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A Route 66 Vibe

Remember the scene in the movie ‘Cars’ when they are driving along the newly fixed road and listening to “Sh-Boom (Life Could Be a Dream)? Driving along 2nd Street in Downtown Casper in the evening gives off the same kind of vibe as that!

Courtesy of: https://cars.disney.com/galleries

As you feel like you’re on Route 66, keep the vibes going and head into “Rialto Soda Fountain”! This quaint little shop will have you twisting your head in all different directions to see all of the old-timey knick-knacks and fun decorations! After you’re done admiring the decor, you can order a delicious gourmet soda, some malts and ice cream, or some good old fashioned comfort food! 

Courtesy of: https://www.visitcasper.com/things-to-do/free-things-to-do/

Talking with Rialto Soda Fountain’s owner, Rob Piotter, will make your day! He’ll make you feel welcome and like you’re his favorite customer no matter who you are! Rob has been running the soda fountain for 5 years, it began when Rob and his wife stumbled across the building and saw an old soda fountain in the back of the room! 

Rob appreciates the integrity and historical value of downtown Casper and loves that his shop has an older feel to it! Their expression is “Bringing Back Yesteryear”, and they love making it a fun, warm and family friendly environment! Rob’s favorite thing about his store is getting the chance to chat and connect with new people from all over, and they have a guest book which they ask everyone who comes in to sign and say where they are from! 

Courtesy of: https://oilcity.news/general/2021/09/29/goodnight-boys-ghost-stories-at-the-rialto-soda-fountain/

Rob was happy to describe a few of his favorite things about the shop! One of his favorite decorations on the wall is a dollar that was signed by his very first customer who worked at the same shop back in the 40s; her name was Helen Panos! Another favorite is an old painting of a gibson girl that he bought from a lady who was cleaning out her house. Once inspecting it a little closer, he realized that it was signed by the original artist and dated 1912! The little details and history behind the shop and items in the shop are fascinating! While you’re there, ask him about all of the beautiful and fascinating decor that makes this shop so unique!

On your old-timey drive through downtown on 2nd street, stop by to listen to some of Rob’s stories, learn about some interesting history, have some fun and enjoy some of the delicious refreshments made right there in the Rialto Soda Fountain!  

Small Business Highlight: Wyoming Camera Outfitters

Wyoming Camera Outfitters opened shop nearly ten years ago as a storefront in downtown Casper. Not only do we get to enjoy this fantastic store here in our local town, Jackson, Wyoming, is also home to another storefront. Looking for camera and video gear online can sometimes be an overwhelming experience — filled with reviews, opinions, and an abundance of options. The employees and owner of Wyoming Camera Outfitters, with their native camera experience, can be the help and advice you are looking for. Whether you’re in the market for new equipment or just need some insights into a future endeavor or purchase, visiting this place should be at the top of your to-do list. After completing a quick interview with the owner and being regulars at the store, we are here to provide you with the in-depth knowledge you need to assure you will be their next visitor!

A Friendly Greeter

If you haven’t entered the store before, you will be in for quite a treat when you walk through that front door. Bridger, a smiley and loving furbaby, comes to work with the store owner, Chris, each and every day. It can also be noted that Bridger is quite possibly the best salesman that exists in the store (outside of the amazing people that will greet you.)

A Bit About Wyoming Camera Outfitters

Wyoming Camera Outfitters has demonstrated its presence as a local favorite for many years. However, not everyone may know that it was inspired to provide a unique, local experience for novice and advanced creators alike. Because of its longevity in the Casper area, this store has allowed for the opportunity to connect with a wide range of individuals. Chris noted that the most memorable part of having a storefront is not only assisting the shopping experience for many individuals but it also providing him and the employees with valuable relationships with other downtown shoppers and merchants. The store’s employees and owner admire the interpersonal bonds that have been created. It can be noted that the customer experience is at the top of their list! When a person, or people, walks through that front entryway, the employees recognize that every need may be different, and they know how to tailor that interaction to what best suits them. Visitors may range from out-of-towners passing through Wyoming to visit Devils Tower, Hells Half Acre, or another breathtaking landmark. These visitors may also be Casper locals just returning to their favorite place.

