By As someone from Colorado, who also lived in Wyoming and grew up going to ranches and rodeos in Montana, I was so excited to hear that 44 percent of United States travelers were interested in going on “cowboy core trips,” according to Skyscanner.com. For those that don’t know, cowboy core is a lifestyle and fashion trend inspired by the rugged, adventurous spirit of the American West, blending classic Western aesthetics like boots, denim and wide-brim hats with a love for open landscapes, rodeos and frontier-style living—think everything from Yellowstone to the Pioneer Woman.
But when I saw the places Skyscanner was recommending, like Cheyenne, Wyoming and Denver, Colorado, I knew I had to chime in and give people even more accurate and authentic places to stay in the Wild West. Keep scrolling to learn my top six cowboy-core travel destinations that won’t break the bank.
6. Laramie, Wyoming
If you want to escape to the Wild West but don’t want to venture too far off the beaten path, then Laramie, Wyoming, is the perfect place! Not only is it rich in Native American and cowboy culture, but it is also home to several local restaurants that showcase just how good a freshly caught cow can be. Also, while you’re there, be sure to check out the town’s infamous Buckhorn Bar and Saloon. Founded in 1900, it is filled with fun bits of Wyoming history, including a mirror with a bullet hole.
5. Steamboat Springs, Colorado
Steamboat Springs, Colorado, might have the reputation of being a ski town, but trust me when I say that’s not all there is to it. Scattered throughout the downtown strip are several cowboy-inspired stores, bars and restaurants. There is also a very fun Fourth of July rodeo that is the talk of the town. Plus, for an added bonus, feel free to drive—or ride your horse—in any direction outside of town to see real-life ranches, cowboys and cattle.
4. Atlantic City, Wyoming
Hidden in the depths of the Wyoming mountains, Atlantic City will transport you back in time to the wild, wild West. Filled with newly renovated saloon bars and drugstores, this town is the perfect escape from everyday life. It is also home to several outdoor spots that are perfect for hiking, horseback riding, and just wandering around in your cowboy hat.
It is also close to Carissa Gold Mine, which was operated between 1867 and 1869 and was one of the richest mines in all of Wyoming (fun fact, I was named after it!). This is available for tours, and I highly recommend it.
3. Bozeman, Montana
Chances are if you’ve seen Yellowstone, 1883 or 1923 then you’ve heard of Bozeman, Montana. Home to the Montana State Bobcats, the town offers its visitors a chance to see what life in the wild is truly like, thanks to its historic buildings and outdoor adventures. Bozeman is also very well known for its Siebel Dinosaur Complex, which showcases a variety of authentic tyrannosaurus rex specimens, making it the perfect field trip destination during your stay.
2. Jackson Hole, Wyoming
There is a reason Jackson Hole, Wyoming, is one of the most talked about travel destinations in the United States. Filled with breathtaking views, mouthwatering meals and an animal refuge that is home to over 5,000 elk, this town is the perfect one-stop shop for any cowboy core traveling you may want to do.
Jackson Hole is also very famous for its skiing and is very close to places like the Teton National Park and Yellowstone National Park, both of which are sure to have you saying “yee-haw!”
1. Big Timber, Montana
Coming in at number one is none other than Big Timber, Montana. With a population of 1,686 and only one stop sign, this town truly showcases what life as a cowboy is really like thanks to its scenic views and wildlife wonders. (Another fun fact: At one point, my family—the Mosnesses—were pretty much the only family who lived here.)
While there, I recommend you visit the Timber Bar & Grill for some authentic Montana food and drinks, stay at The Grand Hotel, which offers a fun look back on what classic cowboy living looked like, and of course, you have to try your hand at fishing since the Big Timber serves as gateway to the Absaroka-Beartooth Wilderness, which is home to the some of the best blue-ribbon trout. It is sure to be a hog-killin’ time. (And yes, that’s a real expression—I swear on a Cowboy’s hat!)
