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The smell of popcorn, the glow of the screen, and the candy behind the glass all beckon to you. You love the excitement and anticipation of going to see the latest blockbuster action film, or the new indie release that everyone is talking about. Well here are a few great theaters in the Casper, Wyoming area you'll enjoy visiting. 1. Studio City Mesa ARQ Welcome to the next generation of movie-going. Studio City Mesa ARQ in West Casper features The Cooper, a revolutionary theater. Featuring a 64 foot wide, deeply curved screen, The Cooper's seating arrangement is designed to take full advantage of the onscreen visuals before you. more Using a state-of-the-art Meyer EXP Sound system used in high-end live productions by Cirque de Soleil, you actually feel like you are in the movie. Luxurious power reclining leather seats will keep you comfortable throughout the show. Designed after the original Cooper Theater in Denver, this modern take holds true to original architect Richard Crowther's desire of form meeting function. All you really need to know is that sitting in The Cooper and watching a movie is like nothing you've ever done before. 2. Studio City UW Plaza ARQ Studio City does it again in Laramie. This premium auditorium makes going to the movies an experience to remember. A 62 foot deeply curved screen displays the 4K digital projection system's video output, bringing the action to life before your eyes. Top-of-the-line Atmos immersive audio system by Dolby powers the sound, making every word, scream, explosion, or squealing tire reverberate like you were there. The UW Plaza theater in Laramie also has luxury power reclining seats, arranged in an arc to better enhance the visual impact of the movie. 3. Rialto Movie Palace Located in the heart of Casper's Theater District, this historic theater first opened in October, 1922. One of Casper's treasures, the Rialto has seen thousands of movies over the last century. Recent renovations include new leather reclining rockers, and the original hardwood floor has been restored to its former glory. The screen has been upgraded along with state of the art Dolby sound and projection systems. The theater has even restored the original proscenium and curtain, giving this theater a nostalgic feel, along with all the modern comforts we love. 4. Fox III $ Savers Theater For the price-conscious, the Fox III is the place to see a great movie at a great price. Located in the Theater District downtown, the Fox III offers all the hit movies. New movies usually hit the Fox III after they've been released a week or two in the other big theaters, but if you can avoid the spoilers, it's worth the wait. Wall-to-wall curved screens and Dolby Digital projection and audio systems deliver top quality movies. Comfortable high-back loveseats cradle you throughout the show and give class to this quaint little theater. So the next time you want to check out Hollywood's latest release, visit one of these fine theaters and enjoy the experience the way the moviemakers intended. And don't forget the popcorn. Image via Flickr by Ross Griff

You don't have to be a hardcore athlete to enjoy a good game of golf. It's a great way to participate in some competition and meet new friends. Golfing lets you experience nature, get some low-impact exercise, and have fun. Here are some of the best golf courses near Casper, Wyoming. 1. Three Crowns Golf Course The 350-acre site of Three Crowns Golf Course used to be an oil refinery. Today, the place is beautiful. Robert Trent Jones, Jr. designed it with 45 acres of native grasses and 110 acres of turf. The greens meet United States Golf Association or USGA standards, and Kentucky Bluegrass covers the fairways, tees, and roughs. This course also has 61 sand traps with white sand and eight shimmering lakes. more There's a 13-acre practice facility with a green, two additional sand traps, and a 300-yard driving range. A golf shop, clubhouse, and full-service grille are all on-site. The restaurant has a fully-stocked bar as well as a wide selection of soups, salads, and sandwiches. Try the Mexican BLT with spicy chipotle mayonnaise, guacamole, and a fried egg. Three Crowns Golf Course has been one of GolfWeek's Best Courses You Can Play for 11 years in a row, and Golf Magazine has added it to its Top 5 Public Golf Courses in Wyoming list three times. Its picturesque scenery makes it a popular place for weddings and other special events. 2. Paradise Valley Country Club Paradise Valley Country Club has tree-lined fairways, sand traps, and lakes. It's been open since 1956, and was renovated in 2007. It has a driving range, a golf shop, and a clubhouse. The 18-hole course has two restrooms, so you won't have to go all the way back to the beginning if you need to make a pit stop. Golf lessons are available, and members can enjoy regular tournaments. You can join the Ladies' Golf Association or the Men's Association League. Golf for couples and kids is available. There's a full-service restaurant with a variety of beers and several TVs. It serves breakfast, lunch, and dinner. Paradise Valley is private, but anyone can check out the golf course and other amenities with a temporary membership. 