12 Uniquely Beautiful Places in Wyoming to Visit

Planning a trip to Wyoming? Just wait until you see some of the state’s most stunning destinations. Wyoming is known for its breathtaking landscapes and outdoor activities. Home to the first national park, Yellowstone, and the first national monument, Devils Tower, it offers both iconic and lesser-known sights. From the Grand Tetons to Thunder Basin, Wyoming has something for every traveler. I’ve visited here five times over the years and I’ll never grow tired of its immaculate views!

I’ve curated a list of 12 must-see spots showcasing Wyoming’s best. From majestic mountains and serene lakes to Old West towns and historical landmarks, these destinations will blow your mind.

Discovering the Most Beautiful Places to Visit in Wyoming

Ready to dive into the prettiest places in Wyoming? Or perhaps you’re wondering where to go in Wyoming for the best attractions and activities. This guide has got you covered.

Don’t have time to read the full article? Here’s a quick overview of some highlights:

• Most Beautiful Nature Spot: Yellowstone National Park
• Best for Dramatic Landscapes: Grand Teton National Park
• Most Unique Geological Feature: Devils Tower National Monument
• Best Historic Town: Cody
• Best for Solitude and Tranquility: Bighorn National Forest
• Best Water Activities: Flaming Gorge National Recreation Area
• Best Hot Springs Experience: Thermopolis
• Best Mountain Town: Jackson Hole
• Best Old West Experience: Sheridan
• Best Wilderness Adventure: Wind River Range
• Most Mysterious Natural Phenomenon: Sinks Canyon State Park
• Best for Western Heritage: Cheyenne

1. Yellowstone National Park

• 📍 Location: Northwest Wyoming, approximately 1.5-hour drive from Bozeman Yellowstone International Airport (the closest major airport)
• 🏆 Best For: Wildlife watchers 🦬, hiking enthusiasts 🥾, photography lovers 📸
• 📸 Top Experiences: Watching Old Faithful erupt, exploring Grand Prismatic Spring, wildlife viewing in Lamar Valley
• 📅 Best Time to Visit: June through September for most accessible trails and facilities, May and October for fewer crowds 🌲
• 🏨 Where to Stay: Old Faithful Inn – Historic lodge with prime location near the famous geyser

Yellowstone, America’s first national park, packs the planet’s greatest collection of geysers and hot springs into one massive wilderness. The park sits on a volcanic hot spot that powers over 10,000 thermal features, including the reliable Old Faithful geyser that erupts roughly every 90 minutes.

Don’t miss the football field-sized Grand Prismatic Spring with its vivid rainbow colors or the dramatic Grand Canyon of the Yellowstone with its 308-foot waterfall. For wildlife, head to Lamar Valley at dawn or dusk when wolves, bison herds, and grizzly bears are most active.The park has five entrances, with the West Entrance (near West Yellowstone) being the most popular for accessing geyser basins and the North Entrance (near Gardiner) offering year-round access. Give yourself at least 3-4 days to drive the Grand Loop Road and explore the main attractions. Visit in September for the perfect balance of good weather, fall colors, and smaller crowds after the summer rush has ended.

• Read next: Top 13 Cabin Rentals in Yellowstone National Park for a Next-Level Stay

2. Grand Teton National Park

• 📍 Location: Northwestern Wyoming, just 10 miles south of Yellowstone and 30 minutes from Jackson Hole Airport
• 🏆 Best For: Mountain photographers 📸, hikers 🥾, wildlife spotters 🦌
• 📸 Top Experiences: Hiking to Inspiration Point, photographing the mountains from Schwabacher Landing, wildlife watching at Oxbow Bend
• 📅 Best Time to Visit: Mid-June through September for hiking, late September for fall colors and elk bugling 🍂
• 🏨 Where to Stay: Jenny Lake Lodge – Elegant historic cabins with mountain views

Grand Teton National Park rocks some of the most jaw-dropping mountain views you’ll find anywhere. Unlike most mountain ranges that gradually build up, the Tetons just explode straight up from the flat valley floor – no foothills, just instant mountains rising over 7,000 feet.

