posted on April 6, 2026
When it comes to things to see in Wyoming, the scale and variety might surprise you. It’s one of the least populated states in the US, yet home to two of the country’s most visited national parks, some of the most dramatic scenery in the American West, and a cowboy culture that still feels genuinely alive.
Wyoming is a place that is perfect for those willing to hit the road. From the geothermal wonders of Yellowstone to the jagged peaks of Grand Teton, and the quirky, lesser-known stops scattered between them, it’s a state best experienced by car, one wide-open mile at a time.
What you need to know about Wyoming
Wyoming is made for a road trip; big distances, bigger scenery, and very few shortcuts. A little planning around weather, distances, and park logistics will make your trip infinitely smoother.
- Best time to visit: Late spring and fall are the sweet spots for visiting Wyoming’s national parks, with fewer crowds, cooler weather, and excellent wildlife viewing. Summer (June–August) is peak season and ideal for hiking, but it’s busy. Winter transforms the state into a snow-covered playground, perfect for skiing and snow sports.
- Getting around: A car is essential; Wyoming has no meaningful public transportation, even within its national parks. Renting through Turo gives visitors the flexibility to explore at their own pace.
- Entry fees: Yellowstone and Grand Teton each charge a vehicle entry fee of around $35. If you’re visiting multiple parks, the America the Beautiful Annual Pass is well worth it.
- Wyoming’s national parks and monuments: Yellowstone National Park, Grand Teton National Park, Devils Tower National Monument, Fossil Butte National Monument
- What Wyoming is famous for: Wyoming is known for its geothermal wonders, abundant wildlife, dramatic mountain scenery, deep-rooted Wild West heritage, and vast, wide-open landscapes that feel untouched.
- Seasonal note: Higher elevations, including Yellowstone, Grand Teton, and the Snowy Range, can see snow as early as September and as late as June. Check road conditions before visiting in the shoulder seasons.
The top things to see in Wyoming
Wyoming packs more natural wonders per square mile than almost anywhere else in the US, from geothermal landscapes to towering mountain ranges and wide-open plains. These are the standout experiences that define the state, and no visit is complete without them.
1. Yellowstone National Park
Yellowstone National Park is one of the most extraordinary landscapes on Earth, home to the world’s largest geothermal system and established in 1872 as the world’s first national park. Spanning 2.2 million acres across Wyoming, Montana, and Idaho, it’s a place of steaming hot springs, erupting geysers, vast forests, and abundant wildlife. The must-see highlights are unforgettable: Old Faithful and the historic Old Faithful Inn, the surreal colors of Grand Prismatic Spring, and the dramatic Grand Canyon of the Yellowstone with its powerful Lower Falls. Mammoth Hot Springs offers a completely different landscape of terraces and mineral formations, while Lamar Valley, often called “America’s Serengeti”, is the best place for wildlife watching, including bison, wolves, grizzly bears, elk, and even bald eagles.
Yellowstone isn’t a place to rush. Distances are vast, and traffic (especially wildlife traffic jams) can slow things down, so plan to spend at least a few days exploring. It’s one of the most rewarding national parks in the US, but requires time to take it all in.
- Location: Northwestern Wyoming (with entrances via West Yellowstone, the North, Northeast, East, and South entrances)
- Ideal visit length: At least 2–3 days
- Best for: Geothermal wonders, wildlife watching, and iconic American landscapes
- Practical tip: Book accommodation well in advance; lodges inside the park sell out months ahead in summer
2. Grand Teton National Park
Grand Teton National Park delivers one of the most striking mountain landscapes in North America, with the Teton Range rising more than 7,000 feet straight up from the Jackson Hole valley; no foothills, only dramatic peaks and stunning views from almost every angle. It’s a photographer’s dream and a paradise for hiking trails and wildlife watching. Key highlights include the crystal-clear waters of Jenny Lake, panoramic views from Signal Mountain, the iconic Snake River Overlook, and the scenic Teton Park Road drive. Wildlife is abundant here, with regular sightings of grizzly bears, black bears, elk, moose, and bald eagles. The park sits just outside Jackson Hole and is only about a 10-minute drive from Yellowstone’s south entrance, making it an easy addition to any Yellowstone itinerary.
