Cheyenne is the capital and largest city of the state of Wyoming, located in the southeastern part of the state. It is the most populous city in Wyoming, with a population of over 65,000 people. Cheyenne was founded in 1867, and is known for its rich history, western culture, and outdoor recreation opportunities. It is home to several museums and historic sites, including the Wyoming State Capitol, the Cheyenne Depot Museum, and the Nelson Museum of the West. The city is also famous for its annual Cheyenne Frontier Days, which is the largest outdoor rodeo and western celebration in the world. In addition to rodeos, the event features concerts, parades, and other activities.
Places to Visit in Cheyenne
Some popular places to visit in Cheyenne include:
Cheyenne Depot Museum – This historic train depot has been converted into a museum and features exhibits on the history of Cheyenne and the Union Pacific Railroad.
Wyoming State Capitol – Completed in 1890, the Wyoming State Capitol is one of the most recognizable buildings in Cheyenne and features a beautiful interior and exterior.
Cheyenne Botanic Gardens – This 9-acre garden features a variety of plants and gardens, including a solar conservatory and a children’s garden.
Cheyenne Frontier Days Old West Museum – This museum showcases the history and culture of the American West and includes exhibits on Native American culture, cowboys, and the frontier.
Terry Bison Ranch – This working bison ranch offers visitors the chance to see and interact with bison, as well as take horseback rides and enjoy other outdoor activities.
Big Boy Steam Engine – Cheyenne is home to one of the largest steam locomotives ever built, the Big Boy, which is on display at the Cheyenne Depot Museum.
F.E. Warren Air Force Base – This military base is home to a number of historic buildings and monuments, as well as the Wyoming Air National Guard. Visitors can take tours of the base and learn about the history of the Air Force in Cheyenne.
Best Time To Visit Cheyenne
The best time to visit Cheyenne, Wyoming is during the summer months of June to August, when the weather is mild and there are plenty of outdoor activities to enjoy. The average temperature during this time ranges from the mid-60s to the low 80s Fahrenheit (about 18-27 degrees Celsius), making it perfect for hiking, camping, and exploring the city. Fall (September to November) is also a good time to visit, as the weather is still pleasant and the fall foliage is beautiful. Winter can be very cold and snowy, with average temperatures in the 20s and 30s Fahrenheit (about -7 to -1 degrees Celsius), but it can be a good time for winter sports enthusiasts. Spring (March to May) can be unpredictable with occasional snowfall and chilly temperatures, but it’s a good time to enjoy indoor activities like museums and galleries.
Things to Do in Cheyenne
Here are some things to do in Cheyenne:
Visit the Wyoming State Capitol Building: This beautiful building is home to the state government and features stunning architecture.
Cheyenne Depot Museum: This museum is housed in the historic Union Pacific Depot and showcases the history of Cheyenne and the railroad.
Terry Bison Ranch: This working ranch features bison and other animals, as well as horseback riding, a petting zoo, and train tours.
Cheyenne Frontier Days: This annual event takes place in July and includes a rodeo, concerts, parades, and other festivities.
Wyoming State Museum: This museum features exhibits on Wyoming’s history, geology, and wildlife.
Curt Gowdy State Park: This park is located just outside of Cheyenne and offers hiking, mountain biking, fishing, and other outdoor activities.
Cheyenne Botanic Gardens: These beautiful gardens feature a variety of plants and flowers, as well as an indoor conservatory and children’s garden.
Cheyenne Street Railway Trolley Tour: This historic trolley tour takes visitors around Cheyenne to see the sights and learn about the city’s history.
Cheyenne Artists Guild: This organization supports local artists and features rotating exhibits of their work.
Cheyenne Symphony Orchestra: This professional orchestra performs throughout the year, with concerts ranging from classical to pops.
How to get around in Cheyenne
Cheyenne, the capital city of Wyoming, is a relatively small town that is easy to navigate. Here are some ways to get around Cheyenne:
Walking: Cheyenne’s downtown area is compact, and many of the city’s attractions are within walking distance of each other. Walking is a great way to explore the city and get some exercise at the same time.
