Tag: Downtown Casper

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!

Wyoming Camera Outfitters's Outside Storefront

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!

Outside of the Branding Iron and an inside shot of Rib & Chop.

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!

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!

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!

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!

From Corporate, Back to Casper: Ashton Thomas Private Wealth Finds New Home in Downtown Casper

The team at Ashton Thomas Private Wealth has found a new home in the heart of our great city! What you may know as the former location of Alpenglow Natural Foods, sitting at 109 E. 2^nd Street, has been renovated by the Casper branch of the Ashton Thomas Private Wealth investment firm. The recently completed construction has provided the firm with new offices, new areas for clients, and a large reception area all located in beautiful and bustling downtown Casper. As the firm officially opens their doors for business, they are excited about the services they can provide in #MyDowntownCasper.

Ashton Thomas Private Wealth, an Arizona based company, prides itself on creating personal connections and enduring client relationships through the financial services which they provide. With branches spanning across the United States, the firm offers a variety of financial planning services for individuals at every stage of life. After decades of combined service at Wells Fargo, the Ashton Thomas team was ready for a new adventure serving Wyoming clientele. Kate Johnson elaborated on the partners’ excitement by adding, “This new endeavor allows us to more fully connect and engage in our community by keeping jobs and opportunities local.”

The Ashton Thomas Private Wealth Casper team is comprised of three experienced and knowledgeable industry leaders. Michael Porter, Kate Johnson, and Goda Stevens all have experience serving the Wyoming community and are eager to do so. “We are excited to be shifting away from corporate America and refocusing on our clients. We are ready and equipped to help take care of our Wyoming families,” Mike Porter, Managing Sr. Wealth Advisor stated. Welcome to downtown Casper, Ashton Thomas Private Wealth!

Ready to learn more about the Ashton Thomas team?

Michael Porter, CTFA – Managing Sr. Wealth Advisor

Kate Johnson, MBA – Wealth Advisor, Senior Portfolio Manager

Goda Stevens – Wealth Advisor

Contact Ashton Thomas Private Wealth

(307) 224-2600

109 E 2^nd Street Casper, WY 82601

Email: info@at-pw.com

Web: https://ashtonthomaspw.com/

Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/ashtonthomaspwcasper

Craving 5150′ Restaurant Week? It’s Back!

Celebrating the culinary scene in Casper, 5150′ Restaurant Week hosted by Visit Casper is back from January 24-30, 2021! During the week, local restaurants as well as breweries and coffee shops are coming together to offer special pricing on select items on their menu. The pricing at each location includes $3.07 for Wyoming’s area code, $18.90 for the year Wyoming became a state, and $51.50 for the elevation of our beloved city.

By doing so, this gives our community an opportunity to try a little bit of everything from all over town and celebrate all things Wyoming. Several establishments in downtown are participating, as well as surrounding locations around Casper. Here’s the list!

Downtown Locations:
– Backwards Distilling Company
– Branding Iron
– Chozen Yogurt
– Eggington’s
– Frontier Brewing
– Frosted Tops
– Metro Coffee Company
– Occasions By Cory
– Rialto Soda Fountain
– Scarlows Art And Coffee
– The Wooden Derrick Café
– Wyoming’s Rib And Chop House, Casper

Surrounding Locations:
– Beacon Club
– Cottage Cafe & Catering
– FireRock Steakhouse
– Grab & Go Gourmet
– Gruner Brothers Brewing
– Hooch’s
– HQ Southern BBQ
– J’s Pub & Grill
– Johnny J’s Diner
– Little Shop Of Burgers
– Ludovico Farm To Wood Flame
– Mountain Hops Brewhouse
– Oil City Beer Company
– Perkins Restaurant & Bakery
– Racca’s Pizzeria
– Schlotzsky’s
– Shogun Restaurant
– Silver Fox Steakhouse
– Sweet Zoey
– The Keg & Cork
– Three Crowns Golf Club
– Urban Bottle Wine And Spirits
– Wyoming Ale Works
– Yellowstone Garage Bar, Grill And Venue

So whether you are craving something sweet, something hot, something cold, or a full gourmet meal, be sure to check out your favorite place or somewhere new! There’s no better time than now to support our local restaurants, breweries and coffee shops, and experience the cuisine right here at home. We’ll see you this week around town and in #MyDowntownCasper for 5150′ Restaurant Week!