- Location: Northwestern Wyoming, just south of Yellowstone National Park (via the south entrance)
- Ideal visit length: 1–2 days minimum
- Best for: Mountain scenery, wildlife watching, and hiking
- Practical tip: Start early; mornings offer the best light, fewer crowds, and the highest chance of spotting wildlife
3. Jackson Hole
Jackson Hole is more than just a gateway to Grand Teton and Yellowstone; it’s one of Wyoming’s most vibrant destinations in its own right. The town of Jackson centers around its famous Town Square, framed by iconic antler arches, with a surprisingly strong food scene, live music, and a lively western culture that feels authentic. Art lovers can visit the National Museum of Wildlife Art, while just outside town, the National Elk Refuge offers unforgettable winter sleigh rides through thousands of elk. In colder months, skiers can choose between the renowned Jackson Hole Mountain Resort or the quieter Grand Targhee. In summer, hiking, scenic chairlifts, and even fat biking keep things active. The wider Jackson Hole valley delivers year-round appeal with easy access to nature and one of the best small-town atmospheres in the state.
- Location: Jackson Hole Valley, northwestern Wyoming
- Best for: Food, nightlife, and access to outdoor adventure
- Don’t miss: Sleigh rides through the National Elk Refuge in winter
4. Devils Tower National Monument
Devils Tower is one of the most striking natural wonders in the American West, an immense volcanic rock formation rising 867 feet above the surrounding plains in northern Wyoming. Designated by Theodore Roosevelt in 1906 as the first US National Monument, it also holds deep cultural and spiritual significance for many Native American tribes. The Tower Trail is an easy, scenic loop that circles the base, offering constantly changing perspectives of the formation. For wider views, head to Joyner Ridge. Many visitors also recognize it from Close Encounters of the Third Kind, which cemented its place in pop culture. It’s a memorable stop on a road trip, especially if you’re coming from South Dakota.
- Location: Northeastern Wyoming
- Best for: Unique natural landmarks, photography, and cultural significance
- Don’t miss: Walking the Tower Trail for up-close views of the formation
5. Hot Springs State Park, Thermopolis
Hot Springs State Park is one of Wyoming’s best-kept secrets, a genuine hidden gem in central Wyoming that most visitors overlook. It’s home to the world’s largest mineral hot spring, with steaming, colorful terraces that spill down toward the Bighorn River. The highlight is the State Bath House, where you can soak in the naturally heated waters for free, year-round; one of the best free attractions in the state. The park also features roaming bison, scenic walking paths, and the Swinging Bridge crossing the river for great views. Nearby Thermopolis adds small-town charm, making this a relaxed, uncrowded stop that feels worlds away from the busy national parks.
- Location: Thermopolis, central Wyoming
- Best for: Hot springs, hidden gems, and a slower-paced stop
- Local tip: The State Bath House is free, one of the best free attractions in Wyoming
6. Flaming Gorge National Recreation Area
Flaming Gorge National Recreation Area is one of Wyoming’s most underrated landscapes, tucked into the southwest corner of the state along the Utah border. Centered around the striking Flaming Gorge Reservoir and the Green River, it offers a mix of desert cliffs and alpine scenery that feels completely different from the rest of Wyoming. Spend your time boating or fishing on the water, rafting the Green River, or hiking trails like the Canyon Rim Trail for sweeping views. The Red Canyon Overlook is a must-stop along the scenic byway. It’s perfect for travelers looking to get off the beaten path and into wide-open, spectacular scenery.
- Location: Southwestern Wyoming, near Rock Springs (along the Utah border)
- Best for: Outdoor adventures, scenic drives, and uncrowded landscapes
Things to do in Wyoming for outdoor adventurers
Wyoming is one of the premier outdoor adventure destinations in the US, where the landscape invites you to do more than just look. From hiking and wildlife tracking to rafting and skiing, this is where you come to get out into it.