The park isn’t huge, but it packs a serious punch with crystal lakes, winding rivers, and abundant wildlife. Snap the perfect Instagram shot at Mormon Row with historic barns in the foreground or catch the mountains reflecting in the calm waters at Schwabacher Landing at sunrise.

Wildlife is everywhere if you know where to look. Spot moose hanging out in marshy areas near Moose Junction, bison cruising the flats, and elk bugling during September mating season. Even a quick drive along the 42-mile loop road hits major highlights, but spend at least two days here if you can. Pro tip: Hike the relatively easy trail to Inspiration Point above Jenny Lake for views that’ll blow up your social feed.

3. Devils Tower National Monument

• 📍 Location: Northeastern Wyoming, about 2 hours from Rapid City Regional Airport in South Dakota
• 🏆 Best For: Rock climbers 🧗‍♀️, geology fans 🪨, spiritual travelers 🧘
• 📸 Top Experiences: Walking the Tower Trail, watching climbers scale the columns, stargazing at night
• 📅 Best Time to Visit: May through October for best weather and accessibility, June for cultural ceremonies 🌞
• 🏨 Where to Stay: Devils Tower Lodge – Rustic lodge with unbeatable views of the monument

Devils Tower rises dramatically from the rolling prairie like some alien monolith, its strange columnar sides stretching 867 feet from base to summit. This massive rock formation isn’t just weird-looking – it’s sacred to many Native American tribes who call it “Bear Lodge” and hold important ceremonies here, especially during June.

The easiest way to experience the tower is on the 1.3-mile paved Tower Trail that loops around its base. This walk gives you 360-degree views of the formation and lets you see climbers scaling the hundreds of parallel cracks that make this one of America’s premier climbing destinations.

Keep an eye out for the prairie dog town near the entrance – these chatty little creatures are ridiculously fun to watch. Stay until sunset when the tower turns golden, or stick around after dark for incredible stargazing with the monument silhouetted against the night sky. Most people visit as a half-day trip, but the uncrowded hiking trails in the surrounding area make a longer stay worthwhile if you have time.

• Read next: 61 Unique Places To Visit in the US: Most Beautiful USA Destinations

4. Cody

• 📍 Location: Northwestern Wyoming, 52 miles east of Yellowstone’s East Entrance (about a 1-hour drive)
• 🏆 Best For: Western history buffs 🤠, rodeo fans 🐎, family travelers 👨‍👩‍👧‍👦
• 📸 Top Experiences: Exploring the Buffalo Bill Center of the West, attending the Cody Nite Rodeo, driving the scenic Buffalo Bill Cody Scenic Byway
• 📅 Best Time to Visit: June through August for rodeos and full tourist services, September for fewer crowds 🌄
• 🏨 Where to Stay: Irma Hotel – Historic hotel built by Buffalo Bill himself with period furnishings

Cody delivers the authentic Wild West experience without feeling like a tourist trap. Founded by legendary showman Buffalo Bill Cody in 1896, this town of just 10,000 people punches way above its weight with world-class attractions and easy access to stunning natural beauty.

The must-see Buffalo Bill Center of the West isn’t your average small-town museum – it’s actually five museums under one roof covering western art, natural history, Native American culture, firearms, and Buffalo Bill’s own story. You could easily spend a full day here, but save evening time for the Cody Nite Rodeo that runs every night June through August – the longest-running rodeo in the world.

Downtown Cody’s historic main street offers quirky shops, good restaurants, and nightly mock gunfights in summer. The town makes a perfect base for day trips to Yellowstone through the spectacular Shoshone Canyon or to the nearby Bighorn Canyon National Recreation Area. Most visitors stay 2-3 days, using Cody as their eastern gateway to Wyoming’s outdoor adventures.

