For an authentic Western experience, the small towns of Wyoming offer a rich history amid breathtaking sceneries. From the iconic Jackson with its stunning views of Grand Teton National Park to the hot springs of Saratoga and the Intermittent Spring in Afton, each town has its own unique charm and something to offer visitors. Discover the true spirit of the Cowboy State in these 9 must-visit small towns in Wyoming.

1. Jackson

Population: 10,849

Located in the northwestern part of Wyoming, Jackson is a small town in the heart of the Teton Range. It exudes both Old West vibes and modern luxury. There is plenty to see, do, and shop for in Jackson, with its many art galleries, restaurants, and boutique stores. One of the main attractions is the elk antler arches in the Town Square. In addition, visitors can check out the National Museum of Wildlife Art located just outside of Jackson. The museum is home to over 5,000 pieces of wildlife art exhibits, from traditional Native American pieces to contemporary works. No trip to Jackson would be complete without visiting Grand Teton National Park. A short drive away, the park is renowned for its views of rugged mountain peaks and lakes. Moreover, it is a premier destination for viewing wildlife and hiking along trails like Cascade Canyon.

2. Cody

Population: 10,174

For a taste of Wild West history, Cody does not disappoint. Situated near the eastern entrance of Yellowstone National Park, this small town is home to the Buffalo Bill Center of the West. Named after Buffalo Bill Cody, the center comprises five museums. Each one showcases a different aspect of Western history and art, like the Buffalo Bill Museum, Draper Natural History Museum, Cody Firearms Museum, and the Plains Indian Museum. In addition, the Whitney Western Art Museum showcases artworks by works by renowned artists such as Frederic Remington and Charles M. Russell. Another Wild West attraction in Cody is Old Trail Town with a collection of restored frontier buildings and artifacts. Visitors can explore Old West cabins, including the Hole-in-the-Wall cabin, which belonged to outlaw Butch Cassidy. For some outdoor adventure, the nearby Shoshone River, surrounded by the Absaroka Mountains, is coveted for fishing, picnicking, and wildlife watching.

3. Sheridan

Population: 19,095

Nestled in the Bighorn Mountains of north-central Wyoming, Sheridan is a small town with a rich cowboy heritage. Preserved 19th- and early 20th-century buildings line the historic Main Street district. The district is popular for its eateries, shops, and the many events and festivals that are hosted here. Moreover, the WYO Theater, dating back to 1923, is a restored vintage venue known for promoting the arts with live performances and theatrical shows. For a one-of-a-kind experience, a drive on the 58-mile-long Bighorn Scenic Byway offers stunning landscapes. Taking you through the Bighorn National Forest and the Bighorn Mountains, it is a scenic getaway for nature lovers and adventurers who enjoy hiking, horse riding, and mountain biking in the wilderness.

4. Lander

Population: 7,550

Lander is a picturesque small town located in central Wyoming. The town has a charming downtown with handicraft stores, local boutiques, and family-style restaurants for visitors to enjoy. Abundant in natural beauty, near Lander is the Sinks Canyon State Park. The park is known for its unique geological features, including the “Sinks” and “The Rise,” where the Popo Agie River vanishes underground into a cavern and reemerges a quarter mile down the canyon. Sinks Canyon State Park is ideal for hiking, rock climbing, and viewing wildlife. In addition, the Shoshone National Forest has many hiking trails and stunning vistas of canyons and waterfalls. The forest is prolific with native wildlife, including elk and moose.

5. Buffalo

Population: 4,469

At the foothills of the Bighorn Mountains in north-central Wyoming, Buffalo is a small town with lots to offer visitors. The Jim Gatchell Memorial Museum is dedicated to the legacy of Jim Gatchell, a local pharmacist and avid collector of Western artifacts and memorabilia, is a museum with Native American artifacts, historical documents, and firearms. Moreover, it offers a glimpse into the heritage and culture of the American West and its early settlers. The Occidental Hotel is a historic landmark in Buffalo dating back to 1880 and has housed famous guests, including Butch Cassidy and Calamity Jane. Moreover, the hotel has maintained its authentic Old West ambiance and offers insights into its history. A scenic drive worth taking from Buffalo is the Cloud Peak Skyway, which is a 47-mile route with views of the characteristic towering mountain peaks of the Cloud Peak Wilderness located within the Bighorn National Forest.

6. Sundance

Population: 1,043

Named after the famous outlaw Sundance Kid, Sundance is a small town located in northeastern Wyoming. In addition to the historic downtown with local shops and restaurants, the Crook County Courthouse is a historic landmark dating back to 1888. Visitors can also explore the Vore Buffalo Jump, which is an archaeological site that provides a glimpse into the unique hunting practices of Native American tribes in the area. A short distance from Sundance, the Devils Tower National Monument is a towering rock formation that is 867 feet tall and overlooks the Belle Fourche River in the Black Hills. The tower holds sacred spiritual significance for  Native American tribes.

7. Saratoga

Population: 1,727

Located in Platte Valley, Saratoga is a small town in Wyoming that is famous for its natural hot springs. The Hobo Hot Springs are a natural geothermal wonder renowned for their mineral-rich, therapeutic waters, which are believed to have therapeutic properties and are known for their relaxing and healing effects. Moreover, the springs are free and open to the public. Easily accessible from Saratoga is the Medicine Bow National Forest, which spans over a million acres of forests, meadows, and mountains. Owing to its picturesque flora and fauna, the Snowy Range within the forest is a popular destination for hiking, camping, and fishing.

8. Afton

Population: 2,213

Located in Star Valley, Afton is a scenic small town in Wyoming surrounded by the Salt River Range and the Bridger-Teton National Forest. The town is renowned for many attractions, including being home to the largest elk horn arch in the world. Known as Elk Antler Arch, it is a bridge, that is 75 feet wide and 18 feet high, made from over 3,000 elk antlers. Moreover, Afton is known for its Intermittent Spring or Periodic Spring. Located in Swift Valley Canyon, this rhythmic spring is the largest in the world and flows on and off at set intervals. The small town of Afton also hosts the annual Lincoln County Fair and Rodeo, complete with a parade, rodeo, demolition derby, livestock competitions, carnival rides, and more.

9. Dubois

Population: 919

Dubois is a small town nestled in the Wind River Valley. It is surrounded by the Absaroka and Wind River mountain ranges. The Dubois Museum showcases the history of the town through exhibits like the Natural History of the Upper Wind River Valley and the Charlie Moore Collection, which contain geological artifacts and displays. Moreover, the town is close to the Shoshone National Forest and the Wind River Indian Reservation. Spread across over two million acres, the reservation holds historic significance and offers insights into the traditions and customs of the Native American tribes that live here. Moreover, within the reservation is the Wind River Range, which is great for hiking, biking, and fishing.

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