Question 1

What is the best area to stay in Sheridan, Wyoming?

Accepted Answer

Downtown Sheridan is ideal for first-time visitors — you're within walking distance of Main Street restaurants like Frackelton's, local breweries including Blacktooth Brewing, and cultural landmarks like King's Saddlery and the WYO Theater. For guests who want mountain access, our vacation rentals in Dayton and Story sit at the base of the Bighorn Mountains, putting you 10 to 15 minutes from trailheads with none of the town traffic. Buffalo, 35 miles south, offers a quieter alternative with easy access to the southern Bighorns and Lake DeSmet.

Question 2

Are there Airbnbs in Sheridan, WY?

Accepted Answer

Yes — Sheridan has a growing selection of short-term rentals available on Airbnb, Vrbo, and through local operators like Wyo Stays. However, booking through Airbnb or Vrbo typically adds 12–18% in platform service fees to your total. When you book direct with a licensed local operator, you get the same properties at a lower price, plus direct communication with a local team who can help you plan your trip. We call it Book Direct — No Channel Fees.

Question 3

Is it better to book an Airbnb or book direct in Sheridan?

Accepted Answer

Both options get you into a vacation rental, but the economics and experience differ significantly. Airbnb and Vrbo charge service fees (typically 12–18% of your stay) that go to the platform, not your host. Booking direct through a licensed Wyoming brokerage like Wyo Stays eliminates those fees entirely — same property, same amenities, better price. You also get direct phone and text access to a local team, not a chatbot. For a week-long stay, direct booking can save $150–300 depending on the property.

Question 4

What is the difference between a hotel and a vacation rental in Sheridan?

Accepted Answer

Hotels in Sheridan offer standard rooms with housekeeping and front-desk service — the Sheridan Inn and Holiday Inn are popular options. Vacation rentals provide entire homes or cabins with full kitchens, multiple bedrooms, private outdoor space, and laundry — giving you 2–4x the space for similar nightly rates. For families, groups, or stays longer than two nights, vacation rentals are almost always more practical and more cost-effective. Our properties are professionally cleaned and inspected to hotel standards through our documented 5-Star Cleaning Protocol.

Question 5

Are there pet-friendly vacation rentals in Sheridan, Wyoming?

Accepted Answer

Yes. Many of our properties welcome dogs, and Sheridan County is exceptionally dog-friendly — with off-leash hiking along Tongue River Canyon, paths through Kendrick Park, and most downtown restaurants offering patio seating where dogs are welcome. We note pet policies on each property listing so you know before you book. Some properties charge a small pet fee, typically $25–50 per stay.

Question 6

How much do vacation rentals cost in Sheridan, Wyoming?

Accepted Answer

Nightly rates in Sheridan County range from roughly $99–$350/night depending on the property, season, and size. Downtown Sheridan apartments and lofts start around $99–$150/night. Mountain cabins in Dayton and Story typically run $150–$250/night. Larger luxury homes can reach $300+ per night. Summer (June–August) and WYO Rodeo week (mid-July) command peak pricing. Shoulder seasons — September/October and May/June — often offer the best value with ideal weather.

Question 7

How many days should you spend in Sheridan, Wyoming?

Accepted Answer

Three to five days is ideal for most visitors. Day one: explore downtown Sheridan — Main Street, Blacktooth Brewing, King's Saddlery, the Brinton Museum. Day two: drive the Bighorn Scenic Byway or hike Tongue River Canyon. Day three: visit nearby Story or Dayton, fish Clear Creek, or take a horseback ride. If you have four or five days, add a day trip to Devils Tower (2.5 hours east) or Thermopolis Hot Springs (2.5 hours south). Guests who book a week often tell us they wish they'd planned longer.

Question 8

Can I book a vacation rental for a wedding or group event in Sheridan?

Accepted Answer

Yes. Several of our larger properties accommodate groups of 8–16+ guests and are popular for weddings, family reunions, corporate retreats, and milestone celebrations. Sheridan County offers stunning outdoor venues, and our concierge team can coordinate catering, photography, private chef dinners, and local experiences for your group. For events, we recommend booking 3–6 months in advance, especially for summer dates.

Question 9

What is Wyo Stays? Are you a licensed company?

