Things to do in Buffalo, Wyoming

Set on the foothills of the majestic Bighorn Mountains, Buffalo, Wyoming is a beautiful city in Johnson County, USA. Whether it’s wide-open spaces, stunning scenery, outdoor recreations, or learning about its history, there is literally something for everyone.

Buffalo has a number of historic buildings, which include the famous Occidental hotel, art galleries, classic restaurants, campgrounds, mountain lodges, and guest ranches.

Here are some of our top favorite attractions and things to do in the city.

When Is The Best Time To Visit Buffalo, WY?

If you want to visit Buffalo, June to August is the best time. The city is most crowded during the summertime, and you can’t beat the weather conditions which barely crosses 80 degrees.

Also, you get to enjoy a number of festivals. It is also the time when accommodations tend to be pricier.

The city experiences fewer visitors during the fall and spring, and the hotel prices are cheaper. If you don’t like crowds, you might want to visit during these seasons.

Do keep in mind that it tends to get quite chilly during these seasons.

Fun Things Await

Now that you know when to plan your stay, it’s time to list some of the most exciting and incredible things to do here in Buffalo:

Occidental Hotel Museum

Location:  10 N Main St, Buffalo, Wyoming 82834

Established in 1880, this historic hotel will ensure that you get a taste of what the Old West was like back then. 

Occidental Hotel is located close to the Bohemian Trail and has had many famous guests like Ernest Hemmingway, Buffalo Bill, and Theodore Roosevelt.

The hotel closed down in 1986, and then in 1997, it was bought by new owners who restored the hotel to its former glory.

At present,  it’s visitors are offered a drink, and you even have the option to enjoy a meal at the famous Virginian Restaurant, relax in the fabulous saloon, or stay in one of its Old West-style inspired rooms.

Bighorn Mountains

The Bighorn Mountains are incredibly irresistible, prompting tourists to return every year to take in their beauty.  Just a day trip into its expansive jungle and you will want to keep coming back year after year.

With over 9 lakh acres of peaks, forests, and meadows, the Bighorn Mountains are exactly where you need to visit if you’re adventurous.

Leisurely activities include rock climbing, hiking, backpacking, camping, and much more. Bighorn also features broad terrain where you can explore the snow-capped crests and the sheer canyons.

Stretching a vast area of wilderness and trails, the paths will take you to some of the most captivating sceneries you’ll ever see.

Cloud Peak is also an awesome place to be, especially if you happen to be on foot as no vehicles are permitted. There you’ll experience wildflowers, wildlife and primo birdwatching.

Finally, Bighorns offers varying terrains and numerous Off-Road Vehicle trails.

You can also visit Bighorn mountians from Sheridan, WY

Horseback Riding

From the extended foothills to the high and low of rugged terrains, Buffalo offers a pleasant atmosphere for horseback riders and horses alike.

For a complete Old West experience, stay at one of the local ranches.  This will offer you an authentic cowboy experience.

If you want to stay for a week, you can opt for Eaton or Klondike’s ranches where you can learn to herd cattle on horseback.

For a more relaxed experience, stay at TA, Paradise, or HF guest ranches. There you will have the chance to bask in the majestic beauty in rustic luxury. If you prefer, guided rides are also available through the magnificent scenery.

Jim Gatchell Memorial Museum

This museum is bigger than it looks from the outside and is open all year-round. The museum features galleries that highlight the unique history of Johnson County.

The museum contains over 26,000 artifacts, which include a ship wagon indicative of the region’s Basque culture, historic natural specimens of fossils, firearms, a wildlife gallery, rocks, and many Native American artifacts.

The museum also features a wide collection of buggies and wagons along with interactive displays featuring the Johnso County Cattle War, Bomber Mountain Crash, and the Bozeman Trail, among others.

The museum’s exhibits, collections, programs, and hands-on activities represent the culture and history of cattlemen, Native Americans, and settlers of Wyoming. The museum store also features an impressive collection of children’s books and history, jewelry, and many fine gifts.

This is the place to visit if you really want to learn about this historic city and its locals.

Cody Firearms Research

Located in West Buffalo Bill Center, this museum features a collection of historic American firearms.  Cody Firearms Research also has over 7000 unique firearms and related artifacts for its visitors to admire.

If you’re a gun enthusiast, then this museum is the perfect place to be as it displays the works of every major gun manufacturers.

For a fee, you can also gain information on specific firearms manufactured by L.C. Smith, Winchester, and Marlin.

If you sign up for a membership, you’ll also be provided with services like serial number search, and unlimited admission.

Winchester Steakhouse

At the end of the day, nothing is as satisfying as a good old’ appetizing steak, and this famous steakhouse will cater to you just that.

You’ll also love the ambiance and the atmosphere which will make your food even more exquisite and delicious. Some of our favorite dishes include chicken parmesan, Hamburger steak, marinated beef k-bo, and all kinds of other tasty food.

Conclusion

This city will offer you the serenity and peace of mind that everyone graves from their vacation. Historic sites, high mountains, outdoor recreations, delicious cuisines, Buffalo city, is sure to tick every one of your travel wish lists. There are so many places you can visit, and each place comes with its own distinct culture.

Particularly for outdoor lovers, this city will surely fuel your adrenaline whether you want to go cycling, hiking, or so many more. There is something for everyone in this majestic place.