Things To Do
in Sheridan

Sheridan, Wyoming sits at the edge of the Bighorn Basin where rugged mountains meet expansive prairie. The town preserves a strong Western heritage with tree-lined Main Street and a collection of historic saloons and storefronts. Outdoor adventures are right outside town, from red-rock canyons to forested trails in the nearby mountains.

Whether you’re exploring frontier history, sampling ranch-style cuisine, or hiking scenic byways, Sheridan offers a warm, approachable Western experience.

Day Trips

Spend a day exploring around

day 1
Exploring Historic Center
morning
:

Begin your day with a delicious breakfast at a local cafe in downtown Sheridan, where you can enjoy classic American fare. Afterward, take a leisurely stroll through the historic district, marveling at the beautifully preserved architecture and charming storefronts. Don't forget to stop by the Sheridan County Museum to learn about the area's rich history and culture.

afternoon
:

In the afternoon, indulge in a delightful lunch at a nearby bistro before heading to the Bradford Brinton Memorial and Museum. This hidden gem boasts an impressive collection of Western art and artifacts, set in a picturesque ranch setting. Take your time exploring the grounds and soaking in the serene atmosphere.

evening
:

As the sun sets, enjoy dinner at a popular local steakhouse, savoring the flavors of Wyoming beef. Afterward, catch a live performance at the WYO Theater, where you can experience the local arts scene firsthand. Conclude your evening with a nightcap at a cozy bar, reflecting on the day's adventures.

day 2
Nature Walks at Kendrick Park
morning
:

Start your morning with a refreshing walk in Kendrick Park, soaking in the fresh mountain air and stunning views of the surrounding landscape. The park's well-maintained trails offer a perfect opportunity to observe local wildlife and enjoy the beautiful gardens. Bring a light breakfast picnic to enjoy among the trees, making it a peaceful and invigorating start to your day.

afternoon
:

After your walk, spend some time at the park's playground or simply relax on a bench, taking in the natural beauty around you. For lunch, head to a nearby deli to grab a sandwich and enjoy it in the park's scenic picnic area. Spend the afternoon exploring the various trails and perhaps even trying your hand at photography to capture the park's beauty.

evening
:

As evening approaches, make your way to a local eatery for a casual dinner, sampling some of the region's specialties. After dinner, consider visiting a local brewery to taste some craft beers and unwind. Enjoy the relaxed atmosphere as you mingle with locals and share stories about your day.

Cost Guide

Prices

ItemPrice
🍔Meal at inexpensive restaurant$10-15
Coffee at a cafe$3-5
🍽️Three-course dinner for two$40-70
🛒Groceries for a week$50-100
🚗Local transportation (cab or rideshare)$5-15

Strengths and Weaknesses

  • Strong Western heritage and authentic frontier atmosphere
  • Close proximity to mountains and outdoor recreation
  • Compact, walkable downtown with historic charm
  • Accessible craft beer scene and ranch-style dining
  • Limited nightlife and public transportation
  • Smaller aviation options; longer transfers to major hubs
  • Seasonal tourist fluctuations can affect crowds and services
  • Some rural experiences require a car or guided tours

Places to Visit in Sheridan

Visit one of these nice places.

Downtown Sheridan – Main Street Historic District

Old-west storefronts, brick sidewalks, and the iconic Sheridan Inn create a quintessential Western photography setting.

Kendrick Park

Green space with water features and Reflection spots ideal for morning light and portraits.

Tongue River Canyon

Dramatic red rock cliffs and prairie vistas offering wide-angle landscape opportunities.

Brinton Museum Grounds

Western art settings with expansive backdrops; great for architecture and landscape captures.

Big Horn Mountain Views (scenic drive viewpoints)

Pull-offs along the drive provide sweeping alpine and canyon views, especially at golden-hour.

Culinary Guide

Food in Sheridan

Sheridan’s cuisine leans into ranching traditions and Western flavors, with beef-centric dishes, farm-to-table offerings, and local craft beer. You’ll find casual eateries, historic saloons, and markets that highlight regional producers and meats.

Sheridan Famous Food

Signature dishes, delicacies and famous food

Bison Ribeye

Grilled bison ribeye from nearby ranches, served with seasonal vegetables and local potatoes.

Must-Try!

Elk Chili

Savory chili made with elk meat, locally sourced peppers, and a hint of southwestern spice.

Chicken Fried Steak

Classic Western comfort dish, typically served with gravy, mashed potatoes, and green beans.

Chokecherry Pie

A local dessert made with chokecherries, often found in regional bakeries and cafes.

Food Markets

Explore local food markets

Sheridan Farmers Market

Seasonal market offering local produce, beef jerky, cheeses, breads, honey, and baked goods.

