When you’re lucky enough to have time on the calendar to spare to explore and enjoy new places, heading to Jackson Hole, Wyoming is always an inspiring choice. This beautiful destination is found in the heart of the Tetons, within easy reach of stunning stops like Yellowstone National Park and Grand Teton National Park as well. Whether you’re someone with a heart for Old West charm, or you’re looking forward to kicking back and relaxing in style, Jackson Hole is a place where it’s easy to enjoy the very best of it all. From the one-of-a-kind shops and eateries found here, to the many seasonal events to attend, seamless access to nature, and undeniably photo-worthy surroundings, Jackson Hole truly has something for everyone to love beginning the very moment they arrive.
While an extended stay here is always an inviting prospect, even a short visit this way can do wonders when you’re looking for adventure. The following is the place to start when you want to plan a day trip to Jackson Hole that’s packed with unforgettable thrills and fun.
Head Out Early to Enjoy a Spectacular View Over Mormon Row
Jackson Hole is a vacation destination that’s absolutely brimming over with rich local history. If you’re someone who is always looking to connect with the past, no matter where you roam, a Jackson Hole day trip this way should begin before the sun even rises in the sky over at Mormon Row. Sitting just inside the parameters of Grand Teton National Park, Mormon Row is a designated historic district in Jackson Hole that plays host to rustic barns stretching upward in impressive style, with the Teton Range working as a beautiful natural backdrop for the scenery. This is often pointed to as one of Jackson Hole’s most photographed spots with good reason. Upon arrival, it doesn’t take long to see why so many aspiring and professional photographers are drawn to this area.
Mormon Row was officially added to the National Register of Historic Places back in 1997 and is an enduring testament to the early Mormon settlers who arrived in the area in the 1890s. The space showcases multiple structures that have been meticulously maintained over time, including the T.A. Moulton Barn and the Andy Chambers Homestead to name a few. It’s an incredible place to stroll with family and friends, take photos, and enjoy a Jackson Hole sunrise long before midday crowds start hiking in. You can reach your first stop of the day by taking Highway 191 north past Moose Junction and turning right onto Antelope Flats Road.
Treat Yourself to a Delicious Breakfast at The Virginian Restaurant in Town
By 6:30 am, the culinary team over at the Virginian Restaurant will be opening their doors to the hungry public, and this is where you’re going to want to be when it’s time to treat yourself to a delicious breakfast. You’ll find the Virginian Restaurant at 740 W Broadway, and this family-owned neighborhood eatery could very well end up being one of the savory highlights of your day trip this way! It’s a great place to fuel up for the fun ahead thanks to a robust menu of American favorite options like crispy hash browns, blueberry pancakes and bottomless coffee options too. The Wild West and cowboy-inspired motifs throughout make your breakfast stop even more charming, but it might just be the friendly service that keeps you coming back for more. Whether you opt for the pork chop and eggs, or lean into the idea of a granola sundae with a side of homemade cinnamon roll, your time here is sure to be an experience your tastebuds will thank you for in Jackson Hole.
Enjoy a One-of-a-Kind Scenic Drive
When you only have a day to spare in the name of fun in Jackson Hole, it’s definitely worth your while to get behind the wheel and explore as much of your surroundings as possible. A great place to do exactly that is the Moose-Wilson Road scenic drive that offers spectacular views of the local terrain! Many visitors find that, depending on the time of year they’re here, this route is one that offers up good chances for spotting everything from elk and bears to even moose along the way. If you find you have some time to spare for a nature walk, this scenic drive links up seamlessly to the Laurance S. Rockefeller Preserve, where the trails are beautifully maintained and ready to be explored at your own leisurely pace.
Hit the Hiking Trails
While a day trip to Jackson Hole doesn’t leave a lot of extra time for exploring all that places like Grand Teton National Park have to offer, you can certainly fit in a little time on the trails here. With hiking boots laced up tight, head over to the Taggart Lake Trailhead and enjoy exploring the welcoming 3-mile loop that offers up terrific mountain and water views too. Whether you explore the trail in its entirety or only hike a portion, you’ll want your camera on hand to capture the natural beauty along the way.
Make the Most of Lunchtime on Town Square
When all of that outdoor exploration leaves you ready to fuel up once more, heading over to Town Square in Jackson Hole is the right choice. This vibrant area of town is packed with great eateries to discover and fun shops to peruse, but when you have real cravings to curb, we highly recommend beginning your time here at the Local Restaurant & Bar. You’ll find this delicious restaurant at 55 N. Cache Street, and it’s a great place to find yourself when you’re someone who can appreciate a new twist on a modern steakhouse concept.
Local Restaurant & Bar is owned and operated by Chef Will Bradof whose enthusiasm for reviving the art of in-house butchery and a firm focus on dry-aged steaks has led to a menu of options that’s both mouthwatering and impressive. Guests who settle in for lunch will enjoy options to pick and choose from house-ground burgers and seasonal specialties to shellfish, seafood, and locally ranches meats and game too.