Accepted Answer

Wyo Stays is a licensed, insured Wyoming vacation rental brokerage headquartered at 155 W Brundage St in Sheridan, Wyoming. We're not a listing platform or a side hustle — we're a real business with a real office, a real team, and real accountability. We manage premium short-term rentals across Sheridan County, including properties in downtown Sheridan, Dayton, Story, and the Bighorn Mountain corridor. Our properties carry 300+ five-star reviews across platforms.

Question 10

Do you offer long-term rentals in Sheridan?

Accepted Answer

Yes. In addition to short-term vacation rentals, Wyo Stays manages long-term rental properties in Sheridan County for tenants looking for month-to-month or annual leases. These are professionally managed with the same standards we apply to our vacation properties. Availability changes frequently, so check our long-term listings or contact us directly.

Question 11

What are the best things to do in Sheridan, Wyoming?

Accepted Answer

Downtown Sheridan alone can fill a full day — start at King's Saddlery (free museum of Western memorabilia), walk Main Street's independent shops, catch a show at the WYO Theater, and end with a pour at Blacktooth Brewing or Luminous Brewhouse. For outdoors, Tongue River Canyon (20 min from town) offers a stunning 7-mile canyon hike, and the Bighorn Scenic Byway is one of the most beautiful drives in the American West. The Brinton Museum in Big Horn showcases world-class Western art on a 620-acre ranch. History buffs should visit Trail End State Historic Site and Fort Phil Kearny.

Question 12

How far are the Bighorn Mountains from downtown Sheridan?

Accepted Answer

The foothills begin about 15 minutes west of downtown Sheridan. The Bighorn Scenic Byway (US-14) enters the forest 20–25 minutes from town, with trailheads, fishing access, and scenic pulloffs starting immediately. Burgess Junction — the hub of the high country — is about 60 minutes from Sheridan at 8,000+ feet elevation. The Bighorns are one of the most accessible mountain ranges in Wyoming, which is exactly why Sheridan makes such a great base camp.

Question 13

What are the best hiking trails near Sheridan, Wyoming?

Accepted Answer

Tongue River Canyon Trail is the signature hike — a 7-mile out-and-back through a narrow red-rock canyon, 20 minutes from downtown. Soldier Ridge Trail (5 minutes from town) offers panoramic mountain views on a 4-mile loop with minimal crowds. For high-country experiences, the Cloud Peak Wilderness has 100+ miles of alpine trails, with routes to Stull Lake, Geneva Lake, and Cloud Peak summit (13,167 ft) being the most popular. The Bighorn National Forest system also includes hundreds of miles of ATV and mountain biking trails accessible from multiple trailheads along US-14.

Question 14

Is Sheridan, Wyoming good for fishing?

Accepted Answer

Exceptional. The Bighorn Mountain region offers blue-ribbon trout fishing across dozens of streams and alpine lakes. Clear Creek and Tongue River provide walk-in access close to town. The Cloud Peak Wilderness contains pristine alpine lakes with native cutthroat trout. Lake DeSmet (30 minutes south) is popular for walleye, perch, and trout. The Fly Shop of the Bighorns in downtown Sheridan is the go-to outfitter — they offer gear, guided trips, and current conditions. A Wyoming fishing license is required and available online or at local sporting goods stores.

Question 15

Can you go skiing near Sheridan, Wyoming?

Accepted Answer

Yes. Antelope Butte Mountain Recreation Area is a community-operated ski area about 40 minutes from Sheridan in the Bighorn National Forest. It offers downhill skiing, snowboarding, and cross-country skiing at affordable prices — with the kind of uncrowded runs you won't find at resort destinations. The Bighorns also offer extensive snowmobile trails (some of the best in Wyoming), snowshoeing, and cross-country ski routes. Winter visitors should check road conditions on US-14 and US-14A, as mountain passes may close in heavy snow.

Question 16

What is the Sheridan WYO Rodeo?

Accepted Answer

The Sheridan WYO Rodeo is one of America's premier professional rodeos, held annually in mid-July. It's a week-long celebration that includes the rodeo itself (bull riding, barrel racing, bronc riding), a downtown parade, bed races, street dances, a carnival, a 5K run, and a pancake breakfast. It's the single biggest event in Sheridan County and properties book months in advance. If you're planning a summer visit, either aim for WYO Rodeo week for the full experience, or plan around it if you prefer quieter trails and restaurants.

