Top 10 Things to Do in Cheyenne WY
Hi there! My name is Emily Johnson and I recently visited Cheyenne, Wyoming. I had an amazing time exploring this charming city and I want to share my top 10 things to do with you. Whether you’re a nature enthusiast or a history buff, Cheyenne has something for everyone. So, let’s get started!
Curiosities and Interesting Facts
- Cheyenne is the capital and largest city in Wyoming.
- It was founded in 1867 and named after the local Native American tribe, the Cheyenne.
- Cheyenne is known as the Magic City of the Plains due to its rapid growth in the late 1800s.
- The city is also famous for its annual Cheyenne Frontier Days, which is the largest outdoor rodeo in the world.
1. Visit the Wyoming State Capitol
The Wyoming State Capitol is a must-visit attraction in Cheyenne. It’s a beautiful building with a rich history. I took a guided tour and learned a lot about the state’s government and politics. The tour is free and lasts about an hour. Don’t forget to check out the stunning stained glass dome!
2. Explore the Cheyenne Botanic Gardens
If you love nature, you’ll definitely want to visit the Cheyenne Botanic Gardens. It’s a beautiful oasis in the middle of the city. I spent hours strolling through the various gardens and learning about different plants and flowers. The best part? It’s free!
3. Experience the Cheyenne Frontier Days
The Cheyenne Frontier Days is a week-long event that takes place every July. It’s a celebration of the city’s western heritage and includes rodeos, concerts, parades, and more. I attended the rodeo and it was one of the most thrilling experiences of my life. If you’re in Cheyenne during the Frontier Days, you definitely don’t want to miss it!
4. Learn about the History of the American West at the Cheyenne Frontier Days Old West Museum
The Cheyenne Frontier Days Old West Museum is a great place to learn about the history of the American West. It has a large collection of artifacts and exhibits that showcase the culture and lifestyle of the cowboys and pioneers who settled in this area. I particularly enjoyed the interactive exhibits that allowed me to experience what life was like back then.
5. Take a Scenic Drive in Curt Gowdy State Park
Curt Gowdy State Park is a beautiful park located just outside of Cheyenne. It’s a great place to take a scenic drive and enjoy the natural beauty of Wyoming. I saw a lot of wildlife during my drive, including deer and bison. There are also plenty of hiking trails if you want to explore the park on foot.
6. Visit the Cheyenne Depot Museum
The Cheyenne Depot Museum is housed in a beautiful historic train station. It’s a great place to learn about the history of the railroad and its impact on Cheyenne. I took a guided tour and learned a lot about the different types of trains and how they were used in the past. The museum also has a gift shop where you can buy souvenirs.
7. See the Historic Governor’s Mansion
The Historic Governor’s Mansion is a beautiful mansion that was once the residence of Wyoming’s governors. It’s now a museum that’s open to the public. I took a guided tour and learned about the history of the mansion and the different governors who lived there. The tour was very informative and the mansion itself is stunning.
8. Shop and Dine in Downtown Cheyenne
Downtown Cheyenne is a charming area with plenty of shops and restaurants. I spent an afternoon browsing the boutiques and trying out different restaurants. Some of my favorites were the Italian restaurant, Bella Fuoco, and the coffee shop, Paramount Cafe. There’s also a farmers market on Saturdays if you’re in town during the summer.
9. See a Show at the Cheyenne Civic Center
The Cheyenne Civic Center is a great venue for live performances. I saw a play there and was impressed by the quality of the production. The theater itself is beautiful and has a lot of history. If you’re a fan of the arts, you definitely want to check out what’s playing at the Civic Center.
10. Visit the Terry Bison Ranch
The Terry Bison Ranch is a unique attraction located just outside of Cheyenne. It’s a working bison ranch that also offers tours and activities for visitors. I took a tour of the ranch and saw bison up close. There’s also a restaurant on site that serves bison burgers and steaks. It’s definitely worth a visit if you’re looking for something different.
FAQs
What is Cheyenne known for?
Cheyenne is known for its western heritage, its annual Cheyenne Frontier Days rodeo, and its historic landmarks.
What is the best time to visit Cheyenne?
The best time to visit Cheyenne is during the summer months when the weather is warm and there are plenty of outdoor activities and events.
What are some other attractions in Cheyenne?
Other attractions in Cheyenne include the Wyoming State Museum, the Nelson Museum of the West, and the Cheyenne Mountain Zoo.
Is Cheyenne a safe city?
Yes, Cheyenne is generally considered a safe city. However, like any city, it’s always a good idea to take precautions and be aware of your surroundings.
What is the cost of living in Cheyenne?
The cost of living in Cheyenne is lower than the national average. Housing and transportation are particularly affordable.
Thanks for reading! I hope this article has inspired you to visit Cheyenne and experience all it has to offer.