What Will You Find in the Store?

There are limitless camera and video-related products in the store. To name a few, you can find brands such as Canon, Sony, Tamron, and GoPro. The shop also has accessories you may need for filming and photography such as tripods, drones, and car mounts, and for us iPhone content creators out there, you will find accessories like high-quality microphone setups and iPhone-compatible tripods as well.

Inside of the store at Wyoming Camera Outfitters.

The owner also let us in on a little secret. His personal favorite, and top-selling product, is the Canon mirrorless camera. These cameras are great for all different kinds of subjects and environments. They’re extremely versatile and each and every customer that has been recommended this awesome piece of technology has not been disappointed. In fact, they have enjoyed every bit of time spent using the item.

What Our Friends Are Saying About This Shop

Local photographer, videographer, content creator, and storyteller, Adam Amick, has not only been a recurring and loyal customer at Wyoming Camera Outfitters, he has even partnered with them on a variety of website videos. Adam shared with us a bit more about his experiences with the store:

Wyoming Camera Outfitters is one of the best businesses in Wyoming. They always support my small business by always having what I need and being able to get it for me right away. I run a video production company that requires high-end needs, with demanding turnaround time, and Wyoming Camera Outfitters always delivers. I would not be in business if it weren’t for them as they’ve gone above and beyond their duties as a camera shop. I was loaned my first full-frame camera (5DMark3) when my APC crop sensor camera body was stolen from my car. Wyoming Camera Outfitters wouldn’t have it and made sure I was still able to operate by loaning me a camera. I consider them family and I am genuinely thankful to have them right here in Casper and Jackson, Wyoming! Be sure to support this local business as they will always price match any major dealer. I 10/10 recommend.

Adam Amick, Casper, Wyoming

We here at Downtown Development Authority of Casper have also used Wyoming Camera Outfitters for some guidance and products as well. Brooke Montgomery, a Social Media Manager, Designer, and Coordinator at David Street Station, had some insights on this local business to share for the blog!

Wyoming Camera Outfitters has been a beneficial resource for our team at David Street Station! Between helping us purchase the most ideal camera and video equipment for our specific needs, to providing us with photography lessons, they have helped our organization enhance our content and marketing efforts. We greatly appreciate this local business, and hope others will support them too!

Brooke Montgomery, Casper, Wyoming

What Is Coming for New and Returning Customers?

While expanding storefronts may not be the goal for this shop for 2022, customer experience and education are! Next weekend, October 15, will be one of many great learning opportunities at Hells Half Acre with the Tamron lenses master Jonathan Thorpe. If you happen to be looking for more workshops, you can check out the “Events” option in your desired location on the store’s website.

Wyoming Camera Outfitters cannot wait for you to come in and visit their store! Share with us some of your favorite products or experiences you have had with this great place. We are pleased to have their presence in our local downtown community.

What Sounds Good for Dinner in Downtown Casper?

Downtown Casper is full of the best restaurants for all of your foodie needs! If it’s an evening after a long day of work with the family or a Saturday afternoon with your friends, heading on down to this part of town will not disappoint. Whether you’re craving a delicious, juicy burger, or a hearty greens salad, we have the recommendations for you! And don’t think we have forgotten about the pre and post-meal refreshments and treats. We will be recommending some drinks, desserts, and entrees for everyone to enjoy!

C85 Branding Iron

The Branding Iron, located on 2nd Street, has numerous options for sandwich, steak, and burger-lovers out there. These sandwiches and burgers are city-inspired with the name hinting at a few key ingredients you may find from that location. The New Orleans burger, with its cajun-flavored shrimp and seasoning, will have you feeling like you’re trying southern Louisiana cuisine at its finest. On the more mild side, you can stay a little bit closer to home with the Denver-inspired burger, featuring pepper jack cheese, an egg, and a croissant bun. We know that not everyone is apt to eat a meat-filled dish, and with that, we want to highlight some delicious, vegetarian-friendly dishes as well. The Buffalo Cauliflower, Zucchini Chips, and the Asian Salad are all great options in place of a burger or chicken sandwich. If there is a sandwich you would like to try, a veggie patty is offered here as well. You cannot go wrong with this amazing menu!

