Blog

Winters in Casper are super chilly, with temperatures dipping below freezing. However, that doesn't mean there aren't plenty of affordable family outings to take advantage of. Here are four of our favorite winter fun destinations in and around Casper. more Casper Mountain Trails Center Casper Mountain Trails Center is one of the best places to go cross-country skiing. With over 26 miles of maintained trails, you can explore the stunning landscape of Casper Mountain. Once darkness falls, popular portions of the trail are lighted for a unique night-time skiing experience. There are cross-country trails available for all levels, from experienced to first-time skiers. If you and your family want to be a little more adventurous, 30 miles of backwood and snowshoe trails wind their way through the park. All equipment can be rented at the center if you don't have your own. The center is located on Micro Rd. Casper Ice Arena Take your winter fun indoors at the Casper Ice Arena. This huge rink is a great place to get some exercise when the temperature plummets. Take the little ones for skating lessons or enjoy skating with the whole family. Hockey teams are also based out of the arena, which is a great opportunity if you have kids interested in taking up the sport! Annual passes are available as well as individual day admission. On-site skate rentals are affordable for families without their own skates. Casper Ice Arena is located at 1801 E 4th St. Hogadon Basin Ski Area Snow comes early to Casper and residents benefit from the less-packed ski slopes. Hogadon Basin Ski Area is not only stunningly beautiful but also offers excellent skiing and snowboarding opportunities. The Hogadon Basin Snowsports School is a great way for your kids to learn how to navigate the slopes and be taught by seasoned professionals. There are 27 different trails available, covering a variety of difficulty levels. A ski lift makes access to all of them a breeze. The lodge at the Hogadon Basin Ski Area offers equipment rentals. Be sure to check and make sure the trails you want are open: some close down after inclement weather to ensure trail safety. The resort is located at 2500 W. Hogadon Rd. Casper Family Aquatic Center It may be freezing outside, but the Casper Family Aquatic Center keeps it summer all year round! Take your family to blow off some steam at this super fun water center and enjoy exciting attractions like water slides, a zero-depth entry pool, and a lazy river. A whirlpool hot tub is a perfect place to relax and warm up after a chilly day. All pools are heated and comfortable, and experienced lifeguards are on duty during open hours. The Casper Family Aquatic Center is over 23,500 square feet with plenty of activities for all ages. It's located at 1801 E 4th St. Water-based exercise classes are also available, along with swimming lessons for the little ones. They're open seven days a week and different passes and admission rates are available. These are just a few of the many family winter activities offered in Casper. https://www.flickr.com/photos/bensonkua/6625045137/sizes/l Image via Flickr by Benson Kua

Casper is the second-largest city in Wyoming, but it's our first choice when it comes to celebrating Christmas. We've put together this short guide to some of the holiday activities in our area so you don't miss your chance to enjoy this season more than ever. more Do Some Holiday Shopping Bundle up and head downtown during the months of November and December to take advantage of the city's best seasonal retail deals. Major chains like Macy's, Best Buy, Target, Kohl's, and Dick's Sporting Goods will help you with all of your holiday gift staples, but don't stop there. Local specialty stores will give you the chance to purchase unique gifts ― visit stores like Floral Rhino and Wind City Books to find hidden treasures. For the ultimate holiday shopping experience, go inside Sierra West's dedicated Christmas store. There are dozens of Christmas-themed rooms decorated with trees, ornaments, and more. Check Out Christmas in Wyoming Enjoy the best display of Christmas lights in Casper on the west side of the city. The show takes place at a single residential home, but it's achieved statewide fame over the past few years. Visit in your car to get an extra bonus ― tune your car radio to 98.1, and the lights will be synced to the music for a spectacular audiovisual feast. The display uses LED lights to keep electricity costs low, and the family accepts donations to help fund charity organizations. Visit the event's website to see the 2018 schedule and to view videos of the show in action. Attend The Royal Holiday Ball Visit the Nicolaysen Art Museum (known locally as “The Nic”) on Dec. 1 to participate in the Royal Holiday Ball. This is a children's holiday party with a princess theme that will run from 5 to 7 p.m. Scheduled events include dancing, singing, storytelling, and coloring. There will also be plenty of holiday-themed treats for adults and children alike to enjoy. Tickets cost $30 for child party goers and $5 for chaperones. The Royal Holiday Ball will be attended by multiple princesses in costumes, so make sure your child gets the chance to take a photo with all of them. Go to Holiday on the Homestead Go to the National Historic Trails Interpretive Center on Dec. 8 and be ready to get creative. Bring your family and friends so everyone can enjoy making handcrafted Christmas ornaments while listening to live music. If you're an especially talented chef, consider joining the gingerbread contest to pit your confectionery skills against the best in Casper. If you bring your kids to Holiday on the Homestead, they're sure to enjoy the temporary train exhibit — it may not be the Polar Express, but it's the next best thing. This is a daytime event that will start at 9 a.m. and end at 2:00 p.m. Casper's annual November Christmas Parade may have already come and gone, but there are still plenty of holiday-themed activities to enjoy this winter. Start with these options to kickstart your Christmas. https://www.flickr.com/photos/tabor-roeder/23412242435/sizes/l Image via Flickr by Phil Roeder

