Top 19 Most Beautiful Places to Visit in Wyoming

With windswept plains and crowd-drawing national parks, Wyoming is one of the most beautiful and visited states in the USA. In fact, millions visit the landlocked state in the western United States every year, but it’s also one of the most sparsely populated, with an almost outlawish vibe.

Home to the most dramatic peaks, unique geology, and most diverse wildlife, it’s hard to know where to start in such a vast and gorgeous area, but from stunning valleys where wild buffalo roam to some of the most jaw-dropping sights you’ll see in the world, here are the best and most beautiful places to visit in Wyoming…

1. Bighorn Scenic Byway, Bighorn National Forest – one of the most beautiful road trips in the world

While the Bighorn National Forest is undoubtedly one of the most beautiful sites in Wyoming, driving through the scenic byway is just as extraordinary.

If you’re tired of hiking or simply want to see some of the most beautiful scenery in the country, jump in your car and head out on the byway to enjoy views of the mountains, valleys, and waterways that are second to none.

Every view is literally going to take your breath away, and there are miles and miles of it to enjoy. If you love Mother Nature, and even if you don’t, this byway is an attraction you will never be able to forget.

My must-do highlights in Bighorn Scenic Byway, Bighorn National Forest

• Take a drive along the scenic panoramic road views for breathtaking view points.
• Chose a hiking trail most suited to your ability, there’s 27 to pick from all filled with gorgeous nature.
• Pack a picnic to stop off for a break surrounded by gorgeous scenery.

2. Cody – a town founded by “Buffalo Bill” which is one of the best tourist attractions in Wyoming

This is a very scenic former Wild West town named after frontiersman William “Buffalo Bill” Cody. Like other outdoorsy-type towns, Cody offers great opportunities for those who are interested in hiking, rafting, rock climbing, or even camping.

There are lots of mountain ranges near the town that you can enjoy, as well as a museum dedicated to Buffalo Bill that contains tons of artifacts and educational opportunities.

This is the perfect place to visit for a weekend getaway and has even been voted one of the 25 best places to visit in Wyoming.

My must-do highlights in Cody

• Explore around the Buffalo Bill Museum to learn about the history of the area and see interesting exhibits.
• For an adrenaline pumping activity, have a go at rock climbing for a different perspective overlooking the area.
• Spend the night underneath the stars with a night camping in the wilderness.

3. Old Faithful, Yellowstone National Park – a world-famous national historic landmark and a must-see attraction  in Wyoming

If you come to Wyoming sightseeing then this is one of the most iconic landmarks and attractions in the state.

It’s one of nearly 500 geysers in Yellowstone National Park but this is the most popular and the most impressive.

The cone geyser is also very active and has erupted every 44 minutes to two hours since 2000 and is capable of spewing water around 180 feet into the air. A must-see attraction! 

My must-do highlights of Yellowstone National Park

• View the magical and vibrant Grand Prismatic Spring from the overlook on Fairy Fall Trails.
• Check out the Grand Canyon of Yellowstone to see the tallest waterfall in the park which stands at 308-feet high.
• Visit Yellowstone Lake where you can go kayaking or take a boat tour.

4. Devils Tower National Monument – the first United States national monument and a top attraction and landmark in Wyoming

Surrounded by lots of green grass and beautiful trees, this monument definitely stands out in the area. In fact, if you love any type of geographic wonder, this is one monument you won’t want to miss.

It is a cool place to visit if you love different landscapes, and if the day is especially clear, you’ll get a surreal feeling when you view the monument against the blue sky.

Regardless of when you visit it, however, this is one view you’ll take home with you and never forget because it is an amazing sight that you will love seeing.

My must-do highlights of Devils Tower National Monument

• Stop by the visitor center to make sure you don’t miss out on any of the hidden gems.
• Hike along the Tower Trail that loops around the magnificent rock formations.
• Be amazed by the grand landmark that stands at 870-feet tall.

5. Wyoming State Capitol building, Cheyenne – a great place to add to your sightseeing list

A great option if you’re looking to go sightseeing in Wyoming. This is a wonderful building and a great tourist attraction too so make sure you add to your list of things to do when you’re visiting the state.

It’s located in Cheyenne, the capital of Wyoming as well as being a beautiful and elegant building it’s one of the twenty state capitols which is designated as a historic landmark.

