Discovering Cheyenne, Wyoming’s “Big Boots”

Cheyenne, Wyoming, is drawing more attention lately, thanks to mentions in prominent travel publications. With Cheyenne receiving this heightened attention, it’s a great time to explore the city’s free and accessible attractions, including the Big Boots, which offer a glimpse into its colorful community and traditions.

Cheyenne has a unique way of showcasing its local culture and history through its “Big Boots.” These 8-foot-tall boots, each beautifully painted by local artists, are scattered throughout the city. The artwork highlights many aspects of Wyoming and Western life, from ranching and rodeo culture to the state’s breathtaking landscapes. Whether you’re just passing through or planning to spend a few days here, hunting down these boots is a fun, free way to explore Cheyenne.

Getting There

I stopped at the Cheyenne Depot Museum, which serves as the city’s visitor center, and grabbed a map highlighting the locations of all 30 boots. The friendly staff was eager to help get me on my way. With the map in hand, I set out to see how many I could find.

The Hunt Begins: Exploring Cheyenne’s “Big Boots”

Starting at the Depot Museum, I followed the map and quickly spotted some of the boots in high-traffic areas directly around the Cheyenne Depot Plaza. Some are a little further away including great spots like the Botanic Gardens! Each one is brightly painted and showcases a piece of Wyoming’s identity, from its wide-open landscapes to its cowboy heritage. The boots are truly works of art, crafted by talented local artists who bring the state’s spirit to life.

Even though I didn’t find all 30 boots, I had a blast uncovering the ones I did. Some of the newer boots weren’t yet on the map, which added a surprise element to the hunt. Others offered audio guides, allowing you to hear directly from the artist. It’s like an outdoor art gallery and history lesson rolled into one!

While a few boots were inside businesses I chose not to enter, others were located on streets too busy to safely stop and admire up close. Despite these challenges, the adventure kept me engaged and made me appreciate how Cheyenne uses public art to share its story.

Why You Should Add the “Big Boots” to Your Cheyenne Itinerary

The “Big Boots” hunt is a budget-friendly (free), creative way to see Cheyenne. It’s perfect for visitors of all ages, and you don’t need to spend a dime. While some of the boots are located indoors or in tricky spots, the ones you do find will offer plenty of photo-worthy moments and stories to share.

The artwork on each boot celebrates the history and culture of Wyoming, especially the aspects of Western life like ranching, railroads, and rodeos. This scavenger hunt will lead you to some of Cheyenne’s best spots, including local landmarks, scenic areas, and hidden gems.

Plan Your Boot Hunt in Cheyenne

If you find yourself in Cheyenne, grab a map at the Cheyenne Depot Museum and set off on your own boot hunt! Whether you find 10 like me or all 30, it’s a fun, free way to explore the town, enjoy some incredible art by local artists, and learn about Cheyenne’s rich history and Wyoming’s Western spirit.

Don’t forget your camera—these boots make for great photo ops and memorable moments. Happy hunting!