Having fun with your family is always a great way to spend the day, and if you live in or near Casper, Wyoming, you'll be happy to know there are lots of places that offer a family-friendly experience everyone can enjoy. Whether your family likes adventures, exploring something new or learning about the world around us, there's something for every type of family in this city. more Of course, deciding where to go can be a tedious process that normally requires extensive research to find out the best places for family fun. Luckily, we've taken the labor out of finding the best place to spend time with your family in Casper. Below, we've broken down three places where we think you and your family will have a blast together. Whether your kids are curious, adventurous, or explorers at heart, everyone will find something they like on our list. The Science Zone Starting things off, for those too curious to sit still, you'll want to consider The Science Zone located directly in Casper. Here, you'll get to discover all of the amazing things that make up the world we live in. Explore exotic and strange animals of the past and present, build incredible structures like a proper engineer, and even go hands-on in a scientific lab. Whether your kids want to learn something new or discover something completely unheard of, you won't get much cooler than The Science Zone. 5150 Rock Gym If adventure is what you desire, you and your family have to check out the 5150 Rock Gym. Bring the entire family and experience rock climbing without the need to hike up a mountain. You'll be taken on a tour of the facility and be shown the ropes to properly climb so you can have the best experience possible. It's even great if you're looking for somewhere to work out, hence the gym moniker. All in all, the 5150 Rock Gym is one of the best places in the area for a day filled with family fun. Hogadon Basin Ski Area Located 11 miles south on Casper Mountain, the Hogadon Basin Ski Area is one of the best places to bring the family and have some fun in the winter months. You'll have your choice of either skiing or snowboarding, regardless of how much experience you have. This is what makes this ski resort so family-friendly. If you decide to visit in the summer or fall, there's a runner's trail where you and your family can work up a sweat. Regardless of what time of year you visit, you're sure to have an amazing time. As you can see, it's clear any of these places will provide an amazing experience for you and your family that's fun-filled and quite enjoyable. No matter what your family is into, whether it be adventures, exploring, or learning something new, Casper offers some of the best attractions you'll find in the entire state of Wyoming. https://www.flickr.com/photos/jonasb/5571080053/sizes/l Image via Flickr by Jonas B

This fall, move away from the main roads of travel and take time to enjoy the colorful autumn scenery of Wyoming byways. These “roads less traveled” will take you on tours of paved and unpaved roadways that explore Wyoming's National Forests, mountain terrain, high deserts, and steep canyons. Here are six of our favorite fall drives you can't afford to skip. more Beartooth Highway Newly accepted into the National Register of Historic Places, Beartooth Highway is the highest paved road in Wyoming. This scenic 68-mile route can be accessed from the Chief Joseph Scenic Byway and travels through Custer, Gallatin, and Shoshone National Forests before entering Yellowstone National Park via its northeast entrance. Black Hills Scenic Byway Also known as U.S. Highway 385, this byway starts in Newcastle, Wyoming, and continues 78 miles toward South Dakota's western border. This scenic drive showcases a mixture of deciduous and evergreen trees, allowing motorists to enjoy landscapes of lush green and bright colors. Additionally, local cities along the route offer tourist opportunities, including shopping, museums, hiking, fishing, and ghost town tours. Cloud Peak Skyway Scenic Byway Following U.S. Route 16, Cloud Peak Skyway is located in north-central Wyoming, between Buffalo and Ten Sleep, and shares a boundary with Bighorn National Forest. During this 47-mile drive to experience the views of Cloud Peak Wilderness, travelers are treated to views of gold- and yellow-toned aspen trees that make their home in the Big Horn Mountains. Flaming Gorge / Green River Basin Byway Located in southwest Wyoming and connecting two roads separated by the Green River, this 100-mile route takes travelers around Flaming Gorge National Recreation Area's centerpiece, the Flaming Gorge Reservoir. Visitors will experience the uniqueness of the area via high deserts, breathtaking rock formations, and herds of wild horses, pronghorn, and mule deer. Red Gulch / Alkali Scenic Byway A spare tire, drinking water, and food are recommended while heading out on this mostly unpaved 34-mile route through the Bighorn Basin. While there are no gas stations, towns, or stores along the Red Gulch / Alkali Scenic Byway, those choosing to embark on this adventure during the open months of May through October are rewarded with local history, colorful landscapes, caves, table rocks, and canyons along the way. Star Valley Scenic Byway Having just recently received official recognition as a byway, Star Valley Scenic Byway is Wyoming's newest scenic byway. Mountain lakes and snow-capped peaks create the perfect environment for colorful landscapes travelers can enjoy during the 80-mile drive. For those looking for a little more adventure, you can climb Salt River Canyon and Salt River Pass before completing your hike atop the 7,610-foot peak of Snake River Canyon. https://www.flickr.com/photos/11498990@N02/23982130818/sizes/l Image via Flickr by norm_oliver