It dates back to 1888 and is the seat of Wyoming’s executive and legislative branches of government. It’s open to visitors from Tuesday to Saturday and is located at it’s located at 300 E. 21st Street.

While here take a little time to explore the rest of the city of Cheyenne and head for attractions such as the Frontier Days Old West Museum, Cheyenne Botanic Gardens, Wyoming State Museum, the 1904 Historic Governors’ Mansion, and the Cheyenne Depot Museum.

My must-do highlights of Wyoming State Capitol building, Cheyenne

• Explore through the exhibits being hosted in the building.
• Visit The Pancake Breakfast for a delicious food experience.
• Wander over to the beautiful Botanic Gardens filled with vibrant colors.

6. Flaming Gorge National Recreation Area – easily one of the most beautiful places to visit in Wyoming filled with incredible scenery and nature

Whether you love the water, hiking opportunities, or simply taking a drive and enjoying some extraordinary scenery, Flaming Gorge is certainly a sight to behold.

With red rocks that attract attention regardless of why you’re there, this area is a great place to be if you love natural beauty and lots of things to do.

The gorge itself is separated from the Green River by the Flaming Gorge Dam, which is amazing in itself, so whether you visit this recreation area because you want to hike or simply because you love all of the sites to look at, you will not be disappointed.

My must-do highlights of Flaming Gorge National Recreation Area

• Visit Red Canyon Lodge for some fun outdoor activities.
• Experience the thrill of water rafting.
• Discover the array of hiking trails for an adventure.

7. Grand Canyon of Yellowstone National Park – one of the best things to do in Wyoming

This is the very first canyon downstream of Yellowstone Falls and is worth every minute you spend there. It is 24 miles long and ranges from 800 to 1,200 feet in width at various points.

In fact, it’s difficult to comprehend how humongous this canyon is until you see it with your own eyes.

The Grand Canyon of the Yellowstone is truly a wonder, and visiting it is one decision you’ll never regret. If you’re anywhere near this area, you owe it to yourself to go and see this canyon.

It is truly a sight to see if you’re a nature-lover and a lover of the great outdoors.

My must-do highlights of Grand Canyon of Yellowstone National Park

• Make sure to capture an Insta-worthy shot overlooking the breathtaking landmark.
• Take 328 steps down into the canyon for a unique viewpoint at Uncle Tom’s Trail.
• Admire the spectacular river at the Brink of the Upper Falls.

8. Taggart Lake, Grand Teton National Park – a gorgeous area to explore in Wyoming for nature lovers

Although this lake is considered one of the smaller lakes in Grand Teton National Park, it should never be forgotten or omitted from your to-do list when visiting Wyoming.

It is set against a background that boasts mountains, lots of trees, and beautiful scenery that is nothing short of breathtaking. In fact, if you want to enjoy the picturesque Grand Tetons from an amazing viewpoint, this is where you want to be.

While visiting the many lakes in the park, you should never forget this one.

My must-do highlights of Taggart Lake, Grand Teton National Park

• Check out the giant boulders located along the Taggart trail.
• Cool down with a swim in the lake on a hot day.
• Gaze in awe at the magnificent scenery surrouding the lake.

9. Hayden Valley, Yellowstone National Park – home to a wonderful array of wildlife and beautiful Wyoming nature

If you love wildlife, Hayden Valley is where you need to go. Filled with animals such as elk, grizzly bears, coyotes, and buffalo, there is more wildlife here than there is anywhere else in all of Yellowstone.

Add that to the beautiful scenic views you get to experience wherever you are, and you’ll understand why Hayden Valley is an unknown but extraordinary place to visit whenever you love nature, wildlife, and experiencing something you’ve never done before.

My must-do highlights of Hayden Valley, Yellowstone National Park

• Explore around the muddy hot springs also known as mud volcano.
• Take a drive and stop at the Sulphur Caldron viewpoint.
• Check out the wonderful LeHardys Rapids where you can also walk down to Yellowstone River.

10. Hot Springs State Park, Thermopolis – one of the best places to explore in Wyoming

At the center of this state park lies the largest single-mineral hot spring in the world, but that doesn’t mean the rest of the area isn’t as beautiful.

