Those who call Jackson Hole, Wyoming home are often drawn to this destination permanently thanks to its undeniable year-round appeal. In every season, Jackson Hole has something incredible to offer whether you happen to be someone with a heart for the great outdoors, or you’re the type of person who prefers to indulge in impeccable relaxation and rest during well-earned downtime. In either case, amazing views define the Jackson Hole experience just about everywhere you look, and you’ll find that this inviting place is also packed with intriguing Jackson hole events and festivities to take part in that fill the calendar each year.
In every season, Jackson Hole’s proximity to amazing national parks makes it a place where an adventure is always within reach. When you’re traveling this way and looking to experience Jackson Hole like a local, this guide is your ultimate place to start!
Top-Rated Eateries to Enjoy
Jackson Hole has a reputation for excellence that revolves around it being a place where locals and visitors alike can still embrace authentic Old-West vibes. When you’re heading this way in the name of a fun getaway and you’re looking for a dining opportunity that does exactly that, be sure to check out the locally loved eatery known as Glorietta. Situated within the Anvil Hotel, Glorietta is a unique stop in town where the atmosphere perfectly pairs Italian elegance and Western charm in terms of aesthetics and flavors. For example, the menu here boasts a unique combination of bison and amaretto shots alongside elk Bolognese to name just a few of the many options available. Dessert at Glorietta is a great chance to pair wonderful Jackson Hole views with options like donuts topped with spice sugar and apple cider reduction. One bite and you’ll easily see why Glorietta is a fan-favorite restaurant in town among those who live here year-round.
If you’re looking to infused an après-ski stop into your stay in Jackson Hole that’s approved by locals, look no further than Corsa. You’ll find this restaurant at the base of Teton Village and it’s a wonderful destination for gathering with friends after time on the slopes to enjoy everything from spicy vodka rigatoni or a classic margarita pizza followed up by a slice of apple crisp.
The Western appeal of time in Jackson Hole is found in abundance over at Snake River Grill. This locally adored stop has been a staple in the area for more than 30 years and those who enjoy a meal here are treated to delicious menu options in a log cabin-inspired setting. Whether you go with roasted duck, bone-in pork chop, or steak tartare pizza, your tastebuds will thank you for the experience.
If you find yourself in the mood for great sushi during your stay, Kampai hosts a menu of authentic Japanese fare options that are sure to delight. Hand Fired Pizza is the place to be for a delicious slice served up in the historic Teton Theater building. This local pizzeria is also loved for its extensive use of locally grown ingredients, sustainably raised and fairly sourced meats, as well as their organic produce.
Where to Shop When You Experience Jackson Hole
When you have plans to enjoy time in Jackson Hole and you’re looking to infuse some retail therapy fun into the mix, you can shop like a local over at Teton Village. This one-stop hub for great finds is a great place to stock up on outdoor recreation gear before you head out as it’s home to everything from Teton Mountaineering, Hoback Sports, Jackson Hole Sports, and Teton Village Sports too. Most of these stops offer up e-bike rentals when you drop by as well as options to book guided outings if you choose.
If you’re looking to stock up on high-end apparel and refurbish your closet during your Jackson Hole getaway, head over to Habits where locals love to invest in the latest looks from brands like Raquel Allegra, Wales Bonner, and eclectic finds designed by Rop Man Mierlo too. Mountain Dandy is a must-visit shop when you’re on the hunt for leather furniture, beard oil, and bowties, while the Sing Hat Company is a top destination in town for custom-ordered cowboy hats.
Exceptional Outdoor Adventure Jackson Hole Activities to Try While You’re in Town
Jackson Hole beckons to travelers from across the map in every season for good reasons, and it’s often the most adored outdoor adventures here that appeal to locals as well. If you’re looking for something amazing to try in the warm weather months of the year, you won’t want to miss out on time climbing the iconic Via Ferrata. With the ski season long gone, adrenaline junkies will get their fill when they choose to set their climbing sights on this challenging, yet approachable route. Via Ferrate invites outdoor adventurers to scale local rock faces with steel rungs and cables in place as they pick and choose from beginner, intermediate, or advanced routes. In addition to the natural hurdles at Via Ferrata, you’ll enjoy man-made obstacles to navigate around as well like a 35-foot sky ladder or a suspension bridge. It’s a one-of-a-kind experience in the area that brings back climbing enthusiasts from afar and locally each summer.
