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.
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.
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