Casper, Wyoming

Casper is located in east central Wyoming, 179 miles (288 kilometers) northwest of Cheyenne. It is the county seat of Natrona County, and the second largest city in the state, with a population of 49,644.

Casper is a city rich in pioneer history, and offers many museums and historic attractions. The National Historic Trails Interpretive Center uses state-of-art technology to recreate life along the Oregon, California, Mormon, Bozeman, Bridger, and Pony Express trails, and is widely regarded as one of the finest museums in the state. The Fort Casper Museum provides more information about these pioneer trails, along with exhibits on the natural history and culture of central Wyoming. Highlights include a reconstructed 1865 army fort, an 1859 Guinard bridge, and an 1847 Mormon ferry. The Mormon Handcart Visitor Center honors the many Mormons who died from cold and exposure on their way to Salt Lake City. Visitors can see exhibits and artifacts related to these brave travelers, and pull a handcart to the cove where the pioneers took shelter from a blizzard in 1856. Lastly, join one of the Painted Past Living History Tours, which vividly brings history to life with costumed re-enactors strolling through the streets of downtown Casper.

To step even further back in time, visit Casper College's Tate Geological Museum to see dinosaur fossils, Wyoming jade, and other fascinating displays. Another great attraction is the Nicolaysen Art Museum and Discovery Center, which features work from both local and internationally-renowned artists, as well as interactive exhibits for children. On the performing arts front, check out the many music, theater, dance, and literary events organized by ARTCORE throughout the year. Casper offers musical entertainment to suit a wide variety of tastes, and is home to the Wyoming Symphony Orchestra, the Casper Music Chamber Society, the Troopers Drum and Bugle Corps, the Casper Civic Chorale, and the Casper Children's Chorale. Also be sure to check out the Beartrap Summer Festival, which offers two great days of outdoor musical performances each July.

True to its Western roots, Casper is also known for its rodeo action, and hosts the College National Finals Rodeo and the Central Wyoming Fair and Rodeo each year. Watching cowboys and cowgirls competing in exciting events like bull riding, saddle bronc, and barrel racing is something no one should miss!

Outdoor enthusiasts will find plenty to do year-round in Casper! Nearby North Platte River is a world-class fly-fishing destination, and also offers whitewater rafting and kayaking at the Platte River Parkway White Water Park. Golf, hiking, biking, bird-watching, and hunting can all be enjoyed in or near the city, and the more adventurous folks can even try their hand at skydiving. In winter, the Hagdo Ski Area offers great downhill skiing at Casper Mountain, while the Casper Nordic Center provides excellent trails for cross-country skiers.

With all the attractions this city has to offer, Casper is indeed "Wyoming's Playground!"

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