From breathtaking hikes and scenic drives to fascinating museums and local culinary delights, your trip to this scenic region will be filled with unforgettable experiences. To help you make the most of your visit, we’ve curated the top 10 things to do in Laramie, Wyoming—each one promising to leave a lasting impression.
So pack your bags, lace up your boots, and get ready to explore the best of what this underrated Western destination has to offer! Ready to dive in? Let’s get started!
1. Visit the Wyoming Territorial Prison State Historic Site
One of the most fascinating things to do in Laramie Wyoming is to explore the Wyoming Territorial Prison State Historic Site. This iconic structure dates back to 1872 and once housed some of the most notorious outlaws in the Old West, including Butch Cassidy. As a well-preserved historic site, it offers an immersive look into the rough-and-tumble days of frontier justice.
Walking through the restored prison cells and administrative buildings, visitors get a strong sense of the harsh realities of 19th-century incarceration. Informational exhibits and guided tours offer deep insights into both the prisoners’ lives and the evolution of law enforcement in the region.
The site also features the Broom Factory, where inmates once worked to manufacture brooms—an intriguing detail that highlights prison labor history. Seasonal events and reenactments bring the past to life, making it one of the best things to do in Wyoming for history lovers.
If you’re interested in Western lore and American history, don’t miss this top-tier attraction in Laramie. It’s an unforgettable step back in time and a cornerstone of cultural exploration in Wyoming.
2. Stroll Through Downtown Laramie
Another must-do when exploring things to do in Laramie Wyoming is taking a stroll through its vibrant downtown area. Filled with locally-owned shops, art galleries, coffee houses, and restaurants, Downtown Laramie is where the town’s personality shines brightest.
Historic architecture blends with modern creativity to create a unique, walkable environment that’s perfect for a relaxing afternoon. You can shop for Wyoming-made crafts, browse through independent bookstores, or enjoy a cup of coffee at one of the cozy cafes.
Street art, murals, and sculptures line the streets, offering excellent photo opportunities and giving a modern twist to Laramie’s historic setting. Events like art walks, farmers markets, and live music performances frequently enliven the streets, creating a sense of community that’s both welcoming and dynamic.
Whether you’re in town for a short visit or a longer stay, exploring Downtown Laramie is one of the best things to do in Wyoming. It provides a genuine look at local culture and serves as a perfect base for discovering everything else the area has to offer.
3. Tour the University of Wyoming (UW) Campus
One of the most enriching things to do in Laramie Wyoming is visiting the University of Wyoming campus. Founded in 1886, UW is the only four-year university in the state and a hub for education, research, and community activities.
The campus itself is beautifully maintained, offering tree-lined walkways, public art installations, and historic buildings that reflect the institution’s long legacy. A self-guided or official campus tour can give you a better appreciation of the academic and cultural influence the university has on Laramie.
Don’t miss the UW Geological Museum, home to impressive fossil exhibits including a full-size Tyrannosaurus Rex skeleton. The American Heritage Center is another highlight, showcasing rare archives and historical manuscripts that delve into the state’s rich past.
Whether you’re a prospective student, an alumnus, or simply curious, the University of Wyoming is worth the visit. It stands as one of the best things to do in Wyoming for those interested in academia, science, and public history.
4. Hike or Bike the Medicine Bow National Forest
For nature lovers and adventure seekers, one of the most exhilarating things to do in Laramie Wyoming is to explore the Medicine Bow National Forest. Spanning over a million acres, this natural playground is ideal for hiking, mountain biking, fishing, and wildlife watching.
Popular trails such as the Libby Creek Trail and the Vedauwoo Recreation Area offer breathtaking views of rugged rock formations, alpine meadows, and dense pine forests. The diversity of terrain means that both novice and experienced hikers can find routes suited to their skill levels.
Cyclists can enjoy numerous biking trails with varying levels of difficulty, while anglers will find pristine streams and lakes stocked with trout. The forest is also home to wildlife such as elk, moose, and bald eagles, providing ample opportunities for nature photography.
With its vast expanse and recreational opportunities, Medicine Bow National Forest stands out as one of the best things to do in Wyoming. It offers a chance to unplug and reconnect with the natural world in a truly unforgettable setting.
5. Experience the Laramie Railroad Depot
Another compelling entry on the list of things to do in Laramie Wyoming is visiting the historic Laramie Railroad Depot. Built in the early 20th century, the depot played a critical role in the town’s development and the broader expansion of the American West.
Today, the depot has been restored and serves as a community hub and event space. Visitors can explore the depot museum to see fascinating exhibits on the history of railroads in Wyoming, including artifacts, photographs, and model trains.