The Branding Iron’s “Nashville.”

After enjoying this delicious meal, it may be time for a (boozy) shake! For kid-friendly or virgin options, you can find vanilla, chocolate, and peanut butter flavors (and even more!) If you’re wanting to try a boozy shake, the Peanut Butter Jelly will top off a full and almost satisfied belly!

A boozy shake from the Branding Iron.

The appetizers, entrees, and drinks at the Branding Iron are some of many at the top of our list. However, the delictable food in downtown Casper is not limited to just this one location. One more great steakhouse we must touch on now is the Casper, Wyoming, Rib & Chop House off of Center Street!

Rib & Chop House

We kind of seem to be sticking with a theme here, right? So let’s continue on!

With a modern and refined design, the Rib & Chop House of Casper will have you feel like you’re walking into a western-style fine dining restaurant. Before taking a bite or trying a drink, you will be greeted by friendly waitstaff with your needs as their top priority. The great does not stop there. In your search for food, you will find a variety of beers on tap, unique and delicious drinks, and some great options for the younger ones. As you dive into the appetizers, you’ll find some more southern-style foods such as the Fried Green Tomatoes or the Boudin Balls. These are two options you have to try!

And Dinner Is Served

With steaks of varied cuts, half pound angus beef burgers, or seafood pastas, you will not leave feeling a wee bit hungry. You will also probably have some leftovers as well. For a late-night or after dinner treat, indulge on a Pecan Meltaway or Satin Pie and your sweet tooth will be gone!

Now that we have written this mouthwatering and appetizing post, we are all headed downtown to enjoy a delicious meal. Comment on this post and share with us what restaurants you want to see us have featured on the page or which locations are your favorite for a meal with your friends and family members!

We’ll see you there!

Book store image in downtown Casper!

Back-to School in Downtown Casper

With school having resumed over the last two or so weeks, we here at the Downtown Development Authority of Casper want to make sure everyone — of all ages — is ready for those next nine months of the school year! School shopping is not always an easy task, especially for those who are not “avid shoppers.” However, living in Casper, Wyoming, can make back-to-school shopping interesting and fun with a variety of different stores from your local business owners! If you’re not needing some back-to-school gear, these stores will have you fall lovers ready for the new season with weather-friendly fashion, home goods, coffee, and a comfortable place to watch the leaves change colors!

Floral Rhino

Downtown Casper’s Floral Rhino is a store for all your trendy needs! This stylish shop, with esthetic wall and shelf decor, clothes, hats, bags, Wyoming-related gear, and even a section for your little ones, will not have you leaving empty-handed. If you prefer a boho-chic look or some western-based wear, there is no limit to the styles you will find. Not only will you find clothes for the ever-changing Wyoming weather, but you’ll also find all the accompanying accessories to top off your unique look. For those Wyoming Football lovers, you’ll discover the ‘Cowboy Joe’ section to be quite apt to your fancy. However, if back-to-school is your sole reason for shopping here, you’ll discover the comfort and style in nearly all of the pieces featured throughout this beautiful boutique.

The Fall Decor You Need!

Who doesn’t love a simple monochromatic fall-inspired look for your home? Or a classic, bohemian wall hanging with accompanying plants? If you’re in the market for some elegant and simple wall decor, shelf decor, and other small decorations to top off your home’s style, be sure to browse around the shop for your new homeware needs. It will not disappoint.

Wind City Books

Wind City Books, just across Center Street from the Floral Rhino, will have all book-lovers alike exhilarated by their endless range of literature (and yes, MORE!) If you go in-store or look at their website, you will not miss the wide range of books you can find there of all disciplines whether it be self-help and how-to, young adult, or History! Check out the photo below to see the abundance of books across multiple shelves and stands.

