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One of the top things local and foreign travelers know about the United States is its Wild West heritage, and Wyoming has that in spades! Known as the Cowboy State, downtown districts present a mix of this beloved cowboy culture, inspiring urban development, and heartwarming community.

However, the highlight is always on the state's big cities, like Cheyenne, but it is the smaller and more quaint towns where the magic awaits. The pros of small towns are that they are relatively safer and less crowded—something most travelers value during trips. Without further ado, discover the towns in Wyoming with the best downtown areas in 2024. Get to know Big Wyoming and let out a big yeehaw!

Jackson

As the gateway to the Grand Teton National Park and its proximity to ski resorts, Jackson is a popular stopover for traveling families and even celebrities. Start your downtown Jackson trip with a quick photo session at the iconic Elk Antler Arch of Jackson Town Square, featuring real antlers from local elks!

Then, ride a stagecoach for a historical tour of the square, or take a walking tour with the Jackson Hole Historical Society and Museum. There is a live Old West shootout reenactment downtown during Memorial Day and Labor Day, while the square turns into a winter wonderland during the snowy months. Want to feel like a cowboy sipping whiskey on a saddle? The Million Dollar Cowboy Bar can do that for you!

Sheridan

Due to its location, Sheridan is a popular stop for tourists traveling to Mount Rushmore or Yellowstone Park. The town, however, does have its own allure, particularly throughout its historic main street. The WYO Theater, built during the Vaudeville era, continues to host live acts and performances to keep Sheridan’s theater culture alive. King’s Saddlery and Don King’s Western Museum help preserve Wyoming’s cowboy culture with its tack shop and exhibits.

A town with a strong Old West history won’t be complete without its watering holes and eateries. Cowboy Cafe is popular for its steaks, while Smith Alley Brewing Company is one of the go-to hangouts for beer. Want to experience an old-school saloon? Don’t miss out on Mint Bar! Queen Elizabeth II actually visited the town in 1984, so you could say this downtown is royalty-approved.

Laramie

As one of the winners of the 2022 Great American Main Street Award, Laramie is one of the towns in Wyoming with the best downtown areas due to its history and revitalization of its commercial district. Make the Historic Laramie Union Pacific Train Depot your first stop, as it is the only remnant of the town’s Union Pacific Railroad history.

Next to the depot is the town’s beloved Laramie Farmer’s Market which opens every Friday. In front of that is J’s Prairie Rose, a Laramie icon known for its homemade-like food (tip: don’t skip the pancakes). Quilt Essentials, The Bent and Rusty, and Works of Wyoming Gift and Gallery all have great mementos for your Laramie trip.

Cody

Named after its founder, Buffalo Bill Cody, Cody's cowboy culture continues to be strong, as seen by its fondness for dude ranches, Old West museums, and antique shops. On Sheridan Avenue alone, you will find a Custom Cowboy Shop, the Cody Dug Up Gun Museum for gun relics, and the Dude Ranchers’ Association info depot for ranch-related vacations, all within walking distance.

To make your Cody stay even more memorable, book a night at Buffalo Bill’s Irma Hotel and Restaurant, a hotel established by Buffalo Bill Cody himself back in 1902. The hotel is also known for its prime rib buffet, so make sure you dine there to complete your Cody vacation. Main Street also has the Cody Heritage Museum and the Cody City Park, with mini golf for non-cowboy attractions.

Evanston

Evanston also owes its origins to the historic Union Pacific Railroad, which you can experience through a Downtown Evanston Historic District tour and visiting its Depot Square. The Uinta County Museum has more info on Evanston’s history, while the restaurants and mom-and-pop shops dotting the main street showcase Evanston’s small-town vibe.

Mother Mae’s Kitchen has that classic American diner experience, while for Pete’s Sake is a great brunch location downtown. Craving for pie? Stop by The Pie Hole! If you are planning on drinking with the locals, Suds Brothers Inc. is a favorite for its burgers and beer. As they say, eat like the locals!

Rawlins

Winner of the Great American Main Street Award in 2015, Rawlins continues to be a great Wyoming town to visit for its historic downtown and art-focused attractions. Begin your visit at the 1920 Restored Texaco Station, a wonderfully restored 1920s gas station with vintage pumps and signage that is both historic and artistic. No gas is for sale, but picture-taking is wholeheartedly allowed.

From Cedar Street, drive up to Third Street to check out the Wyoming Frontier Prison Museum. This prison-turned-museum offers ghostly tours on Halloween and even lets you rent a historic cell block for a week. If that is too spooky for you, hang out at La Abuelita instead for its heartwarming food and beautiful mural painting of Abuelita.

Rock Springs

Rock Springs’ downtown made a mark in history when it won the Great American Main Street Award in 2018. This is all thanks to its active main street filled with thriving businesses, year-round activities, and historical significance. The Rock Springs Historical Museum is a pillar in the community, keeping relics of the town’s colorful history—from its mining beginnings to its railroad heritage.

After a trip to the museum, take a picture of the Rock Springs Coal Arch to remember the miners who essentially built the town. Refresh yourself with drinks at Square State Brewing or at Coal Train Coffee Depot, both located on Rock Springs’ main street as well. The town celebrates its Taco Tequila Trail from June to August and has an annual scavenger hunt that is open to all. Before leaving, swing by the restored Broadway Theater at Broadway Street and grab candy gifts from Wild West Candy Parlor.

Buffalo

Thanks to its closeness to the Bighorn Mountains and its Old West history, you will find scenic landscapes and fun museums in Buffalo. The Jim Gatchell Memorial Museum is the main historic attraction of the town and is full of knick-knacks and artifacts from its pharmacist founder.

Pick the Historic Occidental Hotel for your accommodation to stay close to Buffalo’s historic main street. Next to the hotel is the Occidental Saloon, which has antique decor that will take you back to the early days of Wyoming. Interested in learning the art of blacksmithing? Arrowhead Forge can teach you the secrets of the smithy craft!

Dubois

The remote town of Dubois evokes a vintage feel of American Old West culture, starting with its riverfront cabin accommodations, such as The Black Bear Inn, The Trails End, and Cabins on the Wind. Get breakfast like the old times at Village Cafe and go fly fishing with Cutthroat Fly Shop and Adventures or Wind River Flyfitter, all conveniently located downtown.

For a history museum about Dubois and the region of Wyoming, the Dubois Museum has relics of the town’s Western heritage and artifacts from pre-historic times. The National Bighorn Sheep Center next door is all about educating locals and tourists about Dubois’ treasured wild sheep. End your Dubois trip with a drink at the local watering hole of Outlaw Saloon, then snag Dubois souvenirs from Wild Country and Old Friends.

The American Frontier is alive and thriving in Wyoming’s small communities. With warm hospitality and irresistible small-town charm, walking the downtown districts is one of the best ways to experience America’s Old West heritage.

Most of these must-visit towns in Wyoming with the best downtown areas are also award winners. From Laramie’s train depot origins to Rock Springs's bustling business district, travelers shouldn’t underestimate the Equality State of the Mountain West! Pack your cowboy hats and boots because there will be plenty of walking and sightseeing in these downtown spots.