No matter what you order up for yourself, you’ll want to take time to browse the restaurant’s extensive wine list to find the ideal red, white, or sparkling option to match. Of course, if an ice-cold brew is more your style, Local Restaurant & Bar also has 12 beers on tap at all times. When you choose to dine at Local Restaurant & Bar, you’re more than welcome to enjoy a table indoors, but if the weather is right, picking a place on the patio means pairing your meal with great Town Square views and people-watching too.
Snap an Iconic Town Square Photo with Your Fellow Travelers
Your day trip to Jackson Hole truly won’t be entirely complete until after lunch, when you’ve headed over to one of the four elk antler arches that adorn Town Square, and snapped an iconic photo of yourself and your entire traveling crew together! These arches have long been a staple landmark in Jackson Hole, and practically an attraction all on their own. They’re constructed from antlers that elk over at the local nature refuge naturally shed each season, and those who head this way over the holidays enjoy the added bonus of seeing these impressive antler arches outfitted in a collection of glittering lights. Once you have your photo firmly in place, set aside a little time for shopping in Town Square too. This is a great place to check out charming Western boutiques, souvenir shops, and art galleries in abundance.
Include Artistic Inspiration into Your Day Trip Experience
Once you’ve had your fill of shopping fun, it’s time to include a touch of artistic inspiration into your Jackson Hole getaway. This is easily done when you make your way to the National Museum of Wildlife Art, which is located just north of the town center. This museum is, in fact, the perfect follow-up to your time in Town Square, because it overlooks the National Elk Refuge where the elk antler arches are collected each season. When you arrive, you’ll want to take your time not only to enjoy the view out over the terrain but to explore the museum’s many impressive galleries which host exhibits and displays dedicated to locally designed art that’s inspired by Jackson Hole’s natural beauty and wildlife.
Make Time for a Great View in the Late Afternoon
As the afternoon of your day trip to Jackson Hole begins to come to an end, it’s just the right time to slow things down and focus on a great view. You can do this over at the Jackson Hole Mountain Resort where the gondola runs in all seasons, and provides passengers with a breathtaking vista to enjoy out and over the Tetons. Once you reach the top, there are options to grab a drink at a summit bar before making your way down to base level in tranquility once more.
Enjoy Dinner at Snake River Grill
As the sun begins to set and cravings come calling once again, a reservation at Snake River Grill in town is always a good idea. This is a wonderful eatery to select on your day trip this way, whether you find yourself longing for bison ribeye, steak tartare, or you’re traveling with those with a passion for small plates of tasty truffle fries. The ambiance here is decidedly elegant, and the menu typically changes up seasonally as well. The Snake River Grill is conveniently located on E. Broadway Avenue in a space designed to inspire thoughts of a rustic-chic cabin, and patio seating is available when you want to pair your dish with sunset views. Whether you choose to enjoy the glazed pork tenderloin or you go for the ember-seared lamb leg instead, be sure to browse the alluring wine listing for just the right pairing, or ask your server what type of special handcrafted cocktail might be available and extra refreshing that evening!
Things to Keep in Mind on Your Day Trip to Jackson Hole
While your journey to Jackson Hole for the day is sure to be inspiring, no matter when you arrive, there are a few things to keep in mind to make your visit even more comfortable, successful, and memorable from start to finish. Above all, be sure to get your fun underway as early as possible. There’s so much to see, experience, and do in this area, and you want to give yourself as much room to discover new places as possible. Because time is limited, you’ll also want to make sure you’ve made your dinner reservations ahead of time so you don’t waste precious moments having to look for a backup eatery unexpectedly if wait times are longer than you anticipated or dining rooms are already full. Finally, be sure your suitcase includes plenty of layers when it comes to your apparel selection when heading to Jackson Hole in the name of fun. Weather here changes quickly and frequently due to the town’s mountain location, so it’s good to be prepared for any conditions, even in the heart of summer.
Book Local Accommodations for Your Day Trip That Embrace Comfort, Luxury, and Style
Exploring as much of Jackson Hole as possible on your day trip is a must, but equally important is having the right accommodations booked so you can infuse comfort, luxury, and exceptional style into your stay too. That’s exactly what you’ll find when you partner with Abode Jackson Hole the next time you’re heading to town for the day. Our collection of day trip rentals is designed to inspire and is suitable for groups of all sizes. We have property options located right in the heart of Jackson Hole as well as rentals in West Bank and Teton Village for those who prefer to remain a bit further out. Whether you’re looking for a day trip home-away-from-home with gorgeous mountain views in place, or you’re excited to enjoy a stay that includes access to a luxurious hot tub on-site, we have it covered.
