer special experiences in a class of their own. Ignite your inner adventurer or simply find an exquisite spot for much-needed rejuvenation in one of Wyoming’s hidden gems.