Question 17

What is there to do in Sheridan in winter?

Accepted Answer

Winter in Sheridan is quiet, beautiful, and increasingly popular. Skiing and snowboarding at Antelope Butte, snowmobiling in the Bighorns (200+ miles of groomed trails), cross-country skiing, snowshoeing, and ice fishing on Lake DeSmet are all within easy reach. Downtown Sheridan stays lively year-round with restaurants, breweries, the WYO Theater's winter performance season, and holiday events. Winter rates for vacation rentals are typically 20–40% lower than summer, making it excellent value. Road conditions on mountain passes vary — check WYDOT.com before heading into the Bighorns.

Question 18

Are there good restaurants in Sheridan, Wyoming?

Accepted Answer

Surprisingly excellent for a town of 18,000. Frackelton's is the fine-dining standout — locally sourced, seasonal menus, great wine list. The Rib & Chop House serves steaks that rival anything in Jackson Hole. Blacktooth Brewing and Luminous Brewhouse anchor the craft beer scene. The Mint Bar is a legendary cowboy saloon with solid burgers and 100+ years of history. For breakfast, locals swear by the Cowboy Café. Smith Alley Brewing, Wyoming Cattle & Creek, and the Sheridan Inn's restaurant round out a dining scene that punches well above its weight class.

Question 19

Is Sheridan, Wyoming good for families?

Accepted Answer

Absolutely. Sheridan is one of the most family-friendly destinations in Wyoming. Kendrick Park has a pool, playground, and a small herd of bison and elk. The Museum at the Bighorns has rotating kids' exhibits. Trail End State Historic Site offers free admission. Clear Creek runs through town with easy access for wading and fishing. Downtown is safe and walkable. Our vacation rentals with full kitchens, yards, and multiple bedrooms make family stays significantly more comfortable (and affordable) than hotel rooms. Several properties include high chairs, pack-n-plays, and board games.

Question 20

What events happen in Sheridan throughout the year?

Accepted Answer

Sheridan has a packed calendar. January–March: winter sports, indoor theater season. May: Third Thursday street festivals begin (monthly through September). June: Farmers markets, polo season starts in Big Horn. July: WYO Rodeo (the biggest week of the year), Fourth of July celebrations. August: Sheridan County Fair, continued polo and outdoor events. September–October: Fall foliage drives in the Bighorns, elk bugling, hunting season opens. November–December: Holiday markets, WYO Theater holiday shows, Trail End State Historic Site holiday open house. Check Sheridan Travel & Tourism's calendar for specific dates.

Question 21

How do you get to Sheridan, Wyoming?

Accepted Answer

Sheridan has a regional airport (SHR) with seasonal commercial service — check current routes as they change annually. The nearest major airports are Billings, Montana (BIL, 2 hours north) and Casper, Wyoming (CPR, 2.5 hours south). Sheridan sits directly on Interstate 90, making it an easy road trip from Billings (130 miles), Rapid City/Black Hills (250 miles), or Yellowstone's east entrance via Cody (4 hours). The drive from Denver is about 7 hours via I-25 through Casper.

Question 22

Where is Sheridan, Wyoming in relation to Yellowstone and Devils Tower?

Accepted Answer

Sheridan sits almost exactly between Devils Tower and Yellowstone — making it the perfect base camp for visiting both. Devils Tower National Monument is approximately 2.5 hours east via I-90 and WY-14. Yellowstone's east entrance (via Cody) is approximately 4 hours west via US-14/16. Mount Rushmore and the Black Hills are about 4.5 hours east. Thermopolis Hot Springs (world's largest mineral hot spring) is 2.5 hours south. Sheridan's location on I-90 makes it a natural stopping point — or home base — for a multi-day Wyoming road trip.

Question 23

When is the best time to visit Sheridan, Wyoming?

Accepted Answer

Each season has its strengths. Summer (June–August) offers the best weather for hiking, fishing, and outdoor activities — highs in the 80s–90s°F, low humidity, long daylight hours. This is peak season and the most expensive. Fall (September–October) brings golden aspens in the Bighorns, cooler temps (50s–70s°F), fewer crowds, and excellent value. Winter (November–March) offers skiing, snowmobiling, and peaceful snow-covered landscapes — with the lowest rates of the year. Spring (April–May) is mild and uncrowded, though mountain trails may still have snow at higher elevations into June.

