25 Best Things to do in Gillette!
Gillette in Wyoming, is a small town located in the northeastern part of the state. Known for its rich history in coal mining and energy production, Gillette is often referred to as the “Energy Capital of the Nation.” But beyond its industry, this charming town offers scenic beauty, outdoor activities, and a warm, welcoming community. Whether you’re passing through or planning an extended stay, we’ll showcase the best things to do in Gillette during your visit to Wyoming.
In this Article
1. Must-See Attractions
Downtown Gillette
Walking through the streets of Downtown Gillette, you’ll find a mix of historic sites, shops and restaurants serving hearty meals. A walking tour is a great way to dive into the town’s cowboy and outlaw history, with stops at the old City Hall and other landmarks that tell stories of the past. The Gillette Main Street program helps preserve historic buildings and keeps downtown lively. Museums showcase the town’s history, while local stores sell one-of-a-kind items, making shopping a fun experience. Downtown hosts events that bring people together, celebrating traditions and building community ties.
The Gillette Pronghorns
Gillette is home to the Gillette Pronghorns, a sports team that brings energy and excitement to the residents. The Pronghorns represent Gillette College and compete in various athletic events, making them a key part of the town’s sports culture. Whether it’s basketball, rodeo, or other sports, the team showcases talent, bringing support from students and residents. The college’s athletic program works hard to develop skilled athletes while fostering a strong sense of teamwork and sportsmanship. Local fans take pride in cheering for the Pronghorns, attending games and events to show their support.
Gillette’s Historic Downtown District
Established in 1891 as a railroad town, Gillette’s Historic Downtown District has developed into a key hub in Campbell County and was officially named the county seat in 1911. The downtown area covers six blocks and features 30 historic properties built between 1898 and 1971, showcasing a mix of architectural styles, including Classical Revival, Victorian, Art Deco, and also early 20th century commercial designs. Walking through the district, you’ll find landmarks like the old City Hall, built in 1936 and the Stockmen’s Bank, constructed in 1926, both of which reflect the town’s early development.
Campbell County Public Library
The Campbell County Public Library is more than just a place to borrow books — it’s a hub for learning, creativity and community connection. Inside, you’ll find a wide collection of books, digital resources and programs designed for all ages. The library hosts activities like craft workshops, book clubs and educational programs, making it a lively spot for engagement and discovery. One unique feature is the Makerspace, where visitors can explore hands-on projects and creative tools. The library provides access to legal forms and other helpful resources, making it a valuable place for practical needs.
2. Iconic Landmarks
Campbell County Rockpile Museum
At Campbell County Rockpile Museum, visitors can discover the deep history of the Powder River Basin through engaging exhibits and artifacts. It focuses on the stories of early settlers, coal mining, ranching and Native American heritage. Inside, you’ll find exhibits featuring fossils, Native American artifacts, rifles, saddles and equipment used in the region’s energy industry. Horse-drawn vehicles and hands-on activities make it engaging for all ages. Visitors can learn about the daily life and challenges faced by early Wyoming pioneers and see how the local industries shaped the town’s development.
Frontier Auto Museum & Cafe
The Frontier Auto Museum & Cafe is a 13,000 square-foot museum, packed with restored classic cars, neon signs, gas pumps and rare porcelain signs, offering a nostalgic journey through America’s past. Each room is designed to reflect different eras, from the 1900s to the 1950s, making it feel like stepping back in time. One of the highlights is the indoor drive-in theater, where visitors can watch classic movies while soaking in the retro atmosphere. The museum also has a mining room with a model railway and a soda fountain where guests can enjoy ice cream, pinball machines and classic music.
Powder Basin Motocross Track
The Powder Basin Motocross Track is a popular spot for motocross riders and off-road enthusiasts, hosting races, events and open riding sessions throughout the year. Riders of all skill levels can enjoy the well-maintained course, which is designed to challenge both beginners and experienced racers. The track is known for its exciting layout, featuring jumps, turns and elevation changes that make every ride thrilling. Powder Basin Motocross Track is also part of the High Plains Motocross Association, which organizes races and events, bringing together riders and motocross fans from different areas.
Gillette Thunder Speedway
The Gillette Thunder Speedway is a thrilling destination for racing fans, hosting several competitive races throughout the season, bringing together skilled drivers and enthusiastic crowds. Established in the 1970s, the speedway has grown into a popular spot for motorsports, offering a mix of local and regional events. The track also features IMCA Modified, Wissota Midwest Modified and Mini Bomber races, among others, making each event a fast-paced spectacle. The Month of Money Series is one of the highlights of the racing calendar, drawing top competitors and offering exciting prize payouts.
