Nestled in the rugged outskirts of Southeast Wyoming, Laramie beckons travelers with a unique blend of Old West charm and contemporary creativity. The town sits at an elevation of a whopping 7,200 feet – a crowning jewel of the Cowboy State in countless ways! As such, this city wears its history and natural beauty like a well-worn cowboy hat, but don’t be fooled – the spirit of adventure thrives here, adding to the allure of this one-of-a-kind college town. Whether you’re a history buff, an outdoor enthusiast, or just seeking a taste of authentic Wyoming, Laramie has a little something for everyone.
A true gem of the plains, Laramie sits in the scenic Laramie River Valley, flanked by the majestic Snowy Range and the rugged Laramie Range. The air is crisp, the skies vast, and the mountains - well, they’re your constant companions.
Imagine waking up to the silhouette of the Snowy Range against a fiery sunrise and you’ll understand why Laramie captures hearts!
For many, Laramie’s heartbeat pulses through the University of Wyoming (UW). Here, cowboys and cowgirls stride across campus, their boots echoing in the halls (sometimes literally).
The Bucking Horse, UW's spirited bronco mascot, embodies Wyoming's Wild West roots. Catch a football game at War Memorial Stadium and you’ll witness the bucking horse come alive.
You'll have the opportunity to join thousands of fellow fans, decked to the nines in prairie gold and brown, to cheer on the football team in fall, along with a host of other sporting events throughout the year.
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But while Laramie is a college town at its core, don't think for a moment that's all there is here. First, there are the must-do history stops ... after all, Laramie dates all the way back to 1868!
Step into the past at the Wyoming Territorial Prison where notorious outlaws like Butch Cassidy once languished behind bars. The stone walls echo with tales of desperados, daring escapes, and the harsh realities of frontier justice. It’s a slice of the Old West, minus the tumbleweeds.
Next, ogle the Abraham Lincoln Memorial Monument! Yes, you read that right. Laramie pays homage to the Great Emancipator with a 12.5-foot tall bronze statue. Lincoln’s stoic gaze surveys the plains, a symbol of freedom.
But Laramie isn’t just about history; it’s an adventurer’s playground too. Here’s where you lace up your hiking boots, grab your fishing rod, and chase the wind:
Vedauwoo: Pronounced “vee-da-voo,” this otherworldly rock formation invites climbers, hikers, and stargazers. Picture colossal granite boulders stacked like a geological game of Jenga.
Snowy Range Scenic Byway: Buckle up for a jaw-dropping drive through the Snowy Range Mountains. Alpine lakes, wildflower meadows, and hairpin turns - it’s a symphony of nature.
Medicine Bow National Forest: A hiker’s nirvana, this forest cradles pristine trails. Follow the scent of pine and you’ll stumble upon stunning hidden lakes galore. And for the avid fisherman, where trout leap like silver arrows!
And when you get hungry after all that adventuring (those were just a few of the MANY highlights!), satisfy your cravings at one of Laramie's fantastic eateries. Altitude Chophouse & Brewery is a chic industrial spot to sink your teeth into a bison burger while sipping a locally brewed ale. The rustic ambiance and mountain views make it a Laramie favorite … as does the phenomenal lamb meatloaf!
Sweet Melissa Café and Front Street Tavern is a cozy spot that serves up comfort food and vegetarian dishes with a twist, plus a bevy of delicious sweets. Try the elk chili or the huckleberry pancakes - you won’t be disappointed!
Laramie isn’t about waxing poetic; it’s about feeling the wind on your face as you explore rugged trails, taste local flavors, and soak in the spirit of the West. And remember, when you raise your glass at Altitude Chophouse, you’re toasting to Butch Cassidy, Abraham Lincoln, and the wild Wyoming spirit of this singular college town!
If you feel like exploring your way through another one of Wyoming’s coolest towns, you better believe Cody is at the top of our list too! Or, check out some of the tiniest towns in the entire state.
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