3. Casper Municipal Golf Course The Casper Municipal Golf Course has three nine-hole courses, so you can experience new challenges even if you've visited several times. It opened in 1929, and it has expansive views of Casper Mountain. Try the Highlands Course, the Links Course, or the Park Course. At the 19th Hole Bar and Restaurant, you can enjoy chicken nachos, prime rib, and more. These golf courses are interesting, affordable, and have beautiful views. They're ideal for meetings with business associates, special events, or relaxing walks. They also offer delicious food and great service. Whether you're a busy businessperson, vacationer, or retiree, you're sure to enjoy a fun game of golf at one of these amazing courses. Image via Flickr by Chris Urbanowicz

Whether you live in Casper or are visiting the area, it's well worth your time to explore the city's many museums. Whether you're an art lover, history buff, or nature enthusiast, there's a museum to suit your tastes. Let's take a look at some of these museums and what they have to offer. 1. The Nicolaysen Art Museum The Nicolaysen Art Museum is home to a vast art collection featuring works by artists ranging from European masters to contemporary artists from Wyoming and the Rocky Mountain region. In 2009, the Nicolaysen received accreditation from the American Association of Museums, an honor reserved for only the most prestigious museums in the nation. The museum encourages participation from the community by hosting special exhibits such as art shows featuring work created by local students and the Casper Photography Association. The museum also hosts lectures and workshops, allowing visitors to learn about its diverse collection and art in general. more 2. Fort Caspar Museum At the Fort Caspar Museum, visitors can step back in time to explore a reconstructed 1865 military post. The fort once served as a major crossroads on the Oregon, Mormon Pioneer, California, Pony Express, and transcontinental telegraph trails. The area was also once home to several tribes indigenous to Wyoming, including the Shoshone, Crow, and Lakota. Special exhibits at the museum explain how these tribes and various settlers once lived.  Special events at For Caspar include cooking demonstrations, archeological digs, and battle reenactments. At the Fort Caspar Museum Store, you'll find a variety of unique gifts including handmade Native American crafts. 3. Werner Wildlife Museum The Werner Wildlife Museum allows visitors to explore the natural wonders of Wyoming, as well as creatures that inhabit other areas of the United States, Asia, Africa, and Europe. Since its founding in 1964, the museum's collection has grown to include 400 bird, fish, and mammal specimens. The museum is also home to The Lair, an interactive learning exhibit that kids of all ages can enjoy. Visitors to the museum also have the opportunity to explore gardens, feed birds, and have a pleasant picnic. Special events at the Werner Wildlife Museum include lectures, photography classes, and live animal demonstrations. 4. Tate Geological Museum If you've ever wanted to find out what Wyoming was like in prehistoric times, the Tate Geological Museum is a must-visit. One highlight of the museum's collection is Dee the Mammoth, an 11,600-year-old Columbian Mammoth whose bones were unearthed just north of Glenrock, Wyoming. Dee was carefully reconstructed by Tate staff and is now the star of the Pleistocene exhibit. Another interesting exhibit is the  Mesozoic Marine display. During the Triassic, Jurassic, and Cretaceous eras, the land that is now Wyoming was covered with water and home to creatures such as ichthyosaurs, mosasaurs, and hybodont sharks. These creatures and others are now on display in the Mesozoic Marine section. These are just some of the interesting museums located in Casper. Consider a visit so you can learn about the art, history, and natural treasures of Wyoming. Image via Flickr by jabberwock

If you're in search of a great book to read, there are several wonderful bookstores in the Casper area. Let's take a look at some of these stores and what they have to offer. 1. Wind City Books Wind City Books has been a Casper favorite since 2007. The store sells a wide range of books, from the hottest best-sellers to lesser-known works. A great selection of audiobooks is also available, as well as a variety of children's books and educational toys. If you can't find it on the shelves of Wind City, the friendly staff is happy to order it for you. The store also plays host to book signings by Wyoming authors and writers' workshops. Wind City Books has become a place for the Casper community to come together to celebrate a love of reading. more 2. The Book Exchange The Book Exchange prides itself on selling gently-used books at a fair price. While you'll find popular novels among the merchandise, you're also likely to stumble upon a rare, out-of-print gem. You can also bring your