This book store has all your reading wants and needs and also includes a great kids section in the back (next to an incredible in-house coffee shop ☕️). They also feature many book and literature-related events during the month such as book signings, book talks, and book launches for all of the latest and popular publications!

Back-to-school month does not always have to mean busy schedules, school supply shopping, and homework. Take advantage of your local stores, hangouts, and restaurants to take the back-to-school blues away and spend a day (or part of the day) in your favorite parts of downtown Casper. Best of luck to students and educators alike in your next school year!

“Rawgust”: Health, Wellness & More!

August is gaining a whole new meaning in terms of health so we will be focusing on it as “rawgust”: health, wellness & more. 

blog post graphic

The city of Casper, and downtown Casper specifically, has many different options for being active and for eating whole, delicious foods that come from our local growers and creators! Not only this, we have many health-based stores for purchasing food, vitamins, and supplements that are great for the body. As summer is coming to an end, we do not want to take the focus away from treating our bodies best, and if you follow along, we will give you some insights into how you can do this in your favorite parts of town!

Summer Markets at David Street Station

David Street Station –  with its spacious auditorium, splash pad, and areas for taking a nice summer stroll – along with the WCDA have and are holding summer markets every other Tuesday until August 23! These markets have live music, beers on tap from varied breweries, food on the go from your favorite food trucks, and finally VENDORS! The vendors setting up at this spot focus on homemade and/or home-grown products. You can find anything from freshly baked banana nut bread, some spicy mango salsa, and even organic bath soap!

Salsa!

The vendors, along with the individuals setting up and running the markets, have put in a ton of work to serve the community of Casper. The markets have been fun and successful but these business owners could not do this without you. Please join us again, this Tuesday, for a wonderful evening with friends, family, or even solo! You will not want to miss this.

David Street Station during the summer market!

Holistic Health: Alpenglow Apothecary

If you’re looking for a more permanent location for your health needs, head on down to Alpenglow Apothecary in downtown Casper as well. This store has holistic health products, vitamins, medicinal and culinary herbs, and even other health and wellness-related items from local business owners, for sale. The staff is incredibly friendly, so if you’re ever not sure what exactly you need, they have the knowledge and expertise to guide you to what you may (or may not) be browsing for! It will be nearly impossible for you to not find something that works for your lifestyle.

Alpenglow Apothecary

If you’re newer to their business, it is important to note the AMAZING deals you’ll find here at Alpenglow Apothecary. Every Thursday and Saturday, this local business has a 20% off sale of everything you will find in store. Yes, we said everything! Not to mention they also sell 100% pure Kratom, as well as CBD products.

Inside Alpenglow Apothecary

So, if you happen to have this Tuesday evening free, or even a quick hour after your busy day, be sure to stop by the summer market at David Street Station, and then head down a block or two to the Alpenglow Apothecary to top off all of your health-related needs and wants! Share in the comments your favorite health products or activities you have had the opportunity to enjoy here in #mydowntowncasper this summer. We’ll see you there!

Bottles, Brunch & Beartrap

August entails a variety of family-related festivities! On this day, we are celebrating American Family Day here in #mydowntownCasper with a fun-packed day for everyone of all ages to enjoy. Whether you like bottomless mimosas, delicious sweet and savory brunch, or concerts of varied genres, we have the day mapped out for you!

Where Do We Begin? Brunch.

A Sunday mimosa!

Eggington’s has been a Casper staple for many years. Whether you enjoy the Triple Berry French Toast or the Huevos Eggington’s, they have options for everyone (even for our gluten-free friends!) To top off the delectable meal, Eggington’s offers the fresh berry-filled Wyoming Mimosa and Bloody Marys galore! You will not want to miss this first stop. If you’re unsure, check out their menu and you will surely be satisfied!

Checkpoint #2: The Bourgeois Pig.

A delicious latte!