AVA Community Art Center
The AVA Community Art Center is a vibrant space dedicated to creativity and artistic expression and has been a key part of the local arts scene since its founding in 1998. The center offers a variety of programs, including art workshops, exhibits and community events, making it a welcoming place for artists and visitors. One of its standout features is the professional ceramics studio, where people can explore pottery and sculpture. AVA’s mission is to enrich the community through art, and it does this by offering classes in drawing, painting and mixed multimedia, as well as summer camps for kids.
Campbell County Recreation Center
The Campbell County Recreation Center features a large gymnasium, an indoor track and a swimming pool, making it a popular spot for both casual exercise and organized sports. Fitness enthusiasts can take advantage of the weight room and group fitness classes, while families can enjoy the climbing wall and indoor playground. The facility offers courts for volleyball, basketball and racquetball, giving sports enthusiasts plenty of choices for active play. Throughout the year, the center hosts tournaments and special events that bring people together for exciting matches and friendly competition.
3. Family-Friendly Activities
CAM-PLEX Park
The CAM-PLEX Park is a spacious 21 acres park that offers a mix of outdoor activities and relaxation for visitors. With plenty of picnic areas, wide-open grassy spaces and walking trails, the park offers a relaxing getaway for families and solo visitors. One of the highlights is its disc golf course, where players of all experience levels can enjoy a friendly challenge. The park is well-maintained by Campbell County Parks and Recreation, ensuring a clean and welcoming environment. Shelters are available for rent and plenty of trees providing shade, it is an ideal place for families to enjoy a meal in outdoors.
Dalbey Memorial Park
The Dalbey Memorial Park is a peaceful outdoor space where visitors can enjoy nature, relaxation and recreation. It features open green areas, walking trails and a scenic lake that adds to its charm. Families can take advantage of the playgrounds, while picnic areas provide a great spot for meals outdoors. Anglers seeking a peaceful getaway often visit the lake, which is often filled with fish to ensure great fishing opportunities. Walking paths allow visitors to take in the fresh air and enjoy the natural surroundings. Soccer fields and basketball courts give sports lovers a place to play and stay active.
Energy Capital Sports Complex
The Energy Capital Sports Complex is a top destination for sports lovers, athletes, and is known for its well-maintained fields and modern amenities, making it a great place for tournaments and local games. The complex features multiple softball fields, often referred to as the “Field of Dreams,” where teams compete in exciting matches throughout the season. It is close to hotels and restaurants, and also includes a splash pad, which is a fun spot for families and kids to cool off during warm days. The complex hosts various sports events, bringing both local and regional teams for competitive play.
Gillette Community Aquatic Center
The Gillette Community Aquatic Center, also known as Campbell County Aquatic Center, is a great place for swimming and water activities in Gillette. It offers a large swimming pool, training programs, and lessons for all ages, helping people improve their swimming skills and water safety. The center has been an important part of the community since 1982, providing a space for visitors to enjoy aquatic sports and fitness. It is known for having one of the fastest pools in Wyoming, and hosting swimming lessons, lifeguard training and special events, ensuring there is always something happening.
Flight Zone
The Flight Zone is a fun indoor adventure park that offers exciting activities for visitors in Gillette. This 29,000 square-foot facility features trampolines, arcade games and Ninja Warrior courses, making it a great place for families and groups to enjoy active entertainment. The trampoline park includes foam pits, a wipeout zone, basketball hoops, dodgeball areas and a trapeze bar, providing plenty of ways to jump and play. The two-story Ninja Course challenges visitors to test their agility and strength. For those who prefer gaming, the arcade has 29 different games, including multiplayer options.
Bicentennial Park
The Bicentennial Park covers 80.2 acres, making it one of the largest green spaces in Gillette. It features walking paths, picnic areas, playgrounds and sports facilities, providing something for visitors of all ages. The park is well-known for its tennis courts, soccer fields, baseball fields and basketball courts, making it a popular spot for local athletes and casual players. Families can enjoy the playground and shaded picnic areas, perfect for spending a sunny afternoon outdoors. The WPA Building within the park is available for rent, offering a space for meetings, community events and any celebrations.
Lasting Legacy Park
The Lasting Legacy Park features walking paths, picnic shelters and open grassy areas, making it a welcoming place for families. The playground provides a fun spot for children, while the soccer field offers space for sports lovers to play and stay active. The well-maintained grounds and irrigation system ensure a pleasant visit, with shaded areas and drinking water stations adding to the comfort. Visitors can enjoy a quiet walk, have a picnic with loved ones, or simply sit and take in the fresh air. Wildlife sightings add to the charm, offering a glimpse of birds and small animals in their natural habitat.
