Wyoming’s wide-open skies and rugged landscapes hold more than just natural beauty—they’re home to some of the most fascinating historical landmarks in the American West. From frontier forts and pioneer trails to sacred Indigenous sites, each destination tells a powerful story that shaped the region. As someone who’s explored some of these hidden gems firsthand, I can say they’re more than stops on a map—they’re living pieces of history worth the journey. Here are the top historical places in Wyoming that every traveler should experience.
Buffalo Bill Center of the West
This world-class complex houses five museums under one roof, dedicated to the American West’s history. Exhibits include art, Native American heritage, natural science of Yellowstone, and firearms development. You can explore the Buffalo Bill Museum, Plains Indian Museum, Whitney Western Art Museum, Draper Natural History Museum, and Cody Firearms Museum, making it one of the most comprehensive Western history experiences available.
Address: 720 Sheridan Ave, Cody, WY 82414
Heart Mountain Interpretive Center
This award-winning center tells the story of the 14,000 Japanese Americans who were forcibly relocated to this World War II confinement site. The museum features exhibits, a gallery, theater, walking trail, and original camp structures, providing an important and often overlooked piece of American history.
Address: 1539 Route 19, Powell, WY
Chinese Joss House Museum
This unique museum tells the story of Chinese immigrants who lived and worked in Uinta County from the 1870s through the 1930s. The building is a 1990 replica of the original 1874 Chinese temple that burned down in 1922, featuring authentic carved panels rescued from the original structure, a scale model of Evanston’s historic Chinatown, and artifacts from the late 19th and early 20th centuries. Uinta County, WYSAH ARCHIPEDIA
Address: 920 Front St, Evanston, WY
Independence Rock State Historic Site
Known as the “Register of the Desert,” this massive granite monolith was a crucial landmark on the Oregon Trail where over 5,000 pioneers carved their names. Standing 136 feet above the surrounding terrain, you can climb the rock to see historical inscriptions dating back to the 1820s and enjoy panoramic views of the trail that shaped America’s westward expansion.
Address: WY-220 Alcova, WY 82620
Fort Phil Kearny State Historic Site
This site preserves the dramatic history of Red Cloud’s War (1866-1868) and encompasses 1,000 acres including fort grounds and two major battle sites. Visitors can explore the reconstructed stockade, learn about the Fetterman Battle and Wagon Box Fight, and visit the new Interpretive Center that opened in 2025.
Address: 528 Wagon Box Road, Banner, WY
Cheyenne Frontier Days Old West Museum
Founded in 1978, this museum celebrates the history of the world’s largest outdoor rodeo and Western celebration. You’ll find exhibits on Cheyenne Frontier Days history, one of the largest collections of horse-drawn carriages and wagons in the region, Western artifacts, the Frontier Days Hall of Fame, and rotating displays of Western art.
Address: 4610 Carey Ave, Cheyenne, WY
Quebec-01 Missile Alert Facility State Historic Site
This is the world’s only accessible Peacekeeper Missile Alert Facility, offering a unique glimpse into Cold War history. Visitors can tour the underground launch control center 50 feet below ground where Air Force personnel once controlled some of the most powerful nuclear weapons ever deployed. The facility operated from 1962-2005 and has been authentically restored.
Address: 2025 Co Rd 238, Cheyenne, WY
Fort Bridger Historic Site
Fort Bridger State Museum, housed in the historic 1888 stone barracks on the Fort Bridger State Historic Site, offers visitors a vivid immersion into five key occupational eras—from mountain men and Mormon pioneers to the U.S. Army and Pony Express days. Inside, you’ll see dioramas, trading-post reconstructions, military artifacts, and even a blacksmith display that evoke the grit and commerce of overland trails.
Address: 37000 I-80BL, Fort Bridger, WY