Torrington Travel Guide

Explore the wonders of Torrington, Wyoming with our comprehensive travel guide. Discover top attractions, outdoor adventures, hiking/biking routes, local culture, food scene, and more tips for your trip.


Introduction to Torrington

Located in Central Wyoming, Torrington is the ideal destination for those looking to escape the hustle and bustle of city life. The town is known for its rich history, picturesque natural beauty, and hospitable locals. Torrington promises visitors an unforgettable experience filled with adventure, relaxation, and cultural immersion.

List of Places to Visit in Torrington

If you’re planning a trip to Torrington, make sure to check out these top attractions:

Culturally Important Attractions: Museums and Historical Places

  • Homesteader Museum: This museum chronicles the history of Goshen County and the surrounding area. Exhibits include artifacts and memorabilia from the early pioneers who settled in the region.
  • Eastern Wyoming College Lancer Gallery: This art gallery is home to an impressive collection of paintings, sculptures, and other artworks created by local artists.
  • Fort Laramie National Historic Site: This iconic landmark boasts a rich history associated with the westward expansion, the Oregon Trail, and the Indian Wars.

Natural Attractions of Torrington: Outdoor Adventures and Scenic Views

  • North Platte River: Take a relaxing stroll along the North Platte River and enjoy the serene views of nature.
  • Sedgwick Bar State Wildlife Management Area: This wildlife conservation area is the perfect destination for outdoor enthusiasts. It is home to a wide variety of wildlife species including antelopes, pheasants, and ducks.
  • Veteran’s Island: A beautiful park that provides visitors with the opportunity to enjoy the great outdoors while soaking in the breathtaking views of Veteran’s Island.

Hiking/Biking Routes of Torrington

For adventure lovers, Torrington offers numerous hiking and biking trails that allow you to explore the beauty of the Wyoming wilderness. Here are some of the most popular routes:

  • Oregon Trail: Follow in the footsteps of the pioneers who traveled on the Oregon Trail and take in the beautiful natural landscapes.
  • Bear River State Park: This park boasts a number of hiking and biking trails, offering visitors the opportunity to explore the beauty of the Wyoming wilderness.
  • Platte River Trail: This trail runs alongside the North Platte River and offers hikers and bikers the chance to experience the scenic views and local wildlife.

Best Things to Do in Torrington: Activities and Tours

Torrington offers a wide range of activities and tours that cater to visitors of all ages and interests. Here are some of the best things to do in Torrington:

  • Torrington Rodeo: Experience the thrill of the cowboy lifestyle by attending the Torrington Rodeo.
  • Goshen County Fair: This annual event in August features a wide range of activities including a carnival, petting zoo, food vendors, and livestock shows.
  • Hot Springs State Park: Located just a short distance from Torrington, this park is home to a natural hot springs that visitors can soak in to relax their mind and body.

Week-Long Itinerary for Torrington

Day 1: Visit the Homesteader Museum and stroll along North Platte River.

Day 2: Head to Fort Laramie National Historic Site to learn about the region’s history.

Day 3: Spend the day exploring Sedgwick Bar State Wildlife Management Area and Veteran’s Island.

Day 4: Rent bikes to ride along the Platte River Trail.

Day 5: Attend the Torrington Rodeo or visit the Eastern Wyoming College Lancer Gallery.

Day 6: Take a day trip to Hot Springs State Park to relax in the natural hot springs.

Day 7: Wrap up your trip at the Goshen County Fair and enjoy the carnival, food vendors, and livestock shows.

Food and Drink Scene of Torrington

No trip to Torrington would be complete without sampling the local cuisine. Here are some must-try dishes and beverages:

Must-Try Dishes

  • Steak: Wyoming is famous for its delicious steak, which can be found in many local restaurants.
  • Hamburger: Locally sourced beef ensures that hamburgers in Torrington are always fresh and delicious.
  • Wyoming Walleye: Visitors can enjoy fresh fish caught and cooked by local fishermen.

Local Beverages

  • Wyoming Whiskey: Sip on some authentic Wyoming whiskey, which is distilled using locally sourced grains.
  • Prairie Moon Beer: This local brew is a refreshing choice and can be found in many bars throughout Torrington.
  • Wyoming Wine: Sample some Wyoming wine, which is made using grapes grown in the state.