Our properties are all set up with a collection of tasteful and stylish furnishings included, and guests will find it easy to reserve their stay in a home with a fully equipped kitchen available to use too. Reach out today to learn more about our exciting property options and how our team can help you tailor your next day trip to meet your unique travel style.
Finding time in a busy schedule to get away from the hustle and enjoy a well-deserved vacation once in a while is important. When you’re a traveler looking for a refreshing place to discover where you’re free to slow down, relish the moment, and soak up spectacular scenery too, you’ll find every reason to linger in Jackson Hole, Wyoming. This small piece of the Old West still thrives in the modern world much to the delight of guests from near and far. Here, locals and visitors alike will find a place to relax and unwind at their own preferred pace in every season.
Upon arrival in Jackson Hole, you’ll be greeted by gorgeous surrounding mountains paired with lush valley floors totaling a space of around 48 miles long. 19th century explorers were awed by the area’s beauty and today, the sentiment still remains firmly intact. The spirit of adventure and the thrill of new discoveries is also palpable when you visit Jackson Hole which is home to the Snake River and a haven for amazing wildlife.
Enjoy Time at Yellowstone National Park and Grand Teton National Park
Both Yellowstone National Park and Grand Teton National Park can be explored with ease during your Jackson Hole stay when you’re longing to get out and learn more about the amazing natural world that makes up this area. Both are incorporated into the greater Yellowstone Ecosystem, which is one of the last remaining large and nearly intact ecosystems of its kind in the northern temperate zone of the planet. Across both parks, visitors have access to a stunning array of wildlife ranging from bison and elk to black bears, grizzly bears, moose, and pronghorn. When it’s breathtaking backdrops you’re after, Grand Teton rises 13,770 feet above sea level and beckons to limit-seeking adventurers. The truth is that no matter where you land, the nearby national parks are likely to be a highlight of your stay in Jackson Hole. No matter when you make your way in this direction, Jackson Hole is a remarkably beautiful destination and when you’re up for some national park adventures, this guide is the place to begin.
Make It a Day Trip to Yellowstone National Park
You won’t have to travel far to find yourself face to face with one of the country’s most impressive national parks in the form of Yellowstone National Park the next time you head to Jackson Hole. The park celebrated its 150th anniversary in 2022 and holds the title as the first national park. Yellowstone National Park is truly a one-of-a-kind destination on the map as it is home to a unique collection of landscapes including stunning geothermal pools in beautiful hues, rocky flats, bubbling mud pots, and geysers. In total, Yellowstone National Park is thought to host upward of 10,000 active thermal features.
Yellowstone National Park was established back in 1872, and today, it remains a model for conservation for parks across the map. In many ways, when you visit Yellowstone, you take a unique step back in time as the wilderness is refreshingly untouched and unaltered. It’s sometimes referred to as “American’s Serengeti” and those who are looking to connect with rich and diverse wildlife are often awed by the herds of bison and elk that roam the plains here. Off in the forests and valleys, bears and wolves are able to thrive as well. No matter when you plan to visit, you’re going to want to have your camera in hand. This is a scenic and inspiring stop that’s worthy of capturing on film.
Planning Your Visit
Even if you only do a single day in Yellowstone National Park venturing from Jackson Hole, you’re going to want to set aside at least 12 hours for thorough sightseeing. It takes about one hour and 15 minutes to travel the 53 miles from Jackson Hole to the South entrance of Yellowstone National Park and leaving as early as possible in the morning to beat any and all crowds is highly recommended. As you drive towards the park, you’ll be treated to the sunrise along the Teton range, which is a sight you won’t want to miss. An early morning outing is also a great opportunity to catch glimpses of bison, moose, and elk.
While the entrance fee at Yellowstone National Park is typically $70 for a non-commercial vehicle and $40 if you’re arriving on a motorcycle. If you purchase a seven-day pass to Yellowstone, you can enjoy weekly entrance for just $35. However, be sure to check the National Parks calendar for the select free days they host every year when visitors can make the most of their time at the parks for no cost. To best plan out your day, it’s recommended to download the official National Park Service Yellowstone app as well as the NPS Yellowstone Geysers app before you arrive so you can map out your route and know when eruptions will be happening. You might also want to consider packing a lunch for your day at the park as on-site concessions can be quite crowded especially if you’re visiting in the summer months.
