Drink at the Same Watering Holes as Western Legends in WYOMING

Mint Bar CREDIT Wyoming Office of Tourism

Wyoming boasts a rich history peppered with tales of rugged frontiersmen, cowboys and pioneers. Tucked away in towns like Laramie, Sheridan and Cody, saloons from the Wild West are now the local watering holes serving as living relics.

In downtown Laramie stands the iconic Buckhorn Bar, founded in 1900 and steeped in Wild West lore. Its weathered exterior belies a lively interior where locals and visitors alike gather for cold drinks and tall tales. Meanwhile, in Sheridan, the Mint Bar holds court, a mainstay since 1907, offering a glimpse into the town's colorful past with its classic Western ambiance and friendly atmosphere. And no mention of historic Wyoming bars would be complete without the Irma Hotel in Cody, built by Buffalo Bill himself in 1902, housing the legendary Irma Saloon. Patrons can sip on a cold brew beneath the watchful gaze of a magnificent cherrywood bar, a gift from Queen Victoria to Buffalo Bill.

These venerable establishments not only provide a glimpse into Wyoming's storied past but also serve as beloved community hubs where the spirit of the Old West lives on.

For more information on Wyoming, visit TravelWyoming.com.

Seminoe Reservoir Will Leave You Breathless

Craving an escape that blends adventure with relaxation? Look no further than Seminoe Reservoir, a crown jewel of Carbon County, Wyoming.

This sprawling reservoir beckons water enthusiasts with its 180 miles of pristine shoreline. Cast your line for trophy trout in the legendary Miracle Mile, a blue-ribbon stretch of the North Platte River, or bring a boat and carve through turquoise waters with the wind in your hair or explore the surrounding sand dunes on an off-road vehicle.

Hikers can embark on scenic trails that wind through dramatic landscapes, offering breathtaking reservoir views and surrounding mountains. As dusk settles, watch for a majestic display of wildlife – bighorn sheep, eagles or pronghorn antelope Unwind after a day of adventure by camping under a blanket of stars. Nearby towns Rawlins and Sinclair boast charming restaurants and unique shops.

For more information on Carbon County, visit WyomingCarbonCounty.com.

Explore Casper, Wyoming, Like a Local!

Hike the 5-mile Bridal Trail beginning at Rotary Park, crossing Garden Creek, as you take in stunning views of Casper's backyard mountain environment along the way.

Seminoe State Park CREDIT Wyoming Carbon County

If water activities pique your interest more, float lazily or fish along our North Platte River. Float or paddle as little as an hour or as long as four hours, as the river has many drop-in points.

Walk the heart of our community in downtown Casper as you shop like a true local. Experience our cowboy culture of well-rounded Western boutiques and specialty-made Wyoming-ware shops.

Belly up at one of our eight breweries as the taste of the West is brought alive, one pint glass at a time. And the culinary scene is unmatched and on the rise here in Casper from authentic Thai food; free-range, grass-fed yak meat; and the most tender cuts of steak in the West. Be sure to check out the newly opened Backdoor Lounge and snag a nightcap at the one and only Backwards Distilling Tasting Room downtown.

For more information on Casper, visit VisitCasper.com.

Discover Cheyenne’s Vibe, Attitude and Swagger

Cheyenne, Wyoming, holds some off-the-radar treasures for those willing to ditch the typical tourist spots. If you're into outdoor adventure, Curt Gowdy State Park is a local favourite. With 30 miles of trails, you can find yourself an immersive nature experience.

When it comes to grub and drinks, hit up the local joints. Explore Pine Bluffs Distilling for a true farm-to-flask experience, or stop into the Paramount Ballroom for a hand-crafted cocktail. Taste the authentic flavours of the region in specialty food spots like the Bunkhouse, Little Bear or T-Joe’s, where you’ll rub shoulders with real cowboys and cowgirls. 

Outdoor adventure in Cheyenne CREDIT Laura Grier

Dive into the traditional Western lifestyle with downtown boutique shopping, or step back in time at one of several museums that give you a genuine look into the city's history and heritage.

Cheyenne's hidden gems go beyond the usual tourist checklist, and you can save on exploring them all by purchasing a Legendary Pass. For $35, you’ll gain admission to four museums and a historic trolley tour. Travel like a local, and you'll uncover a city with its own vibe, attitude and swagger.

For more information on Cheyenne, visit Cheyenne.org.

Earn That Drink in Cody Yellowstone

Cody Yellowstone has a new guide service. Hiking Buddy is led by a Cody resident and professional hiking guide who is offering day hikes in the region. With nine hiking choices ranging from the moderate 4-mile “Cabin Crawl” to an advanced 13-mile adventure, there is something for just about everyone. Along the way, participants learn about history, plant life, geology and wildlife while they are surrounded by the scenery that draws outdoor enthusiasts from around the world. Hiking Buddy is available April through October.

Hiking can be thirsty fun – as opposed to work – and nothing hits the spot like a cold one. Cody was recently voted “Best Small Town Beer Scene” by readers of USA Today. With local breweries, tap rooms, lounges and eateries participating in Cody Yellowstone’s Sippin’ Trail, there are plenty of options to enjoy that beer, cocktail, soft drink, sports drink or water.

For more information on Cody Yellowstone, visit www.CodyYellowstone.org.

Take A Trip Back In Time In Buffalo, Wyoming

Visiting Buffalo, Wyoming, is an opportunity to step back in time to the authentic Old West. Here are some locals' tips:

Stay in the heart of downtown at the Historic Occidental Hotel & Saloon. Founded in 1880, the hotel’s rooms are decorated with antiques and feature modern conveniences, including private bathrooms. Arrange a tour of the property for the afternoon. The bullet-riddled saloon comes alive in the evenings with live music, especially for the Thursday Night Bluegrass Jams.

Check out The Clear Creek Trail and – for fans of the Longmire Mystery Series – the Busy Bee Cafe and the Bucking Buffalo Supply Co. The award-winning Gatchell Museum tells the story of significant events in the county that shaped the West.

In the summer, there’s a good chance you can include a night at the rodeo as part of your stay.

The Western steakhouse experience is alive and well at Cattleguard Steakhouse, Bozeman Trail Steak House and the Cowboy Bar & Grill. Stop by Mountain Meadow Wool to see the mill turn wool into yarn, hats, scarves and more.

For more information on Johnson County, visit VisitBuffaloWY.com.

Experience a Traditional Powwow in Wind River Country

Feel the drum beat. Hear the singing. See the colours. Admire the detailed regalia, skilled footwork and precise movements. This is all part of a Native American powwow.

Powwow CREDIT Wind River Country Suite 1491

In Wyoming’s Wind River Country, there are three large powwows. The Eastern Shoshone Indian Days Powwow is Wyoming's largest. The Ethete Celebration Powwow is held in July, and the Northern Arapaho Powwow, held in September, is Wyoming's oldest powwow.

Each powwow begins with a Grand Entry on Friday night, where elders bring in eagle feathers and flags, and all dancers enter the arena. There are also two Grand Entries on Saturday and one on Sunday.

Admission to powwows is free. Once there, you’ll find vendors selling fry bread, Indian stew and Indian tacos, as well as jewelry and other items.

Powwows today can include games, food and plenty of socializing, but the dancing remains the main event. There are traditional dances, as well as modern dances. Some are competitive, and dancers follow a powwow circuit dancing for prize money.

A powwow is an incredible way to experience the blending of the present and Wind River Country’s history. For more information, click here.

For more information on Wind River Country, visit WindRiver.org.