used books to The Book Exchange and trade them in for something new to read. 3. The Knowledge Nook The staff at The Knowledge Nook believe that the best way for children to learn is through reading and play, which is why they've created a store that encourages both. You can find a wide range of books suitable for all ages from infant to young adult. The Knowledge Nook also carries a wide variety of educational toys that encourage children to exercise their imaginations as well as educational supplies for teachers. The store plays host to a variety of activities including book signings, workshops for educators and students, and storytime. If your child has a birthday coming up, The Knowledge Nook staff is happy to host that as well. 4. Wonder If you're looking to explore the spiritual side of life, Wonder is the perfect destination. In addition to books that are both enlightening and educational the store also carries a selection of unique gifts. For that special someone, consider buying a beautiful guardian angel statue or a blessing jar. They might also appreciate a calming crystal, candle, or wind chime. Whatever you need to soothe your soul, you're sure to find it at Wonder. The friendly staff is happy to answer any questions you might have on your spiritual journey. 5. Blessed Are They Blessed Are They is a religious bookstore that caters to a Christian audience. While the store carries a variety of books to help those seeking to grow in their faith, it also sells religious jewelry and pendants, inspirational posters, and even coffee mugs. The friendly owners will make you feel truly blessed with their kind and graceful service. Whether you're looking for a gift suitable for a Catholic or Protestant-leaning friend, they're happy to help you find something that's just right. These are just some of the great bookstores in Casper. Whatever you're looking for, there's a store that's right for you. Image via Flickr by Spidere

There's always something to do in Casper, Wyoming. This fall, the town will be bustling with activities, festivals, and gatherings of all sorts. If you're looking for something interesting to do this fall, make sure you check out these six neat events coming to Casper: 1. Wyoming Photo Fest, Sept. 17-28 For a collection of the best photos from around the state, be sure to stop by the Casper Artist Guild from Sept. 17-28. The Wyoming Photo Fest calls all photographers to send in their best work. They choose the top 100 photos and put them on display at the artist guild's building for all to enjoy. They put the photos on display shortly after the deadline ends Aug. 30. The public will be allowed to vote for the best ones and they will announce the winners Sept. 20. more 2. Jazz Night, Oct. 2 Show up for the jazz or the great drinks at the Backwards Distilling Company for a great night. From 6-9 p.m., you'll be able to enjoy live jazz music from Coulter & Co. Jazz Trio. and order specialty cocktails mixed with spirits made on-site. This is a perfect date-night idea. 3. Crimes of the Heart, Oct. 11-13, 18-20 The Casper Theater Company is putting on a play called Crimes of the Heart for two weekends in October. This play will take us back to the mid-20th century to explore the lives of three sisters who explore their dysfunctional family. This tragicomedy should bring in a decent crowd, so make sure you buy your tickets ahead of time. 4. Casper Antique & Collectors Club's Super Flea, Nov. 2-3 If you love antiques and collectibles, make sure you stop by the Central Wyoming Fairgrounds from 9 a.m.-4 p.m. Nov. 2-3. This flea market will bring collectors from all over to give you the opportunities to shop for that special item you've been looking for, or discover something new. 5. Craft Fair, Nov. 15-16 If you love working with your hands, plan for the Community Recreation Foundation's annual craft fair Nov. 15 from 3-8 p.m. and Nov. 16 from 9 a.m.-4 p.m. Over 200 booths of crafts from local artists and creators will be open to the public at the Casper Events Center. Peruse and shop pottery, jewelry, painted items, woodworks, and all sorts of hand-made items at one of the biggest craft fairs in Wyoming. 6. Downtown Christmas Parade, Nov. 23 It's beginning to look a lot like Christmas! Head downtown on Nov. 23 for the annual Christmas Parade. Starting at 6 p.m., you'll get the chance to see all kinds of floats and characters. No Christmas parade is complete without a visit from St. Nick himself, so make sure you bring the kids to enjoy a night of lights and music. Come together and enjoy what makes Casper the great city it is. The citizens of Casper are proud to call this town our home. Casper's citizens are always thinking of new ways to bring us together as a community and family through events like these. Image via Pixabay.com