For many residents and travelers alike, the highlight of living in or visiting Jackson Hole is the fact that being here means incredible places like Grand Teton National Park and Yellowstone National Park are always right at your fingertips. There’s no shortage of options for outdoor adventure in any season when you set aside time to explore these stunning and thrilling areas of protected terrain. Grand Teton National Park is a top destination among locals and visitors alike, showcasing the Teton Range and offering up access to 485 square miles of wilderness and recreation areas. Amazing views are yours to enjoy just about everywhere you look, and the park is also home to a captivating lineup of wildlife to spot. Above all, Grand Teton National Park is a hiking enthusiast’s playground, and if you want to hit the trails like a local, there are some routes you’re not going to want to miss.
When your travel plans include time at nearby Yellowstone National Park, it won’t take you long to realize why this is a locally loved stop on the map too. Not only does it hold the title as the very first national park, but when you explore, you’ll have access to no less than 10,000 thermal features within its breathtaking parameters. Old Faithful is always a treat to see for yourself, but it’s good to remember that this park encompasses thousands of square miles, so you won’t want to miss out on activities like wildlife tours to set your sights on bears, bison, elk, and more while you’re here.
Great Places to Fish Like a Local
Sometimes, vacationing in Jackson Hole is less about high-energy fun and more about slowing things down and enjoying your surroundings at your own preferred pace. Fishing is a great way to do exactly that and when you want to add a few locally loved stops to your list when it’s time to cast a line, there are plenty to pick from. The Snake River is a particularly appealing fishing area in town that runs through nearly the entirety of Jackson Hole. It’s a popular stop among fly fishing enthusiasts thanks to options to pick places along the waterway spanning all the way from Grand Teton National Park to the Jackson Lake Dam. Anglers will also want to set aside time to enjoy seeing what’s biting at the Palisades Reservoir. It’s a haven for cutthroat trout and brown trout alike with many anglers choosing to fish from a canoe on these tranquil waters.
Ski Your Way to Jackson Hole Fun
It’s not uncommon for those who adore spending time on the slopes each winter to travel to Jackson Hole for a season and find themselves moving here permanently afterward! Jackson Hole has no shortage of options when it comes to world-class runs to explore when the fresh powder falls each year. There are three major ski areas to check out including Jackson Hole Mountain Resort, Grand Targhee, and Snow King. All three are terrific places for skiers of all skill levels with convenient options to rent the gear you need right on-site and lessons readily available for those who are new to the sport and excited to try for the first time. From the gondolas offering up stunning views to the impressive après-ski scenes, just about everything you could imagine enjoying is right here.
Don’t Miss Out on the Activities Loved by Everyone
Your trip to Jackson Hole truly won’t feel complete until you’ve enjoyed some quality time alongside family and friends exploring Town Square. This vibrant hub for shopping and dining in town is a must-visit as it’s a great place to people watch, take iconic photos, and attend a multitude of annual Jackson Hole events throughout the year as well. It’s home to the famous Million Dollar Cowboy Bar and where you’ll want to be to snap a photo in front of one of the four archways constructed entirely out of antlers local elk have shed. It’s a great place to find apparel, jewelry, and whimsical souvenirs, but just as robust in terms of delicious dining options.
Yet another place to enjoy during your Jackson Hole stay when you want to get up close to local wildlife in every season is the National Elk Refuge. Spanning 25,000 acres of terrain, the National Elk Refuge is a place where thousands of elk thrive, and you can view them from trails all summer long. In the wintertime, the refuge offers unique horse-drawn sleigh rides through the area to put an emphasis on wildlife in all seasons and provide travelers with a wonderful way to sightsee.
Book a Stay That Speaks to Your Individual Style in Jackson Hole
No matter when you arrive in Jackson Hole, how long you stay, or how many others you’re adventuring alongside, making sure you have incredible accommodations in place to top your getaway off in luxury and style is what the team at Abode Jackson Hole does best. Whether you’re looking for a cozy abode by the water or a stunning multi-level retreat for a family reunion with mountain views, we have it covered. Reach out today to learn more and to start turning your Jackson Hole travel plans into a reality soon!