Question 24

Is Sheridan, Wyoming safe for tourists?

Accepted Answer

Very. Sheridan consistently ranks as one of the safest small cities in Wyoming, which itself has one of the lowest crime rates in the country. Downtown is walkable day and night. The main safety considerations are weather-related: mountain roads can be hazardous in winter, afternoon thunderstorms are common in summer, and wildlife (moose, bears, mountain lions) exist in the Bighorn backcountry. Standard outdoor precautions apply — carry bear spray on remote hikes, check road conditions before mountain drives, and dress in layers.

Question 25

Do I need a car in Sheridan, Wyoming?

Accepted Answer

A car is strongly recommended. While downtown Sheridan is walkable, most of the best experiences — the Bighorn Mountains, Tongue River Canyon, Story, Dayton, the Brinton Museum — require a vehicle. There's no public transit and limited rideshare availability. If you're flying in, rent a car at the airport or in Billings. For an upgraded experience, our concierge can arrange a Tesla rental through our guest services.

Question 26

What should I pack for a trip to Sheridan, Wyoming?

Accepted Answer

Pack in layers — Sheridan can swing 30–40°F in a single day, especially spring through fall. Essentials: sturdy hiking boots or trail shoes, sunscreen (high altitude = stronger UV), a packable rain jacket, sunglasses, and a reusable water bottle. Summer visitors should bring a light fleece for mountain evenings. Winter visitors need insulated layers, waterproof boots, and cold-weather gear. Don't worry about forgetting something — downtown Sheridan has solid outfitter shops including Dan's Western Wear and the Fly Shop of the Bighorns.

Question 27

Is there cell service in the Bighorn Mountains?

Accepted Answer

Coverage is reliable in Sheridan, Dayton, Story, and along I-90, but drops off significantly once you enter the Bighorn National Forest. Most mountain trails, campgrounds, and backcountry areas have little to no cell service. Download offline maps (Google Maps or AllTrails) before heading into the mountains. Our vacation rentals all have WiFi, and most mountain-area properties have Starlink satellite internet for reliable connectivity even in remote locations.

Question 28

What is the elevation of Sheridan, Wyoming?

Accepted Answer

Downtown Sheridan sits at approximately 3,745 feet above sea level — high enough for clear air and mountain views, but low enough that most visitors won't notice altitude effects. The Bighorn Mountains rise dramatically from there: Burgess Junction sits at 8,000+ feet, and Cloud Peak (the highest point) reaches 13,167 feet. If you're planning high-altitude hikes, hydrate well and give yourself a day to adjust, especially if you're coming from sea level.

Question 29

Does Wyo Stays manage vacation rental properties?

Accepted Answer

Yes. We offer two management models: Full Management (we handle everything — marketing, bookings, cleaning, maintenance, guest communication, pricing optimization) and Co-Hosting (you stay involved in guest communication while we handle operations). Both models are backed by our licensed brokerage status, meaning your property is legally protected under Wyoming real estate law. We currently manage properties across Sheridan, Dayton, Story, and the Bighorn corridor.

Question 30

What occupancy rates do vacation rentals get in Sheridan?

Accepted Answer

Market average occupancy for professionally managed vacation rentals in Sheridan County runs approximately 50–65% annually, with significant seasonal variation. Summer months (June–August) often reach 80–90%+ occupancy. Shoulder seasons (May, September–October) range 40–60%. Winter varies widely depending on property type and marketing. Properties managed by Wyo Stays typically outperform market averages through dynamic pricing, multi-platform distribution, and direct booking optimization.

Question 31

Is it worth buying a vacation rental property in Sheridan?

Accepted Answer

Sheridan County's vacation rental market has grown steadily as the region gains recognition as a destination. Key factors in your favor: relatively affordable real estate compared to resort markets (Jackson Hole, Big Sky), growing tourism demand, limited hotel inventory (creating natural demand for rentals), and Wyoming's favorable tax environment (no state income tax). The investment depends on purchase price, property type, and management approach. Our Investment Analyzer on the /owners page lets you model projected revenue and ROI based on real market data.

