Sweetwater County Official Travel Guide - 2025/2026
Explore Downtown Charm in Rock Springs & Green River
2025-04-29 04:56:16
ROCK SPRINGS: WHERE CULTURE & HISTORY AWAIT
Rock Springs, a Great American Main Street award winner, is steeped in Wyoming’s mining and railroad history. It grew with the late-1800s coal boom, powering Union Pacific’s steam engines and shaping the region. This culturally rich community still thrives with its eclectic mix of art galleries, historical landmarks and wide-ranging restaurants.
COMMUNITY FINE ARTS CENTER
The Community Fine Arts Center houses a permanent collection of more than 500 original American works, from colorful portraits to expressive sculptures. Visit during your trip to catch community events, like a live painting demonstration or a weekday art class.
HISTORIC ROCK SPRINGS COAL WELCOME ARCH
First illuminated in 1929, the Historic Rock Springs Coal Welcome Arch is an iconic symbol of the town, standing proudly above South Main Street. Walk under its towering frame and imagine the bustling days when steam trains brought workers and travelers from afar.
BUNNING PARK
Meander over to Bunning Park, the city’s first park, a laid-back green space with tall trees, lush grass and a central gazebo. It’s a favorite locale for live music, food-truck rallies and local events like Sweetwater Blues N’ Brews.
GREEN RIVER: EMBRACE RIVERFRONT FUN
From world-class fishing and wildlife watching to tubing and swimming, Green River has everything to enjoy the great outdoors. Wander scenic trails, settle a rivalry at family sports complexes or admire the nearby rock formations.
THE BREWERY
This building’s castle-like design immediately catches your eye with its regal stone towers and decorative chalice. Stop by to sip cool draft beers and dine on juicy burgers.
CLOCK TOWER
Green River’s clock tower stands tall in the center of downtown, surrounded by pine trees and soft grass. In the summer, it becomes a lively gathering place, where locals and visitors wind down and jam out to live concerts.
GREEN RIVER RAILYARD
In 1868, the Union Pacific railroad arrived in Green River and transformed the town. During World War II, more than 100 trains chugged through daily. Today, the railyard remains a fascinating place to learn about the town’s industrial heritage.
EXPEDITION ISLAND PARK
In 1869 and 1871, Expedition Island served as the launch site for explorer and geologist Major John Wesley Powell’s voyages to document the Grand Canyon and map the Green and Colorado rivers. Visit to enjoy family picnics, Blue Ribbon trout fishing and special events, including Flaming Gorge Days.
TOMAHAWK BUILDING
Opened in 1920 as a luxurious three-story hotel, this building once housed a bowling alley, tavern and even a JCPenney. Today, it hosts a brewery, restaurant and gift shop, specializing in Wyoming products, where visitors can take in the landmark’s rich history.
SUPPORT LOCAL BUSINESSES
These towns thrive on small and family-owned businesses, from boutiques and spas to bars and restaurants. Shop and dine locally to support these community establishments.
EQUIPMENT RENTAL
From inner tubes to kayaks and rafts, White Mountain Lumber & Rentals has all your gear for a day of floating and paddling on the river.
A PLACE TO SHOP, DINE & UNWIND
Explore all the excitement and fun of Rock Springs’ historical downtown with everything from local boutiques and restaurants to entertainment options and community events.
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