Exploring Laramie, Wyoming

Nestled at the base of the Snowy Range, between Vedauwoo to the east and the Medicine Bow National Forest to the west, Laramie, Wyoming, is a hidden gem brimming with natural beauty, outdoor pursuits, rich Western history, and lively arts and culture. Let’s start exploring Laramie, Wyoming, together.

Known as the “Gem City of Wyoming,” Laramie invites families, outdoor enthusiasts, and history buffs alike for an exciting escape and diverse offerings.

Exploring Laramie Wyoming

Whether exploring the historic downtown’s arts scene or embracing the adventurous spirit on hiking and mountain biking trails, Laramie is where cowboy culture meets college-town energy. Just minutes from the Snowy Range Ski Area, this spirited Wyoming town is ripe for discovery, blending culture, history, and outdoor recreation in every season.

Outdoors in Laramie

Outdoor recreation offers an abundance of beautiful and wild places. Laramie is home to excellent outdoor offerings that provide an endless supply of things to do year-round. From hiking, biking, and horseback riding to skiing and snowboarding, the destination and its scenic mountain ranges are an adventurer’s playground.

Rich History of Laramie

Rich Western roots were founded in 1868 and named after French fur trapper Jacques La Ramee. Laramie owes much of its western history to the Union Pacific Railroad. Previously known as a “hell-on-wheels” city and major stop on the railroad, Laramie was home to a mix of pioneers, workers, and outlaws. Today, visitors can explore the many landmarks and historic sites that pay homage to its Wild West past.

Laramie, WY, is a College Town

Home to the University of Wyoming: Known as Wyoming’s spirited offbeat college town, Laramie is the proud home of the University of Wyoming, aka “UW” (You-Dubb), the state’s only four-year institution of higher education. Each weekend during the school year, Laramie is bustling with fans from far-flung communities across the state to watch Division I sports as part of the Mountain West Conference.

Arts & Culture of Laramie

Vibrant Arts & Culture: Beyond wide-open spaces and the UW sports teams, Laramie is quickly becoming the cultural capital of Wyoming. Head downtown to discover live music with western dancing, five different craft breweries, historic architecture, and visual art at every turn, including over 20 murals painted by local artists and theater productions on campus year-round.

Annual Festivals and Events in Laramie, WY

Festivals and Events: Whether it’s any time of year, Laramie offers a full calendar of events celebrating music, food, sports, and local history for everyone to enjoy. Those looking ahead to summer can celebrate the local favorite Jubilee Days, where the Wild West meets family fun with a variety of rodeo events, live music, and outdoor activities.

Laramie Eats

Western flavors combine eclectic college town tastes with classic Western Wyoming fare. Travelers will find a little of everything in the historic town. From quintessential Wyoming steaks and funky fries to award-winning vegetarian food and Thai cuisine, Laramie delivers with locally owned gems in the rough.

Where to Stay in Laramie, WY

Accommodations: Choose from a variety of accommodations, including bed and breakfasts, hotels, and campgrounds. Or experience genuine Western hospitality at a dude ranch like Vee Bar Guest Ranch, a historic retreat with plenty of activities.

All photos courtesy of Exploring Laramie, WY.

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