Welcome to Jackson Hole, a valley of breathtaking beauty where the rugged spirit of the American West meets world-class outdoor adventure and refined culture. Nestled against the dramatic backdrop of the Teton Range, this iconic destination in Wyoming offers an incredible array of experiences. From thrilling mountain pursuits to vibrant town life and encounters with majestic wildlife, there’s no shortage of amazing Stuff To Do In Jackson Hole Wyoming for every traveler, no matter the season. Let’s explore the highlights.
Explore the Great Outdoors: Grand Teton & Beyond
Jackson Hole is synonymous with outdoor adventure. The valley serves as a gateway to some of the most stunning natural landscapes in the United States, offering activities that range from serene scenic floats to challenging mountain climbs. It’s the prime location for experiencing the wild heart of Wyoming.
Grand Teton National Park Adventures
Standing tall with their jagged peaks, the Grand Teton mountains dominate the horizon and define the landscape of Jackson Hole. Grand Teton National Park is a paradise for hikers, climbers, photographers, and anyone seeking connection with unspoiled nature. The park boasts hundreds of miles of trails catering to all skill levels, from easy lakeside strolls to strenuous alpine treks leading to panoramic vistas.
Exploring the park also includes opportunities for boating, fishing, and wildlife viewing around its pristine lakes like Jenny Lake and Leigh Lake. Scenic drives along Teton Park Road offer numerous pull-offs for capturing iconic photos of the range reflecting in the water. Whether you spend a few hours or several days, discovering Grand Teton National Park is an essential part of experiencing Jackson Hole.
White Water Rafting or Scenic Floats on the Snake River
The Snake River is the lifeblood of the Jackson Hole valley, carving its way through canyons and across the valley floor. A float trip down the Snake River is an absolute must when looking for exciting stuff to do in Jackson Hole Wyoming. Depending on your preference for adventure, you can choose between exhilarating white-water rafting tours that navigate thrilling rapids, or opt for a calmer, scenic float trip.
Scenic floats offer a relaxed perspective on the stunning landscape, providing ample opportunities for wildlife spotting, including eagles, osprey, elk, and sometimes bears along the riverbanks. Guided trips are available for both types of excursions, ensuring a safe and informative experience while you soak in the beauty of the Teton views from the water.
Kayaking in Jackson, Wyoming is the most beautiful and thrilling things to do with family and friends.Kayaking on the Snake River offers both beauty and thrills in Jackson Hole.
Winter Fun at Jackson Hole Mountain Resort & Snow King
When winter blankets the valley in snow, Jackson Hole transforms into a world-class destination for cold-weather sports. Jackson Hole Mountain Resort, located in Teton Village just outside the town of Jackson, is renowned globally for its challenging terrain and incredible powder skiing and snowboarding. Beyond downhill sports, the resort area offers cross-country skiing, snowshoeing, and vibrant après-ski scenes.
Closer to town, Snow King Mountain provides another fantastic option for winter activities. Known as the “Town Hill,” it offers skiing, snowboarding, snow tubing, and even dog-sledding opportunities. Both resorts provide lift access to stunning views and diverse terrain, making them essential places for snow-focused stuff to do in Jackson Hole Wyoming during the colder months.
Discover Wildlife at the National Elk Refuge
Just north of the town of Jackson lies the vast National Elk Refuge, a critical habitat for thousands of elk that migrate to the valley floor for the winter. Visiting the refuge offers an incredible chance to see these magnificent animals up close in their natural environment. While elk are most numerous in winter, the refuge is home to diverse wildlife year-round.
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Beyond elk, you might spot bison, bighorn sheep, pronghorn, deer, coyotes, wolves, and numerous bird species. During the winter, sleigh rides through the refuge provide a unique and intimate way to observe the elk herd. In warmer months, driving or biking along the refuge roads allows for excellent wildlife viewing opportunities, making it a top choice for observing nature among the stuff to do in Jackson Hole Wyoming.
Elk graze under the snow in Jackson Hole, a popular destination for families.Elk grazing in the snow at the National Elk Refuge, a key wildlife attraction in Jackson Hole.
