AT The Heart of Evanston & Mother Mae’s Kitchen
Evanston is more than just a stop on the map; it’s a town built on the grit and dreams of our pioneers. Since the first train arrived in 1868, our community has been a place to gather, share stories, and enjoy a great meal. At Mother Mae’s Kitchen, we’re proud to keep those traditions alive, serving up a taste of local history one plate at a time.
Small Town Spirit
Whether you're visiting the Uinta County Museum or just passing through on the Lincoln Highway, there's a sense of belonging here. We take pride in being a place where the community comes to recharge after a day at Bear River State Park or a long trek in the National Forest.
Our Railroad Roots
We grew up alongside the Union Pacific. Back in the day, Evanston was a bustling hub for the steam engines that bridged the West. Today, you can still feel that energy in our Historic Downtown, where Mother Mae’s serves as a neighborly anchor for those exploring the Railyards or the Roundhouse.
A Seat at Our Table
Since 1993, Mother Mae’s has been more than just a kitchen—it’s a piece of Evanston’s living history. We believe in honest ingredients and a warm welcome for every traveler and neighbor who walks through our doors.
Next time you're in the neighborhood, pull up a chair and stay a while. We’d love to have you.
Historic Landmarks Around Evanston
The Historic Roundhouse
This is one of the last remaining wood-block floor roundhouses in the country. It’s a massive piece of railroad history that really shows off Evanston's industrial roots—definitely worth a quick walk-through.
Depot Square
Right in the heart of downtown, the Union Pacific Depot is a beautiful reminder of the golden age of steam. It’s a great spot to snap a few photos of the local architecture before heading over for lunch.
Uinta County Museum
Uinta County Museum
If you've got a bit of time, stop by the museum to hear stories about the pioneers and early settlers. It's run by folks who truly love this town and its rich heritage.
Bear River State Park
Just minutes away from the city center, this 324-acre park offers a peaceful escape with unique opportunities to see captive bison and elk herds. Explore scenic trails for hiking and biking that link seamlessly to the local greenway. Visitors can also enjoy picnicking or browse regional wildlife exhibits at the park’s visitor center. Also fun fact one of the only free Wyoming state park locations and the whole state
Historic Landmarks and more Beyond Evanston
Piedmont Charcoal Kilns State Historic Site
Situated an easy 30-minute journey east from Evanston along Interstate 80, the Fort Bridger State Historic Site preserves one of the most vital crossroads of western American expansion. This expansive 30-acre historic complex was originally established in 1843 by legendary mountain man Jim Bridger as a vital trading post for emigrants navigating the Oregon and California Trails.
Fossil Butte National Monument
Situated a scenic 50-minute drive north of Evanston near Kemmerer, Fossil Butte National Monument is widely considered one of the richest deposits of freshwater fossils in the world, protecting an ancient Green River Lake ecosystem that thrived roughly 52 million years ago.
Fort Bridger Historical Site
Located roughly 30 miles east of Evanston, Fort Bridger State Historic Site preserves one of the most vital crossroads of western American expansion. Today, the expansive 30-acre site features several restored historical structures—including a reconstruction of the original 1843 log stockade, offerings visitors an immersive look into the fur trade and early pioneer history.
The JCPenney "Mother Store"
Nestled in downtown Kemmerer, Wyoming, stands the historic retail landmark known as the JCPenney "Mother Store." Opened by James Cash Penney in 1902, this location served as the definitive birthplace of what would become one of America’s most iconic department store chains.
Wyoming Travel Tips
Driving in Wyoming is a truly unique experience, whether you are visiting us for the season or just passing through on the Interstate. Fast-changing weather, high altitudes, and abundant wildlife mean that being prepared is always essential. Here is our local advice for staying safe on our roads.
General Advice (Good to Know Year-Round) Avoid GPS during closures; it may lead to unmaintained roads. Instead, check the WYO 511 app, wyoroad.info, or 1610 AM. Wildlife Hazards: Watch for wildlife, especially at night. Scan ditches and monitor oncoming headlights for flickers. Note that pronghorn crawl under fences, and animals often travel in groups. Fuel Levels: Distances between towns can exceed 60 miles. Keep at least half a tank of fuel, as services are sparse on remote backroads. Cell Service: Signal often vanishes outside cities. Download offline maps or carry paper versions to avoid getting lost in remote areas.
Summer Driving Tips Afternoon Thunderstorms: Summer storms in high-altitude areas bring sudden hail, rain, and winds. Pull off the highway if visibility drops. Construction Season: Brief road repair windows mean frequent delays and lane closures. Check the WYDOT website for restrictions; large vehicles may require authorized alternate routes. Engine Overheating: Mountain climbs strain vehicles in summer heat. Monitor your temperature gauge, disable AC if needed, and rest your engine. Pack a Summer Survival Kit: Remote roads and high-elevation sun necessitate preparation. Carry a gallon of water per person, radiator coolant, extra bug fluid, a medical kit, sunscreen, and a jump pack to avoid being stranded. High-Wind Closures: High-profile vehicles like RVs and trailers must follow electronic sign warnings on I-80 to avoid being blown off the road. w high-profile vehicles right off the road.
Winter Driving Tips Carry snow chains, as WYDOT may legally require them during severe storms to allow passage. Chains are recommended for all vehicles, including 4WD/AWD. Stay alert for rolling or general winter closures; unpredictable weather often forces gate closures to ensure safety. Anticipate Road Closures: Volatile weather can make routes impassable overnight. WYDOT uses physical gates and electronic message boards to signal shutdowns. If closed, secure lodging until conditions improve. Monitor the WYO 511 app, wyoroad.info, or 1610 AM for updates.