6 Places to Experience History in Casper, Wyoming

Sitting at the crossroads of history, Casper, Wyoming, offers a robust array of hands-on historical experiences, from setting out on the Oregon Trail like the early pioneers that traveled through the area to learning about prehistoric dinosaurs that roamed modern-day Wyoming.

With so many experiences to choose from, we’re here to help you make the most of your time in central Wyoming no matter when you visit. From taking a deep dive into American history to learning about a multigenerational family business, it’s easy to uncover Casper’s history.

Here are six places to experience history in Casper, Wyoming:

National Historic Trails Interpretive Center: One of the best places to learn about historic trails in Wyoming and the U.S.
Bar Nunn, Wyoming: A town built on an airfield – you’re gonna want to see this.
Tate Geological Museum: Where Casper’s prehistoric history is on full display, with fossils, dinosaurs and more.
Independence Rock: A landmark along the Oregon Trail in central Wyoming.
Lou Taubert Ranch Outfitters: A family-owned and -operated Western store.
Fort Caspar Museum and Historic Site: Here, visitors can take a well-rounded glimpse into Casper’s past.

Four of the Nation's Most Historical Trails Converge in Casper

When it comes to the four historic trails that converge in modern-day Casper, the best place to start your journey is at the National Historic Trails Interpretive Center. A free facility, this is where you can learn about Indigenous tribal nations, as well as the Oregon, California, Mormon and Pony Express trails. The Trails Center has hands-on and interactive exhibits that include pulling a handcart to crossing the river in a wagon, as well as sweeping views of Casper and Casper Mountain.

Good to know: Want to take a deeper dive into the Oregon Trail? Book an adventure with Historic Trails West and retrace the steps of early pioneers.

Independence Rock - One of Wyoming's Most Notable Landmarks

Located about an hour from Casper is Independence Rock. A massive granite rock and state historic site, this was a landmark for early pioneers as they journeyed to the West more than 150 years ago. Along the way, many of them carved their names in the rock, leaving behind a permanent reminder of the time spent in what we now know as Wyoming. The oldest modern-day inscription dates back to 1824.

If you’re into aviation history, Bar Nunn is a must-visit location. A small town of around 3,000 people, it’s built on an old airfield. When you drive your car on the streets, you’re actually driving on three paved runways and an unpaved runway. Be sure to spend some time cruising through town, keeping in mind that the roads you’re on were originally designed for planes. While you’re here, grab lunch or dinner at The Hanger Bar & Grill.

Read more: check out this story on Bar Nunn from Thrillist.

Fondly referred to as The Tate (and formally known as the Tate Geological Museum), this museum is located on the campus of Casper College. It’s free to visit and has thousands of specimens on display. When you visit, you’ll be welcomed by Dee, a Colombian mammoth that was found on a nearby ranch. You can also see Lee Rex, the T-rex, (with the chance to touch it) which is the first tyrannosaurus rex found in Wyoming to stay in Wyoming.

Insider tip: if Russell is around, be sure to ask him for some insights into the fossils, drawings and bones on display.

Historic Stops in Downtown Casper

An anchor in downtown is Lou Taubert Ranch Outfitters. A Wyoming institution since 1919 and a Casper staple since 1947, Lou’s has nine floors and 55,000 square feet of space filled with western attire. This is the best place to find hats, clothing and more, including 10,000 pairs of cowboy boots in every shape, size and color you can imagine.

Locals know: This is THE place to get your hat shaped. Their on-staff hat makers will make sure to fit the style and hat to you.

Sitting near the North Platte River, Fort Caspar Museum and Historic Site is a reconstructed 1865 military outpost that welcomes travelers to explore the area’s history and heritage. Be sure to check out the visitor center, its exhibits and the grounds.

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