1. Jackalope Lore Runs Deep
Wyoming is home to the legendary jackalope—a mythical creature said to be part jackrabbit, part antelope. In Douglas, you’ll find Jackalope Square, complete with a giant jackalope statue and even the option to get a “jackalope hunting license.” Some locals play along with the legend, insisting the elusive animal roams the wilds of Wyoming.
2. There Are Only Two Escalators in the Whole State
Wyoming is so rural and low-density that it has just two escalators, both located in Casper at the First National Bank and Hilltop National Bank. Elevators? Sure. Escalators? Practically a tourist attraction.
3. More Cows Than People
If you ever feel lonely, just look out your window—cattle outnumber humans in Wyoming by a wide margin. Residents often joke that the cows are the state’s unofficial welcoming committee, always nearby and sometimes a little judgmental.
4. Wild and Mysterious Landmarks
From the bizarre Smith Mansion—a sprawling, unfinished log home built by one man’s obsession—to the mysterious Big Boy Statue (a burger mascot inexplicably standing in a remote field near Cody), Wyoming is dotted with oddball roadside attractions that spark rumors and local legends.
5. No Sales Tax on Groceries
Wyoming doesn’t charge sales tax on food, making grocery shopping a little sweeter. This quirk means your grocery bill is often lower than in neighboring states, a small but welcome perk for residents.
6. The State’s Only Two Escalators Are a Big Deal
Yes, it’s worth mentioning again: Wyoming’s two escalators are so rare that they’re a point of local pride and amusement. Most residents go months or years without ever seeing one—unless they make a special trip to Casper.
7. Stargazing Like Nowhere Else
With its low population density and minimal light pollution, Wyoming offers some of the best stargazing in the U.S. It’s easy to step outside and see the Milky Way in stunning detail, especially in the wide-open spaces far from any city lights.
8. Harsh Winters and Self-Sufficiency
Living in Wyoming means braving fierce winters with heavy snow, strong winds, and freezing temperatures. Many rural homes rely on wells, septic systems, and propane heat, requiring a level of self-sufficiency that surprises newcomers. Winter preparedness isn’t just a suggestion—it’s a way of life.
These quirks, from mythical creatures to practical oddities, are part of what makes living in Wyoming a truly unique experience—one filled with wide-open spaces, community spirit, and a dash of the unexpected.
Sources:
- https://travelwyoming.com/blog/stories/post/top-things-to-do-wyoming/
- https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=BHspBzZ64tQ
- https://kgab.com/5-weird-but-true-stories-in-wyoming/
- https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=yV-PyfzYvKo
- https://www.atlasobscura.com/things-to-do/wyoming
- https://www.pinterest.com/pin/524880531548983547/