Where to Stay in Torrington: Hotels, Hostels, and Guesthouses

Torrington offers a wide range of accommodation options to suit all budgets and preferences. Some of the most popular places to stay include:

  • Holiday Inn Express & Suites Torrington: A popular option for families and business travelers seeking comfortable accommodations.
  • Budget Host Platte Valley Inn: A cozy guesthouse offering excellent value for money.
  • Goshen County Fairgrounds: Camp out under the starry skies and enjoy all the amenities provided by the fairgrounds.

What to Buy in Torrington: Souvenirs and Local Products to Bring Home

If you’re looking for some unique souvenirs, Torrington has plenty of options to choose from. Here are some of the most popular local products:

  • Buffalo Wool Products: Browse through handcrafted wool products made of yak and bison wool.
  • Wyoming Bucking Horse and Rider T-Shirts: These t-shirts are a perfect souvenir for rodeo fans and supporters of the University of Wyoming’s athletic teams.
  • Cowboy Boots: Pick up a pair of authentic cowboy boots handmade locally.

Local Culture and Customs of Torrington

The locals of Torrington are warm-hearted and friendly. The cowboy culture is deeply rooted in the region’s history, and visitors can expect to see that reflected in the local customs and traditions. It is customary to greet people with a smile and a nod, and visitors should respect local traditions and customs.

Best Time to Visit Torrington

The best time to visit Torrington is during the summer months (June-August) when the weather is warm and sunny. However, spring and fall also offer pleasant weather, and visitors can enjoy the changing of colors of the leaves, making it a favorite season for many photographers. Winter months (November-February) can be cold and snowy, but it offers a unique winter landscape experience for those willing to brave the cold.

Do’s and Don’ts of Torrington

Do:

  • Enjoy the local cuisine and sample some local beer or whiskey.
  • Respect the local customs and traditions.
  • Visit the rodeo and experience the cowboy culture of the region.

Don’t:

  • Litter or damage the natural environment.
  • Make derogatory comments about local culture and traditions.
  • Miss the chance to experience the natural beauty of the region.

Safety and Health

Safety in Torrington

Torrington is a safe place to visit with an incredibly low crime rate. However, visitors should exercise caution while hiking, biking, or exploring outdoor trails and keep an eye on the weather forecast.

Health in Torrington

Visitors should be aware of the high altitude in Torrington, which can lead to altitude sickness for some people. It is essential to stay hydrating, especially when participating in outdoor activities. Visitors are also advised to wear sunscreen to protect against sunburn and dehydration.

Getting to Torrington: Transportation Options and Logistics

Airports Near Torrington

The closest major airport to Torrington is Denver International Airport, located three hours to the south.

Bus Stations Near Torrington

Greyhound bus service is available in the nearby towns of Wheatland and Cheyenne.

Other Options

Visitors can rent cars at the Denver International Airport or reach Torrington through private car hire services.

How to Get Around in Torrington

Torrington offers several modes of transportation, including local taxis, rental cars, and bicycle rentals.

Where to Go Next from Torrington: Nearby Destinations and Excursions

Torrington is ideally located for exploring other destinations in the region. Some popular excursions include:

  • Cheyenne: The capital of Wyoming is just an hour and a half away from Torrington and is known for its annual Cheyenne Frontier Days Rodeo.
  • The Black Hills of South Dakota: Mount Rushmore and the surrounding area is a 4-hour drive from Torrington and offers some of the most breathtaking scenery in the region.

Conclusion

Torrington is an idyllic destination for visitors looking to experience the cowboy culture, explore the natural beauty of the region, and savor local cuisine. With a wide range of activities and attractions to suit all interests, Torrington promises visitors a trip to remember. Plan your visit today and discover the hidden gems of Central Wyoming.

Main and 21st, looking south. Horizontal lights (with illuminated box-style street signs) and vertical lights mixed in make Torrington very unusual Main and 21st, looking south. Horizontal lights (with illuminated box-style street signs) and vertical lights mixed in make Torrington very unusual