Although traditionally the vibrant natural display of spring and summer is considered a more fertile ground for love to grow, there's something magically unique about autumn and the way it makes people feel. Fall's fragile balance between summer's spectacular abundance and winter coming to take it all away inspires all of us to capture the moment and share it with our loved ones. Here are some special ways couples can share this amazingly beautiful season. more Take a Camping Trip The best way to experience all the natural colors and flavors the season has to offer is by leaving the concrete city behind and getting reacquainted with Mother Nature. Take your date hiking, for a bike ride, or simply set up camp in a place where it'll just be the two of you with nature providing the background. Although evenings tend to get a little colder than in previous months, you'll soon discover that a bonfire is not only romantic but also offers enough heat that you won't need to bundle up. Visit an Orchard or a Farmer's Market Another great way to experience autumn is by tasting its fruits. Picking apples with someone you love is an incredibly fun and rewarding experience. Visiting a farmer's market is not only a great way to spend a day, but you'll also be leaving with plenty of tasty, fresh, and natural fruit and vegetables. Since Halloween is also in the fall, a pumpkin patch will also do the trick. Go to a Brewery or Winery If you and your loved one are of drinking age, fall may be a great time to explore some of the breweries and wineries around your town. These places can be incredibly fun and also great learning experiences. You'll be able to see for yourself how beer or wine is made, and the samples you'll taste along the way will make everything more interesting. Just make sure you have someone to drive you home afterward. Take a Drive Who says a journey must always have a destination? Just hop in the car and take your special someone for a drive out of town and into the countryside's natural scenery. It might be a good idea to do a little research beforehand and map out a route, but just getting in the car and getting lost in autumn's beauty is also a great option. You'll be driving on leaf-covered roads and taking in all the amazing colors and textures around you while sitting in warm, cozy seats and listening to your favorite music. Stay In As beautiful as autumn is, the dropping temperatures and increased precipitation tend to give people a new-found love for their homes. Couples can have a fantastic time just cooking, watching movies wrapped in a blanket, or just having great conversations while watching the outside world through their window. Just because summer is over, it doesn't mean all the fun dates have to wait until next year. If you learn to treasure it, autumn will offer you and your loved one the time of your lives. https://www.flickr.com/photos/mysza/2938056206/sizes/o/ Image via Flickr by mysza831

