Planning a vacation can feel overwhelming, especially the cost. Luckily, a trip to Wyoming doesn’t have to break the bank. Whether you’re looking for the best foodie spots, affordable lodging options or immersive experiences, Wyoming offers opportunities for all budget levels. Here’s your guide to having an affordable and epic vacation in the Cowboy State.

Getting to Wyoming on a Budget

Find Affordable Flights: The best time to save money on flights is during the off-season, between October and early December, or spring from March to May. Beyond the usual summer rush, Wyoming's off-season offers incredible perks: fewer crowds, budget-friendly lodging, and truly unique experiences. Think phenomenal wildlife viewing—Yellowstone in the fall is a must-see—and those picture-perfect fall and winter landscapes.

Stop at a Welcome Center: Stop into a Wyoming welcome center – including the southeast and northeast centers – where you can find immersive exhibits and displays to help you plan your trip (it’s like a mini museum!). Plus, friendly information specialists can provide their favorite places to eat and explore to make the most of your time in Wyoming.

Plan Your Trip: Before you hit the road, plan your trip on where you’ll stop for gas, charge your EV or pick up groceries so you don’t run into unexpected travel costs. As the 10th largest state, Wyoming’s distances between destinations can surprise you. A little planning goes a long way and gives you confidence to hit the open road. Think of it as your secret weapon to uncover all the treasures this wild place holds, without any unexpected bumps in the road.

5 Budget-Friendly Things to Do in Wyoming Explore

1. Yellowstone and Grand Teton National Parks: If you’re planning the ultimate national park road trip this summer, keep in mind the entrance fees. Although Grand Teton and Yellowstone National Park are right next to each other, you will pay two separate entrance fees. The National Park Service offers an America the Beautiful pass for $80, which gives you access to all the U.S. national parks, monuments, historic sites and more. Be sure to also check the fee-free days throughout the year and purchase any passes ahead of time online.  While national parks have entrance fees, watching Old Faithful erupt, spotting wildlife and taking in the majestic views of the Tetons, these experiences are priceless.

2. Soak in Wyoming’s Hot Springs: Whether you're soaking beneath the open sky or unwinding in a bathhouse, these mineral-rich waters provide a rejuvenating experience and several are free. Hot Springs State Park bathhouse in Thermopolis lets visitors enjoy the healing waters for free, with temperatures kept at a soothing 104 degrees. Meanwhile, Hobo Hot Springs in Saratoga offers a rustic, 24/7 soaking experience, where you can slip into steamy pools right along the river.

3. Visit Free and Low-Cost Museums: Explore Wyoming's heritage and history at several free museums, including the Wyoming State Museum (Cheyenne), the Brinton Museum (Big Horn) and the National Trails Interpretive Center (Casper).  For a look at prehistoric life, the Fossil Butte National Monument offers free exploration and up-close views of fossils. In Cody, the Buffalo Bill Center of the West provides a deeper perspective into Western art, history, firearms and natural history, with multi-day passes available to explore its five museums.

4. Take a Scenic Road Trip: Pack your car with travel essentials and your sense of adventure. Wyoming is known as a road trip destination, giving you the flexibility to explore the state at your own pace without any added fees outside of food and gas. With little to no traffic and 21 scenic byways, you’ll find the most breathtaking views and hidden gems around every corner.

5. Camp Under Wyoming’s Starry Skies: State parks like Boysen, Curt Gowdy, Sinks Canyon, Buffalo Bill and Keyhole offer budget-friendly campsites, yurts and even a treehouse with stunning backdrops. Plus, Wyoming’s state parks have some of the state’s best hiking trails, including some that lead to hidden waterfalls and caves.

For more budget-friendly ideas, or even better FREE ideas, explore the top free things to do in Wyoming and order Wyoming’s official travel guide.