Jackson Hole Guide

Why you should visit Jackson Hole

A laid-back, yet lively town, Jackson Hole, Wyoming, will have you coming back for more with world-class skiing and easy access to two of the USA’s most awe-inspiring national parks, Yellowstone and Grand Teton. In the winter, Jackson Hole is the snowy paradise to the experienced skier with three ski resorts that are made up of some of the most challenging terrain in the country. Yet the region’s spectacular views – jagged mountain peaks flanking verdant valleys filled with elk – will impress you no matter when you decide to visit.

Within the Jackson Hole Valley, the towns of Jackson and Teton Village provide friendly home bases for outdoor adventure. Strolling through Jackson’s town square, home to its famed elk antler arches, will give you a taste of the old American West with its saloon-like storefronts lining the streets. Meanwhile, the valley is mighty when it comes to its food options, with restaurants like the Snake River Grill and the White Buffalo Club taking cowboy cuisine to the next level.

Ski Resorts Near Jackson Hole

• # Jackson Hole Mountain Resort
• # Snow King
• # Kelly Canyon

See All Ski Resorts Near Jackson Hole »

What to do in Jackson Hole

There’s no point in visiting Jackson Hole if you don’t want to be outside. The valley features vistas that photographers can’t get enough of, and there are plenty of ways in which you can enjoy them.

In the winter, if you are not skiing, hop on a guided sleigh ride at the National Elk Refuge , home to one of the largest elk herds in the world. Or relax in the thermal pools of the Granite Hot Springs which overlook the Bridger-Teton National Forest.

Take a day trip to Yellowstone National Park , only an hour from Jackson Hole, and explore this magnificently stunning volcanic hot spot. Spend the day, or two, hiking through the lush green and towering mountains of this natural wonder. Another sight worth seeing is Grand Teton National Park , only an eight-minute drive from Jackson Hole. At the park, you can hike and fish while surrounded by serene and breathtaking landscape. (Bear in mind that, while both parks are beautiful in any season, visitation may be limited in the winter.)

Get cultural and learn about the history of Jackson Hole only steps from Jackson’s town square at the Jackson Hole Historical Society Museum , which depicts what life was like on Wyoming’s first homesteads, or get acquainted with the region’s wild residents at the National Museum of Wildlife Art .

In the evening, stop by Jackson Hole Playhouse for dinner and a show in the town’s oldest building. For a less-formal outing, grab a drink, play some pool, and enjoy live music and dancing at the Million Dollar Cowboy Bar , a well-known Jackson saloon.

Where to stay in Jackson Hole

Stay in Jackson if you are interested in being steps away from shops, restaurants, bars and live music. For a luxury boutique hotel located in the heart of downtown, look no further than Hotel Jackson , a beautiful property that even offers free shuttle service to both Snow King Mountain and Jackson Hole Mountain Resort. Meanwhile, Snow King Resort provides ski-in/ski-out lodging within close proximity to Jackson’s dining and entertainment options.

Teton Village is a quiet and intimate area that is recommended for your stay, especially if you are visiting Jackson Hole during ski season. You won’t need to carry your skis too far when staying at Jackson Mountain Resort as it is right across the street from the lifts.

There are also a lot of great options in and around the Grand Teton National Park. From historic cottages at Jenny Lake Lodge to an authentic dude ranch at Triangle X Guest , there are a variety of options to choose from. Take your stay lakeside at Signal Mountain Lodge and enjoy your very own bungalow that provides easy access to water sports galore.

Where to eat in Jackson Hole

Before a busy day in the great outdoors, a proper sit-down breakfast is in order. Persephone Bakery is where you want to go with their bread pudding French toast, quiche Lorraine, and croque madame. If you are a bit cold and you need something to warm you up, look no further than Teton Tiger for some steamy Asian street noodles and curry, or nosh on handmade pastas and wood-fired pizzas at Glorietta . Locals are fond of the Stagecoach Bar , a 70-year old western bar with live music, strong drinks, and casual eats.

For something a little fancier ride, savor high-end cowboy fare the White Buffalo Club or Snake River Grill . Or for dinner with a view, ride the Bridger Gondola to Piste Mountain Bistro .

After a day on the slopes trust the chocolatier at CocoLove to whip you up a sweet yet spicy Mexican hot chocolate.

Family-friendly activities in Jackson Hole

Every Friday night during the summer satisfy the star-gazer at the Jackson Hole Center for the Arts as crowds gather to hear astronomers discuss facts about the sky above. Bring your kiddos along on a hike at Laurance Rockfeller’s Preserve and then cool down and take a refreshing dip in Phelps Lake.

In the summer, kids of all ages love the excitement that comes along with whitewater rafting on the rapids of the Snake River. Or take full advantage of the zipline and ropes course at Snow King Mountain and Jackson Mountain Resort . These treetop adventures are not exclusive to resort guests so anyone in the public can enjoy this outdoor adventure.

See wildlife in their natural habitat on a guided safari through Yellowstone National Park or Grand Teton National Park, or on a tour of the National Elk Refuge.