4. Natural Attractions
Devils Tower National Monument
Standing tall at 1,267 feet, Devils Tower National Monument is a unique geological feature in Wyoming, overlooking the Belle Fourche River. In 1906, President Theodore Roosevelt designated Devils Tower as the first national monument in the United States, marking the start of the country’s efforts to protect unique natural landmarks. The area is popular for rock climbing, with hundreds of parallel cracks making it one of the best climbing spots in North America. Located about an hour from Gillette, Devil Tower offers ranger-led tours, where visitors can learn about its geology and cultural history.
Keyhole State Park
The Keyhole State Park sits along the southeast shore of Keyhole Reservoir, and is known for boating, water skiing, fishing and swimming, making it a favorite spot for those who love spending time on the water. Some of the largest fish in Wyoming have been caught here, attracting anglers looking for walleye, catfish and northern pike. Visitors can explore hiking trails, enjoy picnic areas, or camp at one of the 286 available campsites, with options for RV hookups and horse corrals. The privately run marina offers boat rentals, fishing supplies and other essentials, making it easy to explore the region.
Thunder Basin National Grassland
Covering 547,499 acres, Thunder Basin National Grassland stretches across the Powder River Basin, and is known for its semi-arid climate, with elevations ranging from 3,600 to 5,200 feet, creating a mix of rolling plains and rugged terrain. Visitors can enjoy hiking, sightseeing, hunting and fishing, making it a great destination for outdoor enthusiasts. There are no developed campgrounds, but camping is allowed, giving visitors a chance to experience the untouched beauty of the land. The area is used for livestock grazing, with ranching families managing cattle and sheep across the open plains.
Bighorn National Forest
Located in north-central Wyoming, Bighorn National Forest covers over 1.1 million acres, offering visitors a mix of grasslands, alpine meadows, lakes and rugged mountain cliffs. Created in 1897, this forest is among the earliest protected areas in the country. The forest is home to Cloud Peak Wilderness and with 1,500 miles of trails, it offers endless chances for horseback riding, hiking and spotting wildlife in its natural habitat. The Bighorn Scenic Byway, Cloud Peak Skyway and Medicine Wheel Passage provide scenic drives through the forest, offering incredible views of the mountains and valleys.
Black Hills National Forest
Covering 1.2 million acres, Black Hills National Forest stretches across northeastern Wyoming and southwestern South Dakota. The name comes from the Lakota words Paha Sapa, meaning “hills that are black,” as the dense pine trees make the landscape appear dark from a distance. The forest is home to 192 named mountains, with Black Elk Peak standing as the tallest at 7,241 feet. Visitors can explore over 3,800 miles of roads and trails, including 700 miles of designated Off-Highway Vehicle (OHV) trails. Visitors can enjoy popular activities such as hiking, camping, fishing and wildlife spotting.
5. Outdoor Adventures
Hiking Trails
Gillette has several hiking trails that offer a mix of easy walks and scenic outdoor experiences. Burnt Hollow Trail is a great option for those looking for a quiet hike through open sagebrush country. The trail is about 3.9 miles long and provides a peaceful escape from the city. Red Rock Trails include three different routes, each offering a unique view of Wyoming’s landscape. The Antelope Loop is a 2 miles trail that passes through open fields, while the Jackalope Loop is a longer and more challenging 12.3 miles route with switchbacks.
The 1.2 mile paved path around Gillette Fishing Lake offers a peaceful spot for a casual walk, giving visitors a chance to enjoy the water and surrounding scenery. Burlington Lake Trail is another easy option, offering a 1.4 mile paved path around a bird sanctuary. Field of Dreams Loop is a 2.5 miles trail located at the Energy Capital Sports Complex, and it is accessible for all visitors. These trails provide a variety of hiking experiences, whether you want a short walk or a longer adventure.
Golfing Courses
Gillette has a few great places for golf, offering options for both casual players and experienced golfers. Gillette Golf Club features a 9-hole public course with tight fairways, compact greens, and water hazards that add an extra challenge to the game for golfers of all skill levels. Bell Nob Golf Course is another popular spot, featuring an 18-hole championship course and a 9-hole executive course. The main course has a par of 72 and stretches over 7,024 yards, making it the longest in the area. Bell Nob also has a driving range and a pro shop, giving players everything they need for a full day of golf.
