20 Best & Fun Things To Do In Thermopolis, WY
You are going to Thermopolis, Wyoming, and you want to make it more fun by doing some fun things. Don’t look any further! You’ve come to the right place because we’re going to talk about the best and most fun things to do in Thermopolis, WY.
Thermopolis is the county seat and most popular town in Hot Springs County, Wyoming. It is surrounded by beautiful natural scenery and interesting geothermal features. This cute town has both outdoor activities and culture events to offer.
This beautiful city has a mix of culture experiences, outdoor activities, shopping, dining, and a little bit of small-town charm. People who come to Thermopolis can relax in the hot springs at Hot Springs State Park, learn about dinosaurs at the Wyoming Dinosaur Center, or look around town and see the historic buildings and cute shops.
Thermopolis is a great place to visit for all types of tourists, whether they want to enjoy a quiet and beautiful setting, explore the outdoors, learn about history and culture, have an unforgettable vacation in Wyoming, or savor the local food.
20 Best And Fun Things To Do In Thermopolis, WY (2024)
1. Hot Springs State Park
If you want to start your trip to Thermopolis, WY, you should go to Hot Spring State Park. It’s a hidden gem that has lots of fun things for kids to do.
This park was formed in 1897 and has over 3,500 gallons of large single hot springs, a state bath house with a free public soaking pool, colorful travertine terraces made by mineral deposits, 6.2 miles of hiking trails, and trails that are accessible to people with disabilities.
The park has a suspension bridge over the Big Horn River, a group of bison, picnic areas, boat docks, and places to fish. At the State Bath House or along the terraced pools, you can enjoy naturally heated mineral water and look at the interesting travertine rocks and the bison herd that lives there.
In this park, people can enjoy fun things like hiking, biking, fishing in the Big Horn River, walking across the suspended bridge for a view, or having a picnic at one of the marked shelters.
Address: 220 Park Street, Thermopolis, WY 82443, United States.
2. Wyoming Dinosaur Center
Going to the Wyoming Dinosaur Center is a fun and educational thing to do in Thermopolis, WY. The museum has hands-on geologic and paleontological activities that people of all ages can enjoy.
This museum has been around since 1995 and has over 70 mounted skeletons of dinosaurs and other ancient animals. It also has an active dig site with programs for the public to help and a modern preparation lab with a window where people can watch paleontologists work on fossils.
The Wyoming Dinosaur Center has exhibits with dinosaur fossils from Wyoming and around the world, such as the Thermopolis Specimen of Archaeopteryx. There are also walk-through displays that show the geological timeline from early life forms to dinosaurs and mammals.
Address: 110 Carter Ranch Road, Thermopolis, WY 82443, United States.
3. Thermopolis-Hot Springs Chamber Of Commerce
Going to the Thermopolis-Hot Springs Chamber of Commerce is one of the best things to do in Thermopolis, WY, whether you’re a tourist or a local getting to know the town.
This center has a visitor information desk, tools for local businesses and events, and a membership group that promotes tourism and economic growth in Thermopolis.
People who go to the center can get brochures, maps, and other visitor materials, find out about future events and festivals, and connect with local businesses and organizations. They can also get information and suggestions on places to stay, eat, and do things in Thermopolis.
Address: 220 Park Street, Thermopolis, WY 82443, United States.
4. Legend Rock State Petroglyph Site
Legend Rock State Petroglyph Site is an important historical and archaeological site known for its large collection of old petroglyphs and other natural landscapes. It is one of the most interesting and educational things for people of all ages to do in Thermopolis, WY.
This 400-meter-long site has been around since 1973 and has more than 92 ancient petroglyph panels with more than 300 petroglyph figures. These figures show animals, people, geometric shapes, and other symbols and were made by different cultures over thousands of years.
Along with interpretive walking trails with informational signs, there are also safe viewing places for the petroglyphs.
You can walk the interpretive trails at Legend Rock State Petroglyph Site to learn about the history and meaning of the petroglyphs. You can also look at the different styles of petroglyphs and try to figure out what they might mean, or you can take pictures of the petroglyphs.