Must-See Landmarks in the Park
A top destination you aren’t going to want to miss at Yellowstone is the Old Faithful Geyser Basin. This geyser can be viewed from a surrounding boardwalk and there’s convenient parking behind the Visitor Education Center. Here, you can learn more about the hydrothermal feature and how life continues to exist in these extreme environments. When Old Faithful erupts, it sends around 8,400 gallons of scalding water 184 feet into the air. The time between eruptions is around 90 minutes so while you’re waiting, you can also take time to tour the historic Old Faithful Inn on-site which dates back to 1904. Afterward, make sure to take a stroll around the West Thumb Geyser Basin where you’ll find a half-mile loop around the shores of Yellowstone Lake which is the largest of its kind above 8,000 feet elevation in all of North America. Along the way, you’ll encounter Thumb Paint Pots and multi-colored pools that have a wonderful way of capturing the mind and imagination. If you prefer to view the thermal features from your vehicle, you’ll want to consider exploring Firehole Lake Drive which is just about 5 minutes from the Midway Geyser Basin and takes you right past a wide variety of springs and geysers across the park.
Yellowstone National Park is also home to some spectacular canyons and the Grand Canyon of the Yellowstone is a must-see landmark with its dramatic Lower and Upper Falls. Cascade chasers will also love time at Gibbons Falls which is just 14 miles off Firehole Lake Drive and is served by the Gibbon River as it tumbles over rocks to the ground 84 feet below. In the event you head to Yellowstone National Park in the winter, you can enjoy sightseeing by snowmobile or snow coach. While heading out and exploring on your own is always a treat, making the most of your sightseeing time is often best done in the company of experts. There are a wide variety of local tour companies that offer guided outings including Buffalo Roam Tours and Ecotour Adventures, just to name a few.
Things to Keep in Mind When You’re Here
A highlight of any trip to Yellowstone National Park is wildlife watching, but remembering that the emphasis is on wild animals is important. When you’re in the park, you’ll need to always remain at least 100 yards away from bears and wolves while all other animals require a 25-yard distance maintained at all times. Additionally, if you’re exploring the thermal areas, it’s vital to remain exclusively on boardwalks and designated pathways, and geysers and hot springs reach dangerous temperatures. As you plan your visit, be sure to keep in mind that cell service is limited in many areas. You’ll want to be sure to dress in layers for your day at Yellowstone and definitely have binoculars readily available for the journey.
Take Time to Explore Grand Teton National Park
When you’re ready to expand your national park adventures further, Grand Teton National Park is the perfect addition to your itinerary. Spanning 484 square miles, Grand Teton National Park is a beautiful destination for explorers to check out that can be accessed starting right in the town of Jackson off Highway 89/191. Once you’ve downloaded your park app, you’ll find yourself well within reach of outdoor adventures on the multi-use pathway system or on the Snake River depending on how you plan to enjoy your day. Of course, the Teton Range is often the focal point of the backdrop here with good reason. These inspiring peaks are believed to be around 10 million years old and are the result of earthquakes along fault lines that pushed the ground upward as huge glaciers sculpted the range over time too. At Grand Teton National Park, you’ll likely spend equal time admiring the view and exploring the terrain. If you prefer to do exactly that alongside a local guide, the team over at Jackson Hole Wildlife Ecotour Adventures is more than happy to help you build a custom day in the park where you can make the most of off-the-beaten-path trails alongside an expert naturalist guide.
Landmarks You’re Going to Want to Enjoy
Whether you book your place on a tour of Grand Teton National Park or make your way in this direction on your own, there are stops that you’re definitely going to want to make sure are at the top of your list. Jenny Lake is one of them and is a great place to spend time hiking, wildlife watching, enjoying nature photography, swimming, or fishing in the warm weather months. This is perhaps one of the most visited areas in the park so arriving in the early morning to enjoy the water and views is always recommended. If you’re the type of traveler who loves to lace up your boots and hit the trails, the 7-mile trail around Jenny Lake is a great loop to explore. You’ll find detours off to Hidden Falls from this route as well as an overlook to admire at Inspiration Point. You can also easily access String Lake from the Jenny Lake Trail when you want to have a picnic or you enjoy higher-up views over the water. Either way, you’ll want to set aside at least a few hours in this area to really enjoy the experience to the fullest.
Another Grand Teton National Park stop to enjoy during your visit is Oxbow Bend. Just south of Jackson Lake Junction, Oxbow Bend may seem familiar as it’s typically one of the most photographed areas of the park. The waters here are occupied by river otters, beavers, and white pelicans while the skies overhead frequently host bald eagles and ospreys. It’s not uncommon to spot moose along the shoreline as well. If you happen to be a history buff, this stop can be followed up with time at Cunningham Cabin which is a homestead on-site dating back to 1888. Before you call it a day at Grand Teton National Park, don’t miss out on swinging by the Craig Thomas Discovery and Visitor Center in Moose where you can enjoy a variety of interpretive exhibits showcasing locale flora and fauna. This is also where you can ask questions of park rangers and learn more about on-site programs, guided excursions, and events hosted at the park year-round.
Book Your Jackson Hole Journey Today
When travel plans bring you to Jackson Hole, booking your accommodations through Abode Jackson Hole means you can count on luxury and style being part of your experience too. Reach out today to learn more about our property options and to start planning your next trip!