The Bourgeois Pig’s motto is to be your unique coffee shop. With eclectic decor, delicious freshly baked goods, and even more enticing coffee options, this is a stop you have to make. Not only do they have the options to satisfy any appetite — whether your’s or your kids’ — they also have entertainment and lounging areas to be, “Casper’s unofficial living room.” This Sunday, the Bourgeois Pig will be featuring an event called “Beats + Treats.” This event will go from 8:00 AM to 3:00 PM and will feature a live, local DJ, Slim Timmy from 11:00 AM to 2:00 PM. Doesn’t that sound like music to your ears? Well, there’s more. The Bourgeois Pig will also have bottomless drinks and delicious goodies to enjoy during the show! Everyone of all ages should join for just the beginning of a day full of music and food from some of our favorite Casper joints.

We’re Full… What’s Next?

After enjoying brunch, coffee, bottomless, or even a mix of the three, it is time to head up to Casper Mountain for Beartrap Summer Festival. At Beartrap Meadow, you will find a day of live music (free to kids under the age of 12), food, drinks, and more! The weather this weekend will be hot so prepare with sunscreen, water, and a safe ride! One of our local downtown favorites will be featured at the festival as well, Backwards Distilling Company. If you enjoyed the DJ set at the Bourgeois Pig, come, sit back with your lawn chair, and enjoy a variety of performers! The Beartrap Summer Festival will have music beginning at 10:00 AM with the headliner, Jo Dee Messina, beginning at 4:15 PM. Get your tickets on their website!

With the school year approaching and limited time to enjoy the beautiful, summery Wyoming weather with your friends and family, take advantage of this busy, brunch-y, bottomless day and share with us what you’re doing in #mydowntowncasper! We hope to see you there.

Let’s Cheers in Downtown!

Looking for a place to wind down after a long day or to go out and hangout with friends and family? We have the perfect places right here in downtown Casper!

Frontier Brewing Company

Frontier Brewing moved locations! The old fox theatre is now the home to Frontier Brewing. Frontier Brewing is a family friendly brewery and your kids are welcome to come join in on the fun! The brewery has a self-pour tap system. Frontier has trivia every Wednesday night and live music every Saturday night! Grab your pals and head down to Frontier Brewing!

Located at: 150 W 2nd Street

Black Tooth Brewing Company

Black Tooth Brewing Company has recently opened a location in downtown Casper. In December of 2021, Black Tooth Brewing decided to make its 3rd home in the heart of Casper! Although no one under the age of 21 is allowed inside this is still a great place for you and your friends to gather around and drink some great Wyoming made beer! Cheers!

Located at: 322 S David Street Suite A

Backwards Distilling Company

Backwards Distilling Company is another great place to get a great drink and relax with your friends! Backwards does not allow anyone under the age of 21 in the building! On the third Wednesday of every month they do jazz night. Backwards does backstage tours of their distilling company for 10 dollars! Click here for more information on the tours!

Located at: 214 S Wolcott Street

Come hangout in #MyDowntownCasper and join in on all the fun!

Get Concert Ready in Downtown Casper

Heading to the Chancey Williams concert tomorrow night at David Street Station and struggling to find the perfect outfit? You’re in luck! Giddy on up to Downtown Casper to shop a variety of stores that are sure to have the perfect pieces from head to toe.

The Shade Tree Boutique

The Shade Tree is a great place to start! Head into the Shade Tree and get the perfect graphic tee and jean shorts. You can also get dolled up with a jumpsuit. Not to mention, their variety of accessories are sure to help you dress up any outfit!

Located at: 201 E 2nd St. Suite 4.

Lou Taubert Ranch Outfitters & RW Taubert

Serving the West since 1919, you’re always welcome at Lou Tauberts! With 9 floors and 55,000 square feet you are bound to be roped into an all day shopping trip at Lou Tauberts. Whether you are looking for boots, a slick new cowboy hat, or all the western apparel you can think of, you will not be disappointed. Grab your boots and you are concert ready!

Located at: 125 E 2nd St.