Hiking in the Wind River Range
The Wind River Range is Wyoming’s longest mountain range and one of the most spectacular and remote mountain ranges in the lower 48. Known for jagged peaks, alpine lakes, and dramatic scenery (including Cloud Peak), it offers everything from accessible day hikes to serious multi-day backcountry routes. Lander and Pinedale are the main access points, with trails leading into areas like Sinks Canyon and deep into the range. Compared to Yellowstone or Grand Teton, it’s far less crowded, making it ideal for hikers seeking solitude, big landscapes, and a more rugged outdoor adventure.
Wildlife watching
Wyoming offers some of the best wildlife watching in North America, with animals roaming freely across vast, protected landscapes. Lamar Valley in Yellowstone is famous for wolves and bison, while Grand Teton is a prime spot for grizzly bears, moose, and bald eagles. In winter, the National Elk Refuge near Jackson hosts thousands of elk, and Sinks Canyon State Park is known for bighorn sheep. Early morning and late afternoon are the best times to go, and binoculars make a huge difference. Always view wildlife responsibly; stay at least 100 yards from bears and wolves, and 25 yards from other animals.
Skiing and winter sports
Wyoming transforms into a winter playground, with Jackson Hole Mountain Resort leading the way as one of North America’s top ski destinations, known for steep, challenging terrain and serious powder. For a quieter, more relaxed vibe, Grand Targhee offers incredible snowfall and a family-friendly atmosphere. Beyond skiing, you’ll find fat biking in Grand Teton, snowmobiling tours through Yellowstone, and unforgettable sleigh rides at the National Elk Refuge. Winter is also considered shoulder season across much of Wyoming, meaning fewer crowds and better value outside peak ski periods a great time to experience its rugged beauty in a different light.
Whitewater rafting
Wyoming offers excellent whitewater rafting for all levels, with two standout rivers. The Snake River in Grand Teton National Park is the most accessible, with guided trips ranging from calm scenic floats to more exciting whitewater sections, great for families and first-timers. For something more remote and challenging, the Green River through Flaming Gorge delivers bigger rapids and fewer crowds. Most trips are guided, with plenty of operators based out of Jackson Hole.
Things to do in Wyoming for families
Wyoming is an exceptional family destination, where the national parks double as giant outdoor classrooms and every day brings a new wildlife encounter. With so much space to explore, it’s the kind of place that sticks with kids long after the trip ends.
- Old Faithful, Yellowstone: One of the most reliable and dramatic natural spectacles in the US. Erupting regularly inside the park, it’s a guaranteed crowd-pleaser for all ages.
- National Elk Refuge sleigh rides, Jackson: A winter highlight; horse-drawn sleigh rides take you right through herds of thousands of elk, offering an unforgettable wildlife experience.
- Sinks Canyon State Park, Lander: A short, easy hike leads to the spot where the Popo Agie River disappears underground and reappears downstream, a simple but fascinating natural phenomenon kids love.
- Buffalo Bill Center of the West, Cody: A massive, engaging complex of five museums covering western art, Plains Indian culture, natural history, firearms, and the story of Buffalo Bill.
- Teton Park Road scenic drive, Grand Teton: One of the most spectacular and accessible drives in the US; perfect for families, with plenty of pull-offs for wildlife spotting and photos.
Things to do in Wyoming for history and culture lovers
Wyoming’s Wild West heritage isn’t just preserved, it’s still lived. From frontier forts to rodeos and Native American history, the state offers one of the most authentic cultural experiences anywhere in the US.
- Buffalo Bill Center of the West, Cody: One of the finest western history museum complexes in the country, with five museums covering art, history, and culture; allow at least half a day to do it justice.
- Jackson Town Square and the antler arches: A true symbol of Wyoming’s western identity, with iconic elk antler arches framing a lively square filled with good food, live music, and local shops.
- Fort Laramie National Historic Site: A beautifully preserved frontier fort that played a key role in westward expansion along the Oregon Trail; a fascinating, walkable glimpse into 19th-century life.
- Cheyenne Frontier Days (July): One of the largest outdoor rodeos in the world, held annually in the state capital, complete with country concerts, parades, and a carnival atmosphere.
