Things To Do
in Cheyenne

Cheyenne, the capital of Wyoming, sits on the high plains just east of the Laramie Range. The city blends frontier heritage with modern Western culture, from historic rail yards and museums to lively downtown districts. Cowboy traditions, rodeo, and the annual Cheyenne Frontier Days festival give the town a distinctive Western flavor.

The surrounding prairie opens up to wide skies and easy access to outdoor adventures in nearby parks and trails.

Day Trips

Spend a day exploring around

day 1
Arrival and Exploration
morning
:

Arrive in Cheyenne and settle into your chosen accommodation. After unpacking, take a leisurely stroll through the heart of the city to get a feel for the local culture and atmosphere. Stop by a nearby café for a delicious breakfast featuring local specialties.

afternoon
:

Visit the Wyoming State Capitol, an impressive historic building showcasing beautiful architecture. Then, head over to the Cheyenne Frontier Days Old West Museum to learn about the city’s cowboy history through engaging exhibits. Grab lunch at a local diner and enjoy the unique charm of Cheyenne.

evening
:

Enjoy a delightful dinner at one of Cheyenne's bustling restaurants, where you can savor some local cuisine. After dinner, take a sunset walk along the Cheyenne Greenway, where the natural beauty of the area becomes evident. Cap off the night with a drink at a local bar, soaking in the laid-back ambiance.

day 2
Historic Landmarks
morning
:

Begin your day with a hearty breakfast at a popular local eatery before heading out to explore Cheyenne's historic landmarks. Visit the Cheyenne Depot Museum to learn about the city’s railroad history and its impact on the West. The vibrant atmosphere around the depot is a great way to kickstart your adventures.

afternoon
:

After lunch, make your way to the Wyoming State Museum, where you can delve deeper into the state's rich heritage through diverse exhibits. Stroll through the museum gardens for a peaceful respite and photo opportunities. The afternoon can also be spent visiting the iconic Laramie County Community College's outdoor sculpture park.

evening
:

For dinner, seek out a steakhouse famous for its juicy cuts of Wyoming beef. After filling up, catch a live performance or concert in town, as Cheyenne often hosts local artists and musicians. Wrap up your night with a relaxing stay at your accommodations, reflecting on the day’s history-filled explorations.

Cost Guide

Prices

ItemPrice
🍔Meal at inexpensive restaurant$10-15
🥪Lunch for two at a casual restaurant$15-25
🛏️1 night in a mid-range hotel$90-150
Gasoline per gallon$3-4
🧺Monthly groceries for two$300-500

Strengths and Weaknesses

  • Strong Western heritage and authentic frontier experiences
  • Accessible with wide-open landscapes and many outdoor options nearby
  • Small-city amenities compared to larger urban areas
  • Weather can be very variable and winds are common

Places to Visit in Cheyenne

Visit one of these nice places.

Wyoming State Capitol Dome

The gleaming gold dome and grand exterior make for striking photos, especially during sunrise or golden hour.

Cheyenne Depot Museum & Union Pacific rail yard viewing

Historic depot and adjacent rail yards provide nostalgic backdrops with vintage trains and industrial architecture.

Old West Museum and Frontier Village

A mix of period buildings and curated exhibits offering cinematic western street scenes.

Big Boy locomotive display

A monumental steam locomotive on display near the rail facilities; ideal for wide-angle and detail shots.

Culinary Guide

Food in Cheyenne

Cheyenne’s cuisine centers on beef and Western flavors, with ranch-inspired menus, casual diners, Mexican influences, and emerging farm-to-table options.

Cheyenne Famous Food

Signature dishes, delicacies and famous food

Bison ribeye

A signature Wyoming steak—tender and richly flavored when sourced locally and cooked to medium-rare perfection.

Must-Try!

Wyoming bison burger

Juicy, lean burger made with local bison meat and classic toppings; a popular casual choice.

Elk or venison sausage

Savory sausages that showcase regional game meats found in local pubs and specialty shops.

