Cheyenne
Cheyenne is the capital of Wyoming.
A railroad boomtown that became an important High Plains center for trade.
What makes the capitol special
The Wyoming State Capitol was finished in 1890. It features a 146-foot copper dome covered in gold leaf. Inside, the building is decorated with hand-carved cherry wood and stained glass. The grounds outside honor the state’s pioneers and Native American heritage.
Three places to visit
- Cheyenne Frontier Days Old West Museum – Explore the history of the world’s largest outdoor rodeo, which is nicknamed the “Daddy of ‘em All.”
- Cheyenne Depot Museum – Learn about railroad history inside the beautiful, historic Union Pacific Depot located downtown.
- Terry Bison Ranch Resort – Take a train ride right through huge herds of bison for an unforgettable close-up look at wildlife.
How the city got its name
Cheyenne was named in 1867 to honor the Native American Cheyenne tribe. The name was chosen while the Union Pacific Railroad was being built across the Great Plains.
Why this city became the capital
Cheyenne became the first capital of the Wyoming Territory in 1869. It was chosen because it was located right on the route of the transcontinental railroad. Because it was such an important center for transportation and trade, it remained the capital when Wyoming officially became a state in 1890.
From Celine Carlson’s 50 State Capitals: A Field Guide by a Girl Who Visited Them All, based on her visits to all 50 state capitals. About the author · Sources and research notes.