April 24, 2024

Made possible by a generous $600,000 grant from The Leona M. and Harry B. Helmsley Charitable Trust, Wyoming State Parks and Cultural Resources is proud to announce the grand opening of the new Cultural Center at Medicine Lodge State Archaeological Site.

The cultural center will celebrate its grand opening on Saturday, April 27,  and will offer visitors an interactive experience of what life was like at Medicine Lodge over the past 10,000 years. 

            “The cultural center will transform the way guests experience Medicine Lodge,” says Superintendent Heather Jolley. “We owe a big thanks to the Helmsley Charitable Trust for making this all possible.”

The new Cultural Center at Medicine Lodge State Archaeological Site broke ground in summer of 2021. After the completion of the building construction, plans for the interior of the cultural center began.

The interpretive concept is immersive, and visitors will journey through the seasons and time of day that follow the sacred directions, the east, south, west, north, and above and below. Guests will also venture through historical time periods, experiencing cultures that date back to the paleo, archaic, prehistoric and continuing into the life of Indigenous people of today. 

The Helmsley Charitable Trust’s Rural Healthcare program is committed to improving healthcare access and outcomes in rural America. Spending time outdoors is keenly important to both physical and mental health. “State parks provide access to some of the most beautiful and historical parts of our country,” says Walter Panzirer, a Trustee for Helmsley. “We are proud to partner with Wyoming State Parks to add an engaging educational experience to Medicine Lodge State Archaeological Site.”

For more information on the park and hours of operation, please contact Heather Jolley at This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it. or call the park office at 307.469.2234.