Wyoming always seems to call me back — the natural beauty, the historic towns, and the pure adventure makes it an absolute gem. As I made my way back to Wyoming once more, this time I set out for an all-inclusive ranch and two new destinations: Casper and Sheridan. Not knowing too much about these destinations, I was excited to discover the #callofthewy on a week long trip.
I came home with new experiences and a lifetime of memories. Wyoming has a special place in my heart and I can never get enough of it. Summertime in the rolling plains are fragrant with blossoming flowers and there’s a sweetness in the air that you can’t help but want to hold onto. The towns are bustling, rodeos are in full swing, and the history feels ever-so alive.
With a sojourn in Casper and Sheridan, I am excited to show you two Wyoming gems.
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Meet Casper
On the high plains of Wyoming, Casper has the rare blend of stunning outdoors and a charming city. A rushing river cuts through the middle town, providing an anchor for those looking to escape into the outdoors in a matter of minutes. I was lucky to be in town during the College National Finals Rodeo, which was my first time ever experiencing a rodeo — something I recommend everyone to see at least once when in Wyoming. Between downtown strolls and a sunrise at Alcova Reservoir, Casper knew how to show a good time.
Where to stay:
+ Candlewood Suites: A clean and sophisticated hotel, located minutes from the heart of downtown Casper.
What to do:
+ Explore downtown: Head here for a stroll through historic buildings, and be sure to stop by Lou Taubert Ranch Outfitters for one of the largest collections of boots to shop.
+ Head to the reservoir: A short drive can get you to the stunning Alcova Reservoir, where you can be on the water and enjoy the sun. While you’re there be sure to pop by the Fremont Canyon for an incredible view.
+ Tour a local distillery: Backwards Distilling Company is a local distillery that offers a wide range of award-winning spirits. You can book a behind the scenes tour, mixology classes, and stop by their bar for a drink — a must do while in town.
Where to eat/drink:
+ Eggingtons: If you want to know where everyone is headed in the morning, it’s certainly here. The classic, breakfast spot in downtown is a homey, welcome to the day.
+ Racca’s Pizzeria Napoletana: With an imported oven from Italy, this delicious spot is cooking up classic, Neapolitan pizzas perfected for lunch or dinner.
+ Metro Coffee: A local spot for a good cup of coffee.
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Meet Sheridan
Sheridan reminded me of an old friend, one that you can’t wait to catch up with. The lively downtown spotted with hangouts like breweries, cafes, and iconic drinking wells comes to life both during the day and night. The town of Sheridan is surrounded by wildlife-rich mountains, and plains for as far as the eye can see. It’s one of those places where an architecturally stunning Brinton Museum pairs naturally with the dramatic Bighorn Mountains in the backdrop.
Where to stay:
+ The Sheridan Inn: A restored inn with carefully decorated rooms set to characters like Annie Oakley or Buffalo Bill Cody provide the perfect place to call home while visiting Sheridan.
What to do:
+ Take a hike: Head to the Tongue River Canyon for one of the most beautiful hikes I’ve ever done, right along a rushing river that cuts through a canyon.
+ Explore downtown: The bustling downtown of Sheridan has iconic spots, like the Mint Bar or the WYO Theatre, where you can spend an afternoon popping into boutiques. Seasonally, the third Thursday of each month, there is a farmer’s market with live music and food trucks — if you can, try to catch it as it’s a great way to spend a summer night.
+ The Brinton Museum: This was my favorite unexpected find in Sheridan. A modern museum and historic ranch home that showcased Western and American Indian Art. It was easy to spend a whole morning here diving into Wyoming’s past, plus the lunch at their bistro is incredible.
+ Stroll through gardens: The Trail End State Historic Site is a historic house museum, featuring the loveliest grounds.
+ Take a scenic drive: Drive the US 14 through a scenic drive towards Burgess Junction, that ascends above the town with views, wildflowers, and plenty of wildlife to see, like moose!
Where to eat/drink:
+ Frackelton’s: A must-eat and one of the best meals in Sheridan, this extensive menu features favorites like the tuna tartare and hearty burgers.
+ Open Range at Sheridan Inn: For a homey meal, look no further than here. Their fried chicken is to die-for and if you’re feeling bold, try the Rocky Mountain oysters.
+ The Brinton Bistro: For a refined meal set in a stunning location, this is the spot. The executive chef, Travis Sorenson, presents classically prepared dishes in an innovative and tasteful way.
+ Weston Wineries: Stop by for a glass of wine at this local favorite, and be sure to enjoy the patio during the summer!
+ Andi’s Coffee House: The go-to spot for coffee with rather addicting iced lattes.
+ The Mint: It wouldn’t be a night in Sheridan without passing under the buzzing cowboy. Come here for drinks, a game of pool, and brush shoulders with the locals.
*Bon Traveler was welcomed as a guest of Visit Wyoming. As always, all opinions are own.
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Read next:
A Wyoming Adventure: Luxury Guest Ranch Magee Homestead Review
Summers in Wyoming: the Ultimate Jackson Hole Guide
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1. Book Your Flights
Use Skyscanner to find the best flights. It searches 100s of airlines and websites across the globe to ensure you’re not missing out on any route options or deals.
2. Book Your Accommodations
Use Booking.com for hotels and guest houses. They have the biggest inventory and consistently offer the best rates.
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Use Viator or Get Your Guide to find the best tours and experiences. They are my favorite tour search engines. I always check both as their inventory varies depending on the destination.
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Use Discover Cars or Rentalcars.com to find the best car rental deals. I recommend comparing rental agency reviews on Google to ensure you are booking with the best company in that destination, as the reviews are often more accurate than the car rental search engines.
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Get a Priority Pass membership to gain access to 1,400+ VIP lounges and airport experiences worldwide. The Priority Pass app is the first thing I check when I have a layover. I’ve been a member for over a decade, and having a comfortable place to relax before and between flights makes air travel so much more enjoyable.
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I never leave the country without travel insurance. It provides comprehensive protection in case anything goes wrong (ie. illness, injury, theft, and cancelations, etc.). I use it frequently for my travels to stay protected.
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Xx,
Jessica
