Alcova Lake
Casper

Just 40 miles from Casper, Alcova Lake makes for a memorable day trip. The lake is actually a reservoir made by flooding a mountain valley, so "it's surrounded by beautiful cascading colors." Popular in both summer and winter, visitors come to sail, water ski, and ice fish. There is also a sandy beach and picnic areas for hanging out. Spot bald eagles with your naked eye on one of the trails or hook some trout, which are especially abundant in the fall and winter. The Alcova Lakeside Marina rents boats and sells just about everything you need to enjoy a day at the lake, plus the restaurant is open for breakfast, lunch, and dinner--with Mexican food on Friday nights and prime rib on Saturdays. Read more.

Cadillac Grille
Jackson Hole

"Mountain air is famous for igniting gigantic appetites--even in people who normally eat like birds. Next time you're in Jackson with a grumbling stomach, go to Billy's Burgers by the Cadillac Grille and order one of the biggest, juiciest burgers in town." Made from scratch, the burgers are a half-pound of meat served on a toasted sesame bun with crisp iceberg lettuce, fresh tomato, a slice of red onion, and mayo. The burgers are so huge and good that once you pick yours up, "you'll find it impossible to set down again 'til it's gone." Pile on extra toppings - only if you dare. "The bacon is definitely not the see-through stuff you get in most restaurants." If burgers aren't your thing, you can munch on hot dogs, pastrami sandwiches, and breaded chicken, too--whatever you order it comes served with crisp waffle fries. Read more.

Flaming Gorge Days
Green River

Also known as "southwest Wyoming's weekend of fun," the Flaming Gorge Days Festival is a "truly unique experience." The area is "beautiful in summertime," which is why the event takes place at the end of June. During the three-day extravaganza, you can take part in a wide assortment of activities, including: a 10-mile kayak rodeo, bull brawl, basketball, volleyball, horseshoes, and even dodgeball. There's a parade, too, and the concerts are popular--last year Tesla and Everclear headlined. Children can play all day for free at the Festival in the Park, complete with a giant slide, the Ocean Bouncer, Bouncy Boxing, and prize-giving carnival games. Read more.

The Crown Bar
Cheyenne

Don't know what to do when you're in Wyoming? Head to Cheyenne's Crown Bar for the casual neighborhood feel. Lots of locals are regulars but everyone feels welcome here. "It's a "good place to meet and hang out." There's an upstairs with live bands and downstairs with dance music and DJs--making for a good mix of people. The music, ranging from blues and rock to techno and hip-hop, is what keeps people coming--it's great. "While the tunes attract the crowds, the bartenders pour potent cosmos and frosty pints of beer--the perfect recipe for a stellar local hangout deep in the heart of Cheyenne."

The Waldorf A'Story
Story

Whether you're on your way to Yellowstone or Mount Rushmore, make a pit stop in Story, Wyoming for a "cuppa soup & haffa samich" at the Waldorf A'Story Restaurant. It's a unique place to eat with a lingo all its own. The breakfast specialty is the "Moosey Samich" your choice of ham, bacon, or sausage topped with scrambled eggs, tomatoes, onions, and melted cheese on sourdough all grilled to perfection. Lunch is anything from soups and sandwiches to daily specials like sausage quiche and meatball subs. And dinner ranges from fish tacos to rib-eye steak. Spend your post-meal minutes browsing the general store's goodies. "It's a true mom-and-pop shop; they stock anything and everything you can imagine." Don't be surprised if you see someone walking out with an odd combo, such as a loaf of bread, quart of oil, and can of giant snails. Read more.