Driving: If you prefer to drive, renting a car is the most convenient option. There are several car rental companies located at Cheyenne Regional Airport, and you can also rent a car from one of the local rental agencies in town.
Public transportation: Cheyenne Transit provides bus service throughout the city. The bus system is reliable, affordable, and easy to use. You can purchase tickets on board the bus or in advance at the Transit Center located at 1406 O’Neil Avenue.
Taxi or ride-sharing: Taxi and ride-sharing services, such as Uber and Lyft, are available in Cheyenne. These services are convenient for getting around town quickly and easily, especially if you’re traveling alone or have a lot of luggage.
Bicycle: Cheyenne has several bike trails and lanes, making cycling a great option for getting around town. You can rent a bike from local bike shops or bring your own.
Overall, getting around Cheyenne is relatively easy, and there are plenty of transportation options available to suit your needs.
Where to eat in Cheyenne
Cheyenne has several great restaurants that offer a variety of cuisines. Here are some of the best places to eat in Cheyenne:
The Capitol Grille: Located in the historic Plains Hotel, this restaurant offers a sophisticated dining experience with a menu that features steak, seafood, and other American cuisine.
Rib & Chop House: This popular steakhouse offers a casual atmosphere and a menu that features a variety of meat dishes, including steaks, ribs, and burgers.
The Metropolitan Downtown: This restaurant offers contemporary American cuisine with a focus on fresh, locally sourced ingredients. The menu changes frequently to reflect seasonal offerings.
Wyoming’s Rib & Chop House: Another great steakhouse, Wyoming’s Rib & Chop House is known for its delicious prime rib and signature sides, such as garlic mashed potatoes and creamed spinach.
The Egg & I: This popular breakfast spot offers a wide selection of breakfast dishes, including omelets, pancakes, and waffles, as well as lunch options like sandwiches and salads.
The Luxury Diner: This classic diner has been a Cheyenne institution for over 70 years, serving up classic diner fare like burgers, fries, and milkshakes.
These are just a few of the many great restaurants in Cheyenne. Whether you’re looking for a fine dining experience or a casual meal, you’re sure to find something that suits your tastes in this charming Wyoming city.
Famous street stalls in Cheyenne
Cheyenne is not particularly known for its street food scene, but there are still some popular street stalls and food trucks that offer tasty and unique food options. Here are a few famous street stalls in Cheyenne:
The Bread Box: This food truck is famous for its fresh and delicious sandwiches, made with bread baked in-house. The menu includes classic sandwich options, as well as vegetarian and vegan options.
The Good Egg: This food truck specializes in breakfast food, including breakfast burritos, sandwiches, and bowls. The Good Egg is a popular spot for a quick and hearty breakfast on-the-go.
Sloppy J’s Food Truck: Sloppy J’s offers a variety of American comfort food, including burgers, hot dogs, and loaded fries. Their famous “Sloppy J” sandwich is a messy but delicious combination of beef, bacon, cheese, and barbecue sauce.
The Bunkhouse Barbeque: This food truck serves up delicious smoked meats, including pulled pork, brisket, and ribs. The meats are slow-cooked for hours and served with homemade barbecue sauce.
Rocky Mountain Kettle Corn: This street vendor offers a variety of flavored kettle corn, including caramel, cheddar, and spicy flavors. Their sweet and savory popcorn makes for a great snack while strolling through the city’s events and fairs.
These street stalls and food trucks are just a few examples of the unique and delicious food options that can be found in Cheyenne. Be sure to keep an eye out for other food vendors at local events and festivals throughout the year.
Where to stay in Cheyenne
Luxury accommodation
Cheyenne has several luxury accommodations that offer comfortable rooms, high-end amenities, and exceptional service. Here are some of the best luxury hotels to consider when staying in Cheyenne:
The Historic Plains Hotel: This historic hotel is located in the heart of downtown Cheyenne and offers beautifully appointed rooms and suites, as well as a full-service spa, fitness center, and elegant dining options.
