Based on Reddit discussions, travel forums, and local blogs.
Locals and travelers consistently praise Thermopolis for its natural hot springs (boardwalk terraces and public State Bath House), family-friendly pools, the Wyoming Dinosaur Center, and the scenic Wind River Canyon. Frequent cautions include the sulfur smell at the springs, mixed/variable service at some restaurants, and checking current operating status for Star Plunge and TePee Pools due to recent ownership changes and temporary closures.
Hot Springs State Park (State Bath House, Rainbow Terraces, bison loop, Swinging Bridge)
Overall sentiment: positive
Must-stop central attraction for natural mineral hot springs, colorful terraces, easy walks and a small bison herd; expect a sulfur smell but most visitors say it's worth it.
"It’s NOT A RESORT … There are two privately owned hot springs and one free public pool (definitely go in and read up on the history)."
"They’re sulphur pools so everything will smell like sulphur but feel amazing."
Sources: en.wikipedia.org · thermopolis.com · reddit.com
Hellie’s TePee Pools (TePee Pools / TePee Pool & Spa)
Overall sentiment: mixed
Family-friendly mineral pools with indoor/outdoor soaking, slides and spa features — popular for all-day soaking; verify current operator/hours because ownership has recently changed.
"We are teepee pools people … Soak in am, then dine and shop, then back to soak at sunset for one entry price."
Sources: thermopir.com · tepeepools.com · hotspringslocator.com
Star Plunge (water park / large pool + slides)
Overall sentiment: mixed
Historically a landmark family water park with big slides and unique features, but recent operator disputes, maintenance complaints and temporary closures mean you should check current status before planning a visit.
"In general, the whole place seems outdated and somewhat dirty… the roughly $100 we paid for a family of five … were definitely not worth it."
"The facility was scheduled to close … The facility … closed on January 14."
Sources: tripadvisor.com · thermopir.com
Wyoming Dinosaur Center
Overall sentiment: positive
Highly recommended small museum with real fossils, visible prep labs and popular paid dig programs; book dig programs in advance in summer.
"The museum itself doesn't look like much from the outside, but inside was fun & our guide was great."
Sources: tripadvisor.com
Wind River Canyon / "Wedding of the Waters" area
Overall sentiment: positive
Scenic drive on US-20 with dramatic canyon walls and viewpoints; great for photos, river floats, kayaking and fishing in summer—exercise caution in winter driving.
"The canyon into town is spectacular."
Sources: en.wikipedia.org · wanderlog.com · reddit.com
Hot Springs County Museum & other small museums / local oddities
Overall sentiment: positive
Good quick cultural stop for local history and quirky small-town exhibits; recommended for a brief museum visit.
Sources: tripadvisor.com · reddit.com
One Eyed Buffalo Brewing Co.
Overall sentiment: positive
Popular local brewpub recommended for lunch or dinner; noted in local press for its popularity and multiple locations in town.
Sources: cowboystatedaily.com
Safari Club (restaurant)
Overall sentiment: mixed
Steakhouse/taxidermy-themed restaurant described as 'an experience' by some; TripAdvisor shows a mix of positive and negative reviews (service/consistency issues reported).
Sources: tripadvisor.com
Black Bear Cafe
Overall sentiment: positive
Mentioned favorably by multiple reviewers for breakfast.
Sources: tripadvisor.com
Ava's rock shop / Discover Thermopolis / local gift shops
Overall sentiment: positive
Small local shops and rock/gift stores are frequently suggested for browsing and souvenirs.
Sources: reddit.com
Las Fuentes (Mexican restaurant) - mentioned in forum quote
Overall sentiment: negative
Has received at least one negative forum report about food quality and staff; consider other dining options if concerned about service consistency.
"The food at LasFuentes … is completely tasteless and the staff is rude."
Sources: tripadvisor.ca