Relax in the Astoria Hot Springs
After days filled with adventure, soaking in a natural hot spring is the perfect way to relax and rejuvenate. Located a short drive south of Jackson, Astoria Hot Springs Park offers a series of pools with varying temperatures, set alongside the scenic Snake River. It’s a family-friendly facility with pools designed for adults, children, and general leisure.
The park provides a comfortable and accessible way to experience the geothermal wonders of the region while enjoying the beautiful natural surroundings. With picnic areas and a playground, it’s a great spot to spend a few hours unwinding, adding a touch of soothing luxury to your list of stuff to do in Jackson Hole Wyoming.
A couple relaxes in Astoria Hot Springs during a gorgeous winter day in Jackson Hole.Relaxing at Astoria Hot Springs is a perfect way to end a day of activities in Jackson Hole.
Immerse Yourself in Jackson Hole Culture & History
While the landscape is the main draw, the town of Jackson and the wider Jackson Hole area have a distinct personality shaped by their Western heritage and vibrant community. Exploring the local culture, history, and unique venues adds another layer to your visit.
Experience the Charm of Jackson Town Square
The heart of the town of Jackson is its iconic Town Square, formally known as George Washington Memorial Park. This central plaza is famous for its four distinctive arches made entirely of elk antlers, gathered from the nearby National Elk Refuge. The square is surrounded by charming shops, art galleries, restaurants, and businesses housed in Western-style buildings.
It’s a lively hub where you can relax on benches, watch people stroll by, and often find local events taking place. The Town Square serves as a perfect starting point for exploring the downtown area and is a quintessential photo spot when listing stuff to do in Jackson Hole Wyoming.
Catch the Thrills at the Jackson Hole Rodeo
Nothing says “Wild West” quite like a rodeo, and the Jackson Hole Rodeo delivers an authentic and exciting experience. Held during the summer months, this beloved local tradition showcases classic rodeo events like bull riding, bronc riding, calf roping, and barrel racing. It’s a display of skill, courage, and Western spirit that is captivating for all ages.
Attending the rodeo offers a glimpse into a long-standing part of Wyoming’s cultural identity. For an even closer look, VIP experiences might be available, allowing you to see the action behind the chutes. The Jackson Hole Rodeo is high on the list for anyone seeking an iconic Western experience.
Step into the Wild West at the Million Dollar Cowboy Bar
For a taste of Jackson Hole’s legendary nightlife and Western ambiance, the Million Dollar Cowboy Bar is an absolute must-visit. This historic saloon is famous for its unique bar stools made from genuine saddles. It’s a place where you can grab a drink, enjoy live country music, and even hit the dance floor for some two-stepping.
Located right on the Town Square, the Cowboy Bar embodies the fun-loving, rugged spirit of Jackson Hole. Whether you’re looking for a night out or just want to see this famous landmark, stopping by is one of the quintessential stuff to do in Jackson Hole Wyoming. Don’t forget to check out the Million Dollar Cowboy Steakhouse located downstairs for a meal.
Admire Art at the National Museum of Wildlife Art
Perched on a butte overlooking the National Elk Refuge, the National Museum of Wildlife Art is a true gem that blends stunning architecture with remarkable collections. The museum is dedicated to showcasing art inspired by wildlife and nature from around the world, spanning historical and contemporary works. It features pieces by renowned artists who have captured the beauty and power of the animal kingdom.
Walking through the galleries, you’ll find paintings, sculptures, and photographs that offer profound insights into the relationship between humans and wildlife. The museum’s setting alone is spectacular, providing expansive views of the valley and refuge. It offers a cultural counterpoint to the outdoor activities and is a highly recommended addition to your Jackson Hole itinerary.
Unique Experiences & Local Flavors
Beyond the major attractions, Jackson Hole offers several unique ways to experience its natural beauty and local character. These activities often provide different perspectives or deeper connections to the area.