Mountain Biking
Gillette has several mountain biking trails that offer a mix of easy and challenging rides. Burnt Hollow Trail is a 3.9 miles route that takes riders through open sagebrush terrain, providing a scenic ride. Red Rock Loop is a 0.9 mile trail with smooth paths, making it a good choice for beginners. Burnt Hollow South Trail stretches 5 miles and has moderate difficulty with some elevation gain. Bison Loop is another short and easy trail at 0.9 miles, offering a relaxed ride through open spaces. Jackalope Loop stretches for 12.3 miles, featuring twists and turns in a diverse terrain that challenge seasoned riders.
Scenic Drives
In Gillette, travelers can enjoy scenic drives that highlight the area’s stunning landscapes and open roads. One of the most popular routes is the Devils Tower National Monument Scenic Drive, which takes travelers through rolling plains before reaching the towering rock formation. Another great option is the Thunder Basin National Grasslands Scenic Drive, where visitors can experience Wyoming’s vast prairie lands and stretches across open landscapes.
The Cloud Peak Skyway Scenic Byway is another scenic route, passing through the Bighorn Mountains with breathtaking views of forests and valleys. Travelers can also explore the Wyoming Black Hills Scenic Byway, which connects to the famous Black Hills region and offers a mix of rugged terrain and open spaces. Each of these drives provides a unique experience, whether passing through historic towns, open grasslands or mountain scenery.
How to Reach Gillette
Interstate 90 runs through Gillette, providing a direct route for travelers coming from the east, west, or north, while those driving from the south can take Interstate 25 and exit onto Wyoming Highway 59. Northeast Wyoming Regional Airport, located just a few miles from the town center, offers daily direct flights to and from Denver through United Airlines, operated by SkyWest Airlines, making air travel convenient. Rental cars are available at the airport for easy transportation, along with bus services and private shuttles.
For visitors traveling from places without direct flights, nearby airports such as Rapid City Regional Airport (RAP), located about 2 hours away, provide alternative options. From these airports, travelers can rent cars or take shuttles to reach Gillette. Those driving in from surrounding areas can enjoy the scenic route along Interstate 90, which connects the town to major cities like Billings in Montana, and Rapid City in South Dakota. The drive through Wyoming’s plains is an enjoyable part of the journey, making the trip to Gillette both accessible and scenic.
Local Transportation
Getting around Gillette is simple, with several transportation options available. Powder River Transportation provides local transit services, making it easy for residents and visitors to travel within the city. The Campbell County Senior Center offers door-to-door service for seniors, disabled individuals, and others needing assistance, with affordable rates for rides within and outside the city.
North Park Transportation Company specializes in freight services but also plays a role in regional transport. Travelers needing a taxi can find local services offering easy and reliable rides throughout the city. Rental cars can be found at Northeast Wyoming Regional Airport, allowing travelers to explore the area at their own pace. Bus services and private shuttles also operate, offering additional ways to get around.
FAQ’s (Frequently Asked Questions)
1. What is the best time to visit Gillette?
The best time to visit Gillette depends on what you’re looking for. If you enjoy warm weather and outdoor activities, summer (June through August) is ideal. For those who prefer cooler temperatures and fewer crowds, spring (April to May) and fall (September to October) are great choices. Winter can be lovely if you don’t mind cold weather and snow.
2. What is there to do in Gillette, Wyoming?
Gillette offers a range of activities for visitors. If you’re interested in history, the Campbell County Rockpile Museum provides insight into the area’s mining heritage and local wildlife. For outdoor enthusiasts, the Devils Tower National Monument is a short drive away and offers breathtaking views and hiking opportunities. The Gillette Country Club is a great spot for golf, while Bear Creek Golf Club provides a more relaxed setting.
3. Are there any good restaurants in Gillette?
Absolutely! Gillette has a variety of dining options to suit different tastes. The Rockpile Restaurant is known for its hearty American fare and friendly atmosphere. If you’re in the mood for Mexican cuisine, consider El Rancho, this is a local favorite. For a taste of something unique, try The Main Street Coffeehouse for delicious coffee and baked goods.
4. Is there anything special about the local culture in Gillette?
Gillette’s local culture is deeply influenced by its history in mining and energy production. You’ll find that the community takes pride in its heritage, and local events often celebrate this history. The town hosts various festivals and fairs throughout the year, such as the Gillette Frontier Days and Energy Capital Sports Complex events, which showcase the area’s vibrant local culture and community spirit.
5. Are there any unique attractions in Gillette?
Yes! One of the most unique attractions is the Wyoming Dinosaur Center located in nearby Thermopolis. It’s a bit of a drive from Gillette, but it’s well worth the trip for dinosaur enthusiasts. In town, you can also visit the Rockpile Museum to learn about the history and geology of the region, including fossils and artifacts from the area’s past.
