Here Are The Most Beautiful, Charming Small Towns In Wyoming
By Caryl|Updated on March 10, 2023(Originally published March 05, 2023)
×
Caryl
Author
I am a freelance writer who also has been a small business owner and worked in the fields of insurance, accounting, and education. I enjoy spending time with family, reading, writing, photography, music, running, sports, and of course traveling!
Some individuals prefer the hustle and bustle of large cities while others are looking for a smaller, more relaxed way of life. Small town charm can come in many forms. It can be in reference to a quaint atmosphere, breathtaking landscape, or the area’s culture. Wyoming is one of the most sparsely populated state in the United States, and the most beautiful towns in Wyoming show off just why this state is so loved by those who call it home.
Jackson, Wyoming is located at the southern end of the Jackson Hole valley. Here you will find many opportunities for shopping, dining, entertainment, and attractions. The downtown area is highlighted with an antler arch entrance and a multitude of art galleries. Of course, there are plenty of saloons to enjoy after the sun goes down! The population averages around 9,800. The charm of this town is derived from its contemporary western flair.
Dubois is located in the northwestern part of the state and has a population of about 1,000 - but it swells with visitors in the summertime. Dubois has earned a reputation for being a quiet mountain town and one of the prettiest towns in Wyoming. This quaint little community is surrounded by the Rocky Mountains, the Absarokas, and the Wind River Mountains.
Sundance is a happening place embraced by the Black Hills of eastern Wyoming. The town was named after the sun dances performed by the Native Americans, and the infamous outlaw Sundance Kid earned his nickname after spending a night in the town's jailhouse. This town's appeal is that it was built around its history and yet offers a very progressive lifestyle. The population in Sundance is around 1,200.
Pinedale is located in the Bridger-Teton National Forest at the foot of the Wind River Mountains and surrounded by the Wyoming Range and the Gros Ventre Mountains. This town's appeal is derived from its natural environment of pristine lakes and rivers and its variety of amazing wildlife. It's the outdoor adventure capital of the state!
Story is located in the northern part of the state with the Bighorn Mountains off to the west. Story is a mountainous community with a slower pace of life. Artistic venues are also popular throughout this beautiful little town. The appeal here is that it is a great place to sit back, relax, and just take in the awesome views of the mountains. Story's population is around 900, so it is a great place for a remote getaway.
Things are heating up in Thermopolis! This is one of the most beautiful towns in Wyoming, thanks to the hot springs that gave it its name. The town is known to have the world's largest mineral hot spring. The appeal to this area is that you can submerge yourself in the spring at the public bath houses, relax, and take in the scenery while you de-stress and rejuvenate your mind and body. It's also one of the dinosaur capitals of the country, and you can learn a whole lot about prehistoric life! The population here averages around 3,000.
Lovell is located in the northwestern part of the state. The town is known for its roses that appear throughout the city, hence, it is nicknamed "The Rose Town of Wyoming." The features of this city are its friendly folks, scenery, and historic charm. The population here is around 2,400.
Basin is located in the northwestern part of the state with a population of around 1200. The town is located at the foot of the Bighorn Basin and the Big Horn River flows to the east of the town. Everything about Basin is very appealing. What could be more charming than a town that is nicknamed the "Lilac City?"
Centennial is one of the snowmobile capitals of the world, so it's great to visit in the wintertime. Its historic western charm, year-round recreation, and the beautiful scenery draw visitors in every season! Centennial is nestled at the bottom of the Snowy Range mountains. It's a beautiful little quaint town with a population of around 270.
Afton is located in the western part of the state. The appeal of this town is that it has a wild west feel from the time you arrive to the time you leave. It is home to the world's largest arch made out of, you guessed it, elk antlers. You can also enjoy great businesses downtown, like Rocky Mountain Seafood and the Star Valley Chocolatiers.
Bigger isn’t always better. Sometimes, the best things can be found in the smallest corners of the world! Wyoming is a fine example of that, and when you delve into our charming small towns, you’re sure to find a slice of paradise that your heart will embrace.
OnlyInYourState may earn compensation through affiliate links in this article. As an Amazon Associate, we earn from qualifying purchases.
More to Explore
most beautiful towns in Wyoming
Kim Magaraci|August 25, 2020
What are the most unique towns in Wyoming?
It seems like every one of Wyoming's towns demonstrates pretty unique characteristics! Here are some examples of the most unique towns in Wyoming:
Thermopolis is not only on the site of the largest mineral hot spring in the world, but it's also one of the dinosaur capitals of the country.
In Jackson, you'll find an old school Cowboy way of life blending in seamlessly with Hollywood legends who choose to make their home in the scenic valley.
Cody was built as a tourist town, and today it maintains its hokey charm while showing off one of the best places to live in the entire state.
Buffalo and Sheridan, two similar mountain towns, are home to lively and historic Main Streets that boast unique history of their own.
What are the most beautiful places in Wyoming?
Wyoming's mountains create stunning scenery in many places:
The world famous Teton mountains rise up above our mountain prairie in Grand Teton National Park.
In Yellowstone, the color of the namesake rocky landscape is a contrast to the bright hues of hot springs and hot spots, like Grand Prismatic Spring.
For a more rugged western landscape, visit the Snowy Range in Medicine Bow-Routt National Forest, or escape to the Cloud Peak Wilderness in Bighorn National Forest.
Are there any ghost towns in Wyoming?
There are tons of ghost towns in Wyoming - the booms and busts of early mining industries left behind towns like:
South Pass City
Miner's Delight
Atlantic City
Jay Em
Piedmont
SageToday, you can visit these towns to get a glimpse back in time. If you keep exploring, you'll stumble upon the dilapidated towns of Kirwin and Gebo - both are rumored to be haunted.