Cheyenne is one of the most family-friendly cities going, a laid-back place with an easy-to-navigate downtown and plenty of kid-oriented activities. Take the bikes along and start out by exploring along the vast expanse of the Greater Cheyenne Greenway — the state’s capital has been called “Trail Town USA” by the National Park Service and the American Hiking Society (download a map from ). The area is also a geocaching hot spot (visit and look for area codes 82001, 82007 and 82009; be sure to check out the Tom Horn Challenge, too). Cheyenne Botanic Gardens (710 S. Lions Park Drive, 307-637-6458, ) has a Children’s Village with a puppet theater, interactive wetlands and a picnic orchard, and the Cheyenne Gunslingers (West 15th Street at Pioneer Avenue, 800-426-5009, ) offer up a free taste of the Old West at noon on Saturdays and select evenings during their re-enactment of a funny and kid-friendly gunfight. And when everyone’s tuckered out, take a ride on the Railway Trolley (800-426-5009, ); the 1 1/2-hour tour leaves from 121 W. 15th St. five times throughout the day ($10 adults, $5 ages 2-12). Kyle Wagner
Stay
Little America (2800 W. Lincolnway, 800-445-6945, ) has room to spare on its expansive property right off the highway, but far enough for a quiet stay. Kids love the playground and pool, adults the great fitness center and golf course. The rooms have an old-timey charm, are bright and airy, but have been updated with flat- screen TVs and mini-fridges. The on-site dining options are wonderful and reasonably priced too. Rates start at $129 for a two-queen deluxe.
Dine
With something on the menu for everyone and comfy booths to boot, its no surprise The Albany Restaurant (1506 Capitol Ave., 307-638-3507, ) is a locals favorite, a casual eatery that serves piled-high sandwiches, Mexican food, steaks — the chicken-fried version smothered in thick gravy is out of this world — and seafood, and the kids menu is $4.75, with grilled cheese, burger or hot dog served in a basket with fries. Pie at the end is a must-do.