5. Bighorn National Forest

• 📍 Location: North-central Wyoming, about 1.5 hours west of Sheridan and 3 hours east of Yellowstone
• 🏆 Best For: Off-the-beaten-path explorers 🏕️, fishers 🎣, solitude seekers 🧘‍♂️
• 📸 Top Experiences: Driving the Cloud Peak Skyway Scenic Byway, hiking in the Cloud Peak Wilderness, fishing in mountain streams
• 📅 Best Time to Visit: July through September for high-country access, early October for fall colors 🍂
• 🏨 Where to Stay: Historic Occidental Hotel – Charming historic hotel in nearby Buffalo with Old West atmosphere

Bighorn National Forest sprawls across nearly 1.1 million acres of mountains, meadows, and alpine lakes that remain surprisingly uncrowded even during peak season. The forest’s centerpiece is the Bighorn Mountain range rising dramatically from the plains, creating a massive sky island of pine forests and rugged peaks.

The Cloud Peak Skyway (Highway 16) cuts through the heart of the range, climbing from 4,500 feet to nearly 10,000 feet and delivering spectacular views with minimal effort. Pull over at Powder River Pass to take in the expansive panorama of the Cloud Peak Wilderness, where over 100 miles of trails lead to pristine lakes and waterfalls.

Fishers will find paradise in the forest’s 1,500 miles of streams teeming with trout, while wildlife watchers can spot elk, moose, and black bears. The forest has over 30 campgrounds, many alongside gurgling streams, plus cozy lodges scattered throughout. Visit midweek to have entire mountain meadows and fishing holes completely to yourself, a rare luxury in today’s crowded national parks.

6. Flaming Gorge National Recreation Area

• 📍 Location: Southwest Wyoming and northeast Utah, about 3 hours from Salt Lake City Airport
• 🏆 Best For: Boaters 🚤, anglers 🎣, scenic drive enthusiasts 🚗
• 📸 Top Experiences: Boating on the reservoir, fishing for record-breaking trout, driving the Flaming Gorge Scenic Byway
• 📅 Best Time to Visit: June through September for water activities, October for fall colors and fewer crowds 🍂
• 🏨 Where to Stay: Red Canyon Lodge – Rustic cabins with stunning gorge views

Flaming Gorge lives up to its fiery name with spectacular red and orange canyon walls plunging 1,400 feet to meet the emerald-green reservoir below. This massive playground stretches 91 miles across the Wyoming-Utah border, creating one of the West’s premier boating and fishing destinations.

The 42,000-acre reservoir was created by damming the Green River, and it’s absolutely packed with trophy-sized lake trout, kokanee salmon, and rainbow trout. Even if you’re not into fishing, rent a boat to access hidden coves and beaches that can’t be reached by road. The water is surprisingly clear and blue-green against the red rock backdrop.

The 160-mile Flaming Gorge Scenic Byway loops around the entire reservoir, offering incredible viewpoints like Red Canyon Overlook where you can see for miles down the gorge. For the best experience, drive the byway but plan plenty of stops for short hikes to overlooks and swimming spots. Wildlife is everywhere – watch for bighorn sheep on rocky slopes, ospreys diving for fish, and deer grazing at dawn and dusk.

7. Thermopolis

• 📍 Location: Central Wyoming, about 2 hours south of Cody and 3 hours east of Jackson
• 🏆 Best For: Hot springs soakers 🧖‍♀️, dinosaur enthusiasts 🦕, families seeking relaxation 👨‍👩‍👧‍👦
• 📸 Top Experiences: Soaking in Hot Springs State Park, exploring Wyoming Dinosaur Center, floating the Bighorn River
• 📅 Best Time to Visit: Year-round for hot springs, summer for river activities and dinosaur digs 🌞
• 🏨 Where to Stay: Hot Springs Hotel and Spa  – Comfortable hotel with its own hot mineral pools

Thermopolis might be small, but it’s home to the world’s largest mineral hot springs, pumping over 18 million gallons of healing waters daily. The main attraction is Hot Springs State Park, where you can soak in the state bathhouse for free (yes, actually free – it’s guaranteed by an 1896 treaty with the Shoshone and Arapaho tribes).

