National Historic Trails Interpretive Center — Attraction in Casper

The National Historic Trails Interpretive Center in Casper brings history to life, offering a powerful look at the westward expansion of the United States.

Learn how Casper was integral to the trails westward. The center tells the story of those who traveled the Mormon, Gold Rush, and Oregon Trails, all of which followed the Platte River westward.

The center also details the often-ignored impact of westward expansion on Native American communities. You learn about how both groups, migrants and natives. suffered, details which are not part of everyone's education.

The "stagecoach across the river," the "can you pull a handcart (hundreds of miles)," and the "Ride a stagecoach along the route" have a mixture of video and movement which are almost "Disneyland" quality. Learn about the how the train and telegraph impacted migration and displaced the legendary "Pony Express." There are drawers to open, handles to pull out for more information, life size figures to see, a wagon to walk onto and artifacts (like hides, bones and a cooking pot made from bison stomach) to touch.

The high-production values introductory video uses lighting and sound within a life-size diorama to effectively tell the overall story.

The mix of interactive exhibits, knowledgeable docents, and a well-stocked gift shop make this a perfect destination for families

The well-stocked gift shop offers books on relevant subjects alongside trinkets and toys for kids to carry home.

Free admission and a powerful learning experience make the 'National Historic Trails Interpretive Center' center a must-visit for anyone interested in...

When you naïvely walk into a building simply to find a WY highway map, and emerge hours later having had your view of history broadened in irreversible ways, YOU HAVE FOUND TREASURE. I would go miles out of my way to visit this place. I would make a special trip from Minnesota to Casper. I would sacrifice food, water, and my oxen to stroll through their exhibits and BE AMAZED at how history becomes real. Whoever designed this place -- from its movies (one had me crying rivulets) to its interactive "hey, get in this ox cart and ford the dangerous river with me" experience -- deserves the highest award. Intellectual and emotional connections are forged with those intrepid souls who traveled west in the mid-19th century. This, to me, epitomizes what excellent interpretation should be. Not only will we return, but we will shout its wonderfulness and beg others, like you, to go. JUST GO. The outstanding staff bumps it up to SEVEN STARS but five is the maximum allowed so I'm...

This is a wonderful gem of a museum. While it is smaller, it is also free. There are multiple interactive exhibits to experience while there.

You can crawl into a wagon and experience a simulation of crossing a river. There is a screen at the front and the wagon actually shakes.

There is a great short movie to watch on the half hour and hour. Absolutely worth watching.

While I didn't have kids with me, this museum is awesome for parents with children. They have many things to touch and experience.

You can also get your National Parks Passport Book stamped here even though it isn't listed on the book. This museum is part of a diff organization (Department of Interior, I believe) but still does this. (Inside at the counter to the left after entering). Great staff. Very accommodating and helpful.

Well worth going to this area just to...