Saddle-Up to Experience Cowboy Culture at Destinations across North America
By Jennifer Gaines, Editor
July 2006
Responsible for cultivating the cowboy culture, the western genre and a few notorious outlaws, the American Old West makes for an excellent vacation experience for today’s travelers.
Travelocity editors recommend these cowboy culture experiences and give tips and advice on where to go and what to expect while visiting western influenced destinations in the United States:
Dude Ranches
Known for its spirit of romance and adventure, the American West cultivated a way of life that is celebrated and practiced even today. Travelers can experience life as a rancher at dude ranches across the country, including Paws Up in Montana and White Stallion in Arizona.
Bull Riding Adventure
Experience “rodeo’s version of fantasy baseball with horns” at Sankey Rodeo’s Vision Quest Bull Riding and Bullfighting Adventure at locations throughout the country. Choose between a three or four day class and learn the art of bull riding and bullfighting alongside professional cowboys.
World’s Largest Outdoor Rodeo
The self-proclaimed "Daddy of 'em All,” Cheyenne Frontier Days is the world’s largest outdoor rodeo and western celebration. Each July, thousands of visitors from around the world go to Cheyenne, Wyo. for rodeo action, western art and cultural entertainment.
National Cowgirl Museum and Hall of Fame
The National Cowgirl Museum and Hall of Fame is the only museum in the world dedicated to honoring women of the American West. Located in Ft. Worth, Texas, it preserves western heritage through collections and exhibits such as Ride: A Global Adventure, on display through Oct. 1.
National Cowboy Poetry Gathering
The National Cowboy Poetry Gathering in Elko, Nev. is a week-long celebration of life in the rural West. This annual ritual, held in late January, honors the western culture through arts such as poetry, music, stories, film, photography and food.
About the American Old West
- The term most often refers to the time between the American Civil War and 1890.
- Includes the area from the “Frontier Strip” (six states from North Dakota down to Texas) west to the Pacific Ocean.
How can travelers experience the American West?
- Visit museums and cultural events dedicated to this historic time.
- Vacation at a working dude ranch for a first hand experience.
- Explore one of the many historic trails by horseback.
- Attend a rodeo or even learn how to ride a bull.
What can travelers expect while visiting the American West?
- Entertainment for couples of all ages and families alike.
- A cultural and educational experience
- Rugged scenery and outdoor activities.
More American West Destinations
- Jackson Hole, Wyo.
- Deadwood, S.D.
- Aspen, Colo.
- Steamboat Springs, Colo.
- Telluride, Colo.
- Bigfork, Mont.
- Whitefish, Mont.
- Sun Valley, Idaho
For more travel tips and advice, check out Amy Ziff's monthly column, Travel Trends & Advice from A to Z, at www.travelocity.com/atoz. To suggest a topic for a future column or to tell about a travel experience of your own, please email Amy Ziff at ask.amy@travelocity.com.
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