14 Awesome Things To Do In Wyoming That Won’t Cost A Cent

Traveling on a budget doesn't have to be boring, especially when you're in Wyoming. All across the Cowboy State, there are loads of awesome things to do that are completely free. If you need a little nudge in the right direction, here are 14 entertaining things to do that don't require cracking open your wallet.

1. University of Wyoming Art Museum, 2111 East Willett Drive, Laramie

The University of Wyoming Art Museum is temporarily closed and will reopen on September 29, 2020.

A stop at the University of Wyoming Art Museum is a twofer. Not only can you spend time taking in the nearly 7,000 pieces of artwork at the museum, but you can also visit Wyoming's American Heritage Center. It's also located at the Centennial Complex (a work of art in its own right), and houses a staggering collection of rare historical documents, books, and manuscripts having to do with Wyoming and the American West.

2. Oregon Trail Ruts, Guernsey

Just south of Guernsey, Wyoming is a state historic site where you can walk the path pioneers took over a century ago. As they headed out west, wagon trains crossed through this area and left enduring impressions so deep, the ruts remain in the sandstone today.

3. Gooseberry Badlands, Worland

There's a gorgeous scenic overlook about 32 miles west of Worland, Wyoming where hiking, exploring, and taking in the breathtaking views are free of charge. You'll see numerous stunning rock formations and sculptures throughout the Gooseberry Badlands, all created naturally by the Wyoming elements.

4. CCC Ponds, Pinedale

These human-made ponds about 5 miles north of Pinedale were built by one of the first Civilian Conservation Corps camps in the country, giving the recreation area historical significance in addition to being are one of the best bets in the state for wildlife-viewing. Hike or bike (or even cross-country ski in the winter) along the trail and, depending on the time of year you visit, catch a glimpse of all types of birds and waterfowl, deer, moose, and beavers.

5. Historic Governor's Mansion, 300 East 21st Street, Cheyenne

Constructed in 1904, this historic mansion served as the official residence for Wyoming governors from 1905 through 1976. Recently restored and renovated, the mansion is now a historic site and open to the public for tours December through September. It closes during the months of October and November for repairs and to decorate it for the holidays.

6. Various scenic highways and byways across the state.

When it comes to scenery, Wyoming has everyone beat, and we have several scenic byways all over the state to prove it. From Chief Joseph Scenic Highway to the Snowy Range Scenic Byway, the Bridger Valley Historic Byway to the Beartooth Highway, pick one, pop in your road trip tunes, sit back, and enjoy.

7. Cowgirls of the West Museum and Emporium, 203 West 17th Street, Cheyenne

The Cowgirls of the West Museum and Emporium in Cheyenne is dedicated to honoring the spirit of the important women who played a part in Wyoming's history. View a collection of western memorabilia at the museum, then stop in at the gift shop for a souvenir of your visit. With a selection of cards, books, western art, jewelry, collectibles, and more, there's something for everyone at this unique boutique.

8. Fossil Country Frontier Museum, 400 Pine Avenue, Kemmerer

This cool little museum in Kemmerer is packed with all manner of mining, Native American, and Lincoln County historical artifacts. Plus, they host auctions, music festivals, seasonal programs, and more throughout the year, so there's usually something going on here no matter when you stop in.

9. Jackalope Square, West Center Street and South 3rd Street, Douglas

Get a gander of the huge monument to Wyoming's official unofficial state animal. If you visit the square in the summer season, you can peruse the farmer's market in addition to learning all about the jackalope.

10. Art Galleries in the Square, Jackson Hole

Several world-renowned art galleries line the square in the center of Jackson. There are so many, you could spend several days taking in artwork in a variety of mediums including paint on canvas, bronze sculptures, and Native American beadwork, to name a few.

11. Point of Rocks Stage Station, I-80 Wyoming

Located on the Laramie Plains along Interstate 80 you'll find the fascinating remains of a historic outpost along the Overland Trail. Throughout the history of Wyoming, the building served as a stage station, a freight depot, and, allegedly, an outlaw hideout.

12. Wyoming State Museum, 2301 Central Avenue, Cheyenne

Wyoming has a vast and varied historical culture, and you'll find it all at the Wyoming State Museum in Cheyenne. Since 1895, this museum has been dedicated to covering all of the state's history, from dinosaurs to fishing and wildlife to pioneers, Native Americans, mining, and much more.

13. Free fishing, statewide

You can take advantage of most of the free things to do in Wyoming just about any time, but free fishing day only happens once a year. Typically during National Fishing and Boating Week in June, you can check on future free fishing days by visiting the Wyoming Game and Fish Department website.

14. Grand Teton Music Festival, 3330 Cody Lane, Teton Village

Get a little culture in the spectacular surroundings at the base of the Grand Tetons. This free concert series takes place each summer with 7 weeks of classical music and free concerts.

What free fun things do you enjoy doing in Wyoming?