LaramieOutdoor Escape Game & Treasure Hunt
Heart of the Wild West, where history meets untamed nature
What to do in Laramie? Dive into the captivating history of this Wyoming city, where the spirit of the Wild West meets the energy of a university town. Laramie, once a crucial stop on the Union Pacific Railroad and the setting for Old West legends, offers a unique blend of heritage and grand landscapes. Explore its historic downtown with its red-brick buildings, visit the iconic Wyoming Territorial Prison, or stroll through the University of Wyoming campus. For an unusual activity in Laramie, our outdoor escape games invite you to transform your walk into a real treasure hunt. Follow a fun scavenger hunt that will lead you through the alleys and iconic sites, revealing the city's secrets in an interactive and entertaining way. Discover below the trail we offer in Laramie, an original way to unravel the mysteries of this historic city.
Spring Creek — Cattle Kate Lynching
Uncover the shocking truth behind the 1889 lynching of Cattle Kate and James Averell. Decode clues from their homestead to expose the cattle barons' conspiracy and deliver long-denied justice.
The Fence — Uncover the Truth Behind Matthew Shepard's Murder
Decipher the hidden evidence and testimonies scattered across Laramie to expose the conspiracy of silence surrounding Matthew Shepard's brutal 1998 hate crime and demand justice.
Landmarks of Laramie
Monuments and sites covered by our escape games across the city.
Unusual things to do in Laramie
For an unusual activity in Laramie, our escape games are an excellent option. Off the beaten path, they immerse you in local narratives while exploring the nooks and crannies of the historic downtown. Imagine deciphering hidden codes on the facades of buildings dating back to the era of cowboys and outlaws, or following clues that lead you to little-known stories of the territorial prison. It's an original outing that combines heritage discovery with the thrill of investigation, offering a unique perspective on Laramie that even locals don't always know. An immersive experience that differs from classic tours.
Things to do in Laramie with kids
What to do with the family in Laramie? Our outdoor escape games are perfectly suited for a fun outing with children. Accessible from age 8, they transform city exploration into a collaborative adventure where everyone has a role. Younger kids will love searching for visual clues in the downtown streets or near the university campus, while teenagers will be thrilled by solving the puzzles. It's a kids' activity that encourages teamwork and curiosity, away from screens. An ideal teen outing to create memorable memories while exploring Laramie's history and legends together.
Laramie for couples
Laramie for couples offers a unique setting for a romantic getaway, blending the charm of the Wild West with the atmosphere of a college town. Our outdoor trails are an excellent option for an original couples' outing. Stroll hand-in-hand through the historic district, solve puzzles together, and discover surprising anecdotes about Laramie's pioneers and iconic figures. It's a romantic activity that strengthens bonds and allows for shared moments of intimacy, away from the crowds. End your adventure with coffee at one of the historic downtown establishments, discussing the mysteries you've just solved.
What to do in Laramie when it rains
What to do in Laramie when it rains? Although our escape games are outdoor activities, Laramie's historic downtown offers some covered passages and protective awnings in front of old buildings, allowing for occasional shelter. The main streets of the city center, with their aligned facades, can offer relative protection against light rain. It's an opportunity to discover the city in a different light, when the cobblestones shine and the atmosphere is more intimate. A wet-weather activity that allows you to continue your exploration without being fully exposed to the elements, while enjoying Laramie's charm.
Where is Laramie, and where do the routes start?
Starting points of our routes and the places they pass through.
Route starting points
Places in Laramie
- Union Pacific Depot (41.3117
- Historic Downtown
- Albany County Courthouse (41.3125
- Ivinson Mansion (Laramie County Library) (41.3120
- University of Wyoming
- Laramie Plains Museum (Nedeau House) (41.3149
- Wyoming Territorial Prison (Exterior) (41.3323
- Washington Park (41.3153
- Visual Arts Building
- Wyoming Union
- Corner of S 1st Street and Ivinson Avenue
- Albany County Courthouse
- Laramie Plains Museum (Ivinson Mansion)
- Matthew Shepard Memorial Garden
- Alice Hardie Stevens Center (old train depot)
- Coe Library
The history of Laramie
From Railroad Camp to Established Town
Laramie began in 1868 as a tent city during the construction of the Union Pacific Railroad. The settlement was named after Jacques La Ramée, a French-Canadian trapper who disappeared in the Laramie Mountains around the 1820s. The town grew quickly; 400 lots were sold within two weeks of the first train's arrival in May 1868. A public school, churches, and a national bank were established by autumn. This early period was marked by lawlessness. The city's first mayor, M.C. Brown, resigned after three weeks, stating the city was "ungovernable." The Wyoming Territorial Prison was established in 1872 to bring order, housing figures like Butch Cassidy.
