December 3, 2024
Located in the heart of the Wind River Basin, and situated at the convergence of four rivers, Riverton is a vibrant destination surrounded by mountain and river views. With countless things to do like fishing the Wind River and exploring the 1838 Mountain Man Rendezvous Site, it offers outdoor adventures for everyone! This quaint western city shares a perfect blend of natural beauty and heritage.
Explore Top Riverton Wyoming Attractions
When visiting Riverton, Wyoming there are so many things to do nearby! As a destination not to be missed on the way to Yellowstone National Park, Riverton invites visitors to explore popular attractions and enjoy local favorites. This town is perfect for those passing by on a road trip or resistance looking for more things to do with the family!
1. Jaycee Park
Jaycee Park’s picturesque setting is perfect for social gatherings and picnics. It provides a space to unwind and connect with friends and family. With amenities like a playground and paved walking paths, it caters to the recreational interests of all ages. Additionally, Jaycee Park features picnic areas, open green spaces, and public restrooms.
2. Riverton Country Club
The Riverton Country Club is recognized for enhancing the golfing experience with its rolling hills of lush greenery set against the stunning Wyoming landscapes. After a round or two, golfers can head to the 307 Bar and Grill for a bite to eat, and on the way out, stop by the Pro Shop to browse a wide selection of equipment and apparel. Throughout the golfing season, April through September, various tournaments are held for golfers to showcase their skills.
3. Wind River Hotel & Casino
Owned and operated by the Northern Arapaho tribe, the Wind River Hotel & Casino is widely appreciated as the largest casino in Wyoming. Located on the outskirts of Riverton, it is the only Las Vegas-style casino in the state, featuring a wide variety of slot machines, table games, an array of restaurants, hotel rooms, and a gift shop. The Wind River Hotel & Casino hosts community events, such as cultural powwows, and encourages interactions with residents.
4. Riverton City Park
Located in the center of Riverton, Riverton City Park offers many things to do nearby for everyone. There are so many kid-friendly activities in the park, where families can enjoy the excitement of the new skatepark, splash pad, and playground, while parents can relax or join a friendly match at the tennis courts. “My kids love the splash pad—it’s their favorite place to cool off in the summer!” one local shares.
As the heart of the community, the park comes alive in the warmer months, hosting the annual Day in the Park event, which showcases local food favorites, craft vendors, and live music. From June through September, the park hosts weekly farmers’ markets, making it a great spot to try local goods.
5. Wind River Heritage Center
The Wind River Heritage Center offers exhibits that explore both the human and natural history of the region. Visitors can learn about the indigenous tribes who first called this land home, experience life on the frontier, and view life-sized displays of native wildlife like bison, elk, and bighorn sheep. The Wind River Heritage Center is a unique thing to do in Riverton that engages visitors and shows the significance of the Wind River Valley.
6. Riverton Museum
Located in the middle of town, the Riverton Museum provides a deep dive into the history of the Eastern Shoshone and the Northern Arapaho people. Its diverse collections feature photographs, artifacts, and homesteading tools, making it rewarding for anyone interested in the people and events that shaped Wind River Country. This is a great destination to immerse yourself in the stories of Riverton’s past.
7. Castle Gardens Petroglyph Site
Just an hour’s drive East of Riverton is the Castle Gardens Petroglyph Site, a popular thing to do near Riverton, WY, which is located in Wyoming’s desert lands. This site features ancient rock art created by the area’s indigenous people. Castle Gardens Petroglyph Site is a must-see for those interested in archaeology and indigenous history. Be sure to plan your visit during daylight hours, and keep an eye out for cattle and antelope on the open range roads. Additionally, come prepared with plenty of gas, water, sunscreen, and a sunhat.
8. Center for Art, Technology & Science
The Center for Art, Technology & Science (CATS) is a family-friendly museum with a variety of interactive exhibits. It offers an immersive kid-friendly environment where children can explore the connections between art, technology, and science. This is an ideal family thing to do in Riverton that combines learning and play.
9. Wyoming Heritage Trail
Another top thing to do in Riverton, Wyoming is to visit the Wyoming Heritage Trail, also known as Rails to Trails, which is a 22-mile long path that stretches from Railroad Avenue at South 3rd Street in Riverton to East 1st Street near US Hwy. 26/20/East in Shoshoni. Once a busy railroad, it is now a scenic pathway that follows most of the old rail line. The path passes by landmarks like the historic Riverton Depot and beautiful landscapes, such as rivers and open plains. The trail is perfect for walking, jogging, biking, and horseback riding.
10. 1838 Mountain Man Rendezvous Site
The 1838 Mountain Man Rendezvous Site is a historically significant location where reenactment events demonstrate the 19th-century mountain man’s way of life. Each summer, the site hosts the 1838 Mountain Man Rendezvous event schedule, a unique event that provides a fun, educational experience. Visitors can immerse themselves in the culture as they learn about historic trading practices, hunting techniques, and survival tactics that iconic figures like Jim Bridger and Kit Carson used. This site offers an exciting opportunity to step back in time.
11. Main Street
One of the top things to do in Riverton is explore Main Street, the city’s main artery. It pulses with life and hosts a variety of events year-round. Lined with many locally owned and operated shops, restaurants, and businesses, as well as the Art Banner Project, Main Street nourishes the town’s vibrant atmosphere, making it a place to experience the best of what Riverton has to offer.
Posted in Notes From the Field