Beyond the springs, the Wyoming Dinosaur Center ranks among the top dinosaur museums in the country. It’s not just displays – during summer, you can join actual dig sites where new fossils are being uncovered. The center houses over 30 mounted dinosaur skeletons, including a 106-foot Supersaurus that will make your jaw drop.

For outdoor fun, rent tubes to float the relaxing Bighorn River through town, or drive a few miles to see the colorful Rainbow Terraces formed by mineral deposits. The stunning Wind River Canyon just south of town offers world-class fly fishing and dramatic scenery. Most visitors stay 2-3 days, combining relaxation in the healing waters with dinosaur adventures and outdoor activities.

8. Jackson Hole

• 📍 Location: Northwest Wyoming, about 15 minutes from Jackson Hole Airport (which offers direct flights from major cities)
• 🏆 Best For: Luxury travelers 💎, winter sports enthusiasts ⛷️, wildlife photographers 📸
• 📸 Top Experiences: Skiing at Jackson Hole Mountain Resort, exploring downtown Jackson’s Town Square, wildlife watching in National Elk Refuge
• 📅 Best Time to Visit: December through March for skiing, June through September for summer activities, May and October for fewer crowds 🦌
• 🏨 Where to Stay: Amangani – Ultra-luxury resort with panoramic mountain views

Jackson Hole perfectly blends Wild West charm with world-class luxury in a valley surrounded by stunning mountain scenery. The town of Jackson serves as the sophisticated gateway to both Grand Teton and Yellowstone national parks while offering enough activities to be a destination in itself.

In winter, Jackson Hole Mountain Resort delivers some of North America’s most challenging skiing with 4,139 feet of vertical drop and legendary terrain. During summer, the valley transforms into an outdoor playground for hiking, mountain biking, fly fishing, and white-water rafting on the Snake River.

Don’t miss the iconic elk antler arches in Town Square, surrounded by high-end galleries, western outfitters, and excellent restaurants. From December through April, take a horse-drawn sleigh ride through the National Elk Refuge where thousands of elk winter against a stunning mountain backdrop. The perfect Jackson Hole trip combines outdoor adventures with downtown’s surprisingly sophisticated dining and shopping scene – worth at least 3-4 days of exploration regardless of season.

9. Sheridan

• 📍 Location: Northern Wyoming, at the foot of the Bighorn Mountains, about 2 hours from Billings Airport in Montana
• 🏆 Best For: Western culture enthusiasts 🤠, history buffs 🏛️, outdoor adventurers 🥾
• 📸 Top Experiences: Attending the Sheridan WYO Rodeo, exploring the historic downtown, hiking in nearby Bighorn Mountains
• 📅 Best Time to Visit: June through September for outdoor activities, July for rodeo events and peak Western culture 🐎
• 🏨 Where to Stay: Historic Sheridan Inn – National Historic Landmark where Buffalo Bill auditioned acts for his Wild West Show

Sheridan captures the authentic spirit of the West better than almost anywhere else in Wyoming. This charming town of 18,000 sits where the plains meet the mountains, creating a perfect basecamp for adventures while offering genuine cowboy culture without the tourist crowds.

Downtown’s brick-paved Main Street is lined with historic buildings now housing breweries, boutiques, and restaurants serving locally-raised bison and beef. The town has deep ties to Western history – Buffalo Bill stayed at the Sheridan Inn, and the Brinton Museum nearby houses an outstanding collection of Western art in a spectacular setting.

In summer, catch the Sheridan WYO Rodeo, one of the region’s premier rodeo events, or experience a genuine cattle drive at one of the area’s working guest ranches. The town’s location at the foot of the Bighorn Mountains means outdoor adventure is minutes away, from fly fishing in clear mountain streams to hiking through wildflower meadows. Most visitors spend 2-3 days here, combining downtown exploration with mountain adventures.

