Laramie Travel Guide

Get ready for a trip to Laramie, Wyoming with this comprehensive travel guide, featuring must-see attractions, best things to do, hiking/biking routes, food and drink scene, where to stay, and more.


Introduction to Laramie

Laramie, nestled in the Southeast Wyoming region of the Rocky Mountains, is a perfect destination for travelers seeking adventure, natural beauty, and rich history. The city is home to the University of Wyoming, which gives it a vibrant and youthful vibe. Laramie is a popular starting point for outdoor enthusiasts with its abundant trails for hiking, biking, and wildlife viewing. Moreover, the city’s cultural and historical attractions make it an ideal destination for culture aficionados.

List of Places to Visit in Laramie

Culturally Important Attractions: Museums and Historical Places

  • Wyoming Territorial Prison State Historic Site: This historic prison was once home to some of the West’s most notorious outlaw, like Butch Cassidy. Today, it offers guided tours, exhibits, and souvenirs to visitors.
  • Laramie Plains Museum: This museum offers a glimpse into Laramie’s history through its collection of photographs, artifacts, and exhibits.
  • University of Wyoming Art Museum: This is an acclaimed art museum that houses one of the most extensive collections of western American art in the country.

Natural Attractions of Laramie: Outdoor Adventures and Scenic Views

  • Medicine Bow National Forest: This expansive national forest offers breathtaking scenic beauty with mountains, clear lakes, meadows, waterfalls, and hiking trails. It is an excellent destination for hiking, camping, fishing, cross-country skiing, and snowmobiling.
  • Vedauwoo Recreation Area: This popular destination is famous for its remarkable rock formations that make it an ideal spot for rock climbing and scenic drives. The area also has hiking trails, picnic areas, and campgrounds.
  • Snowy Range Scenic Byway: This is a spectacular scenic drive that takes visitors from Laramie to the Snowy Range Mountains, featuring stunning views of alpine forests, crystal-clear lakes, and wide-open meadows.

Hiking/Biking Routes of Laramie

  • Happy Jack Trail: This 5.2-mile trail is a local favorite and among the most popular hiking and biking trails in Laramie. It offers magnificent views of the Laramie Valley, and it is also an excellent spot for wildlife viewing.
  • Tie City Trail System: This is an extensive trail system located west of Laramie that offers plenty of options for hikers and bikers. With over 30 miles of trails, it’s perfect for all levels of hikers and bikers.
  • Snowy RangeSki Area Trails: During the summer months, these ski area trails that are located just west of Laramie transform into a network of hiking and biking trails that offer some of the best views in Wyoming.

Best Things to Do in Laramie: Activities and Tours

  • Ghost Tour of Laramie: For those interested in the paranormal, the Ghost Tour of Laramie is a must-do. The tour takes visitors to some of the most haunted places in Laramie.
  • Wildlife Safari: A wildlife safari in the Laramie area offers a chance to see wild animals like moose, elk, coyotes, and eagles.
  • Brewery Tour: Laramie has a thriving craft brewery scene, so a brewery tour is an ideal activity to experience its delicious brews.

Week-Long Itinerary for Laramie

Day Activity
Day 1 Visit the Wyoming Territorial Prison State Historic Site
Day 2 Hike Happy Jack Trail and enjoy local cuisine
Day 3 Explore Vedauwoo Recreation Area and go rock-climbing
Day 4 Take a wildlife safari
Day 5 Drive Snowy Range Scenic Byway and visit Snowy Range Ski Area Trails
Day 6 Tour local breweries
Day 7 Relax and unwind in the Medicine Bow National Forest

Food and Drink Scene of Laramie

Laramie has a diverse dining scene that blends local flavors with international cuisine. Don’t miss out on trying the following:

Must-Try Dishes

  • Bison Burger: This is a classic dish that you must try when in Laramie, as it’s prepared with the freshest bison meat cooked just right.
  • Chili Cook-Off: If you’re visiting Laramie in November, make sure to attend the annual Chili Cook-Off, where you can join in the voting for the tastiest chili around.
  • Barbequed Ribs: The barbequed ribs here taste heavenly, and you can get them in a variety of flavors depending on your preferences.

Local Beverages

  • Snowy Range Brewery: Snowy Range Brewery is perhaps the most famous in the region, pouring out an impressive range of craft beers that appeal to locals and visitors alike.
  • Coal Creek TAP: Coal Creek TAP is known for its innovative beer recipes and its extensive collection of whiskey.

