Ever milk a wild cow? Now you can. Visit Sheridan, Wyoming, one of America’s 2011 Dozen Distinctive Destinations. Sheridan was selected by the National Trust for Historic Preservation for its vibrant Main Street historic district, abundant recreational opportunities, and its authentic Western character, all set “in the shadow of the Big Horns.” What better time to visit than at the grand finale of summer fun! The annual Don King Days are at the Big Horn Equestrian Center, on Labor Day Weekend. Events feature classic equine events like polo, steer roping, bronc riding and wild cow milking. This week, Sheridan also hosts its annual world champion indian relay races and pro rodeo celebration.
Each year, the National Trust for Historic Preservation selects twelve American cities that offer cultural and recreational experiences different from those found at the typical vacation destination. From dynamic downtowns and stunning architecture to cultural diversity and a commitment to historic preservation, sustainability and revitalization, the selected destinations boast a richness of character and exude an authentic sense of place.
“Sheridan is a classic Western town, offering visitors a real taste of its ranching, farming and mining heritage, as well as contemporary theater, arts and dining opportunities,” said Stephanie Meeks, president of the National Trust for Historic Preservation. “Outdoor enthusiasts, history buffs and shoppers alike will be amazed by Sheridan’s amenities, including hiking, hunting and fishing; archeological sites and public art; and top-notch purveyors of Western art and apparel.”
Downtown Sheridan boasts 46 late 18th-century/early 20th -century brick and iron-clad storefronts that house a wide variety of unique retailers, including Western art, antiques and collectibles, leather crafts, ropes and horse tack, log furniture, jewelry and more. While experiencing Sheridan’s frontier culture, visitors can enjoy its modern amenities, including an extensive pathway system linking many of the city’s parks and points of interest, a fleet of replica trolleys that provide guided tours of the city, and a range of interesting dining and entertainment options. Its stunning National Historic Landmark Sheridan Inn—a place where Buffalo Bill lived and auditioned performers for his Western act— uses an eco-friendly geothermal energy system. Family activities include river rafting on the Shoshone River, trail rides on horseback, hiking and camping, guided sightseeing tours, sightseeing on the Cody Trolley, exceptional western historical experiences at the Buffalo Bill Historical Center, fly fishing on the North Fork of the Shoshone River, and breathtaking sightseeing along the Beartooth Highway
Highlights:
- Don King’s Western Museum – a world-class collection of cowboy memorabilia and Indian artifact collections located with King’s Saddlery & Ropes, a complete Western tack store for outfitting cowboys, cowgirls and city-slickers (shot of whiskey across the street at Mint Bar’s century-old watering hole optional).
- Historic Sheridan Inn – home of Buffalo Bill, resident ghosts, and ongoing rehabilitation into 22 Buffalo Bill-character suites; a designated Save America’s Treasure site.
- Fort Phil Kearny, museum and battle sites – part of the Bloody Bozeman Trail, a National Historic Landmark; also visit the Battle of Little Bighorn site, just to the north of Sheridan.
- Wildlife Refuge – offers majestic views of elk and buffalo as they roam within their park home.
- The Big Horn Mountains – an adventurer’s playground for golfing, hiking, rock climbing, hang gliding, snowmobiling and skiing.
- Public Arts walking tour – featuring 28 bronze sculptures and other public art installations positioned along its downtown streets
- Visit Cody, Wyoming - The Cody Nite Rodeo operates every night from June 1 through August 31. Family activities include river rafting on the Shoshone River, trail rides, hiking sightseeing on the Cody Trolley, exceptional western lore at Buffalo Bill Historical Center, fly fishing the Shoshone River, and the breathtaking Beartooth Highway
Where to stay:
The Cody Hotel, an hour west of Sheridan, is also convenient to Yellowstone as well as a great spot where you’ll enjoy 4-star luxury for about $100 per night. Its western décor is delighfully supplemented with an indoor pool, WiFi and flat screen amenities. Situated in the city center, this hotel is close to Old Trail Town and Buffalo Bill Historical Center.
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