Meeteetse WyomingATTRACTIONS & THINGS TO DO
Listed below are the best attractions and things to do near Meeteetse, Wyoming.
1. Kirwin Ghost Town
HISTORIC MINING SETTLEMENT
Kirwin Ghost Town is a popular attraction near Meeteetse that offers visitors a glimpse into Wyoming's gold rush era. The abandoned settlement has stood untouched since the mining boom collapsed, providing an authentic look at frontier life. Visitors can explore the remaining structures and imagine what life was like during this pivotal time in Western history.
2. Meeteetse Museums
THREE MUSEUMS IN ONE
Meeteetse Museums is a collection of three distinct museums dedicated to preserving and interpreting the area's natural, cultural, and artistic heritage. Visitors can explore exhibits on local history, including information about the Pitchfork Ranch and other significant historical sites. The museums offer a comprehensive look at Meeteetse's storied past, from Shoshone Indian history to tales of infamous outlaws like Butch Cassidy and Billy the Kid.
3. Meeteetse Chocolatier
COWBOY-MADE GOURMET CHOCOLATES
Meeteetse Chocolatier offers handmade chocolates created by former rodeo cowboy Tim Kellogg, who exchanged his saddle for a career crafting decadent confections. The shop produces preservative-free truffles with flavors unique to Wyoming, making it a must-visit destination for chocolate lovers. Visitors consistently praise the quality of these artisanal treats, considering them the absolute best chocolate in the region.
4. Cowboy Bar
HISTORIC WESTERN WATERING HOLE
The Cowboy Bar is a historic establishment that serves as both a bar and a cherished historic site in downtown Meeteetse. Visitors can enjoy great food while soaking in the authentic Western atmosphere that has been preserved for generations. The bar represents a genuine piece of Wyoming's frontier heritage and offers a glimpse into the town's colorful past.
5. Meeteetse Visitor Center
GATEWAY TO LOCAL ADVENTURES
Meeteetse Visitor Center serves as the perfect starting point for exploring this historic Western town and its surroundings. The knowledgeable staff share information about local attractions, recommend the best spots to enjoy, and occasionally extend personal invitations to community events. The center also functions as a point of interest itself, providing displays and information about the area's rich history and culture.
6. Vic Payne Studio & Gallery
WESTERN BRONZE SCULPTURES
Vic Payne Studio & Gallery showcases the remarkable bronze sculptures created by renowned Western artist Vic Payne. The gallery features works that capture the spirit and heritage of the American West through meticulously crafted sculptures. Visitors can appreciate the artistry and craftsmanship that goes into each piece while learning about Western themes and historical contexts.
7. Gooseberry Badlands
STRIKING GEOLOGICAL FORMATION
Gooseberry Badlands offers visitors a chance to explore a fascinating geographical phenomenon near Meeteetse. The distinctive eroded landscape features unusual formations sculpted by centuries of wind and water. Nature enthusiasts and photographers particularly appreciate the otherworldly terrain and striking vistas found throughout this natural attraction.
8. Legend Rock Petroglyphs
ANCIENT ROCK ART
Legend Rock Petroglyphs is an archaeological site featuring hundreds of prehistoric rock carvings created by indigenous peoples. Located near Thermopolis, not far from Meeteetse, this site contains some of the most impressive examples of Native American rock art in Wyoming. Visitors can view petroglyphs dating back thousands of years, offering a window into the spiritual and cultural practices of the region's earliest inhabitants.
9. Anderson Lodge
HISTORICAL MOUNTAIN RETREAT
Anderson Lodge is a historic structure nestled in the mountains near Meeteetse with connections to the area's ranching heritage. The lodge offers visitors a glimpse into the lifestyle of early settlers and ranchers who shaped the region. Its picturesque setting makes it both a historical site and a scenic destination for those exploring the Meeteetse area.
10. Gold Reef Mine
GOLD RUSH RELIC
Gold Reef Mine stands as a testament to Meeteetse's gold rush era when prospectors flocked to the region in search of fortune. Visitors can explore the remnants of this historic mining operation and learn about the techniques and challenges faced by early miners. The site provides insights into the economic forces that shaped settlement patterns in this part of Wyoming during the late 19th century.
11. Wood River Valley Ski Park
SCENIC WINTER RECREATION
Wood River Valley Ski Park offers winter sports enthusiasts a venue for skiing and snowboarding in the beautiful landscape surrounding Meeteetse. The park takes advantage of Wyoming's reliable snowfall and varied terrain to provide recreational opportunities during the colder months. Visitors appreciate the less crowded atmosphere compared to larger resorts, allowing for a more peaceful outdoor experience.
12. Arland Ghost Town
VIOLENT FRONTIER SETTLEMENT
Arland Ghost Town was once a notoriously violent frontier settlement near present-day Meeteetse that saw its share of murder and mayhem during its brief existence. The abandoned town offers a stark reminder of the lawless nature of Wyoming's territorial days when disputes were often settled with firearms. History buffs can explore what remains of this once-wild outpost while learning about its colorful and often brutal past.
13. Barling's Garage
ICONIC HISTORIC STRUCTURE
Barling's Garage is one of Meeteetse's most iconic buildings, standing on State Street as a favorite subject for tourists and photographers. Founded by W.E. Barling in 1924, the business expanded four years later to include Barling Construction. The garage and adjacent Barling Office represent early 20th-century commercial architecture and remind visitors of the town's development during that era.
14. Hot Springs State Park
THERAPEUTIC MINERAL WATERS
Hot Springs State Park in nearby Thermopolis features the world's largest mineral hot spring, drawing visitors seeking therapeutic waters and relaxation. The park encompasses not only the famous springs but also hiking trails, a bison herd, and the impressive Rainbow Terraces formed by mineral deposits. Visitors from Meeteetse often make the short journey to enjoy free soaking pools and the park's natural wonders.
15. Buffalo Bill Center of the West
PREMIER WESTERN CULTURAL COMPLEX
Buffalo Bill Center of the West in Cody, just 32 miles north of Meeteetse, houses five world-class museums dedicated to the art, history, culture, and natural science of the American West. Visitors can explore the Buffalo Bill Museum, Whitney Western Art Museum, Plains Indian Museum, Cody Firearms Museum, and Draper Natural History Museum all under one roof. The center's comprehensive collections and exhibits make it a must-visit destination for anyone interested in Western heritage while staying in the Meeteetse area.