Trails are in abundance in Casper, Wyoming. But if you've already hiked and biked enough green-circle, family-friendly trails, you should try some of the great challenging adventures in the area. Explore Wyoming's natural beauty and get in a solid workout at these challenging trails you should try near Casper. 1. Casper Mountain If you're looking for the most trails in one location, head to Casper Mountain. Go to the Casper Mountain Trails Center for a quick lunch before exploring the nearly 26 miles of trails nearby. Whether you're into cross-country skiing, trail-running, mountain-biking, snow-shoeing, or plain-old hiking, this is the headquarters for those looking for trails. Every visit to Casper Mountain can be as new as you want to be. Try a new trail, or find your new repeatable favorite. more 2. Bridle Trail Bridle Trail at Rotary Park, which is almost 5 miles long and sees a 1,200-foot elevation change, is one of the most challenging mountain bike trails you'll find in the area. The ride lasts from an hour to 90 minutes and covers many types of terrains. The trail is well-marked, so you can focus on getting through the challenging course without getting lost. Take on the thrilling declines as fast as your skill level allows, and get in a serious workout as you travel up 1,300 feet over 1.6 miles. This trail is open to hikers and joggers, so make sure you give them a safe space or watch for oncoming cyclists if you're in the first group. Enjoy a beautiful day with views of Casper and Garden Creek Falls at this top-level trail. 3. Eadsville Trail Looking for something less challenging than the Bridle Trail? Check out the Eadsville Trail. It's a moderate-level path that runs for 2.9 miles and has a 321-foot elevation gain. You can start hiking this trail at the Nordic Center or Skunk Hollow. It's open to hikers, bikers, snowshoers, and trail runners. It's a loop trail and is open year-round. 4. Twin Peaks Trail If you want to get the blood pumping, head to the nearby Twin Peaks Trail. It's 5.9 miles long, has a 1,778-foot elevation gain, and is perfect if you're looking for a challenging trail. This out-and-back-style trail is mainly occupied by hikers. It offers some great opportunities to see some wildlife, including antelope, chipmunks, and birds. 5. Glendo State Park For a challenging trip, try Glendo State Park. It has over 45 miles of single-track mountain bike trails for you to explore. The difficulties range from moderate to expert, so you can find a trail that suits your skill level or pushes your boundaries. These trails are also open to hikers who want to spend some time outside. One of the best parts of the Casper area is the huge number of outdoor experiences available nearby. Get outside and enjoy nature at these trails, or explore to find your own. No matter how you like to take on the trail, the possibilities are endless. Image via Flickr by markturnerimages

Now that warmer weather has finally arrived, it's the perfect time to plan a fishing trip. Luckily, there are lots of great fishing spots around Casper for residents and visitors to enjoy. Let's take a look at some of these spots and what they have to offer. 1. Bryan Stock Trail Pond Located along Bryan Stock Trail road just north of the North Platte River, the Bryan Stock Trail Pond is a fishing oasis within the Casper city limits. You'll find a wide variety of fish in the pond, including channel catfish and rainbow trout. It's a great spot for beginning fishermen as well as old pros. While gas motors are not allowed on the pond, motor-less boats are welcome or you can try out an inflatable fishing tube. more 2. Fremont Canyon As you venture into Fremont Canyon, you'll find a stretch of great fishing that starts at the Pathfinder Dam and continues on to the power plant just above Alcova Reservoir. This part of the North Platte River is heavily populated by rainbow, brown, and cutthroat trout. Midges, baetis, caddis, and tricos all hatch here and are a popular choice of bait for locals. Nymphing, dry-fly, and streamer fishing are the best techniques to use in the canyon. In addition to an incredible fishing experience, the Fremont Canyon also provides beautiful scenery. Country music fans may recognize it from the music video "Huntin', Fishin' and Lovin' Everyday" by Luke Bryan. 3. North Platte River - Casper The stretch of the North Platte River that runs through town is another great spot for trout fishing. Dozens of rainbows have been spotted near the Tate Pumphouse and the I-25 train tresses. Water levels and clarity of the river may vary depending on your location, the time of day, and the weather. However, when the water is clear, the fishing is incredible. 4. Miracle Mile Located just below the Seminoe Reservoir Dam, the 5.5-mile stretch of the North Platte River known as the Miracle Mile is packed with trout and walleye. With a population of 4,000 fish per mile, you're sure to catch the trophy size fish of your dreams. In fact, when the river is frozen during winter months, the Hawg Ice Fishing Derby, one of the largest ice fishing derbies in the country, is held here. During liquid months, you can try your luck in one of the area's walleye tournaments. There are several camping spots along the banks, making it perfect for a weekend getaway. 5. Grey Reef The Grey Reef section of the North Platte River is considered one of the best spots for rainbow trout fishing in the country. On average, your catch will weigh between three and six pounds, but a lucky few have been known to catch a 20-pounder. If you don't own a boat, there are several great access spots for wading and bank fishing. These are just some of the best fishing spots in Casper. No matter which one you choose to fish, you're sure to have a great time. Image via Flickr by USFWS Mountain Prairie