Address: 2861 West Cottonwood Road, Thermopolis, WY 82443, United States.
5. Wind River Canyon Whitewater & Fly Fishing
Wind River Canyon Whitewater & Fly Fishing is an American Indian-owned and -operated business that offers thrilling and exciting activities. One of the best family-friendly things to do in Thermopolis is to go on an exclusive rafting and fishing trip through the Wind River Canyons.
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This attraction has been around since 1992 and offers guided fly-fishing trips on the Wind River and private whitewater rafting trips in the Wind River Canyon. The all-inclusive packages include meals, gear, and transportation, and the experienced and knowledgeable guides share useful information about the area.
It’s also home to many kinds of wildlife, so keep an eye out for bighorn sheep, deer, eagles, and other birds as you enjoy this beautiful place.
You can do exciting things like whitewater rafting or relaxing things like fly fishing. You can also just take it easy and enjoy the beautiful views of the canyon walls, geological formations, and river scenery.
Address: 210 Hwy. 20 South, Suite 5, 210 US-20, Thermopolis, WY 82443, United States.
6. Hot Springs County Museum
The Hot Springs County Museum is a great trove of interesting things for history buffs and tourists of all ages to do in Thermopolis, WY.
The museum has been around since 1941 and has two floors of exhibits that show the history and culture of Hot Springs County. It also has a large collection of artifacts, such as a saloon with a bar, Cattle Kate’s kitchen cabinet, and prehistoric artifacts like dinosaur and plant fossils.
The museum also has displays honoring Hot Springs County veterans who fought in different wars, as well as memorabilia from local shops and news outlets, like general stores, doctor’s and dentist’s offices, jails, and many more.
Learn more about the outlaws and police officers who changed the history of the area by looking at the large collection of artifacts from prehistoric times to the present day. You can also walk through reconstructed historic buildings and imagine what life was like in the past.
Address: 700 Broadway Street, Thermopolis, WY 82443, United States.
7. Hellie’s TePee Pools And Spa
The Hellie’s TePee Pools and Spa are a great place for families to relax in the summer in Thermopolis, WY.
This site has mineral water pools inside and outside. The outdoor features include a big pool, a kids’ pool, three hot tubs, and a canopy with seats for relaxation. The indoor features include a main pool with a waterfall, a slide, a baby pool, hot tubs, a steam room, and a dry sauna.
The mineral water here is famous for its natural healing qualities. There are warm mineral water pools both inside and outside where people can relax. They can also swim in the main pool, which is known for being refreshing, or let their kids have fun on the indoor slide.
You can also rest in the hot tubs and under the canopy of shade after a fun-filled day of exploring Thermopolis.
Address: 144 Tepee Street, Thermopolis, WY 82443, United States.
8. Wyoming Adventures, Bighorn Fly Fishing
There are many fun and interesting things to do in Thermopolis when you go fishing with Wyoming Adventures, Bighorn Fly Fishing. This is a locally owned and run fly fishing guide service that works with anglers of all skill levels.
Wyoming Adventures, Bighorn Fly Fishing offers half-day and full-day guided float trips on the Bighorn River. They provide all the gear you need, like high-quality rods, reels, flies, waders, and boots, as well as passionate and experienced guides who know a lot about the Bighorn River and its environment.
This attraction also has safe and comfortable boats for a relaxed and fun fishing trip, as well as places to stay. Visitors and locals who come to see this site can enjoy the thrill of fly fishing, learn how to do it from guides who are patient and know what they’re doing, or just float downstream and take in the beautiful scenery of the Bighorn River Canyon.
Address: 932 Arapahoe Street, Thermopolis, WY 82443, United States.
9. Star Plunge
Are you ready for an exciting water trip? Then, go to Star Plunge, a natural mist cave that turns into a fun and relaxing water park that’s great for families and anyone else looking for something different to do in Thermopolis, WY.
