Living in a small town can be daunting, especially when bitter cold temperatures nearly five months out of the year cause many students to think twice about stepping outside just to go to class.
“What is there to do around here?” is a question often asked by new students experiencing Laramie for the first time. There are several outlets students can use to find activities and events to fill their spare time.
Asking a fellow student often is a good place to start. Many students have been in Laramie for a while and have figured out the best places to go, as well as places to avoid. A fellow student might know that the Library Sports Grille and Brewery across from Washakie Center has the best fried pickles in town.
The Campus Activities Center in the basement of the Union also has a list of events on and off campus for students. Events offered in the past have included trips to Denver to see the Colorado Avalanche or Denver Nuggets play, ski trips up to Snowy Range Ski and Recreation Area, and numerous special guests and free concerts.
For those who are outdoors types, The Outdoor Program offers a variety of programs and events for students, faculty and staff.
“We offer trips and clinics every week for students, faculty and staff looking to try new things or improve their skills,” Cindy Dywan at the UW Outdoor Program said. In addition to the activities they offer, the Outdoor Program also offers equipment rental for a small fee. Visit its website for information on what is available.
The Laramie Chamber of Commerce provides descriptive pamphlets for area attractions. If students feel like striking out on their own, the Chamber is a great place to start. Students who have cars and are interested in a day trip might stop by the Chamber’s downtown office and pick up the Wyoming Road Trip booklet, which briefly describes what travelers can expect as they cruise through one of Wyoming’s many scenic byways.
The best way to find something to do in Laramie is to look around. Hiding in the nooks and crannies of this little town is a virtual buffet of interesting and entertaining things to occupy a busy student’s spare time.