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

Laramie has options for all budgets, from luxury hotels and bed-and-breakfasts to family-friendly guesthouses, here are some options:

  • Laramie Hilton Garden Inn: A hotel that offers modern amenities and is in close proximity to the major attractions in the city.
  • Vista de la Luna Bed and Breakfast: A bed-and-breakfast located west of Laramie that offers stunning views and home-cooked meals.
  • The Historic Plains Hotel: This historic hotel is situated in the center of downtown Laramie, with an interesting past and luxurious amenities.

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

Laramie has a wealth of local products and souvenirs for visitors to take home, such as:

  • Wyoming Whiskey: Produced locally, Wyoming Whiskey is one of the state’s most iconic products that would make an excellent addition to your home bar.
  • Decorative Shot Glasses: Laramie has beautiful shot glasses that serve as an excellent souvenir of your trip.
  • Handmade Jewelry: Laramie is known for its fine craftsmanship, and you can purchase beautiful handmade jewelry that makes an ideal gift for loved ones.

Local Culture and Customs of Laramie

Laramie has a rich culture that reflects its Wild West history, with friendly people and welcoming local customs. It’s essential to respect these customs, such as the traditional clothing worn by the Native American residents or the emphasis on environmental stewardship in the area.

Best Time to Visit Laramie

Laramie welcomes visitors all year round, as it offers diverse activities for all seasons. Summer (June-August) is perfect for outdoor activities like hiking and biking, while winter (December - February) is ideal for skiing and snowmobiling.

Do’s and Don’ts of Laramie

Do:

  • Respect the local wildlife and adhere to the “Leave No Trace” principles.
  • Take time to explore the city’s history and culture.
  • Try the local cuisine and beverages.

Don’t:

  • Litter or damage the natural surroundings.
  • Drive off-road or venture into unknown trails without a good guide.
  • Disrespect the local customs and traditions.

Safety and Health

Safety in Laramie

Laramie is generally a safe city, but it’s still important to take caution and be vigilant as you would in any other city. Visitors should take care to lock their vehicles and secure their belongings.

Health in Laramie

Laramie is situated at an elevation of 7,200 ft. above sea level. Visitors should take caution if they experience altitude sickness, which may cause headaches, fatigue, and nausea. It’s essential to stay hydrated and take some time to acclimate to the altitude.

Getting to Laramie: Transportation Options and Logistics

Laramie is accessible through a variety of transportation means:

Airports Near Laramie

  • Laramie Regional Airport: This airport has regular flights from Denver and provides a convenient landing spot for travelers heading to Laramie.
  • Denver International Airport: This is a major international airport that serves most international destinations that connects to Laramie through a connecting flight.

Bus Stations Near Laramie

  • Greyhound Bus: Greyhound has regular bus services that connect Laramie to several major cities in the region.

Other Options

  • Driving: Laramie is accessible through several interstate highways, making it an ideal destination for road trips.
  • Cycling: Laramie has a bike-friendly community, and the city is accessible by bike from several surrounding towns.

How to Get Around Laramie

Laramie is a small city, making it easy to get around by walk or bike. It also has a city bus that offers convenient transportation for visitors who prefer not to walk or bike. Car rental is also available for visitors who want to explore the surrounding area.

Where to Go Next from Laramie: Nearby Destinations and Excursions

Laramie is an ideal starting point for exploring the surrounding area’s natural beauty, culture, and history. Here are some nearby destinations to consider:

  • Cheyenne: Wyoming’s capital city is home to several museums, historic landmarks, botanical gardens, and a vibrant downtown.
  • Rocky Mountain National Park: This park is located in Colorado and offers stunning views, hiking and camping opportunities, and wildlife viewing.
  • Montana: Laramie serves as a gateway to Montana, where visitors can explore the state’s natural wonders, including Yellowstone National Park, Glacier National Park, and the Beartooth Highway Scenic Drive.

Conclusion

Laramie is a hidden gem in the Wyoming Rockies, offering visitors a perfect blend of outdoor adventure, culture, and history. The city welcomes visitors of all ages, budgets, and interests, making it an ideal destination for a solo traveler, a family vacation, or a romantic getaway. With this comprehensive tour guide, you are all set to have a memorable trip to Laramie, Wyoming.

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