There are pools inside and outside, three water slides (Super Star 500, Blue Thunder Run, and Lil Dipper), two hot tubs, two baby pools for kids, a natural vapor cave, a weight and exercise room, a snack bar, and a gift shop with swimwear and souvenirs.
Star Plunge lets guests do fun and interesting things like riding the thrilling water slides, relaxing in the warm mineral water pools (both indoors and outdoors), working out, or getting a snack or drink at the conveniently located snack bar.
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Address: 115 Big Springs Drive, Thermopolis, WY 82443, United States.
10. Merlin’s Hide Out: Authentic Fur & Leather Outfitters
Merlin’s Hide Out: Authentic Fur & Leather Outfitters has been around since 1999 and is famous for its handmade fur and leather goods. It is the place to go in Thermopolis if you want to find unique, high-quality fur and leather goods.
Merlin’s Hide Out has a huge selection of fur and leather clothes and accessories, such as fur coats, hats, vests, mittens, and pillows made from materials that are gathered in an ethical way, as well as leather jackets, gloves, belts, wallets, and bags. They also have unique fur and leather home art items.
At this buying center, you can look at a variety of fur and leather clothes and accessories, learn about how leather is tanned, see how high-quality fur and leather goods are made, and find one-of-a-kind gifts or souvenirs made in the area.
Address: 626 Richards Street, Thermopolis, WY 82443, United States.
11. Hot Springs State Park Bath House
Everyone can enjoy a free activity in Thermopolis, WY: exploring the Hot Springs State Park Bath House. This is a well-known attraction and one of the biggest hot springs on a single site, perfect for water activities that are fun for all ages.
The bathhouse is open to the public and has several pools, changing rooms for men and women, lifeguards on duty, and picnic areas.
You can relax in the warm mineral water pools and take in the beautiful views of the area while you bathe. You can also go hiking on one of the park’s many walks or have a picnic with family and friends.
Address: 168 Tepee Street, Thermopolis, WY 82443, United States.
12. Big Spring
There are fun and educational things for everyone to do in Thermopolis, WY at Big Spring, a natural wonder with water that is great for therapeutic swimming.
The spring at this site releases an amazing 560 gallons of water per second. The water from the spring is known for being clear and full of minerals like calcium, magnesium, and sodium, which makes the sight truly impressive.
Learn more about the Big Spring’s historical importance to the local tribes and the growth of the town. Take a relaxing soak in one of the many mineral pools fed by the Big Spring, and watch the huge amount of water pouring out of the springhead.
Address: Big Springs Drive, Thermopolis, WY 82443, United States.
13. Two Rivers Inn
The Two Rivers Inn is a cute, simple motel in the northeast corner of Thermopolis. The rooms are clean and comfy, making it a great place for a casual stay.
There are a variety of stylish guest rooms, modern rooms, and suites at this inn. All of them have private bathrooms, air conditioning, cable TV, phones, and wireless high-speed internet access.
The Two Rivers Inn is close to shops and restaurants that guests can walk to. Guests can also relax in clean rooms with modern amenities, go fishing, and enjoy stunning views of the Big Horn River and Hot Springs State Park.
Address: 401 Park Street, Thermopolis, WY 82443, United States.
14. HorseWorks Wyoming
One of the best things to do in Thermopolis, WY is to ride a horse through the area’s beautiful views.
HorseWorks Wyoming has programs to learn how to teach horses, bunkhouses or ranch-style cabins, and a lot of riding lessons and practice on horses that were raised on ranches.
Visitors can learn about natural horsemanship, how to train horses, how to ride properly, how to imprint foals, and how to do daily ranch tasks like feeding, cleaning, and care for horses. Feel the thrill of working with cattle on a horse, like sorting and moving them.
Address: 3591 Brown Lane, Thermopolis, WY 82443, United States.
15. Hot Springs County Library
One of the most educational things for everyone to do in Thermopolis, WY is to check out the Hot Springs County Library. It is a full-service public library with resources and events for people of all ages.
The Hot Springs County Library has a lot of books and other media, free Wi-Fi and public computers, a room for kids, meeting and study rooms, and helpful staff who can meet your needs and interests.
