Wind River Country: Explore Nature and Culture Near the Northern Arapaho Casinos
The Northern Arapaho and Eastern Shoshone tribes of the Wind River Indian Reservation offer visitors a unique blend of modern gaming entertainment and a gateway into the rich cultural heritage and native beauty of Wyoming.
Together, they operate four three gaming destinations—Wind River Hotel & Casino, 789 Smoke Shop & Casino, Little Wind Casino, and Shoshone Rose Casino—all situated near Riverton, WY, your trip can be complemented by exploring culturally significant sites, absolutely breathtaking landscapes, and top-notch museums.
Whether you’re pursuing your fortune at the gaming tables or a considering a more meaningful connection to history and nature, this area offers the perfect balance of recreation and reflection.
From sacred sites to fascinating cultural centers, here’s a few ideas for how to enhance your casino getaway with unforgettable Native American attractions and activities.
Wind River Heritage Center
The Wind River Heritage Center, located in Riverton, WY, is a must-see for history enthusiasts. It’s a small, but comprehensive, museum featuring exhibits that celebrate the Northern Arapaho and Eastern Shoshone Tribes, whose members reside on the Wind River Indian Reservation.
Discover historical artifacts, traditional clothing, and displays showcasing the rich stories of Indigenous life before and after the arrival of settlers. The unique taxidermy collection also offers a closer look at the region’s wildlife, including animals significant to the tribes’ traditions.
After your visit, head over to Wind River Hotel & Casino, just a short drive away, to enjoy all the gaming and dining it has to offer.
The Arapaho Cultural Experience at Wind River Casino
Wind River Casino itself goes beyond just gaming by offering visitors the chance to engage with Native American culture. The casino’s onsite Northern Arapaho Experience Room, features cultural artifacts, language displays, and interactive exhibits that highlight the traditions and history of the Arapaho people.
This is a rare opportunity to connect with the tribe’s heritage without even leaving the gaming floor. After enjoying those exhibits, dive straight into the casino’s exciting gaming options, live performances, and delicious dining accommodations.
Sacajawea’s Cemetery
Located near Fort Washakie, WY, the Sacajawea Cemetery is a serene and sacred site honoring Sacajawea, the legendary Shoshone woman widely celebrated for her role as a guide during the Lewis and Clark Expedition
A visit here is an opportunity to reflect on her legacy and learn more about the history of the Indigenous peoples of the region. The cemetery also features interpretive signs that provide insights into Sacajawea’s life and contributions.
It’s an easy stop for those heading to or from any of the gaming properties in Riverton.
Sinks Canyon State Park
For nature lovers, a visit to Sinks Canyon State Park, located just outside Lander, WY, is an unforgettable experience. The park features a fascinating geological phenomenon where the Popo Agie River disappears into an underground cavern (“the Sinks”) before reappearing downstream in a pool (“the Rise”).
The park also offers hiking, rock climbing, and opportunities to learn about the area’s significance to the Northern Arapaho and Eastern Shoshone tribes. Spend the day immersed in the natural beauty of Wyoming, then return to one of the casinos for a lively night filled with entertainment.
Wyoming Indian High School Cultural Events
Located in Ethete, Wyoming Indian High School often hosts cultural events and traditional powwows open to the public. These events provide visitors with a chance to witness and celebrate the vibrant traditions of the Northern Arapaho Tribe, including dance, music, and storytelling.
If your visit coincides with one of these events, it’s a wonderful way to complement your time spent at the local casinos by experiencing the living traditions and artistry of the Indigenous community.
Hot Springs State Park and the Legend of the Fountain of Youth
Visit Hot Springs State Park in Thermopolis, WY, to relax in Wyoming’s famed mineral hot springs while also connecting with a site steeped in Native American traditions. These hot springs, known for their therapeutic and healing properties, have long been considered sacred by the Indigenous tribes of the region.
You’ll soak in their timeless and warm waters, enjoying interpretive signs that tell the stories of the land and its original stewards. Afterward, it’s a short return to Riverton for entertainment at one of the local casinos.
The Northern Arapaho Pow Wow
If you’re in the area in late summer, see if you can plan your trip around the annual Northern Arapaho Pow Wow. Held in Ethete, this colorful celebration brings together community members and visitors to enjoy traditional dancing, singing, drumming, and storytelling.
The pow wow serves as a wonderful opportunity to learn more about the culture of the Northern Arapaho while taking in the beauty of elaborate regalia and the power of rhythmic drumming. After the festivities, it’s back to unwind with an evening of gaming excitement at the Shoshone Rose, Wind River Casino or maybe Little Wind Casino.
Whether you’re here for the thrill of the tables, the beauty of Wyoming’s landscapes, or the depth of Native American culture, the casinos of the Wind River Indian Reservation are the perfect starting point for an trip you will never forget.