Food Markets

Explore local food markets

Cheyenne Farmers Market

Seasonal market in downtown Cheyenne offering locally grown produce, meats, bread, and handmade goods.

Climate Guide

Weather

Cheyenne experiences a semi-arid high plains climate with four distinct seasons. Expect hot summers, cold windy winters, and shoulder seasons that can swing between sunny and stormy days.

How to Behave

Tips on cultural norms and respectful behavior

Punctuality

Being on time is appreciated in business and social settings; a casual yet timely approach fits well.

Tipping

Tipping is customary in service sectors; cash tips are common but cards are widely accepted.

Respectful conversations

Friendly, direct communication is typical; avoid assuming or stereotyping local residents and be open to Western heritage discussions.

Safety Guide

Safety

General-city safety is good, but practice typical travel precautions: lock vehicles, keep valuables out of sight, and stay aware of changing weather and wildlife on the outskirts of town.

Tipping in Cheyenne

Ensure a smooth experience

Tipping Etiquette

In restaurants, 15-20% of the bill is standard; round up for good service and tip hotel staff and drivers appropriately.

Payment Methods

Cash and major credit/debit cards are widely accepted; mobile payments (Apple Pay, Google Pay) are increasingly common.

Best Time to Visit

And what to expect in different seasons...

Summer

Warm days with the potential for pop-up thunderstorms; pack sun protection and water, and catch outdoor concerts and events.

Autumn

Cooler temperatures with crisp mornings; fall colors in parks provide beautiful photography and pleasant hiking weather.

Winter

Cold, windy conditions with possible snow; plan for indoor museums and cozy dining, and layer up for winter outdoor activities.

Spring

Mild days with variable weather; be prepared for sun, wind, and occasional late-season snow showers.

Nightlife Guide

Cheyenne at Night

Downtown Cheyenne offers a compact nightlife with cozy pubs, craft breweries, and live music venues. The pace is relaxed, and many spots feature Western-themed decor that reflects the city’s heritage.

Hiking in Cheyenne

Immerse in an unforgettable hike.

Curt Gowdy State Park trails

Popular lakeside and ridge trails with scenic views, suitable for various skill levels.

Vedauwoo Recreation Area trails

Iconic rock formations and a range of trail lengths offering dramatic granite scenery.

Airports

How to reach Cheyenne by plane.

Cheyenne Regional Airport (CYS)

Local airport with regional connections; convenient for short trips within the region.

Denver International Airport (DEN)

Major international hub about 100-110 miles away; provides extensive domestic and international connections.

Getting Around

Walkability

Downtown Cheyenne is fairly walkable, with major sights within a short stroll. To reach parks, trails, and some edge-of-town attractions, a car is convenient or required.

Demographics

Explore demographics in this area.

White/Caucasian

Largest demographic group in the area with long-standing Western heritage.

Hispanic/Latino

A growing and vibrant community contributing to the region’s culture and cuisine.

Ranch and labor communities

An important segment of the local economy and cultural fabric.

Popular Sports

Explore popular sports in region.

Rodeo

Rodeo events and Western sports are a staple in the region, especially around festival times.

Hiking and horseback riding

Popular outdoor activities tied to the countryside and nearby parks.

Transportation

Traffic

Traffic is generally light outside peak commuting hours. During major events like Cheyenne Frontier Days, expect heavier traffic and limited parking in the downtown core; public transit options are available but limited.

Accomodations

Find the best place to stay when visiting Cheyenne.

Dietary Restrictions

Tips for restricted diets.

Vegetarian

Most restaurants offer salads, veggie burgers, pastas, and vegetable sides; ask about grill cross-contamination and oil reuse, and consider farm-to-table options for fresh produce.

Health & Medical

Healthcare

Cheyenne is served by Cheyenne Regional Medical Center plus multiple clinics. For major specialties or specialized care, residents often travel to Denver or other larger cities within a few hours.

Discover United States

Read more in our United States 2025 Travel Guide.

United States Travel Guide