Gillette, Wyoming

When people think of Wyoming, they usually picture mountain towns, national parks, and cowboy culture. But one place that surprised me during my Wyoming travel series was Gillette, Wyoming.

Located in northeast Wyoming, Gillette is the third largest city in the state, with a population of just over 33,000 people. While it may not be one of Wyoming’s major tourist destinations, it has a personality all its own. One built around hardworking roots, community, and Wyoming’s energy industry. Gillette is often called the “Energy Capital of the Nation” because of its connection to coal, oil, and natural gas production in the Powder River Basin. For decades, the area has helped power homes across the country.

One thing I appreciated about visiting Gillette was getting to experience a different side of Wyoming. Instead of mountain resorts or busy tourist attractions, Gillette felt real and lived in. I spent time walking downtown, seeing local businesses, and exploring parks. There was something refreshing about slowing down and experiencing a Wyoming town that people often drive past without thinking twice about.

If you visit Gillette, I definitely recommend taking time to explore downtown. It’s a quieter downtown compared to bigger cities, but it gives you a feel for the community and history of the area. I also enjoyed spending time outdoors in the parks and simply taking in the open skies that Wyoming always seems to deliver.

Fun Facts About Gillette:

• Gillette is the county seat of Campbell County

• It’s the third largest city in Wyoming

• The city motto is “Energy Capital of the Nation”

• Gillette sits at about 4,500 feet elevation

• The population has steadily grown over the last few decades because of the energy industry.

One of the best parts about Gillette, is for it's nearby adventures. Devils Tower National Monument is only about an hour and a half away, making it an easy day trip if you’re exploring northeast Wyoming.

Gillette may not be the first Wyoming town people think to visit, but after spending time there, I think that’s part of what makes it special. It felt authentic, hardworking, and uniquely Wyoming, a reminder that some of the best travel experiences happen in places you don’t expect.