10. Wind River Range

• 📍 Location: Western Wyoming, about 2 hours southeast of Jackson Hole and 1.5 hours from Rock Springs Airport
• 🏆 Best For: Backpackers 🥾, climbers 🧗‍♀️, wilderness seekers 🏕️
• 📸 Top Experiences: Backpacking to Cirque of the Towers, fishing in alpine lakes, viewing glaciers at Titcomb Basin
• 📅 Best Time to Visit: July through early September for high-country access, late September for fall colors without mosquitoes 🍂
• 🏨 Where to Stay: Lakeside Lodge – Rustic cabins on Fremont Lake with mountain views

The Wind River Range remains one of America’s last truly wild places – a 100-mile stretch of jagged peaks, glacier-carved valleys, and over 1,300 lakes that sees a fraction of the visitors that crowd Wyoming’s national parks. This massive mountain wilderness contains 19 of Wyoming’s 20 highest peaks, plus the state’s largest glacier system.

Cirque of the Towers draws climbers and photographers with its horseshoe of dramatic granite spires surrounding a pristine alpine lake. Getting there requires an 8-mile hike, which helps keep the crowds away. For serious backpackers, the 72-mile Highline Trail traverses the entire range, passing through some of the most spectacular mountain scenery in the country.

Even if you’re not into multi-day treks, day hikes from popular trailheads like Big Sandy and Green River Lakes offer incredible views with less commitment. Fishing is world-class here, with native cutthroat trout in countless alpine lakes. Bear in mind that many trailheads require driving on rough dirt roads, weather can change rapidly, and cell service is non-existent – exactly what makes this place so special.

11. Sinks Canyon State Park

• 📍 Location: Central Wyoming near Lander, about 3 hours from Jackson Hole and 2 hours from Casper
• 🏆 Best For: Rock climbers 🧗‍♀️, day hikers 🥾, families with kids 👨‍👩‍👧‍👦
• 📸 Top Experiences: Watching the river disappear at the Sinks, climbing world-class routes, spotting wildlife along canyon walls
• 📅 Best Time to Visit: May through October for hiking and climbing, June for wildflowers and peak water flow 🌼
• 🏨 Where to Stay: Lander Millhouse – Charming bed and breakfast in nearby Lander with mountain views

Sinks Canyon might be Wyoming’s coolest geological magic trick – the roaring Popo Agie River dramatically vanishes underground into a limestone cavern aptly named “The Sinks,” only to mysteriously reappear a quarter-mile downstream at “The Rise.” Even weirder? Dye tests show it takes the water over two hours to make this short journey, and more water comes out than goes in.

Beyond this natural phenomenon, the canyon offers some of the best rock climbing in Wyoming, with hundreds of routes on dolomite and sandstone faces that attract climbers from around the world. For non-climbers, well-maintained hiking trails lead along canyon rims and into the surrounding Shoshone National Forest.

Wildlife is abundant – watch for bighorn sheep on the cliffs, mule deer at dawn and dusk, and black bears in the forest. In spring, the canyon explodes with wildflowers, while fall brings golden aspens against red canyon walls. The park connects to the southern Wind River Range, making it a perfect day trip from Lander or a gateway to deeper wilderness adventures.

12. Cheyenne

• 📍 Location: Southeast Wyoming, 1.5 hours north of Denver International Airport and 45 minutes east of Laramie
• 🏆 Best For: Western history enthusiasts 🤠, train lovers 🚂, rodeo fans 🐎
• 📸 Top Experiences: Attending Cheyenne Frontier Days, exploring the historic downtown, visiting the Capitol building
• 📅 Best Time to Visit: Late July for Frontier Days, May through September for outdoor activities and events 🌞
• 🏨 Where to Stay: The Plains Hotel – Historic downtown hotel with Western character since 1911

Cheyenne, Wyoming’s capital city, delivers a perfect mix of Wild West heritage and modern entertainment. The city comes alive each July during Cheyenne Frontier Days – the world’s largest outdoor rodeo and western celebration that’s been running since 1897, earning it the nickname “Daddy of ’em All.”

