Gillette, Wyoming has vast quantities of coal, oil and methane gas. Due to its abundance of natural resources, Gillette is nicknamed, “the energy capital of the nation.” Gillette is located between the Big Horn Mountains to the west and the Black Hills to the east. I am sure these names are familiar historical names! Mount Rushmore is approximately 150 miles east of Gillette and if you are a movie buff you will know “Devils Tower”, where Close Encounter was filmed. Devils Tower is also about 60 miles east of Gillette. Another important landmark if Yellow Stone National Park. Yellow Stone is approximately 350 miles west of Gillette. Lots of exciting weekend trips can be planned while in Gillette!!
Gillette’s average low temperature in the winter is 30 degrees F and mid -70’s in the summertime. Great outdoor weather for winter sport such as snow skiing, sledding, and ice skating or summer activities such as swimming, hiking, camping, and golf. Gillette is also big cattle and horse ranching country. Horseback riding is another great outdoor activity that is available from novice to professional. If you are not into strenuous outdoor activities, then you can take one of the coal mine tours that allow you to go “underground” in Gillette. These coal mine tours are open for June through August. Another great activity is fine shopping in downtown shops or Gillette large shopping mall.
For more refined, educational entertainment, Rockpile Museum is a local museum that focuses on local history with an emphasis on the culture and people of Campbell County. The mission of the museum is to serve and preserve local history though exhibits which are both accessible and understandable to visitors. There is a fine collection of rifles, saddles, Native American artifacts, fossils, quilts, and more. There are many hands-on activities for children visitors to the museum.
Another great place to visit is the CCSD Planetarium which is located at Campbell County Jr. High School. This planetarium has been operational for over 30 years! It features a Spitz 512 star projector that accurately shows over 4000 stars on the 30 ft. dome of the planetarium. The most exciting part of visiting the planetarium is that it is free to the public! How awesome is that!
Last but not least are restaurant offerings! Gillette offers a full range of restaurants from carry-out to the Blue Martini Restaurant and Bar which is considered finer dining. You won’t go hungry in Gillette!!
Are you ready to sign up for a beautiful mountainous landscape, quiet “hometown” atmosphere? Gillette is the perfect place for your next travel nurse assignment!