Also, the library hosts events all year long, such as author talks, book parties, and educational workshops, that people from all over the world can enjoy.
Address: 344 Arapahoe Street, Thermopolis, WY 82443, United States.
16. Ava’s Silver & Rock Shop
Ava’s Silver & Rock Shop is a unique thing for everyone to do in Thermopolis, WY. It’s a treasure trove of secret gems, special finds, and collections for simple shoppers.
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The hub has been around since 1992 and has rocks and minerals from Wyoming and the nearby areas, as well as gems and stones from around the world, such as polished stones, crystals, and rare fossils.
This shop also sells rock and mineral specimens for collectors and mineral lovers, as well as silver jewelry that Ava makes herself using beautiful gemstones and her artistic flair.
Unique items can be found at Ava’s Silver & Rock Shop, and the staff is friendly and helpful. Treasure hunts are also available.
Address: 631 Shoshoni Street, Thermopolis, WY 82443, United States.
18. Flying Eagle Gallery
There is a great mix of local and regional art at the Flying Eagle Gallery, which makes it a great place for art lovers and people looking for fun things to do in Thermopolis, WY.
This art store has paintings, sculptures, pottery, jewelry, photography, handcrafted furniture, textiles, woodwork, and other one-of-a-kind works by skilled artists to suit a wide range of artistic tastes.
Additionally, the gallery displays a wide range of arts and crafts created in Wyoming, making it easy to find souvenirs made in the state. It also hosts workshops and classes in a number of art forms, giving tourists and residents a chance to express their creativity.
Address: 539 Broadway Street, Thermopolis, WY 82443, United States.
19. Swinging Bridge
The Swinging Bridge, which opened in 1916, is a well-known landmark with stunning views of the Bighorn River and the nearby area. It’s a great place for families and groups of friends looking for fun things to do in Thermopolis, WY.
This bridge over the Bighorn River in Hot Spring State Park links several interesting places, such as the Big Spring, the Fremont Spring, a sanitarium, and an elk pasture. When people walk on this bridge, it sways a little, which can be both exciting and scary for some.
When you visit Hot Springs State Park, the bridge is a great place for a short walk or a picture. You can learn about the history of the bridge and how it helped shape the growth of Thermopolis. The park also has mineral pools, climbing trails, and historical sites.
Address: Big Springs Drive, Thermopolis, WY 82443, United States.
20. Wind River Canyon Scenic Byway
One free thing to do in Thermopolis, WY is to take a drive along the Wind River Canyon Scenic Byway. This is a great way for the whole family to spend the day.
The Wind River carved this road through deep gorges that reach depths of up to 2,500 feet. The Bighorn River flows through the canyon bottom, making the scenery even more beautiful.
Take a scenic drive with stunning views of the canyons, stop at one of the hiking trails that lead to different viewpoints inside the canyons for great picture opportunities, and fish in the Wind River only in designated areas.
You can also see wildlife in these valleys. Keep an eye out for mule deer, bighorn sheep, eagles, hawks, and other animals that live in the canyon.
Address: Thermopolis, WY, United States.
21. Buffalo Pasture
The Buffalo Pasture is a drive-thru exhibit in Hot Springs State Park where you can see bison and other animals. It’s a great place for outdoor fans looking for things to do in Thermopolis, WY.
People can see a herd of American Bison up close while driving through a marked area in their cars. This attraction makes it safe and easy to see these great animals.
Address: Pasture Road, Thermopolis, WY 82443, United States.
22. Hot Springs Health
This is the last thing on our list of things to do in Thermopolis, WY. Hot Spring Health is a hub for intense healthcare in the Big Horn.
This health care facility has a family practice clinic, a surgical clinic, a pain clinic, and an orthopedic clinic. It also provides emergency care, general surgery, outpatient care, inpatient care, cardiopulmonary services, chemotherapy and biotherapy services, and other services.
People of all ages can go to this health center for treatments and other services related to their health.
Address: 150 E Arapahoe Street, Thermopolis, WY 82443, United States.