The sprawling Wild West scenes of Wyoming are what lend this beautiful land its nickname, “The Cowboy State.” Yet, despite the vast size of the state, Wyoming is the least populated place in all of America.
Thus, the small towns dotting the landscape have become the true embodiment of Wyoming culture. Detaching from the hustle and bustle of city life is easy in a state like this, making it perfect for a vacation or putting down roots.
For those who wish for more natural scenery, historical attractions, and a never-ending surge of the West's true spirit, these top 10 small towns in Wyoming are both beautiful and delightful.
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The namesake of this small town would be William Cody, otherwise known as Buffalo Bill. Scattered throughout the townscape are statues, museums, and even the Buffalo Bill Historical Center.
The other reason to check out Cody will be if you love rodeo. Since it is the Rodeo Capital of the World, you get a chance to see many prestigious competitions. Lastly, Yellowstone National Park is on the outskirts, lending Cody magnificent scenery.
Be sure to stick around for events like Wyoming Outdoors annual banquet, the Plains Indian Museum Powwow, and Mule Days. All are as interesting as they sound!
Accommodation: Where to stay in Cody
Address: Cody, WY
More touristy than some other towns on this list, Lander is a place that shines with many attractions and natural beauty. Tourism supports Lander, and with dude ranches and annual events like Pioneer Days Rodeo and the Wyoming State Winter Fair, it is no wonder why people flood this small town. Another reason Lander is popular would be the sunrises and sunsets around Sinks Canyon State Park.
Lander is also perfect for young families and budget travelers looking for adventure. The town has a high concentration of local breweries, bands the play at the local pubs, and a three-day International Climber's Festival that attracts people from all over the globe. By the way, if you love camping, Lander offers free campsites!
Accommodation: Where to stay in Lander
Address: Lander, WY
Though Jackson, found in Jackson Hole valley, is one of the largest towns in Teton County, it is still small in comparison to many other towns. Jackson is the middle ground between Grand Teton National Park, National Elk Refuge, and Yellowstone. There is also the mountain formation called “Sleeping Indian,” wooden sidewalks, an aerial tram, skiing, and snowboarding to keep visitors entertained.
Accommodation: Where to stay in Jackson
Address: Jackson, WY
History thrives within Buffalo, found among the Bighorn Mountains. There is an extensive collection of historical buildings, such as the 131-year-old Occidental Hotel, which once housed the likes of Teddy Roosevelt and Butch Cassidy. Then there is the Jim Gatchell Memorial Museum, which has been open since 1900. A short drive away is skiing and boating opportunities, too.
Accommodation: Where to stay in Buffalo
Address: Buffalo, WY
Quaint doesn't begin to describe Dubois accurately. The community is framed by the Wind River and the Absarokas. Though Dubois is in the middle of nowhere, it doesn't feel like it. The town is self-sustained by several outfitters, artisans, loggers, real-life cowboys, and ranchers. Life is simply good at Dubois. Oh, and did we mention the perfect weather? The town’s nickname is actually Never Sweat!
Accommodation: Where to stay in Dubois
Address: Dubois, WY
When one thing of mountains in Wyoming, you picture the Snowy Range Mountains and the lively town nestled on the foothills. Centennial was the first home of the Plains Indians, then later populated by settlers who were in search of the timer on the nearby Centennial Mountain.
Presently, the community is small but pleasant. You can enjoy staying at the Mountain View Hotel, or a bed & breakfast before checking out the neighborhood Phoenix Gallery.
Head out to Thunder Basin National park and Medicine Bow-Routt National Forest for nearly 3 million acres of hiking, photograph opportunities, and adventure.
Accommodation: Where to stay in Centennial
Address: Centennial, WY
Since the town's economy revolves around livestock, you might mistakenly call it “Ten Sheep” instead of “Ten Sleep.” However, this place is actually named by Native Americans. In the past, the location of the town was ten sleeps (or nights) away from the Sioux Camps on the North Platte River, near Bridger, Montana. Also found in Ten Sleep is the Pioneer Park and Museum and a decent-sized public library.
Accommodation: Where to stay in Ten Sleep
Address: Ten Sleep, WY
Otherwise known as “Wyoming's Jewel,” Sheridan is a place where mountains create a breathtaking backdrop to everyday life. The town has been mentioned in a number of travel magazines for being a Top 10 Mountain Town or Top Western Town. Indeed, the Wild West lives on with events like the Bighorn Country USA festival and the site of the Battle of Little Bighorn.
Accommodation: Where to stay in Sheridan
Address: Sheridan, WY
There is a ruggedness to Pinedale that might make you want to skip right through it—but if there is one town that deserves exploration, it's this one. You will feel as if you have stepped back into time, for the prevalence of cowboy spirit and culture continues to permeate the atmosphere. Get outdoorsy at places like Fremont Lake and Bridger Wilderness once you have taken in the traditional Western aesthetic.
Accommodation: Where to stay in Pinedale
Address: Pinedale, WY
With a name like Thermopolis, you can expect this place to be hot—in the right way. This town is part of the Hot Springs State Park, which is home to the largest mineral hot spring in the entire world. Since 1896, after a peace treaty was signed with Indians, people have been able to enjoy the hot waters for free. Other attractions would be the traditional Western markets and the Dinosaur Center, a popular place for children.
Accommodation: Where to stay in Thermopolis
Address: Thermopolis, WY