Embodying the spirit of the Old West, Cheyenne is proud to be called America’s “Railroad Capital”. From historic mansions to steam engine collections and Western-themed attractions, there’s plenty to kick up your heels about at this lively modern cowboy city in Wyoming.
Things to do in Cheyenne
Downtown Cheyenne is where past and present collide, with Western stores, such as The Wrangler and Just Dandy, sitting alongside contemporary art galleries and museums. If you crave a touch of the Wild West, pick up one-of-a-kind decorative furnishings at Wyoming Home.
Stop by Nelson Museum of the West to view Native American artefacts and visit Cheyenne Frontier Days Old West Museum to discover early rodeo life and wagons from the 1800s. The Cheyenne Depot and Depot Museum hearken to the transcontinental railroad days. Drive over to Holiday Park to see Old Number 4004, the world’s largest steam locomotive nicknamed “Big Boy Engine”.
Families can explore world ecosystems at Cheyenne Botanic Gardens and its solar-powered conservancy. The conservatory’s Paul Smith Children’s Village highlights sustainable food systems. Don a cowboy hat for a trail ride at Bit-O-Wyo Ranch, then stay over for the Horse Barn Dinner Show featuring a cowboy band and real horses.
Book a table at The Senator’s Restaurant at Terry Bison Ranch, home to more than 2,000 grazing bison. Arrive early for an ATV tour or to ride a motorised train through rolling hills and pastures.
Getting around Cheyenne
You can rent a car in the city or at Cheyenne Regional Airport just north of downtown. Rideshare services, taxis and city buses provide transportation year-round, while Cheyenne Street Railway Trolleys offers narrated historic tours from May through September.