Things To Do
in Laramie
Laramie sits high in the Medicine Bow-Routt National Forest, blending university energy with old-west charm. The city sits at the foot of the Snowy Range, offering sweeping plains, rugged granite, and mile-high horizons. University of Wyoming students lend a lively cultural tempo, while outdoor lovers find easy access to trails and parks.
Visitors experience a friendly, small-town vibe with room to explore both campus life and big-sky landscapes.
Day Trips
Spend a day exploring around
Start your day with a hearty breakfast at the beloved Altitudes Restaurant, where you can enjoy local favorites. After breakfast, stroll through the picturesque streets of Laramie’s historic downtown, taking in the charming architecture and unique shops. Don’t forget to stop by the Laramie Plains Museum to learn about the city's rich history.
After lunch at one of the local cafes, visit the Wyoming Territorial Prison State Historic Site to explore the fascinating history of the Old West. Take a guided tour to see the original cells and learn about infamous outlaws who were incarcerated here. The surrounding gardens and exhibits will provide a pleasant afternoon of exploration.
As the sun sets, head to the University of Wyoming campus, where you can enjoy a leisurely walk through the scenic grounds. Wrap up the evening with dinner at the Crowbar & Grill, known for its lively atmosphere and delicious burgers. If you’re lucky, you might catch live music or a fun trivia night.
Fuel up with breakfast at a local diner before heading to Happy Jack Recreation Area for a day of outdoor fun. Once you arrive, take in the stunning views of the surrounding mountains and get ready for a hike. The trails here offer various levels of difficulty, so choose one that suits your group’s experience.
After a morning of hiking, enjoy a packed lunch surrounded by nature, listening to the sounds of the forest. Spend the afternoon mountain biking on well-maintained trails that wind through picturesque landscapes. You can also try your hand at rock climbing if you’re feeling adventurous!
As the day winds down, return to Laramie for a casual dinner at The Lincoln, where you can savor their famous steak dishes. Afterward, take a relaxing walk along the Laramie River Greenbelt, enjoying the evening breeze and beautiful sunset views. Consider stopping by a local brewery to sample some craft beers and unwind.
Prices
| Item | Price |
|---|---|
| 🍔Meal at inexpensive restaurant | $12-18 |
| 🏨Mid-range hotel per night | $90-180 |
| 🚗Local transportation per day | $3-10 |
| 🛍️Groceries for a couple | $40-70 |
| ⛽Gasoline (per gallon) | $3-4 |
Strengths and Weaknesses
- Strong university influence with cultural events
- Access to outdoor recreation year-round
- Small-town charm with downtown heritage
- Good value for nature lovers and hikers
- Limited nightlife options compared to bigger cities
- Less public transit coverage outside downtown
- Some services close on Sundays or during winter storms
Places to Visit in Laramie
Visit one of these nice places.
Iconic red-brick building framed by the campus quad, especially striking at sunrise or golden hour.
Colorful storefronts, brick sidewalks, and classic Western architecture provide rich street photography opportunities.
Giant granite rock formations with dramatic textures and sweeping mountain views for dramatic landscape shots.
Historic stone buildings set against prairie skies, ideal for evocative Old West imagery.
Grand colonial revival mansion with formal grounds, especially lush in spring.
Classic courthouse with a Western town backdrop for architectural photography.
Food in Laramie
Laramie Famous Food
Signature dishes, delicacies and famous food
Lean bison patty topped with local cheddar and greens on a brioche bun, widely available in downtown eateries.
Must-Try!
Slow-cooked game meat chili with peppers and spices, often served with cornbread.
A hearty breakfast option with eggs, sausage, potatoes, and cheese wrapped in a warm tortilla.
Food Markets
Explore local food markets
Seasonal market featuring local produce, baked goods, crafts, and ready-to-eat bites from nearby vendors.
Weather
How to Behave
Tips on cultural norms and respectful behavior
Wyoming has permissive policies; be mindful to avoid bringing firearms into restricted areas and private properties and always follow posted rules.
Greet staff warmly, say please and thank you, and tip for good service in restaurants and bars.
Safety
Tipping in Laramie
Ensure a smooth experience
In restaurants, 15-20% is standard for good service. Tipping is appreciated for takeout or bar service in casual venues as well.
Credit and debit cards are widely accepted; cash is always handy for smaller establishments and tips. Mobile wallets are increasingly common in larger venues.
Best Time to Visit
And what to expect in different seasons...
Mild days with variable showers; carry a light rain jacket and plan for rapid weather changes.
Warm days and cool evenings; afternoon thunderstorms are common. Stay hydrated and use sunscreen.
Crisp air and colorful foliage; layering is essential as temperatures swing from day to night.
Cold with regular snowfall; roads can be icy and passes get snow-covered. Pack warm layers and plan for shorter daylight hours.
Laramie at Night
Hiking in Laramie
Immerse in an unforgettable hike.
Multiple granite outcrops and forest trails just outside Laramie; perfect for day hikes and bouldering.
Forest service trails with aspen and pine, offering moderate climbs and scenic overlooks.
Short loop around Dome Rock within Medicine Bow National Forest; easy to moderate difficulty.
Airports
How to reach Laramie by plane.
Small regional airport with limited service; most travelers connect through Denver or other hubs.
Major international hub about a 2-hour drive away; many intercontinental and domestic connections.
Regional airport serving the Cheyenne area; about 1.5-2 hours from Laramie by road.
Walkability
Demographics
Explore demographics in this area.
A large share of residents are students and staff connected to the University of Wyoming.
A family-friendly town with schools, parks, and community events.
A sizable community of hikers, climbers, skiers, and nature lovers.
Popular Sports
Explore popular sports in region.
University of Wyoming football at War Memorial Stadium; evokes state pride and game-day energy.
UW Cowboys and Cowgirls compete in the Mountain West Conference with local fan support.
Regional rodeos and Western-themed events reflect the area’s heritage.
Traffic
Accomodations
Find the best place to stay when visiting Laramie.
Dietary Restrictions
Tips for restricted diets.
Vegetarian options are widely available in downtown restaurants, including salads, veggie burgers, and pasta dishes. Inform servers of any dairy or egg restrictions; many places can adapt dishes.