The best spots in Laramie for early risers
For early risers, the combination of a fresh cup of coffee and a hearty breakfast can set the tone for a perfect day for adventuring. In the charming town of Laramie, Wyoming, you'll find a variety of welcoming cafes and eateries that cater to the early-morning crowd. Whether you're a local or a visitor, this blog will guide you to the best places in Laramie to kickstart your day with a delicious breakfast and a steaming cup of coffee before exploring this beautiful county.
Breakfast, Brunch, and Coffee
Downtown
Downtown Laramie is a great place to start your day. There are two restaurants that serve breakfast and lunch from 7 a.m.- 2 p.m. J’s Prairie Rose Cafe is a local favorite and was even featured on Guy Fieri’s “ Diners, Drive-ins and Dives” The Diner is located on 2nd Street. Be sure to try their breakfast burritos and the homemade pie. The other popular breakfast restaurant downtown is The Good Egg on Grand Avenue. Eggs are of course the hero on this menu but also be sure to check out their other comfort breakfast food including biscuits and gravy or French toast.
Downtown is also home to Night Heron Books and Coffeehouse. This unique coffeehouse has a library of books to peruse while enjoying your coffee and breakfast. They have a selection of delicious pastries and breakfast food along with a wide variety of coffee, tea, and beer. Upstairs there is even more seating and books including a kids’ nook. You will often find locals chatting over coffee and breakfast at this little downtown gem.
If you are looking for a quick and easy breakfast before heading out on an adventure stop by Daylight Donuts. They are open Tuesday- Saturday 6 a.m. to 12 p.m. They have fresh donuts daily, delicious breakfast burritos, and the nicest and fastest service in town.
UWYO Campus
Turtle Rock Cafe on 9th Street is the perfect place to grab breakfast in the morning while enjoying great views of the University of Wyoming campus. Turtle Rock has a wide selection of coffee, baked goods, breakfast treats, sandwiches, and an exceptional seasonal menu. There is both indoor and outdoor seating. It is located steps away from the Geological Museum and Prexy’s Pasture. Although this cafe is popular with college students, it has something for everyone to enjoy.
On the other side of campus is the 17th Street Cafe. They serve breakfast and brunch daily from 7 a.m. to 2 p.m. and it is located conveniently close to the UWYO football stadium. They serve a variety of breakfast food including biscuits and gravy, breakfast burritos, and enchiladas.
Morning Adventures
If you are an early riser, then you know how amazing it can be to set out on an adventure before most of the world has even gotten out of bed. People who get an early start, are often treated to the best views all to themselves. There are a few unbeatable sunrise locations near Laramie that you just have to see when you visit.
Spruce Mountain Fire lookout tower
Located in the Medicine Bow National Forest, Spruce Mountain Fire Lookout Tower is about an hour's drive west of Laramie. The tower is open year-round for viewing purposes as long as the road is open and passable. In the summer months, you can reserve it for overnight stays for a unique camping experience. From the top, you have a view of the Snowy Range and Rob Roy Reservoir. Because of the location and unobstructed views, the sunrise from the tower is unbelievable.
Medicine Bow Overlook
The best time of day to see the Snowy Range is the morning. Nothing beats the alpine glow along the ridge of Medicine Bow Peak, and the best place to see it is at the Medicine Bow Overlook. The overlook is right off the Snowy Range Scenic Byway. From atop the lot you can view the whole range aglow with warm orange light in the early morning. If you are feeling adventurous, you can hike to the top of Medicine Bow Peak for a sunrise you won’t ever forget. Just remember to wear a headlamp and follow the trail markers because it is a difficult hike in the dark.
Wildlife
Exploring the wildlife in the mountains surrounding Laramie is a great activity to start your day. You can spot many species here, such as antelope, moose, elk, mule deer, pika, bears, and various bird species. Your best chance of seeing these animals is during the early morning or evening hours. It's recommended to bring binoculars and drive slowly to spot some of these animals in their natural habitat.