The water from the spring channels directly into bathhouses and two separate pools and is always a nice, comfortable 104 degrees Fahrenheit.

Also in the area are hiking trails, flower gardens, and even a field where you can see bison roaming the area. There is even a bathhouse inside of the premises if you’d prefer that over the outdoor waters.

My must-do highlights of Hot Springs State Park

• Soak in the mineral filled hot springs.
• Spend the night by camping at one of the camp grounds surrounding the area.
• Wander through the trails around the springs.

11. Buffalo – one of the best things in Wyoming if you’re a fan of history and the Wild West

One of the best small towns in Wyoming this historic former Frontier town which dates from 1879 and as well as having a backdrop of stunning Wyoming Scenery it has a very quaint and wonderful main street lined with historic buildings including the Jim Gatchell Museum dedicated to the Old West and the infamous Occidental Hotel where Owen Wister’s Virginian finally “got his man.”

Other famous guests include Butch Cassidy and the Sundance Kid, “Buffalo Bill” Cody, Tom Horn, Teddy Roosevelt, and Calamity Jane.

It’s nestled at the foot of the Big Horn Mountains so it also attracts outdoor lovers looking to ski, boat, camp, or hike in the wonderful landscapes filled with lakes, streams, mountains, and wildlife.

Buffalo is home to a good range of accommodations as well as restaurants and bars and it was once voted Wyoming’s most beautiful town (by Expedia) and once visited it’s easy to see why! A must-see Wyoming destination!

My must-do highlights of Buffalo

• Stroll around the cute and quaint buildings in the town.
• Learn about the history of the area by visiting the historic buildings and museums.
• Check out a fair or experience fine dining at a local restaurant.

12. Sinks Canyon, Lander – a top attraction to visit in Wyoming

Located at the base of the Wind River Mountains, the water alone makes this a place you won’t want to miss when you’re in Wyoming because it seems to blend in with the canyon itself once you get to this area of it.

The canyon is deep but consists of lots of hiking trails, and once you get down to the Sinks, you can glimpse a gorgeous view of the canyon and water coming together. Sinks Canyon is consistently voted one of the most beautiful places to visit in Wyoming, and one trip there will tell you why.

My must-do highlights of Sinks Canyon, Lander

• For those who love outdoor sports, enjoy the scenic trail running available around the area.
• Take a picnic to have a lovely lunch whilst being surrounded by nature.
• Have a go at rock climbing for wonderful views.

13. Jackson – a popular mountain resort and travel destination in Wyoming

If you’re an outdoor lover and looking for great things to do in Wyoming then check this place out! Jackson is 6,000 feet above sea level and is filled with pristine sites and lots of trees and streams.

At the center of town is Town Square, AKA George Washington Memorial Park, and when it comes to things to do, this city is second to none.

You can kayak in the Snake River, ski and go snowmobiling in the winter, and enjoy lots of restaurants, gift shops, spas, and art galleries anytime.

You can even enjoy some old-fashioned shootouts if you visit the right area of town. There is never a shortage of things to do in this amazing city. Jackson is definitely one of the places to visit in Wyoming that should be considered a “must.”

My must-do highlights of Jackson

• During the winter season, go skiing or snowboarding at the three ski areas.
• Go white water rafting down Snake River for a thrilling experience.
• Visit in both summer and winter for the epic variety of activities to do.

14. Jenny Lake, Grand Teton National Park – one of the most visited areas in Grand Teton National Park

While it’s true that there are many smaller lakes in the beautiful Grand Teton National Park, Jenny Lake is one of the most unforgettable.

Its water is so clear that you can see right down to the bottom of it, and it looks like a mirage because it is so clear.

With peaks and valleys in the background, this lake is fun to take pictures of and fun to wet your feet in, and even though it isn’t as big of a draw as Jackson Lake, this is still one lake you will not want to miss if you’re visiting the park.

My must-do highlights of Jenny Lake, Grand Teton National Park

• Take a scenic drive up to Signal Mountain for picturesque panoramic views overlooking the park.
• Discover the Hidden Falls and Inspiration Point located on the western side of Jenny Lake. 
• Hike along the trail from String Lake to Leigh Lake which is perfect for all ages and ability levels.

