Little America Hotel And Travel Center In Wyoming Offers Classic Roadside Comfort
Founded in 1952 by S.M. Covey, this sprawling 140-acre complex was inspired by a remote spot in Wyoming where Covey once found shelter during a blizzard.
What began as a simple rest stop has evolved into an iconic American roadside attraction that welcomes weary travelers with unexpected luxury in the middle of nowhere.
A Rich History Born from a Blizzard
Back in the 1930s, S.M. Covey nearly froze to death in a Wyoming blizzard before finding refuge at a remote sheep camp called “Little America.”
This life-saving experience inspired him to create a chain of travel centers, with the Wyoming location opening in 1952.
Originally just a small gas station and café, it expanded dramatically over the decades. The name itself references Admiral Richard Byrd’s Antarctic base camp, symbolizing comfort in an isolated environment.
Unexpected Luxury in the High Desert
Walking into Little America feels like discovering a mirage made real.
The lobby showcases elegant chandeliers, polished marble floors, and rich wood paneling that stands in stark contrast to the surrounding sagebrush landscape.
The 140 spacious guest rooms feature plush bedding, granite bathrooms, and oversized tubs.
Families love the heated outdoor swimming pool that stays open year-round despite Wyoming’s harsh climate, creating a surreal experience of swimming while surrounded by snow in winter months.
Famous Ice Cream Cones and Cowboy Cuisine
Generations of road-trippers have made special detours just for Little America’s legendary ice cream cones.
Serving enormous scoops at surprisingly affordable prices since the 1950s, these treats have become a mandatory tradition for many traveling families.
The restaurant serves hearty, Western-inspired fare perfect for hungry travelers.
Their breakfast menu shines particularly bright, featuring fluffy pancakes the size of dinner plates and a signature cinnamon roll that could feed a small family.
America’s Most Elegant Truck Stop
Little America defies all truck stop stereotypes with its pristine facilities.
The travel center portion features spotlessly clean restrooms that have won national awards – so immaculate they’ve become legendary among long-haul truckers.
The massive fueling station accommodates both semis and family cars with 55 fuel pumps.
Inside, travelers find a surprisingly upscale gift shop selling everything from Wyoming souvenirs to fine jewelry and hand-crafted Western furniture, making it a shopping destination in itself.
A Wildlife-Rich Wonderland
The sprawling grounds of Little America offer more than just services – they’re home to fascinating Wyoming wildlife.
Pronghorn antelope frequently graze on the property’s edges, visible from many hotel room windows.
The carefully maintained gardens feature native plants that attract various bird species.
In winter, the heated outdoor walkways create surreal steam rising from the snow-covered landscape.
Many guests extend their planned quick stops into overnight stays after discovering this unexpectedly beautiful environment in what seems like the middle of nowhere.
24-Hour Traveler Services
Little America never sleeps!
The 24-hour services cater to the round-the-clock needs of interstate travelers, truck drivers, and late-night arrivals.
From hot showers to fresh coffee at 3 AM, this travel center understands what road warriors truly need.
The clean, well-maintained facilities stand in stark contrast to typical highway rest stops.
Professional drivers particularly value the spacious truck parking area with dedicated amenities designed specifically for their unique requirements.
Emergency services are also available, including basic automotive assistance and first aid – crucial offerings in this remote stretch of Wyoming where the next service might be hours away.
Quirky Giant Penguin Mascot
Standing tall near the entrance, Little America’s giant penguin statue has become an unofficial mascot and beloved photo opportunity for generations of travelers.
The penguin’s origins trace back to the founder’s vision of creating an oasis named after Admiral Byrd’s Antarctica expedition base.
Many families maintain traditions of taking yearly photos with the penguin, creating visual timelines of their growth and travels.
