Discovering Gillette on the ‘Monument Route’

THE ITINERARY AT A GLANCE

A must-visit on the Monument Route, Gillette is conveniently located near Devils Tower National Monument, Yellowstone National Park, and Mount Rushmore National Memorial. A downtown Gillette walking tour tells the story of the city’s gunslinging cowboys in a modern setting of boutiques, shops, and restaurants while mixing in the Avenues of Art walking tour. Known as the “Energy Capital of the Nation,” a tour of the Eagle Butte Coal Mine and a visit to the Campbell County Rockpile Museum are a must. The Wright Centennial Museum, Frontier Auto Museum & Relics Museum along with a savory culinary and beverage scene blend seamlessly into the Monument Route.

Take a coal mine tour and learn about historic Gillette

Enjoy These Great Gillette Wyoming Attractions and More:

Wildlife Loop Tour
Big Lost Meadery & Brewery
Eagle Butte Coal Mine Tour
The Coop Rotisserie House
Campbell County Rockpile Museum

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The Campbell County Rockpile Museum

GILLETTE WYOMING DAY-TO-DAY ITINERARY

DAY 1: YOUR FIRST DAY IN GILLETTE WYOMING

Arriving in Campbell County, experience the area’s abundant wildlife on a two or three-hour Wildlife Loop Tour. Regardless of your selection, you’ll travel a diverse ecology and likely observe up to 10 animals, including pronghorn.

Continue to historic downtown Gillette, Wyoming, a railway town founded in 1891 and the county seat of Campbell County. Enjoy lunch on your own at any of the locally owned restaurants before departing on a Downtown Tour which opens the door into small town Americana. Visit the spot where a legendary outlaw pulled the then-mayor into the street, beat him, and took over as mayor. The former Gillette Post Office is listed on the National Register of Historic Places. The past became the present as the inside of the building houses Gillette Brewing Company and Gone Postal Pizzeria. Allow time to experience the Avenues of Art walking tour. The tour takes you to more than 100 sculptures created by local and national artists.

After a busy day, unwind at Big Lost Meadery & Brewery. This unique spot crafts numerous Meads from honey, while offering a fine selection of craft beer made in-house. Settle in for some rest and relaxation at numerous flags and locally owned accommodations that welcome groups. Dinner tonight is at the Prime Rib Restaurant and Wine Cellar. A full menu featuring filets that melt in your mouth will satisfy even the pickiest appetite.

DAY 2: THINGS TO DO IN GILLETTE

Savor breakfast at your hotel before departing for another day exploring the Wyoming way of life and a short drive to Wright.

Opened in 1990, Wright Centennial Museum’s impressive collection shows Wyoming’s history spanning from the homestead era to becoming the nation’s Energy Capitol. A knowledgeable team of volunteers is on hand to share tales of many of the exhibit pieces. While in Wright, enjoy an early lunch at Hank’s Roadside Bar & Grill and a tasty Durham Buffalo Burger.

Begin your afternoon with the Eagle Butte Coal Mine Tour. You’ll witness powerful machines at work and learn how energy produced in Gillette, Wyoming trickles across the country. You’ll gain an understanding of the significant reclamation process that restores the land to its purity.

Next stop, be ready for a nostalgic trip through the ages at the Frontier Relics & Auto Museum. Room after room is filled with classic cars, neon and porcelain signs, gas pumps, and plenty of automobile memorabilia in remarkable condition. Inside the museum is a drive-in theater playing old movies and commercials. Grab a snack and enjoy the show.

Return to your hotel for some relaxation before departing for dinner at The Coop Rotisserie House. They say they are a chicken joint but proudly offer Latin and American flavors. Tonight, it’s entertainment at the CAM-PLEX Event Facilities, a premier multi-use facility. Something’s always playing whether it’s performing arts, or sports, including rodeo.

DAY 3: ACTIVITIES IN GILLETTE WYOMING

Breakfast and checkout with a stop at the Campbell County Rockpile Museum, the history museum that collects, preserves, and educates visitors to Campbell County about the area. From the stories of early homesteaders to an important rail stop to an energy leader, the museum is a fitting way to bring your Gillette, Wyoming visit to a close. Continue your Wyoming experience and explore the state’s Pioneering Spirit.

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