15. Knapsack Col, Wind River Range – a beautiful and unspoiled hidden gem in Wyoming

One of Wyoming’s best-hidden gems, this is the perfect place to visit if you love to hike. Not only is it gorgeous, but it offers tons of hiking opportunities for both experienced and beginning hikers.

Knapsack Col is located between Winifred Peak and Twin Peaks, and it’s a place you’ll definitely want to visit if you enjoy camping, hiking, and any other outdoor activity.

It isn’t always mentioned in magazines, but it is one place you’ll never forget once you visit it! 

My must-do highlights of Knapsack Col, Wind River Range

• Well known for the popular trails, going hiking is a must-do activity.
• Take a backpacking tour and stay over at a camping site.
• Stop by The Cirque of the Towers and be amazed by the epic landmark.

16. Medicine Bow Peak, Snowy Range – the highest peak in the Snowy Range and a beautiful Wyoming tourist attraction

Of all the Medicine Bow Mountains, this one is the tallest, and its majestic character is a sight to see. Unless you’re an experienced hiker, you shouldn’t attempt to climb to the top of this mountain, even though the view is extraordinary.

If you’re not a hiker, however, you can still enjoy the beauty of the place by visiting Lake Marie and taking in the unique sights and sounds of the area.

This mountain should definitely be on everyone’s bucket list.

My must-do highlights of Medicine Bow Peak, Snowy Range

• Capture an Instagrammable shot of the insane mountain range.
• Drive along the scenic byway for several perfect viewpoint spots.
• Visit Lake Marie for a calming experience.

17. Oxbow Bend, Grand Teton National Park – one of the most photographed beauty spots in the park

With the mountains and trees reflecting off of the water, you won’t have a shortage of sights to enjoy. If you love natural beauty, Oxbow Bend is where you need to visit.

Throughout the area, there are overlooks that allow you to enjoy and appreciate this beauty even more, giving you lots of ways to enjoy the area.

In fact, if you love overlooks, there is one in Oxbow Bend that promises to be one of the best overlooks in the entire park. You won’t have to go far in the area to view numerous gorgeous sites.

My must-do highlights of Oxbow Bend, Grand Teton National Park

• Capture an Insta-worthy shot in this most photographed spot.
• Take a guided tour to make sure you get to see all the perfect viewpoints.
• Cool down in the lake with a little dip in the refreshing water.

18. Grand Targhee Ski Resort – a popular place to visit and vacation in Wyoming

Located roughly 90 miles from Jackson Hole, this ski resort is perfect for those who love to ski but who don’t like the long wait times of other resorts. Snowfalls average about 500 inches per year, and there are five lifts to utilize.

Best of all, there are areas of the resort that are great for all levels of skiers, from beginners to the most advanced. In addition, you also get access to snowshoeing and Nordic trails to enjoy, which is the icing on the cake for adventurous people.

This is also a great place to have a fun family outing. Enjoy!

My must-do highlights of Grand Targhee Ski Resort

• Wander around this breathtaking area at a slower pace than skiing by going on a snowshoe tour.
• Hit the slopes and fly down the freshly pisted runs with skis or a snowboard.
• Enjoy a fun group activity by going tubing, perfect for all ages and abilities.

19. Sheridan – a top spot to visit in Wyoming that offers a Wild West Renaissance feeling

Sheridan is a charming place that blends a western setting surrounded by panoramic mountain views. The city definitely caters for all as it offers an enormous variety of activities such as parks, picnic areas to wildlife, festivals and so much more.

Whenever you decide to visit you will find things to do all year round. Whether you prefer a busy activity or a quiet time, you will find great options!

Those who love to explore culture and history won’t be disappointed as every inch of this place has something to tell. The locals are passionate about their community and therefore will make sure they deliver the best hospitality to their visitors.

My must-do highlights of Sheridan

• Hike the famous peaks of Bighorn mountains with amazing views.
• Spend some down time by relaxing in this breaktaking area.
• Discover the interesting culture of the city by getting involved with community activites.

We also have posts on…

• The most beautiful places to visit in Oregon
• The most beautiful places to visit in Kansas
• The most beautiful places to visit in Alaska
• Places to visit in Idaho
• The most beautiful places to visit in South Dakota
• Places to visit in Montana
• The most beautiful places to visit in North Dakota
• The most beautiful places to visit in Washington
• The most beautiful places to visit in Colorado