If you have the time and the inclination, taking the day to go shopping is a lovely way to spend your time and your money. Here is a look at some of the best shopping destinations Casper, Wyoming has to offer. Eastridge Mall If you are planning to shop in Casper you should definitely plan to visit the Eastridge Mall, Wyoming's largest shopping center. This indoor mall boasts some of the country's largest retailers like Bed Bath & Beyond, Dick's Sporting Goods, Target, and Best Buy. more Looking to upgrade your wardrobe or find the perfect outfit for the weekend? Check out J.C. Penny or Maurices for fine clothing options for all ages and sizes. Or you could stop in at one of the boutiques like Journeys and Rue 21, and let your teenagers try on all the latest fashions. Bring your jewelry repairs too. Get your ring re-sized or your watch battery replaced at fine stores like Riddle's Jewelry and Kay Jewelers. Try on that gorgeous necklace and earrings you've been yearning to buy while you're there. Maybe the time is right to make them yours. Take a break and have lunch or dinner at one of the many restaurants. Chicken at Cluck It, burgers at Brisket Burger, or Mexican at Abuelita's. Whatever your appetite there is something delicious to try here. The mall is open seven days a week, Monday through Saturday from 10 a.m. until 9:00 p.m. and Sunday from 11:00 a.m. until 6:00 p.m. For more information on seasonal events visit their website. Off The Beaten Path If antiquing is your thing, you should take a trip to Off The Beaten Path. Don't worry, it isn't hard to find. Just a ten-minute drive down Highway 26, this antique store is located at 310 SW Wyoming Blvd. in Mills, Wyoming. Off The Beaten Path is a classic antique/vintage store with a touch of shabby chic. Find refurbished and re-purposed treasures you'll adore. They are also an authorized retailer for Dixie Bell Chalk Mineral Paint. Pick some up while you're there for that refurbishing project. Off The Beaten Path is open Tuesday through Friday 10:00 a.m. until 5:00 p.m. and Saturday 10:00 a.m. until 4:00 p.m. Stop on by and check out their always changing inventory and see what you discover. Winter Makers Market Looking for that local flavor? Check out the Winter Makers Market where you will find vendors selling a wide variety of locally grown, handmade, and homemade goods. You will find fresh produce and meats, home goods, bath essentials, baked goods, and so much more. The Winter Makers Market is open every Saturday from 9:00 a.m. until 3:00 p.m. Their new home is located at the old Powder River V.F.W. building at 420 West 1st Street in Casper. Shop for the weekly groceries or check out some really cool handcrafted items for the home. Spending the day shopping in Casper, Wyoming is more than just running errands and picking up a few things. Make an adventure of it and see all that Casper has to offer. Image via Flickr by Kaarina Dillabough

Sometimes you just need to take a break from the constant grind of daily life. If you are looking for a place to learn, relax, and unwind, check out a few of these top Casper, Wyoming, locations. 1. The National Historic Trails Interpretive Center A visit to the National Historic Trails Interpretive Center is a great way to learn about the history of Wyoming and the other Western states. The Center features a large collection of hands-on exhibits that cover Wyoming as well as nearby areas including Oregon and California. The Center also highlights the history of the Pony Express Trails. more Your visit to the Historic Trails Interpretive Center will begin with a film, followed by the opportunity to explore eight different historical galleries. In addition to the educational experience, you can also enjoy beautiful views of Wyoming from the Center. The Center hosts special events including film night featuring "Time Travels Through the American West" and History Bee competitions which test participant's knowledge of local history. 2. Casper Planetarium There are few activities that are more insightful than a visit to the Casper Planetarium. Take a trip to the star-studded planetarium and expand your knowledge of the solar system. Visitors can choose from a series of available shows including "Adrenaline Universe," "Back to the Moon for Good," and "Cosmology." The planetarium holds up to 57 people and projects a life-like film on the 30-foot diameter dome which will make you feel like you are in outer space. Be sure to check out the calendar for upcoming special events, including a telescope workshop and the Amazing Astronomers of Antiquity event. 