Laramie County, located in the southeastern corner of Wyoming, is the most populous county in the state and a key hub for transportation, commerce, and government. Established in 1867, the county was named after Jacques LaRamie, a French-Canadian fur trapper who was one of the first Europeans to explore the region. The county is strategically located along the I-80 and I-25 corridors, making it an important transportation center for both the state and the region.
Laramie County is home to about 100,000 people, with the majority of its population concentrated in Cheyenne, the state capital. In addition to Cheyenne, the county includes smaller towns like Pine Bluffs, Burns, and Albin. The economy of the county is diverse, encompassing government services, agriculture, and transportation. Laramie County is also known for its rich history, wide-open plains, and significant landmarks related to Wyoming’s western heritage.
Cheyenne
Geography and History
Cheyenne, the state capital of Wyoming and the county seat of Laramie County, is located in the southeastern corner of the state near the Colorado border. Established in 1867 with the arrival of the Union Pacific Railroad, Cheyenne grew quickly due to its strategic location as a transportation hub. The city’s early economy was heavily tied to the railroad, cattle ranching, and later, the development of the military, particularly with the establishment of F.E. Warren Air Force Base.
Today, Cheyenne remains the largest city in Wyoming and serves as the center of government, commerce, and culture for the state. It is famous for its annual Cheyenne Frontier Days, one of the largest rodeo events in the world, which draws visitors from around the globe.
City Facts
- Nickname: “The Magic City of the Plains”
- Area: 32.37 square miles
- Population: Approximately 65,000
- Elevation: 6,062 feet
- Time Zone: Mountain Time Zone (MT)
- ZIP Codes: 82001, 82009, 82007, 82003
- Area Code: 307
Transportation
Cheyenne is located at the intersection of two major interstate highways: I-80, which runs east to west across the United States, and I-25, which connects Wyoming to Colorado and New Mexico to the south. Additionally, U.S. Highway 85 runs north-south through Cheyenne, providing access to Nebraska. The Cheyenne Regional Airport offers commercial flights, while the Union Pacific Railroad continues to be an important transportation artery for freight. Public transportation within Cheyenne is provided by Cheyenne Transit Program.
Famous Landmarks
- Wyoming State Capitol: Historic building and seat of Wyoming’s government
- Cheyenne Frontier Days Old West Museum: Dedicated to preserving the history of the famous rodeo
- F.E. Warren Air Force Base: One of the oldest military installations in the U.S., dating back to 1867
Pine Bluffs
Geography and History
Pine Bluffs is a small town located in the eastern part of Laramie County, near the Wyoming-Nebraska border. Founded in the late 19th century, the town grew as a stop along the Union Pacific Railroad, serving as a hub for agricultural and ranching activities. Its name comes from the nearby bluffs dotted with pine trees, a striking feature of the otherwise flat plains.
Although small, Pine Bluffs has a rich history tied to the development of the railroad and agriculture in the region. Today, the town is known for its quiet, rural atmosphere, strong community spirit, and proximity to both Wyoming and Nebraska.
City Facts
- Nickname: “Gateway to Wyoming”
- Area: 3.12 square miles
- Population: Approximately 1,100
- Elevation: 5,035 feet
- Time Zone: Mountain Time Zone (MT)
- ZIP Code: 82082
- Area Code: 307
Transportation
Pine Bluffs is situated along Interstate 80, providing easy access to Cheyenne and further west into Wyoming, as well as east to Nebraska. U.S. Highway 30 also runs through the town, offering another important connection for regional travel. The Union Pacific Railroad continues to play a role in freight transportation through the town. The nearest airport is the Cheyenne Regional Airport, located about 40 miles west, which provides air travel services for residents.
Famous Landmarks
- Pine Bluffs Archaeological Site: Prehistoric site with evidence of ancient human habitation
- Our Lady of Peace Shrine: Large statue of the Virgin Mary, visible from Interstate 80
Burns
Geography and History
Burns is a small rural town located about 30 miles east of Cheyenne in Laramie County. Founded in the early 1900s as a stop on the Union Pacific Railroad, Burns originally served as a center for agriculture and livestock shipping. Over the years, the town grew modestly, maintaining its agricultural roots while becoming a quiet, close-knit community.
Today, Burns is known for its small-town charm, with a focus on community events, farming, and outdoor activities. It offers residents a peaceful lifestyle with easy access to the amenities of nearby Cheyenne.
City Facts
- Nickname: “A Quiet Agricultural Community”
- Area: 1.04 square miles
- Population: Approximately 300
- Elevation: 5,241 feet
- Time Zone: Mountain Time Zone (MT)
- ZIP Code: 82053
- Area Code: 307
Transportation
Burns is located along Wyoming Highway 213, which provides access to Interstate 80 and nearby towns like Cheyenne and Pine Bluffs. The town does not have its own airport, but the Cheyenne Regional Airport is within a short driving distance and offers commercial flights. Most residents of Burns rely on personal vehicles for transportation, as public transit services are limited in this rural area.
Famous Landmarks
- Burns Depot Museum: Historic train depot that reflects the town’s railroad past
- Laramie County Fairgrounds: Located just outside of Burns, hosting various local events
Albin
Geography and History
Albin is a small agricultural town located in the northeastern part of Laramie County, close to the Nebraska border. Established in the early 1900s, Albin developed as a farming community, with its economy centered around wheat, barley, and cattle. The town’s small population and rural setting make it an ideal location for those seeking a quiet, agricultural lifestyle.
Despite its small size, Albin is a close-knit community where local events and traditions play a significant role in town life. Its proximity to the Nebraska border has also fostered a strong connection with communities across state lines.
City Facts
- Nickname: “Small Town on the Plains”
- Area: 0.3 square miles
- Population: Approximately 200
- Elevation: 5,112 feet
- Time Zone: Mountain Time Zone (MT)
- ZIP Code: 82050
- Area Code: 307
Transportation
Albin is accessed via Wyoming Highway 216, which connects it to nearby Burns and other parts of Laramie County. The town’s rural location means that most residents rely on personal vehicles for transportation. The nearest airport is the Cheyenne Regional Airport, which provides air service to the area. While there is no public transit in Albin, the town’s quiet roads and open spaces make it an easy place to navigate by car.
Famous Landmarks
- Albin Elementary School: Historic schoolhouse serving as a focal point for the community
- Laramie County Historical Marker: Highlighting the early settlers and agricultural history of the region