Story Ideas
For years, Casper has had a reputation as an under-the-radar and largely undiscovered destination.
But we know that this place has many stories to tell, from its diverse history to cultural offerings and outdoor pursuits to richly engrained Western history.
To get your wheels turning, we’ve included a handful of Casper-centric story ideas below.
Celebrate 250 Years of America in Casper, Wyoming
2026 marks the 250th anniversary of the United States of America. While there are many places to honor its history, Casper, Wyoming is the place where four historic trails – the Oregon, Mormon, California and Pony Express – meet. Ride through an important part of our country’s history on the Oregon Trail on horseback or in a wagon with Historic Trails West. Treks range from a few hours to several days spent out along the trail, learning about the early pioneers who passed through modern-day Wyoming on their journey to the West. Additional highlights: the National Historic Trails Interpretive Center, Independence Rock and Register Cliff.
The Wild West Lives On
With deep roots that go back generations, there’s not many places more western than Wyoming. And Casper is no exception. Casper has been the location of the College National Finals Rodeo (CNFR) since 1999; it’s also home to the Central Wyoming Fair & Rodeo and the Championship of Champions Indian Relay Race. Plus, Lou Taubert Ranch Outfitters – a Wyoming staple since 1919 – sits in the heart of downtown Casper. Owned by the Taubert family, this anchor business has nine floors, 55,000 square feet of space and 10,000 pairs of cowboy boots. Experience more of the best of the West on a wagon ride on the Oregon Trail or a trail ride with C Bracket Horse Barn.
Makeup + Meat: An Unexpected Combination in Casper
One of the defining characteristics that sets Wyoming apart from other places is that no matter who you are, you can keep a low profile here. Even though we can’t say exactly why folks with celebrity status end up falling in love with The Cowboy State, we can say they’re more than welcome. Jeffree Star – a makeup artist and entrepreneur – hangs his hat here, where he ranches and raises yak at Star Yak Ranch, providing local yak meat to area restaurants. Shoppers can also find his makeup and yak meat at Jeffree Star – The Store.
Meet Wyoming’s Biggest Secret
There are places that tend to fly under the radar in the wilds of Wyoming. One such place – Fremont Canyon. A short drive from Casper, Fremont Canyon and its rose-colored cliffs are not only stunning, but also offer abundant recreational opportunities. Avid rock climbers will find challenging and rewarding climbs on the steep canyon walls, while Alcova Reservoir welcomes water-lovers of all kinds, from boaters to fishermen and more. Alcova Resort – located on the lake – offers motorized and non-motorized rentals, as well as canyon kayak excursions.
Dine Well in the Wild West
While fine dining may not be top of mind when you think of Wyoming, Casper has 190+ restaurants, a distillery and nine breweries. With a population of around 90,000 in Natrona County (which includes Casper, as well as other smaller communities), Casper has quickly become a go-to for foodies in Wyoming. A few ways to taste Casper: yak burgers at J’s Pub, bison ribeye (from nearby Durham Ranch) at FireRock Steakhouse and Neapolitan pizza At Racca’s. And finally, no matter where you travel in the state, chances are high you’ll see spirits from Backwards Distilling Company on the menu.
5,000 Fish Per Mile, And That's Just the Beginning
Home to the North Platte River, Casper is one of the best fly-fishing destinations in the country. With up to 5,000 fish per mile, the North Platte River has plenty of places to cast your line including Grey Reef and the Miracle Mile, both of which helped earn Casper the #1 Big Fish Destination by American Angler Magazine. The North Platte River is home to incredible year-round fly-fishing, as it sits below five reservoirs that help provide consistent water flows. Because the North Platte winds right through Casper, you can also cast a line steps from downtown. And while fly-fishing the North Platte River is one of the area’s main attractions, additional fishing opportunities can be found at Pathfinder Reservoir and Alcova Reservoir.
Casper, Wyoming's World-Class Outdoor Recreation Hub
With its location at the base of Casper Mountain and with the North Platte River running through the heart of the city, it may be no surprise that Casper is home to world-class outdoor recreation. From downtown, you’re never more than 30 minutes away from some of the region’s best fishing, biking, hiking and climbing areas. Casper Mountain and its trail system are prime for hiking, biking, cross-country skiing, snowshoeing, downhill skiing and fat biking. At the base of the mountain, Garden Creek Falls at Rotary Park is one of Casper’s most treasured spots and becomes a life-size ice sculpture during winter. You can also venture out on some of the city’s paved trails, including Edness Kimball Wilkins State Park and the Platte River Trails.