Women's Suffrage and Academic Growth
Laramie played a role in Wyoming's history of women's rights. In 1870, Louisa Swain, an 80-year-old Laramie resident, was the first woman to cast a vote in a public election. Months later, three Laramie women became the first to serve on a jury, contributing to Wyoming's nickname, the "Equality State." A significant development for Laramie was the founding of the University of Wyoming in 1886, before Wyoming achieved statehood in 1890. The university's first building, Old Main, was completed in 1887 and continues to house university administration. The university transformed Laramie into an educational and cultural center, supporting its economic growth and attracting students and scholars.
What to see in Laramie
- Union Pacific Depot — This train station, built in 1900, houses a museum on Laramie's railroad history.
- Historic Downtown, 1st Street — The downtown area features red-brick buildings. Many are listed on the National Register of Historic Places.
- Albany County Courthouse — This civic building was established in 1876 with support from Edward Ivinson, reflecting early efforts to establish law and order.
- Ivinson Mansion (Laramie Plains Museum) — Built in 1892 for banker Edward Ivinson, this Queen Anne style mansion displays late-19th-century residential architecture. It now houses the Laramie Plains Museum.
- University of Wyoming, Old Main — The oldest building on the University of Wyoming campus, constructed in 1886. Its Romanesque Revival style uses rough-cut sandstone.
- Wyoming Territorial Prison State Historic Site — This former federal penitentiary, established in 1872, once held outlaws like Butch Cassidy. Visitors can explore the grounds.
- Laramie Plains Museum — Located within the Ivinson Mansion, this museum presents a collection of period antiques and details frontier life in the late 1800s.
- University of Wyoming Geological Museum — This museum on campus features a Brontosaurus skeleton and exhibits on Wyoming's geological history.
- Laramie Mural Project — Various murals are painted on buildings throughout downtown Laramie, depicting local history and culture.
When to visit Laramie
For warm-weather activities, visit Laramie from late June to late August. Temperatures are mild, with average highs in the mid-70s to low 80s Fahrenheit and cool nights in the 50s. Humidity is comfortable. Afternoon thunderstorms are common in summer. Spring (March to May) has fluctuating temperatures and melting snow, with average temperatures from the mid-40s to low 60s. Unexpected snowstorms can occur. Winters (December to February) are cold and dry, with average highs between 30°F and 40°F and lows below zero, with significant snowfall and winds. Avoid winter if not interested in snow sports.
Getting around Laramie
Laramie is in southeastern Wyoming, about 50 miles west of Cheyenne on Interstate 80. Denver International Airport (DIA) is approximately two hours away. Laramie Regional Airport (LAR) offers daily flights to DIA via United Express. Downtown Laramie is walkable. The University of Wyoming operates two free weekday bus routes, UWYO Roundup, serving campus and parts of Laramie, equipped with bike racks. A free SafeRide program provides public transportation within Laramie city limits during late nights and weekends. Ride-sharing services and local taxis are available. Parking is generally available. A vehicle is useful for exploring areas outside the city center, such as the Snowy Range Scenic Byway or Vedauwoo.
Things you probably do not know about Laramie
Verified details most visitors walk straight past.
- Union Pacific Depot
- What secret lies beneath the restored ceiling of the Laramie Railroad Depot Museum? The Laramie Railroad Depot Museum features a restored Craftsman-style ceiling, a detail often overlooked but significant to the building's architectural heritage.
- Ivinson Mansion
- Before it became a museum, what unexpected role did the Ivinson Mansion play for decades? After Edward Ivinson donated his mansion to the Episcopal Church in 1921, it served as a boarding school for girls until it closed in 1958.
- University of Wyoming, Old Main
- What Latin motto, hidden in plain sight, reflects the founding values of the University of Wyoming? As you enter the west doors of Old Main, a stained-glass window bears the Latin phrase "Cedant arma togae," meaning "Let arms yield to the toga," symbolizing that knowledge and civic responsibility should precede violence.