Little America Hotel and Resort: This sprawling resort offers luxurious rooms and suites, as well as a full-service spa, fitness center, indoor pool, and multiple dining options. The property is situated on over 80 acres of land and offers beautiful views of the surrounding landscape.
Nagle Warren Mansion Bed and Breakfast: This beautifully restored Victorian mansion offers elegant and spacious rooms, each with its own unique decor and luxurious amenities. The property also features a full-service spa, hot tub, and gourmet breakfast.
The Plains Hotel Autograph Collection: Another historic hotel in downtown Cheyenne, The Plains Hotel offers upscale rooms and suites with modern amenities, including a fitness center and on-site restaurant.
The Historic Hynds Building Lofts: For a unique luxury experience, consider staying at the Historic Hynds Building Lofts, which offers beautifully designed and fully furnished loft apartments in a historic building in downtown Cheyenne.
These luxury accommodations in Cheyenne offer the perfect blend of comfort, convenience, and elegance, making for a truly memorable stay.
Where to stay in Cheyenne
Budget accommodation
If you’re looking for budget-friendly accommodation in Cheyenne, there are several options to choose from. Here are some of the best budget accommodations in Cheyenne:
Motel 6 Cheyenne: This budget-friendly motel offers basic rooms with simple amenities like free Wi-Fi and cable TV. The motel also has a seasonal outdoor pool and is conveniently located near major highways.
Super 8 by Wyndham Cheyenne: This budget hotel offers comfortable rooms with free Wi-Fi, cable TV, and complimentary breakfast. The hotel also has a fitness center and outdoor pool.
Days Inn by Wyndham Cheyenne: This budget hotel offers clean and comfortable rooms with free Wi-Fi, cable TV, and complimentary breakfast. The hotel is located near major highways and is within walking distance of several restaurants.
The Hitching Post Inn: This budget hotel offers simple rooms with basic amenities, including free Wi-Fi and cable TV. The hotel also has a seasonal outdoor pool and an on-site restaurant serving American cuisine.
Rodeway Inn: This budget hotel offers comfortable rooms with free Wi-Fi, cable TV, and complimentary breakfast. The hotel is conveniently located near major highways and is within walking distance of several restaurants.
These budget accommodations in Cheyenne offer comfortable rooms and basic amenities at an affordable price, making them a great option for budget-conscious travelers.
Travel Tips Cheyenne
If you’re planning a trip to Cheyenne, here are some travel tips to keep in mind:
Visit during the summer months: Cheyenne experiences harsh winters with sub-zero temperatures, so the best time to visit is during the summer months (June to August) when temperatures are mild and outdoor activities are in full swing.
Explore the city on foot: Cheyenne is a relatively small city, and many of the main attractions are located within walking distance of each other. Exploring the city on foot is a great way to see the sights and get a feel for the local culture.
Attend a rodeo: Cheyenne is known as the “Rodeo Capital of the World” and hosts several rodeo events throughout the year. Attending a rodeo is a great way to experience the local culture and see some impressive displays of horsemanship.
Visit the Wyoming State Capitol: The Wyoming State Capitol building is an impressive example of neoclassical architecture and is open to the public for guided tours. It’s a must-see attraction for history buffs and architecture enthusiasts.
Try the local cuisine: Cheyenne has a variety of local restaurants and eateries that offer unique and delicious cuisine. Be sure to try some of the local specialties, like bison burgers and Rocky Mountain oysters.
Pack for changing weather: Cheyenne’s weather can be unpredictable, so be sure to pack clothing for a range of temperatures and weather conditions. It’s also a good idea to bring sunscreen and insect repellent during the summer months.
By following these travel tips, you can make the most of your trip to Cheyenne and experience all that this charming city has to offer.