Question 32

What are the vacation rental regulations in Sheridan, Wyoming?

Accepted Answer

Wyoming requires a lodging tax collection for short-term rentals (stays under 30 days). Sheridan County has additional local lodging tax requirements. As a licensed brokerage, Wyo Stays handles all tax collection and remittance for properties we manage, ensuring full compliance with state and local regulations. Short-term rental regulations in Wyoming are generally business-friendly compared to many states, but specific requirements can vary by municipality. We recommend consulting with us or a local attorney before purchasing a property for short-term rental use.

Question 33

How do I list my property with Wyo Stays?

Accepted Answer

Start with a free property evaluation — our team will assess your property's earning potential, recommended improvements, and optimal pricing strategy. From there, we'll discuss whether Full Management or Co-Hosting is the right fit. The onboarding process typically takes 2–3 weeks, including professional photography, listing creation across platforms, and setup of our cleaning and maintenance systems. There's no long-term contract lock-in.

Question 34

What makes Wyo Stays different from other property managers in Sheridan?

Accepted Answer

Three things: licensing, standards, and direct booking strategy. We're a licensed Wyoming real estate brokerage with a physical office at 155 W Brundage St — not a PO Box operation. Every property meets our documented Wyo Stays Standard, including our 5-Star Cleaning Protocol and pre-arrival inspection process. And our direct booking strategy (wyostays.com + book.wyostays.com) generates bookings without Airbnb/Vrbo service fees — meaning higher revenue per booking for owners and lower prices for guests. We also offer concierge services, curated guest experiences, and a loyalty program that other managers in this market can't match.

Question 35

What breweries are in Sheridan, Wyoming?

Accepted Answer

Sheridan punches well above its weight in craft beer. Blacktooth Brewing Company is the flagship — multiple award-winning beers, a great taproom atmosphere, and food trucks on-site most evenings. Luminous Brewhouse offers excellent coffee by day and craft beer by night, with a bright, modern space that doubles as a brunch spot. Smith Alley Brewing Co. rounds out the trio with creative small-batch beers and solid pub food. All three are walkable from most of our downtown vacation rentals.

Question 36

What is King's Saddlery in Sheridan?

Accepted Answer

King's Saddlery is a working saddle shop and Western museum that has been a Sheridan institution since 1946. Don King built a reputation as one of the finest saddlemakers in the American West, and the shop still produces custom saddles, ropes, and the famous King Ropes brand. The attached museum — free to visit — houses an extraordinary collection of Western memorabilia, Native American artifacts, and cowboy gear. It's one of the most authentic cultural experiences in Wyoming and shouldn't be missed.

Question 37

Is there nightlife in Sheridan, Wyoming?

Accepted Answer

Sheridan's nightlife is relaxed and authentic, not rowdy. The Mint Bar (est. 1907) is the iconic stop — a genuine cowboy saloon with taxidermy on the walls, cold beer, and characters at the bar. Blacktooth Brewing usually has live music on weekends. The WYO Theater hosts concerts, comedy, and performing arts throughout the year. In summer, Third Thursday events turn downtown into a street festival with live music, food vendors, and community energy. This isn't a party town — it's a town where you'll have a great night with great people.

Question 38

Can I see wildlife near Sheridan?

Accepted Answer

Yes — wildlife viewing is one of Sheridan County's underrated strengths. Mule deer and white-tailed deer are common even in town. Moose are regularly spotted in the Bighorn foothills, particularly around Story and Dayton. Elk herds move through the region seasonally. The Bighorn Mountains are home to black bears, mountain lions, and the namesake bighorn sheep. Bald eagles hunt along the Tongue River. Kendrick Park in town has a small captive herd of bison and elk. For the best wildlife viewing, drive the Bighorn Scenic Byway at dawn or dusk.

Question 39

What is the history of Sheridan, Wyoming?

Accepted Answer

Sheridan was founded in 1882 and named for Civil War General Philip Sheridan. The town boomed as a railroad and ranching hub, becoming a gateway to the Bighorn Mountains. Buffalo Bill Cody used the Sheridan Inn as his headquarters and reportedly auditioned acts for his Wild West Show on the inn's front lawn. The region's history includes the Bozeman Trail, Fort Phil Kearny, and the Fetterman Fight. Today, 46 buildings in Sheridan are listed on the National Register of Historic Places. The Brinton Museum, Trail End State Historic Site, and King's Saddlery all preserve different facets of this rich Western heritage.