Take a Scenic Ride on the Jackson Hole Aerial Tram
Affectionately known as “Big Red,” the Jackson Hole Aerial Tram is an unforgettable way to gain elevation quickly and witness the vastness of the Jackson Hole valley and the Teton Range from above. Departing from Teton Village, the tram ascends over 4,000 vertical feet to the summit of Rendezvous Mountain in just about 9 minutes.
At the top, you are greeted with panoramic 360-degree views that are simply stunning. In the summer, it’s a popular starting point for hikers or simply a place to enjoy the view and maybe grab a famous “Corbet’s Cabin” waffle. In winter, it serves expert skiers and riders. Taking the tram is a thrilling and visually rewarding experience among the stuff to do in Jackson Hole Wyoming.
A must-see thing to do in Jackson, Wyoming is to visit the Jackson Hole Aerial Tram.The Jackson Hole Aerial Tram provides stunning panoramic views of the valley.
Join an EcoTour Adventure
To gain a deeper understanding of Jackson Hole’s ecosystems and increase your chances of spotting wildlife, consider joining a guided eco-tour. Local experts offer tours that focus on different aspects of the environment, wildlife viewing, and photography. These tours often utilize specialized vehicles and knowledgeable guides who can interpret the landscape and animal behavior.
Eco-tours can take you into Grand Teton National Park, the National Elk Refuge, or other key areas, often at optimal times for viewing wildlife (like dawn or dusk). This guided approach is excellent for visitors who want a more structured and informative nature experience. Booking an eco-tour is a smart way to maximize your wildlife encounters among the stuff to do in Jackson Hole Wyoming.
Sip Local Wine at Jackson Hole Winery
Who knew you could find award-winning wine being produced in the shadow of the Tetons? Jackson Hole Winery is a family-owned business that has successfully cultivated grapes and crafted unique wines in the Wyoming climate. Their tasting room offers visitors the chance to sample a variety of their high-altitude wines.
Visiting the winery provides a pleasant diversion and a taste of local craftsmanship. Enjoying a glass on their patio with views of the mountains is a relaxing way to spend an afternoon, adding a unique local flavor to your list of stuff to do in Jackson Hole Wyoming.
Glamping is a popular thing to do in Jackson, Wyoming for the family.Glamping offers a unique and popular accommodation or experience option in Jackson Hole.
Frequently Asked Questions About Stuff To Do In Jackson Hole Wyoming
Planning a trip can bring up questions. Here are some common ones about finding stuff to do in Jackson Hole Wyoming.
What are the top attractions and stuff to do in Jackson Hole Wyoming?
The top attractions include Grand Teton National Park, the National Elk Refuge, Jackson Hole Mountain Resort, the Jackson Hole Rodeo, the iconic Town Square, the National Museum of Wildlife Art, and Astoria Hot Springs. These spots offer a diverse range of outdoor activities, cultural experiences, and wildlife encounters.
What are the best outdoor activities to find among the stuff to do in Jackson Hole Wyoming?
Depending on the season, popular outdoor activities include skiing, snowboarding, and snow tubing in winter, and hiking, climbing, scenic floating or white-water rafting on the Snake River, fishing, and wildlife viewing during the warmer months. Exploring Grand Teton National Park is central to outdoor adventures here.
What is Jackson Hole Wyoming best known for?
Jackson Hole is perhaps best known globally for the Jackson Hole Mountain Resort, renowned for its challenging ski terrain. However, it’s equally famous for its stunning proximity to Grand Teton National Park and the abundance of wildlife, particularly the large elk herds, making it a prime destination for nature lovers and adventure seekers.
Plan Your Adventure and Discover Stuff To Do In Jackson Hole Wyoming Today!
Jackson Hole, Wyoming, truly offers a blend of unparalleled natural beauty, thrilling outdoor activities, and a vibrant, welcoming Western town culture. Whether you’re drawn by the call of the wild mountains, the chance to see iconic American wildlife, or the desire to experience authentic Western heritage, you’ll find an incredible range of stuff to do in Jackson Hole Wyoming that will fill your days with adventure and wonder. Start planning your trip and discover this unforgettable corner of the world for yourself!