Market Standouts

Small vendors offering jerky, artisanal cheeses, and freshly roasted coffee near downtown areas.

Climate Guide

Weather

Sheridan experiences a semi-arid to high-desert climate with four distinct seasons. Winters are cold with snow possible, springs are variable, summers are warm to hot with afternoon storms, and falls are cool with crisp evenings. The altitude and surrounding mountains can make evenings brisk year-round.

How to Behave

Tips on cultural norms and respectful behavior

Greetings

Friendly, straightforward greetings are common; a simple 'Hello' or 'How are you?' goes a long way.

Tipping

Tipping for service is expected in restaurants, bars, and taxis; see tipping etiquette above for details.

Respect for Heritage

Respect for Western heritage, ranching culture, and local history is appreciated; ask before photographing people or private ranches.

Safety Guide

Safety

Sheridan is generally safe with a friendly small-town atmosphere. Exercise standard travel precautions: secure valuables in public areas, watch for wildlife signs when in rural areas, and check road conditions in winter when traveling to surrounding canyons or mountains.

Tipping in Sheridan

Ensure a smooth experience

Tipping Etiquette

In the U.S., 15-20% is standard for good service at restaurants; tip more for exceptional service. For bars, $1-2 per drink or 15-20% of the tab is common.

Payment Methods

Credit and debit cards are widely accepted; cash is useful for markets and small vendors. Some rural venues may accept checks or mobile wallets.

Best Time to Visit

And what to expect in different seasons...

Spring

Mild days with variable weather; use layers and pack a light rain shell. Wildflowers and longer daylight hours improve outdoor photography.

Summer

Warm to hot days with possible afternoon thunderstorms; stay hydrated and plan outdoor activities for early morning or late afternoon.

Fall

Crisp air and autumn foliage; great for scenic drives and photography; evenings begin to cool significantly.

Winter

Cold, with possible snow and icy conditions; winter sports nearby and indoor cultural events provide warmth and activity.

Nightlife Guide

Sheridan at Night

Downtown Sheridan offers a relaxed nightlife scene with historic saloons, including The Cowboy Bar, and a growing craft beer presence at Blacktooth Brewing Company. Live music and occasional performances at venues like the WYO Theater provide cultural evenings, while many visitors enjoy casual evenings in the main street area.

Hiking in Sheridan

Immerse in an unforgettable hike.

Tongue River Canyon Trail

Scenic canyon hike with red rock formations and prairie views, typically within a short drive from Sheridan.

Big Horn National Forest Trails

A range of forest trails offering shade, wildlife, and alpine scenery within an easy drive.

Brinton Museum Grounds Trails

Gentle trails around the museum area with access to expansive Western landscapes.

Airports

How to reach Sheridan by plane.

Sheridan County Airport (SHR)

Small regional airport serving Sheridan and the surrounding area with domestic flights and daily connections to larger hubs.

Billings Logan International Airport (BIL)

Major regional airport about 150-180 miles away; frequent domestic flights and some international options.

Rapid City Regional Airport (RAP)

Larger hub about a few hours away, offering more flight options and connections.

Getting Around

Walkability

Sheridan’s downtown core is highly walkable, with most attractions, dining, and shops within a few blocks. For outdoor day trips and mountain access, a car is convenient and often necessary.

Demographics

Explore demographics in this area.

Families

Local families form a core part of the community with a strong sense of Western heritage.

Outdoor enthusiasts

Many residents and visitors pursue hiking, fishing, and mountain activities nearby.

Seniors and retirees

A steady presence in winter and shoulder seasons, drawn by the town’s pace and scenery.

Popular Sports

Explore popular sports in region.

Rodeo

A strong local tradition with events during summer months and a celebration of Western heritage.

Hunting and Fishing

Popular outdoor activities in surrounding public lands and rivers.

Transportation

Traffic

Sheridan has light to moderate traffic, with occasional congestion in the downtown core during peak tourist hours. Public transit is limited; most visitors rely on cars or rideshares for access to surrounding trails and towns.

Accomodations

Find the best place to stay when visiting Sheridan.

Dietary Restrictions

Tips for restricted diets.

Vegetarian

Choose grilled vegetables, salads, pasta, and vegetarian entrées; many places offer adaptable sides or veggie burgers.

Vegan

Look for salads, grain bowls, veggie-based dishes, and dressings made without animal products; ask for dairy-free options when available.

Gluten-Free

Many menus offer gluten-free options or can modify dishes; communicate dietary needs clearly to staff.

Health & Medical

Healthcare

Sheridan Memorial Hospital provides emergency and primary care services, with several clinics in town. For specialized treatment, residents may travel to Billings or Rapid City for broader options.

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