Make a trip of it
We'd love nothing more than for you to linger. Jackson Hole is a place that has a way of getting under your skin — the kind of place you arrive at for a weekend and start quietly researching real estate by Tuesday. There is genuinely something here for everyone: world-class wilderness, great food, and a town with more character than it has any right to. Below is everything we'd tell you over dinner.
Get outside
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Yellowstone National ParkDo not skip this. You can technically do it in a day, but you'll have a much better time if you give it two. The thermal pools are unlike anything else on earth — Old Faithful is iconic for a reason, and Grand Prismatic is even more surreal in person. The Grand Canyon of Yellowstone, the massive lake, the rolling green river valleys — it never gets old. If you see other cars pulled over on the side of the road, pull over too. It's always wildlife.Our recommendation: leave Jackson before sunrise so you're entering the park as the light comes up. If you want to do it properly, drive up through the park, overnight in Montana or Idaho, and cover the second half the following day. It's a lot of ground — splitting it up is absolutely worth it.
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Mormon RowThe historic barns you've seen in every photo of the Tetons. A beautiful and surprisingly moving spot — the mountains behind the old homesteads are genuinely breathtaking. Easy to visit, doesn't take long, and the drive there is lovely.
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National Elk RefugeRight on the edge of town, and the sheer number of elk here is staggering. There are horse-drawn sleigh tours that take you right through the herd — a very Jackson Hole experience.
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Grand Teton National Park — Jenny LakeThere's excellent hiking throughout the park, but Jenny Lake is where we'd point you first. The water is impossibly clear and the surrounding trails offer something for every level. You could easily spend a full day just in this area.
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Snake River Whitewater RaftingA classic for a reason. The Snake River cuts through stunning scenery and there are options for every level of comfort with rapids — from a calm scenic float to something that will genuinely get your heart rate up.
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ATV & UTV RentalsSeveral outfitters around town, all of them good. One of the best ways to explore the backcountry terrain without a full hiking commitment.
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Horseback RidingMultiple ranches and guided trail options available. Riding through the sagebrush with the Tetons in view is a quintessential way to spend a morning out here.
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Bar T 5 Chuckwagon DinnerYou ride out on a horse-drawn wagon, get fed a hearty ranch dinner, and watch a Western show. Touristy? A little. A great time? Absolutely. Worth it if you're looking for something different and memorable.
In town
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Town SquareThe heart of Jackson. Yes, it's touristy — and still really fun. Great galleries, interesting shops, and good people-watching. A few standouts worth seeking out:
- Spirits & Spice — They let you taste their flavored liqueurs. Go in planning to browse; leave with a bag.
- New West Knifeworks — Beautiful custom knives, genuinely impressive craftsmanship.
- Kemo Sabe — The best hat shop in the West.
- Pearls by Shari — Lovely jewelry, great for a gift.
- Jackson Hole Jewelry Co. — Another gem on the square.
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Farmers Market & Town EventsThroughout the summer the Town Square hosts farmers markets and various community events. Worth checking what's on during your visit.
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Jackson Hole RodeoA proper rodeo, held regularly throughout the summer. Loud, fun, and a genuine slice of Wyoming culture.
Where to eat & drink
- Million Dollar Cowboy Steakhouse
- Steadfire Chophouse
- Aurora
- Kampai
- Big Hole BBQ
- Mangy Moose
- Hand Fire Pizza
- Pinky G's Pizza
- Persephone Bakery
- Million Dollar Cowboy Bar
- Mangy Moose
- Stagecoach Bar
A few practical things
- There's a Whole Foods and an Albertsons in town if you need to stock up on groceries or supplies.
- Uber is reliably available in Jackson and the surrounding area — you won't be stranded.
- If you're heading out on a hike, you'll need bear spray. Rent or buy it in town before you go — it's not optional out here.
A few more things
Kelly Warm Springs is a strange little spot — the water isn't exactly inviting for a swim, but there's something charming about it, and the fish are worth a look. More than anything, the roads winding through that area are beautiful to drive in the warmer months. If you continue down the road, you'll come across the Wedding Tree — the exact spot where our ceremony will take place.
And honestly? Don't be afraid to just drive. Some of the best things we've found out here happened with no plan at all.