Downtown’s historic district features preserved 19th-century architecture housing modern restaurants, breweries, and shops. Train enthusiasts can’t miss the impressive Cheyenne Depot Museum housed in the grand 1887 Union Pacific Depot, or the world’s largest steam locomotive, Big Boy 4004, displayed in Holliday Park.

For a dose of political history, tour the recently renovated Wyoming State Capitol with its gold-leaf dome and impressive rotunda. The surrounding area offers outdoor recreation at Curt Gowdy State Park with mountain biking trails and reservoir fishing just 30 minutes west. Even if you miss Frontier Days, you can still experience cowboy culture year-round at the Bit-O-Wyo Ranch dinner shows or weekly summer rodeos at the Terry Bison Ranch.

• Read next: 12 Best Places To Live in Wyoming if You Love Culture and Adventure

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs) About Visiting the Beautiful Places in Wyoming

Looking to expand your knowledge about the most scenic places in Wyoming? Maybe you’re curious about the must-see in Wyoming. Here are some common questions I get a lot about the best Wyoming attractions and activities.

What part of Wyoming is the prettiest?

Wyoming is filled with beautiful landscapes, from the towering peaks of the Grand Teton and Wind River Range to the geothermal wonders of Yellowstone National Park. The prettiest part of Wyoming can depend on personal preference. Some may prefer the rugged beauty of the mountains, while others may be drawn to the unique geological features of the state’s national parks.

What is the nicest place in Wyoming?

There are lots of pretty places in Wyoming. Each with its own unique charm. Towns like Jackson Hole and Sheridan offer a mix of natural beauty, outdoor activities, and cultural attractions. Natural areas like the Flaming Gorge National Recreation Area and Sinks Canyon State Park offer stunning landscapes and a variety of recreational opportunities.

Is Wyoming a good place to visit in the winter?

Absolutely! Wyoming transforms into a winter wonderland, offering a variety of activities like skiing, snowboarding, and snowmobiling. Destinations like Jackson Hole are renowned for their winter sports facilities. Plus, visiting Yellowstone in the winter can be a magical experience with fewer crowds.

What are some unique places to visit in Wyoming?

Wyoming is full of unique attractions. Devil’s Tower National Monument is a one-of-a-kind geological feature that’s also a sacred site for many Native American tribes. The hot springs in Thermopolis are another unique destination, as they’re the world’s largest mineral hot springs.

What wildlife can I see in Wyoming?

Wyoming is rich in wildlife. In places like Yellowstone and Grand Teton National Parks, you can spot bison, elk, moose, wolves, and even grizzly bears. Bird watchers will also enjoy Wyoming, as it’s home to a variety of bird species, including bald eagles and hawks.

What are the best hiking spots in Wyoming?

Wyoming is a hiker’s paradise. The Wind River Range offers challenging hikes with stunning views, while the Bighorn National Forest has trails suitable for all levels. National parks like Yellowstone and Grand Teton also offer a variety of hiking trails, each with its own unique scenery.

What historical sites can I visit in Wyoming?

Wyoming’s history is rich and varied. You can visit Fort Laramie National Historic Site, which was a significant trading post and diplomatic site in the 19th century. The town of Cody offers a deep dive into the history of the American West, with its Buffalo Bill Center of the West.

Final Thoughts on Visiting Beautiful Places in Wyoming

From the iconic landscapes of Yellowstone and Grand Teton National Parks to the charming towns of Cody and Sheridan, Wyoming is a state of diverse beauty and endless adventure. Whether you’re seeking the thrill of outdoor activities, the tranquility of nature, or a taste of the Old West, Wyoming has something to offer every traveler.

So, pack your bags, hit the road, and get ready to explore the beautiful places of Wyoming. Each destination promises an unforgettable experience that will leave you with a deeper appreciation for the wild, untamed beauty of the Cowboy State.