Lander Lil
Our very own Spring prognosticator. She was a prairie dog that lived where the Post Office is now located. To honor the tradition Bev Paddleford was commisioned to create a bronze that now resides at the Post Office.
Just one of the many bronzes throughout Lander thanks to Eagle Bronze.
Thompson Carpentry Shop 1887
Part of the Museum of the American West exhibit of restored historical structures from the Lander area.
Red Canyon
Located a few miles south of Lander, Red Canyon is a truly amazing view.
Lander is Economically Diversified
For many years U.S. Steel operated a mine just outside of Lander which employed much of the community. In the early 1980's the mine closed leading to a severe regional recession. Times were tough for a while but the community persevered and soon things began to change as new business opportunities presented themselves. No longer was Lander dependent on one industry. Many businesses began to thrive and help Lander become the highly diversified, more robust, economy it is today.
Lander's Main Street has taken on a new look along with many of the building fronts. A major step was taken with the complete reconstruction of Main Street. Colored, textured, handicap accessible sidewalks were added. In addition, decorative street lamps, benches, trees, flower barrels and bicycle racks now adorn the street. Lander now boasts unique specialty shops, restaurants, and office space in formerly empty buildings. Many local businesses have invested in restoration projects that have revealed the historic features of their buildings. The character and variety of shops on our Main Street draw people from throughout central Wyoming.
As the business community has evolved and expanded, it isn't hard to detect a new community pride and optimism. The economic diversification of Lander has a momentum that shows no signs of slowing down.
Millions of dollars are being invested in new construction. The National Outdoor Leadership School, one of Lander's largest employers, completed work on its new, multimillion dollar international headquarters. First Interstate Bank and Atlantic City Federal Credit Union have completed beautiful new buildings. The Best Western Inn at Lander completed a major addition to double capacity as well as a new Holiday Inn. Several other businesses also have remodeling and/or expansion plans underway.
Economic infrastructure is another vital component in the community's economic development plan. By working with surrounding communities and the Wyoming Public Service Commission, the Lander area has secured communications infrastructure commitments to install fiber optics over the next couple of years.
With Lander's continued economic growth, the city continues to attract a diverse group of professionals, retirees, and young people. The diverse citizenry has also nourished the city's cultural opportunities. New additions to the calendar include the Lander Jazz Fest, the Brew Fest featuring breweries from four states, and the Climber's Fest which draws attendees from all over the world.
Lander also offers an interesting mix of dining and entertainment. If you want a great steak, one of the best steak houses in the country is just minutes away. How about Mexican, Chinese, Italian, or Asian Fusion, well we have that too. The nearby Wind River Indian Reservation provides another valuable contribution to the city's diverse culture. Many activities involving our Shoshone and Arapaho neighbors are held throughout the year. The city's cultural assets are considered a vital component in the city's pitch as a great place to live and do business.
