The 5 Best Things To Do In Laramie, Wyoming
Visiting Wyoming? Of course you are! Why wouldn’t you? Wyoming is fantastic. If you happen to be passing through southern Wyoming and looking for something to do, we recommend stopping in Laramie, Wyoming. We spent a full day in Laramie on our way to Grand Tetons National Park. Whether you’re looking for dog-friendly, family-friendly of just outdoor fun, we have a few fun things to do in Laramie during your visit.
Located about 50 minutes (50 miles) from Cheyenne, Wyoming, Laramie is home to Wyoming University (WYO) and loads of history. Settled during the 1800s by pioneers looking to find land for cattle ranching, Laramie quickly grew upon the arrival of the Union Pacific Railroad in the 1860’s. Laramie soon become a rough, rowdy and rugged frontier and even housed the famous outlaw Butch Cassidy its territorial prison.
From its wild west days of glory to its current charm and outdoor fun, Laramie is a great town to explore and spend a day in!
Things To Do In Laramie
1. Wander Through Historic Downtown Laramie
A few short blocks make up the charming historic downtown that is Laramie, Wyoming. Think of the historic downtown as a giant grid. Running east and west, 1st Street, 2nd Street and 3rd Street. Then, running north and south, Ivinson, Grand, Garfield and Custer St.
Each downtown block has stacked shops and store fronts that were built in the late 1800’s. Nowadays, you can find breweries, shopping, murals and restaurants. Back in the 1800’s you’d find hangings, history making women achievements and hard working folks. One thing’s for sure, Laramie has seen a thing or two over the centuries.
For a detailed guide on Laramie’s history, please visit Laramie’s tourism and visitor center
2. Have A Beer (or coffee) at Coal Creek Tap
Looking for great food, a cold beer, or a little pick-me-up coffee drink? How about a patio? Three words, Coal Creek Tap. Located on Grand Street in historic downtown Laramie, Coal Creek Tap is a must-eat at a restaurant when visiting Laramie, Wyoming. Sample some of their locally-made beers as you enjoy the weather on their sunny patio. Coal Creek is one of the best Laramie breweries in town!
3. Hike Turtle Rock Trail in Vedauwoo
One of the best outdoor activities in Laramie is Vedauwoo. Located 25 minutes from Laramie in Medicine Bow National Forest, Vedauwoo is stunning. Coming from almost nowhere, these 500 feet ancient rock formations jut out of the plains of Wyoming. Pronounced vee-duh-voo, coming from the Arapaho word “bito’o’wu” meaning “earth-born”, Vedauwoo is an absolute must-visit.
A hike located within Vedauwoo is the Turtle Rock Trail. A 3 mile, pet friendly trail, easy loop trail. Wander the path through dense pines and foliage and you wind over rocks and get up close and person with the staggering ancient rock formations.
If hiking isn’t your thing, no worries. Vedauwoo is considered one of the best places to rock climb in Wyoming. Gear up and climb vertical sheers of granite rock. If you want to take a more laid-back approach, simply pack a lunch and take in the views.
4. Sample Some Ice Cream at Big Dipper
If you have a hankering for something sweet, mosey on over to Big Dipper for a tasty ice cream cone or cup. Using local ingredients, sample one of their many flavors of ice creams, gelatos, and shakes.
5. Drive The Snowy Range Scenic Byway
If you happen to be heading west out of Laramie, consider taking highway 130 from Laramie. The Snowy Range Scenic Byway (Highway 130) is the scenic alternative to I-80 taking you through majestic mountain ranges and peaks. Only open for half the year due to snow, the Snowy Range Scenic Byway tends to open around Memorial Day weekend and closes early to mid-November.
The 130 “cut across” takes you from Laramie, Wyoming to Saratoga, Wyoming. Once in Saratoga, opt for a night at the Saratoga Hot Springs resort, or carry on to wherever your intended destination is.
If you’re looking for another epic scenic drive in the US, check out The Million Dollar Highway
Looking For More Things To Do in Laramie?
While we only had one day to explore Laramie, there are some other great things to see, do, and experience in the area! Get a complete list of what Laramie has to offer below.
- Book a fly fishing trip with Four Seasons Anglers or High Plains Fly Fishing
- Visit Ames Monument
- Hike the 12,014 ft to the top of Medicine Bow Peak
- Visit the Deerwood Ranch Wild Horse Ecosanctuary
- Catch the Farmer’s Market from July – September
- In the winter, go skiing, snowshoeing or snowmobiling at the Snowy Range Ski Area
- Don’t miss the PRCA Rodeo at Laramie Jubilee Days in July
- Visit the historical J. Wyoming Territorial Prison
Where To Stay In Laramie
Hotels
You can take your pick from a list of popular chain hotels. From places like the Hilton Garden Inn and Fairfield Inn and Suites to The Holiday Inn and Quality Inn and Suites, you’ll easily find a nice bed for the evening.
Camping & RV Parks
Restaurants in Laramie
Believe it or not, the little downtown of Laramie is home to some pretty great restaurants and eateries. Whether you’re in the mood for classic American fare or something a little different, Laramie has some great places for you to try.
- Coal Creek Tap: Great food, beer and coffee
- Speedy Goat: Burritos, street tacos and cocktails
- Alibi Wood Fire Pizza: Hot and tasty wood fire pizzas
- Sweet Mellisa’s: A fantastic vegetarian restaurant
- Born in a Barn: Burgers and wings
Things To Do In Laramie At Night
If you’re looking for a saloon or watering hole to belly up to, below are a few fan-favorite bars and nightlife fun in Laramie.
- The Cowboy Saloon & Dance Hall
- 3rd Street Bar & Grill
- Front Street Tavern
- Buckhorn Bar & Parlor
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- Grand Canyon in One Day
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Happy Travels,
– Lauren & Jesse Stuart (The Stüs)