- Wind River Indian Reservation: Home to the Eastern Shoshone and Northern Arapaho nations, with cultural sites, events, and experiences that offer deeper insight into Wyoming’s Indigenous history.
Wyoming’s best scenic drives
Wyoming is one of the great road trip states, where the journey is just as memorable as the destination. Long, open highways, dramatic landscapes, and constantly changing scenery make every drive part of the experience.
Snowy Range Scenic Byway
The Snowy Range Scenic Byway runs west of Laramie through the Medicine Bow-Routt National Forest, delivering high-altitude alpine scenery that feels worlds away from the plains below. Highlights include Medicine Bow Peak (12,013 feet), Mirror Lake, and sweeping views across rugged mountain terrain. It’s a perfect route for those driving between Colorado and Yellowstone or anyone looking for a spectacular, less-crowded scenic drive. Note that the byway is closed in winter due to heavy snowfall.
Bighorn Scenic Byway
The Bighorn Scenic Byway cuts through the dramatic Bighorn Mountains in northern Wyoming, offering one of the state’s most underrated drives. Expect steep switchbacks, expansive views over the Cloud Peak Wilderness, and stops like Ten Sleep Canyon. The small town of Ten Sleep is a great place to pause for a meal or coffee. It’s a hidden gem of a route; less trafficked than others, but incredibly rewarding for those who make the detour.
Yellowstone Grand Loop Road
The Yellowstone Grand Loop Road is the ultimate scenic drive through Yellowstone National Park, a 142-mile figure-eight that links all the major highlights. Along the way, you’ll pass Old Faithful, Grand Prismatic Spring, Mammoth Hot Springs, Lamar Valley for wildlife watching, and the Grand Canyon of the Yellowstone with its powerful Lower Falls. While it’s technically possible to drive in a day, the distances and frequent stops mean it’s best spread over 2–3 days. It’s the essential Yellowstone experience.
Tip from the author: Wyoming’s distances can catch visitors off guard; towns that look close on a map can be 2–3 hours apart on two-lane roads. Build more time into your itinerary than you think you need, and enjoy the drive.
Frequently asked questions about visiting Wyoming
What is Wyoming most famous for?
Wyoming is best known for Yellowstone National Park, its geothermal features, abundant wildlife (including bison and grizzly bears), dramatic mountain scenery in Grand Teton, and its authentic Wild West heritage.
How many days do you need to see Wyoming?
At least 5–7 days is ideal to see Yellowstone, Grand Teton, and a few additional highlights. With less time, 3–4 days can cover the main national parks at a faster pace.
What is the best time of year to visit Wyoming?
Late spring through early fall (May–October) is best for national parks and road trips throughout Wyoming. Summer is the busiest, while spring and fall offer fewer crowds and great wildlife viewing.
Do you need a car to visit Wyoming?
Yes, a car is essential in Wyoming. Distances are large, public transportation is minimal, and having your own vehicle is the only practical way to explore the state.
Is Wyoming worth visiting outside of Yellowstone?
Absolutely. Grand Teton, Jackson Hole, Devils Tower, the Wind River Range, and places like Thermopolis and Flaming Gorge all offer incredible experiences beyond Yellowstone.
What are the best things to see in Wyoming besides Yellowstone?
Top picks include Grand Teton National Park, Jackson Hole, Devils Tower National Monument, Hot Springs State Park in Thermopolis, and the scenic drives and hiking trails in the Wind River Range.
Explore Wyoming by car with Turo
A car is non-negotiable in Wyoming; the state’s top sights are spread across vast distances, with no meaningful public transportation connecting them. Browse vehicles from local hosts on Turo, pick up in your starting city, and explore the Cowboy State at your own pace, from Yellowstone to the Tetons and beyond.
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Maddison Stewart
Maddy Stewart is a Sydney-based writer originally from Aotearoa, New Zealand, with a love for road trips and discovering places off the beaten track. Having driven the length of New Zealand many times, her favourite journeys are through the bottom of the South Island - especially Central Otago, which she considers a dream. She’s also explored parts of Australia by car and is currently looking forward to discovering Europe’s best vintage shops, seaside towns, and hidden gems on her next adventure.