Finding New Shade: The Shade Tree Moves to Downtown Casper

Operating out of the Eastridge Mall for the last 39 years, and under the same ownership for the last 15 years, The Shade Tree has become a staple for Casper shoppers. Back with an expanded product line and a new spin on the Shade Tree name, the business has relocated to the main level of the Atrium Plaza on 2^nd Street and Wolcott. Offering items that appeal to everyone, The Shade Tree Boutique is the perfect place to stop in and shop this fall!

After numerous years located in the center of the Eastridge mall, The Shade Tree Boutique owners Amanda Jones and Amber Bodily were ready for a new adventure and a change of scenery. The new location has provided a more spacious and centrally located storefront that the owners hope will draw in Casper’s community and its visitors. The boutique offers a variety of both women’s and men’s clothing and accessories, home décor and locally branded Wyoming attire. Of course, the new location will still be home to the wide assortment of styles and brands of sunglasses as well!

Owner Amanda Jones says she is excited to be relocating to one of the places she considers to be the heart of our city. Jones has noticed, especially in the last five years, immense change and growth in the downtown area and she is excited to be in the middle of it. When asked what she was most looking forward to, Jones spoke to the excitement of seeing fresh faces among those traveling to Casper, many of whom she has already met since opening the doors. “For me, its meeting all the new people from everywhere else,” said Jones.

The Shade Tree Boutique, located in the Atrium Plaza, (201 E. 2^nd Street Suite #4) is currently open to all customers. The store will be hosting a grand opening on Saturday, October 10^th, and will be open from 11:00am-6:00pm Monday through Friday as well as 10:00-5:00pm on Saturdays in #MyDowntownCasper

Grab a bite to “EAT!” in Downtown Casper

Best known for their special events and catering services, Occasions by Cory has expanded their offerings by providing dining services called EAT! to the Casper community.

Located at 303 S. Wolcott, the remodeled downtown location was opened in December for events, and just recently introduced EAT! into the location. With the pandemic causing events to be put on hold, the team at Occasions by Cory got creative on how to keep business moving forward. To do this, they decided to start offering small plates, salads, sandwiches, tacos, and more for people to come dine in and enjoy.

Cory Poulos, the president/owner, described their offerings as “fast and casual,” as friends or family can come in and share different small plates to get a taste of a little bit of everything. In addition, the community can come in and enjoy the beautiful event space, without having to be apart of an actual event.

Along with tasty food, other offerings include a full bar and a patio in the back to sit out and enjoy the weather. They are currently open weekdays Monday-Friday from 10:00 am – 3:00 pm for lunch, as well as Wednesdays and Thursdays from 4:00 pm – 8:00 pm. To stay up to date on news and specials, make sure and follow their Facebook page!

When it comes to your next place to grab a bite to eat, don’t forget to try out the new EAT! location in #MyDowntownCasper

Father’s Day the Downtown Way

It’s time to celebrate the dads in our life, and what better way than surprising him with some of his favorite things from local shops in Downtown Casper! Check out these businesses for great Father’s Day Gifts!

Wyo Shirt and Gift open front door in downtown Casper, WY.

Wyo Shirt & Gift

If you want to help your dad feel Wyoming pride, this is the place to shop! Whether he needs new décor for his man cave, some Wyoming apparel to wear to the next sporting event, or a new decal for his car, you will be sure to make your dad feel Poke Pride with a gift from Wyo Shirt & Gift.

R.W. Taubert's metal sign hanging on a brick wall

R.W. Taubert Wyoming Lifestyle

If your dad is the adventurous type that loves to get out in the outdoors, look no further than R.W. Taubert Lifestyles for his apparel needs. With brands like North Face, Patagonia, Columbia, Life is Good and more, there is something for him to wear during every season! As their motto states, “We do not know where your trail leads, but we know where it starts, R.W. Taubert Wyoming Lifestyle.”

Frontier Brewing

There are some things almost all dads love, and one of those is beer! Gift your dad a gift card from Frontier Brewing to give him the ultimate tasty experience. Offering a self-pour tap system, your dad can try an array of craft beer flavors while grabbing a bite to eat from the several food trucks that stop by the brewery on a regular basis. Food and beer, what could be better!?

However you choose to celebrate your dad this Father’s Day, don’t forget to shop local with a wide range of gifts awaiting in #MyDowntownCasper