Question 40

Is Sheridan a good base for a Wyoming road trip?

Accepted Answer

One of the best. Sheridan sits on I-90 almost exactly between Devils Tower (2.5 hours east) and Yellowstone (4 hours west via Cody), with Mount Rushmore (4.5 hours east) and Thermopolis Hot Springs (2.5 hours south) all within easy day-trip range. Unlike basing out of a national park — where lodging is overpriced and dining is limited — Sheridan gives you a real town with excellent restaurants, craft breweries, affordable vacation rentals, and the Bighorn Mountains right outside your door. Stay in Sheridan, day-trip to the monuments.

Everything You Need to Know
About Visiting Sheridan, Wyoming

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Everything You Need to Know About Visiting Sheridan, Wyoming

What is the best area to stay in Sheridan, Wyoming?Vacation RentalsGetting Here

Are there Airbnbs in Sheridan, WY?Vacation RentalsBooking & Pricing

Is it better to book an Airbnb or book direct in Sheridan?Booking & Pricing

What is the difference between a hotel and a vacation rental in Sheridan?Vacation Rentals

Are there pet-friendly vacation rentals in Sheridan, Wyoming?Vacation RentalsFamilies & Pets

How much do vacation rentals cost in Sheridan, Wyoming?Booking & Pricing

How many days should you spend in Sheridan, Wyoming?Getting HereThings to Do

Can I book a vacation rental for a wedding or group event in Sheridan?Vacation RentalsBooking & Pricing

What is Wyo Stays? Are you a licensed company?Booking & Pricing

Do you offer long-term rentals in Sheridan?Vacation Rentals

What are the best things to do in Sheridan, Wyoming?Things to Do

How far are the Bighorn Mountains from downtown Sheridan?Bighorn MountainsGetting Here

What are the best hiking trails near Sheridan, Wyoming?Bighorn MountainsThings to Do

Is Sheridan, Wyoming good for fishing?Things to DoBighorn Mountains

Can you go skiing near Sheridan, Wyoming?Things to DoEvents & Seasons

What is the Sheridan WYO Rodeo?Events & SeasonsThings to Do

What is there to do in Sheridan in winter?Events & SeasonsThings to Do

Are there good restaurants in Sheridan, Wyoming?Dining & Drinks

Is Sheridan, Wyoming good for families?Families & PetsThings to Do

What events happen in Sheridan throughout the year?Events & Seasons

How do you get to Sheridan, Wyoming?Getting Here

Where is Sheridan, Wyoming in relation to Yellowstone and Devils Tower?Getting Here

When is the best time to visit Sheridan, Wyoming?Events & SeasonsGetting Here

Is Sheridan, Wyoming safe for tourists?Getting Here

Do I need a car in Sheridan, Wyoming?Getting Here

What should I pack for a trip to Sheridan, Wyoming?Getting HereBighorn Mountains

Is there cell service in the Bighorn Mountains?Bighorn MountainsGetting Here

What is the elevation of Sheridan, Wyoming?Getting HereBighorn Mountains

Does Wyo Stays manage vacation rental properties?Booking & Pricing

What occupancy rates do vacation rentals get in Sheridan?Booking & Pricing

Is it worth buying a vacation rental property in Sheridan?Booking & Pricing

What are the vacation rental regulations in Sheridan, Wyoming?Booking & Pricing

How do I list my property with Wyo Stays?Booking & Pricing

What makes Wyo Stays different from other property managers in Sheridan?Booking & Pricing

What breweries are in Sheridan, Wyoming?Dining & Drinks

What is King's Saddlery in Sheridan?Things to DoDining & Drinks

Is there nightlife in Sheridan, Wyoming?Dining & DrinksThings to Do

Can I see wildlife near Sheridan?Things to DoBighorn Mountains

What is the history of Sheridan, Wyoming?Things to Do

Is Sheridan a good base for a Wyoming road trip?Getting HereThings to Do

Still Have Questions?

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Everything You Need to Know
About Visiting Sheridan, Wyoming