The Cadillac Cowgirl

Go in and play at the Cadillac Cowgirl! Their motto, trendy and casual with a little bit of western flare is accurate! Find the perfect outfit with help from the TCC staff. From purses, to jewelry, to shoes you will surely not walk out empty handed!

Located at: 147 S Center St.

Now ya’ll head on down to #MyDowntownCasper, and we’ll see you at the concert to kick up our boots!

Do’s for Dad’s Day



Father’s day is creeping up on us! It is time to spoil our dads with some amazing gifts from Downtown Casper. These shops and restaurants have everything and more for your dad this Father’s Day!

The Branding Iron

The Branding Iron has the perfect combination that our dad’s love! A juicy burger and a delicious beer will surely put a giant smile on his face. Stop into the Branding Iron and get your dad a gift card! With many meals to choose from the Branding Iron is a must! Full menu here.

Located at: 129 W 2nd Street

42 Degrees North

If your dad spends his free time outdoors, then this is the place for you! This store has all the necessities for an adventourous dad! From footwear to athletic clothing to water bottles, there’s sure to be something your dad will LOVE. You also can’t beat their high quality products for a great price. Be sure to stop in and check out the products at 42 Degrees North!

Located at: 128 S Center Street

Frosted Tops

What a SWEET way to surprise your dad! Stop into Frosted Tops and get your dad some yummy cupcakes! With several different flavor options and frostings, you can’t go wrong no matter what you choose. As well as cupcakes there are macaroons and cinnamon rolls. Stroll down to Frosted Tops and let them make your dad’s day a little sweeter!

Located at: 225 S David Street Suite 2

However you choose to spoil your dad for Father’s Day don’t forget to stay local and shop in Downtown Casper! With a variety of options #MyDowntownCasper is the way to go!



Get Gameday Ready in Downtown Casper

Move over summer, football season has arrived in #MyDowntownCasper! Whether you are cheering on the Pokes live at War Memorial Stadium, or tailgating from home, our local businesses have the best gameday gear in the west. When the Cowboys kick off this Saturday, our fans are sure to be celebrating in style!

The Shade Tree – Start your shopping trip at The Shade Tree! Is there any better combo than a velvety soft tee, a great shawl and a western fringe purse?! Pair this with a rustic leather wallet and the perfect sunglasses to complete your look. The store also offers plenty of items for the guys– soft tees, hats, sunglasses, and leather koozies for that ice cold stadium beer. 201 E. 2nd Street Suite #4.

Steamboat Deli and Outlet – UW sweatshirts, tumblers, and onesies oh my! Head into Steamboat Deli and Outlet for a wide variety of Cowboy inspired gifts and gear for the entire family. Not to mention, a delicious stop for a mid-shopping trip sandwich! 251 S. Center Street.

The Cadillac Cowgirl – Continue through downtown to The Cadillac Cowgirl where the jean selection is out of this world! No matter the fit or style, TCC staff is sure to help find the perfect pair. Add a wide brimmed hat and a few more accessories, and you are ready for the game! 147 S. Center Street.

Floral Rhino – Every cowgirl knows that accessories are essential! Stop next door at the Floral Rhino to grab a pair of leather fringe earrings, Wyoming inspired bracelets, and a gorgeous brown and gold belt to tie it all together. 139 S. Center Street.

Jade Elephant Beads – It’s time to add a pop of color and some unique Wyoming style to your fall look! Jade Elephant Beads is the place to be for some gorgeous turquoise rings and necklaces. 126 E. 2nd Street.

Lou Taubert Ranch Outfitters & RW Taubert – No shopping trip is complete without stopping in to Lou Taubert Ranch Outfitters and RW Taubert! These historic shops are a must for any Casper local prepping for gameday. From outdoor gear for the chilly tailgates to the University branded his and her cowboy boots, these 9 floors really do have it all! 136 E. 2nd Street.


Gameday gear has never looked better! Where is your brown and gold shopping trip taking YOU in #MyDowntownCasper?! Let us know by tagging them below.