3. Tate Geological Museum The Tate Geological Museum is a free center that is located within Casper College. The museum was created with the goal of offering hands-on educational resources to the local community. Today, they have over 6,000 fossils and minerals on display. The staff members are dedicated to sharing this unique center with each visitor, answering questions, and personalizing the experience as much as possible. Just a few of the exhibits you can view at the Tate Geological Museum include Dee the Mammoth, the Pleistocene Exhibit, and the Mesozoic Terrestrial Exhibit. The museum also hosts a Saturday club and frequently occurring dinosaur digs. 4. The Science Zone The Science Zone features a collection of unique and interesting exhibits for all ages. The Tot Shop is a hands-on area that is perfect for toddlers who are working on developing their fine motor skills. The Sun, Earth, Universe exhibit offers hands-on activities for older children to create and explore. The Science Zone also hosts STEM events including teen game nights, family days, and Idea Labs. Admission to the Science Zone starts at just $4 for adults, $3 for children, and annual members and children under the age of 2 are free. Get out of the house this weekend and explore the city of Casper. There are many insightful, educational, and exciting activities ready for you to explore. Image via Flickr by jabberwock

The weather is warming up, and Wyoming is an exceptional place to enjoy spring. Filled with blooming wildflowers and plenty of opportunities for outdoor recreation, you're going to want to get out there before summer kicks in. Here are five terrific Casper area parks where you can enjoy springtime with the family or your four-legged friends. 1. Crossroads Adventure Playground Located at 1081 N. Poplar, Crossroads Adventure Playground is the ideal destination for active families. There's nothing like it in the city. This inviting playground touts a tree fort, slides, swings, bridges, bouncy toys, and more. For parents, a portion of the play area is fully enclosed, so that no one can toddle off. more Located right near Platte River Parkway Trail, load up the kids in a stroller or wagon and take a family nature walk. Why not meander over to Mike Lansing Field, home of the Casper Ghosts baseball team and catch a game? If you can dream it, you'll find it at Crossroads Adventure Playground. 2. Riverview Park Your first stop at Riverview Park, located at 1032 East L St., should be its beautiful mural. More than 45 volunteers added their creative flair to this heartwarming September 11th memorial. This park also offers a variety of fun outdoor activities like horseshoes, handball, pickleball, boating, and fishing. 3. Paradise Valley Park Grab the whole family and head out to Paradise Valley Park, located at 31 Begonia St. This park is near the Paradise Valley Country Club and features fun activities for everyone. There's a fitness course, tennis courts, and walking paths. The recently updated playground features swings, a rock climbing wall, and two zip slides. There's even a set of bongos for the musically inclined. 4. Morad Park Don't leave man's best friend behind on your next park adventure. Leash up the whole pack, and take a trip out to Morad Park, located at 2800 SW Wyoming Blvd. Dogs love a day at outside just as much as their humans do, and at Morad Park, they're allowed to run free. The park is in a preserved natural area bordered by the North Platte River. When you arrive, look for the signs along the pathway that lead you to the leash-free zones. Remember to keep your dog on a leash at all times while exploring the trails, and pick up after your pet. The park also offers benches and picnic tables where you can rest. 5. Amoco Park Amoco Park, located at 1007 W. First St., is home to the beautiful Bart Rea Learning Circle. A glow-in-the-dark labyrinth, it's a relaxing place to visit for yoga, story time, and meditation whenever the mood strikes you. The park has a picnic area, a large parking lot, and clean, well-maintained restrooms. Summer brings the joy of a white water feature, and you can access the trail system, which is just a short walk from the Tate Pumphouse. Get outside and enjoy Wyoming's spring season. There's a park near you that's bursting with life. Image via Flickr by flowcomm

Winter in Casper can be a gorgeous time of year. When the first snow falls fresh and blankets your neighborhood with a layer of shimmering white, it can be absolutely magical. However, it doesn't take long for the beauty to turn on you, leaving you cold and riddled with cabin fever. You are desperate for a vacation but are saving your money, and time off, for the classic summer vacation. Compromise with your wallet by planning a staycation at one of the following hotels. 