- Laramie Plains Civic Center
- What lies beneath the wrestling room at the Laramie Plains Civic Center that was never used for its original purpose? The old high school pool, now covered by a false floor and used as a wrestling room, was never filled because it was discovered to be below the water table and would not properly drain.
- Corner of S 1st Street and Ivinson Avenue, Downtown
- What gave Laramie its nickname, "Gem City of the Plains," and it wasn't about precious stones? The nickname "Gem City of the Plains" appeared in newspapers as early as 1877, and it's believed to have stuck partly due to Laramie having the first electric power plant in the Rockies, making the city glitter at night.
- Laramie River
- Despite historical industrial activity, is the Laramie River safe for recreation today? The Laramie River was once the site of a railroad tie treatment plant from 1886 to 1983, leading to historical spills. However, extensive remediation efforts have made the river fully remediated and it is monitored by wells near Optimist Park.
Questions about visiting Laramie
How long should I plan to stay in Laramie?
A stay of one to two days is sufficient to see Laramie's key highlights, such as the University of Wyoming and the Laramie Plains Museum. An extended visit of three to four days allows for a more relaxed pace and time to enjoy local dining and outdoor activities.
What are the transportation options for getting around Laramie?
In Laramie, you can get around by walking, especially in the downtown area. The University of Wyoming offers free bus routes (UWYO Roundup) during weekdays, and a free SafeRide program operates during late nights and weekends within city limits. Ride-sharing services like Uber and local taxis are also available.
Are there any specific neighborhoods to explore in Laramie?
Downtown Laramie is a central hub, recognized as one of the nation's top main streets, offering a variety of shops, restaurants, and cultural experiences. The University of Wyoming campus also provides a distinct collegiate atmosphere with its historic buildings and cultural venues.
What kind of budget should I expect for a trip to Laramie?
Laramie offers a balance of affordability and amenities. While specific costs vary, the city is noted for a lower-than-average cost of living compared to larger college towns, making it a budget-friendly destination for culture and outdoor activities.
Is Laramie a good destination for families with children?
Yes, Laramie is family-friendly. The University of Wyoming campus offers a collegiate vibe, and attractions like the Wyoming Territorial Prison State Historic Site and the University of Wyoming Geology Museum (housing a brontosaurus skeleton) can be engaging for children.
What are the typical weather conditions in Laramie?
Laramie has a semi-arid climate with long, cold, and dry winters, and short, warm, and slightly wetter summers. Temperatures range from an average low of 9°F in December to an average high of 82°F in July. Snowfall averages around 71 inches annually, with the most in April.
Frequently asked questions
How much does an outdoor escape game in Laramie cost?
Our outdoor escape games in Laramie start at €12 per team (1 phone). For more players on the same trail, it's €19 for 2 phones and €25 for 3. As there is currently only one trail available, there is no City Pass for Laramie.
Are the Laramie escape games suitable for children/families?
Yes, our trail in Laramie is designed to be a family-friendly activity, accessible from age 8. The puzzles are varied and require observation from children, logic from teenagers, and general knowledge from adults. The secure GPS guidance system ensures you'll never get lost, even when exploring the most interesting corners of downtown.
How long does an outdoor escape game in Laramie last?
Expect to spend between 1h30 and 2h30 to complete our outdoor escape game in Laramie. The time may vary depending on your pace, your ability to solve puzzles, and how long you take to admire the sights. There are no time constraints; you can take breaks whenever you wish.
Do I need to book in advance?
Online booking is not mandatory as our games are available 24/7. However, we recommend it to ensure you receive your activation code instantly by email, ready to be used whenever you wish. The code has no expiration date.
What is Laramie known for? / What to visit in Laramie?
Laramie is famous for its rich history as a railroad and Wild West town, as well as for the University of Wyoming, the state's only university. Don't miss the Wyoming Territorial Prison State Historic Site, which housed figures like Butch Cassidy, and the historic downtown with its 19th-century buildings. Our trail naturally incorporates these iconic locations into its puzzles.
When is the best season to visit Laramie?
Late spring (May-June) and early autumn (September-October) are ideal times to visit Laramie, with mild temperatures and pleasant sunshine, perfect for an outdoor activity. Summer (July-August) is also popular, but it can get hot, so it's best to play early in the morning or late in the afternoon. Winters can be harsh, but the snow gives the city a special charm.
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