Throughout the year, the depot hosts public events, art exhibits, and educational programs that provide a deeper understanding of Laramie’s heritage. Its vintage architecture and preserved interiors make it a delightful spot for history buffs and train enthusiasts alike.
The Laramie Railroad Depot encapsulates the spirit of early transportation and economic development in the region, making it one of the best things to do in Wyoming if you’re interested in the state’s industrial and social evolution.
6. Enjoy Winter Sports at Happy Jack Recreation Area
If you’re visiting in the colder months, enjoying winter sports at Happy Jack Recreation Area is among the top things to do in Laramie Wyoming. Located just a short drive east of the city, this outdoor paradise is a favorite among locals for cross-country skiing, snowshoeing, and fat biking.
Groomed trails wind through snow-covered forests, offering a peaceful yet invigorating way to experience Wyoming’s winter landscape. The area is managed by the Medicine Bow-Routt National Forests, ensuring well-maintained paths and updated trail maps.
Happy Jack is suitable for all skill levels, from beginners to seasoned winter athletes. You can rent gear in Laramie and head out for a day of crisp air and beautiful scenery. Dogs are also allowed on many trails, making it a great option for pet-friendly outings.
This recreational area provides one of the best things to do in Wyoming during winter, combining physical activity with awe-inspiring views of snow-draped wilderness.
7. Attend the Laramie Jubilee Days
For a genuine taste of local culture, attending the Laramie Jubilee Days is one of the most festive things to do in Laramie Wyoming. This annual event, typically held in July, celebrates Wyoming’s statehood with a week of family-friendly fun, rodeos, parades, live music, and street dances.
The highlight of Jubilee Days is undoubtedly the rodeo, which attracts top cowboys and cowgirls from across the region. From bull riding to barrel racing, the action is thrilling and quintessentially Western.
Downtown Laramie transforms into a lively festival ground during the celebration, with vendors selling crafts, food trucks serving delicious treats, and stages showcasing local and national musical acts. It’s a wonderful way to experience the community spirit and hospitality of this charming town.
Whether you’re a first-time visitor or a returning fan, Jubilee Days stands out as one of the best things to do in Wyoming. It offers a memorable blend of tradition, entertainment, and cultural pride.
8. Visit the Laramie Plains Museum (Ivinson Mansion)
History lovers will find visiting the Laramie Plains Museum, housed in the stunning Ivinson Mansion, to be one of the most intriguing things to do in Laramie Wyoming. Built in the late 1800s, this Victorian-style home offers a glimpse into the lives of Laramie’s early elite.
Guided tours take visitors through opulent rooms furnished with original artifacts, giving a detailed look at the lifestyle, fashion, and customs of the time. Each room is carefully preserved, from the grand staircase to the period-specific kitchen.
The museum also hosts special exhibitions and educational programs that delve deeper into local history, architecture, and the Ivinson family legacy. The beautifully maintained gardens surrounding the mansion make for a pleasant stroll, especially during warmer months.
As one of the best things to do in Wyoming for those passionate about architecture and social history, the Laramie Plains Museum is a cultural treasure not to be missed.
9. Explore the Wyoming Women’s History House
A powerful and educational stop on your itinerary of things to do in Laramie Wyoming is the Wyoming Women’s History House. Located in downtown Laramie, this museum honors the incredible contributions of Wyoming women throughout history, particularly in the fight for suffrage and equal rights.
Wyoming was the first U.S. territory to grant women the right to vote, and this site pays homage to that pioneering spirit. Exhibits focus on influential figures like Louisa Swain, the first woman in the U.S. to cast a legal vote under laws granting equal suffrage.
Interactive displays, historic documents, and guided tours help visitors understand the broader context of women’s rights in America. It’s a deeply moving experience that sheds light on the courage and resilience of generations past.
For those interested in gender studies, civil rights, or Wyoming’s unique political history, this is one of the best things to do in Wyoming.
10. Drive the Snowy Range Scenic Byway
Capping off the list of top things to do in Laramie Wyoming is the breathtaking Snowy Range Scenic Byway. This 29-mile drive through the Medicine Bow Mountains offers some of the most stunning landscapes in the state.
The byway reaches elevations of over 10,000 feet, offering panoramic views of alpine lakes, wildflower meadows, and jagged mountain peaks. It’s open seasonally from late spring through early fall and is ideal for a leisurely drive, motorcycle trip, or even cycling adventure.
There are numerous pull-offs and trailheads along the route where you can hike, picnic, or simply take in the majestic views. Lake Marie and Mirror Lake are especially photogenic and perfect for a quick stop.
As one of the best things to do in Wyoming for scenic beauty and outdoor recreation, the Snowy Range Scenic Byway offers a journey that’s as enriching as the destination itself.
