ROADTRIP WYOMING: The Sundance Stop

When visiting a state for the first time, it's typical to shoot by some of the best little-known towns and attractions without even knowing.

It might surprise you that even some local residents don't know about these places.

On the northeast side of Wyoming is the town of Sundance.

As in Bush Cassidy and the Sundance Kid.

Yeah, that's where The Sundance Kid was from.

You'll find it on Interstate 90, not far from the South Dakota border.

There is so much to do in that area that many travelers blow right by the town of Sundance without giving it a quick look.

Sundance (Lakota: Owíwaŋyaŋg Wačhí; "Sun-watching Dance") is a town in Crook County.

Population ~1,032.

The town is named after the Sun Dance ceremony practiced by several American Indian tribes.

Sundance was established in 1875 as a trading post.

The Sundance Kid was arrested for a theft he committed here in 1887, the only time he was ever incarcerated, and he took the town's name as a nickname.

Though the town is tiny, it's worth pulling in, finding a downtown parking space, and walking around.

There are a lot of fun shops and restaurants.

Unlike most small towns this downtown area is more like a big square, rather than one long strip. So you can walk from your car and around to see it all, ending up right back at your car.

This is also a nice place to stay and use as a launching point for all the fun things you want to do in the area, from the Black Hills to Mount Rushmore and even Devils Tower.

Don't miss the many small towns in this area. Study your map, drive, and enjoy.