1. La Quinta Inn Casper Casper has a lot of fun to offer, and museums are one of its most abundant activities. Stay at La Quinta Inn and enjoy a good night's rest, a complimentary breakfast, and maybe a soak in the spa before enjoying a day of educational fun! You'll be practically equidistant from the National Historic Trails Interpretive Center, the Tate Geological Museum, the Werner Wildlife Museum, and the Fort Casper Museum. Take the family on a museum tour and end at the Casper Planetarium for an out-of-this-world look at the galaxy and all it has to offer. more 2. Ramada Plaza & Conference Center by Wyndham Casper Perhaps museums are a little too slow of a pace for your family. Maybe you need a little excitement during the winter lull. If that's the case, check in to Ramada Plaza by Wyndham and get ready to immerse yourself in an adventure. Race against the clock and work with your family to find clues and solve puzzles to escape a tricky situation. With three escape room locations ( Escape 307, Into the Vortex Escape Rooms, and Nearby Wind Escapes) and multiple scenario options at each location, you'll be sure to find a few challenges up your family's alley. Afterward, relax in the pool and spa area at the hotel as a reward for a job well done. 3. Travelodge by Wyndham Casper Though it may be the dead of winter, you and your family can certainly pretend it's the middle of summer by going to an indoor water park. Stay at Travelodge and trade the pool at the hotel for an entire center full of water-based fun. Enjoy Casper Family Aquatic Center's 23,500 square feet, which include water slides, lap pools, a lazy river, and hot tubs. Enjoy relaxation and feel refreshed as your kids burn off all that stored up energy. If a water park doesn't pique your interest, take the family to the roller rink and boogie the night away, or get competitive at the bowling alley. Whether you're looking for a relaxing or exciting break during the cold winter months, Casper proves you don't have to go far from home to feel like you're on vacation. Enjoy free breakfast, cable, Wi-Fi, and in most cases, indoor pools and spas before and after a day full of fun with the family. Most hotels are even pet-friendly, so even the four-legged family members can enjoy the adventure too. Don't break the bank or waste your hard-earned time-off during the dreary winter months; choose a cost-effective staycation the entire family will enjoy. Image via Flickr by sipes23

Casper has a long and storied history, spanning all the way back to prehistoric times. For interested residents and visitors, Casper's many historic sites provide exciting destinations that allow a visitor a glimpse into the past. Here are our favorite three historic sites that showcase Casper's incredible history. more Independence Rock Sitting about 50 miles southwest of Casper is a large mound of granite jutting out of the ground. This landmark was a popular spot for emigrants who were headed west during the beginning days of America. They carved their name into the granite surface, which stands a staggering 136 feet high and spans 24.81 acres. Surrounded on all sides by dramatic landscape, it's a great place to get a feel for the sacrifice and struggle made by these early settlers who made their way to their new home hundreds of miles away. Check out the many different names carved into the stone surface or just appreciate the richness of history that surrounds you at this picturesque historic site. Independence Rock is located on Highway 220. Thanks to its enormous size, it's hard to miss. Bishop House The M.L. Bishop House museum was built in 1907 and is on the National Registry of Historic Places. The Bishop family were integral to the development and success of Casper. They established themselves in Casper in the 1890s after M.L. Bishop was appointed postmaster to the burgeoning community. He was also the founder of one of the town's first religious communities, earning him an even more prominent role in Casper history. Bishop House remains almost exactly the same as it was when it was constructed and is one of the best ways to step back in time and see how this influential family lived. The Bishops lived in the home for more than 100 years, and it is the only house museum in Casper. The Bishop House museum is located at 818 E 2nd St. and is open from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m. on Tuesday, Thursday, and Saturday. It's operated by the Cadoma Foundation. Tate Museum The Tate Museum is one of only a handful of geology and paleontology museums in Wyoming and, as such, is a must-visit for visitors wanting to know more about the ancient past. Wyoming played an important role in the Earth's past, and the museum shows the richness of life that inhabited the area thousands of years ago. Favorite exhibits at the Tate Museum include Dee the Mammoth, a complete mammoth skeleton dated at over 11,600 years old. There are also over 3,000 fossils and minerals on display. Lectures are held regularly, and the museum staff is very knowledgeable and happy to answer any questions! The Tate Museum is located at 125 College Dr. on the grounds of Casper College; look for the life-size bronze T. Rex outside to find it. There are many other historic sites in Casper to explore, but these three serve as some of the best introductions to the rich and varied history of the area. https://www.flickr.com/photos/igboo/1602458243/sizes/l Image via Flickr by .Larry Page