As the cost of living around the United States continues to grow and the world of online work expands, the affordable lifestyle and snow-capped mountains of Wyoming become ever more attractive.
The state boasts some of the best scenery in the US, but its many charming cities and small towns ensure Wyoming is also a great place to stay a bit longer.
8. Buffalo
Surrounded by snow-capped mountains, with affordable housing and beloved small town charm, Buffalo is a great place to visit.
Just out of town is the Bighorn National Forest, where you’ll find some of the best hikes in the state. These take you through a mix of rugged mountains, vast valleys and reservoirs with waterfalls, rivers, and ample places to camp.
7. Powell
Around 25 miles north of Cody, which is number one on our list, Powell is a great spot for artists and those who love the outdoors. Not only is Powell within driving distance of Yellowstone National Park, but the many nearby hikes and campgrounds mean you can easily stick close to town.
Beyond the mountains, Powell boasts a strong artists’ community which belies its population of 6,500. Around Powell, there is a college, farmers’ market at Washington Park and great schooling.
6. Jackson
As one of the most scenic towns in Wyoming, Jackson has transcended its original status to find itself in the midst of pop culture and a national destination. Boasting incredible skiing and snowboarding, plus the Grand Tetons and nearby Yellowstone, it’s the top tourist destination in the state.
Travelers revel in the impeccable views, with rugged, rocky cliffs rising out of the otherwise flat prairie. There’s no shortage of outdoor adventures to be had here, from rock climbing and mountain biking to hiking and kayaking.
5. Laramie
Much of life in Laramie revolves around the University of Wyoming. The school is a major employer and provides what is otherwise a small town with a burst of energy, nightlife and culture. While sport provides year-round entertainment, especially when the football team puts the pads on.
For outdoor fun, you can go skiing at Snowy Range or hiking in the Medicine Bow National Forest.
4. Rock Springs
Despite its relatively small population, Rock Springs is a very diverse city offering a lot in the way of cuisine, entertainment, and the arts.
In the warm months, Rock Springs offers concerts in the parks and the nearby museums and parks help to showcase Rock Springs position in history. There are community events, fairs, and festivals, including the Flaming Gorge Days that dive into Rock Springs culinary and arts diversity.
3. Lander
It would be easy to cast Lander as a sleepy town, but that’s just not the case. Its infrastructure makes for an easy exploration. You can explore the charming main street where great restaurants and pubs reside.
Lander boasts a number of insightful museums that showcase life in the Old West. There is also the nearby Sink Canyon State Park featuring gorgeous flora and fauna and fabulous hiking.
2. Cheyenne
Home to the world’s biggest outdoor rodeo, Cheyenne offers a great mix of leisure and affordable living. The Cheyenne Frontier Days runs in July each year and not only attracts some of the top cowboys and cowgirls, but the best in country music.
Wyoming’s capital city is known as the Magic City of the Plains and offers great public parks, several museums and plenty of things to do in nearby nature.
You only have a short drive to Granite Springs Reservoir and the Vedauwoo Recreation Area for excellent hiking, fishing and camping.
1. Cody
A gateway town to Yellowstone National Park, Cody, is a historic town surrounded by natural splendor. Cody was named after the infamous Buffalo Bill, aka William Cody, with a thrilling stampede event now named after him.
Along the central streets you’ll find Old West-style shop fronts and saloons providing a glimpse into the past. But the architecture is just one part of Cody’s charm.
Yellowstone is an exciting destination, but Buffalo Bill State Park is also right by the town. Enjoy outdoor adventures or go fishing on the lake.