Besides providing easy access to some of the most beautiful natural sites in the northwestern United States, Casper also offers great opportunities for historical and cultural exploration. It's home to many top-class museums, which interpret different aspects of the city and region's storied past. Check out these three interesting museums while you're traveling in Casper. more Fort Caspar Museum Casper was named after Fort Caspar, a military outpost that played an important role in protecting the city attack. Established in 1862, the fort was originally called Platte Bridge Station. It was later expanded and renamed in honor of Lieutenant Caspar Collins, who was killed in a battle against the Lakota and Cheyenne in 1865. As you tour the museum, you'll see a number of reconstructed buildings, including replicas of a Mormon ferry and a section of Guinard's Bridge. View artifacts and watch interactive videos in the Interpretive Center to learn about the history of Casper. Situated on Fort Caspar Road, the Fort Caspar Museum is open from 8 a.m. to 5 p.m. every day in the summer and Tuesday to Saturday in the winter. Admission fees are $2 for adults and $1.50 for seniors and teens. Bishop House Bishop House is a historic site that once served as the residence of Marvin L. Bishop, who was appointed postmaster in Casper by President Grover Cleveland. Built in 1907 when the city experienced its first boom, it was the first multi-story brick house in town, changing the building trend from modest bungalows to mansions. Tour this elegant American Foursquare home and learn about the life of one of Casper's original pioneer families. The décor and furnishings reflect the tastes of the upper class in the early 20th century. The Bishop House is located on East Second Street. Tours are available from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m. on Tuesday, Thursday, and Saturday. Admission fee is $2 per person. This historic site also offers tea parties and holiday tours occasionally. National Historic Trails Interpretive Center The National Historic Trails Interpretive Center is a museum that provides a fun and interesting way to learn about some of the National Historic Trails. In the 19th century, hundreds of thousands of people traveled the Mormon, Pony Express, Oregon, and California trails in pursuit of liberty and a better life, and they etched their stories in the nation's history. Their tales are told through the museum's 18-minute multimedia presentation and seven interactive exhibits. Get on the Conestoga Wagon Ride to cross the North Platte River, try pulling the Mormon handcart, and send a message through the Pony Express. The National Historic Trails Interpretive Center can be found on North Poplar Street. Business hours are 8 a.m. to 5 p.m. from Tuesday to Sunday. Admission is free. There are many other museums in Casper that are worth visiting, including the Salt Creek Museum, War Birds Museum, Tate Museum, Wyoming Veterans Memorial Museum, and the Nicolaysen Art Museum and Discovery Center. Visiting these museums will make your vacation more complete and memorable. https://www.flickr.com/photos/hyku/2438736718/sizes/l Image via Flickr by hyku

Casper, WY attracts many outdoor enthusiasts because of its proximity to some of the most amazing natural sites in the country. If you're an avid angler, you'll be glad to know that the area offers many excellent fishing opportunities too. Whether you're a novice or an expert, you'll be able to find a fishing location that suits you. Check out these four great fishing spots around Casper. more The North Platte Lodge Located about 30 miles southwest of Casper in Alcova, North Platte Lodge is a favorite spot for fly fishing enthusiasts. It's situated in the Grey Reef area on the banks of the lower part of North Platte River, providing access to 17 miles of privately owned river frontage for fishing. Grey Reef is a tailwater fishery that's known for its exceptionally large trout. While you can do other forms of fishing, it's highly recommended that you fly fish. There are many fly fishing shops around North Platte Lodge offering fishing gear, equipment rental, boat rental, river reports, and licenses. If you're planning to fish there, it's a good idea to book in advance because the lodge can only accommodate eight guests at a time. North Platte River in the City Many anglers who want to catch big fish in the North Platte River make the short trip to the Grey Reef area. What they don't realize is that there's a large number of big fish living in the waters of the river that flows through Casper. There's an abundance of rainbow, brown, and cutbow trout in this part of the river. Water levels and clarity vary depending on the location and time of the year. When the water is clear to lightly stained, fishing in the city can be fantastic. Bryan Stock Trail Pond Situated on Bryan Stock Trail road just north of the North Platte River, Bryan Stock Trail Pond is another great place to fish within city limits. This pond contains a wide variety of fish. It was stocked with rainbow trout in 2017 and catfish in 2015, providing fun and rewarding fishing opportunities for anglers of all skill levels for many years to come. Bear in mind that gas motors are not permitted on the pond. You can use a motor-less boat, inflatable boat, or float tube instead. Miracle Mile Located about 30 miles southwest of Casper, the Miracle Mile is one of the most popular fishing spots in the area. This 5.5-mile stretch on the North Platte River is situated just below the Seminoe Reservoir dam. With about 4,000 fish per mile, it's a fertile tailwater that gives you an opportunity to catch trophy trout and walleye. While you can fish from a boat, you'll get better results with wade fishing. Fishing is a favorite pastime among the locals in Casper. As such, you can expect to find many fishing shops, amenities, and tour agencies in and around the city. If you're a beginner, it's a good idea to sign up for an instructional fishing tour. https://www.flickr.com/photos/bugeaters/2501399689/sizes/l Image via Flickr by bugeaters