If it’s not time to check in to your mountain home away from home just yet, let us offer a few suggestions! Here are some ways to start your visit to Jackson Hole on a great note.
Do you have a car?
Yes! We’ve got a car!
(Even if you don’t, you can always grab a taxi!)
1. Get up close and personal with the largest elk herd in the United States. Settle into a cozy horse drawn sleigh for a tour of the National Elk Refuge, and venture close enough to hear their conversations (listen above). Note: this is available for winter only!
2. Drive to the north side of the dike, and walk over the Snake River via the pedestrian bridge. Explore the beautiful and creative R Park; it’s full of unique features for playing and interacting, as well as locally-made art installations. And be sure to keep your eyes open for bald eagles! It’s one of their favorite hangouts, too.
3. View the world-renowned collection at the kid-friendly National Museum of Wildlife Art. The impressive collection includes paintings, photography and sculptures from around the word, all of which celebrate the unparalleled beauty of nature. Kids will love the interactive Children’s Gallery, and everyone will enjoy lunch at the museum’s excellent restaurant, Palate.
4. Head north into Grand Teton National Park to Dornan’s to sip a pint while enjoying one of the valley’s best views of the Teton Mountain Range and Snake River. A family-friendly establishment with great pizza and pasta, it’s the perfect spot to unwind from travel and make a game plan for all of your Jackson Hole adventures.
5. Brush up on local history at the Jackson Hole Historical Society & Museum. This family-friendly spot will give you a whole new level of appreciation for what life was like in the early days of Jackson Hole!
No car – we’re hoofin’ it!
Drop your bags at our office (105 E. Pearl Ave) – all of these recommendations are within walking distance!
6. Take a photo under the Town Square’s iconic Antler Arches. It’s one of those can’t-miss spots in Jackson Hole, and makes for a perfect “Welcome to Town” activity! You can also hop on the authentic stagecoach for a horse-powered ride around the Town Square for a taste of the Wild West. (Summer only!)
7. Stroll over to the Jackson Hole Children’s Museum to give your kids the chance to explore, learn and play. The interactive exhibits are exciting for kids of all ages, and locally-sponsored rotating topics make sure that there is always something new and fun for kids to discover.
8. Grab a latte and croissant at the chic Persephone Bakery. Tucked into a historic Jackson Hole building among towering cottonwood trees, it’s a favorite local hangout. Choose from the daily selection of fresh pastries, artisan tea and coffee, or settle in and enjoy a hearty sandwich or salad featuring locally-grown ingredients.
9. Ride a scenic chair lift up Snow King Mountain and get your bearings of Jackson Hole and the valley around town. You’ll get stellar views of the Teton Mountain Range, and a bird’s eye view of the town below.
10. Sit down for lunch at Local and dig into a juicy burger made with locally pastured grassfed beef. Or head next door to the Cowboy Bar and saddle up (literally!) for an adult beverage in true Western style.
11. Blow some froth off a locally crafted beer at Roadhouse Brewery’s Pub & Eatery on the Town Square, and nibble on some innovatively reimagined bar food. It’s an ideal spot to unwind after a day of travel and start soaking up pure Jackson Hole magic.
Feel like shopping?
Got the itch to do some shopping? Let us guide you with a few downtown suggestions – here are a few of our favorite spots, all located in downtown Jackson.
Habits – designer clothing and shoes (35 West Deloney Ave.)
Made – handmade gifts (125 North Cache St.)
Lee’s Tees – Wyoming t-shirts (10 East Broadway Ave.)
Stio – Jackson born and bred activewear and outdoor clothing (10 East Broadway Ave.)
Altitude – designer clothing, accessories and shoes (48 East Broadway Ave.)
Skinny Skis – cross-country ski rentals, patagonia and activewear (65 West Deloney Ave.)
Teton Mountaineering – climbing gear, ski gear, clothing, camping gear (170 North Cache St.)
Photos by Lindley Rust
