21 Best Things To Do in Jackson Hole

The Wyoming mountain town has a real Old West feel.

There are plenty of beautiful mountain towns in the West, but Jackson Hole has long stood out. Nestled in a mountain valley surrounded by jutting peaks and open wildlands, this Wyoming town is home to wildlife like moose, elk, and bears, along with real-life cowboys and cowgirls who visit many popular spots in the area.

In Jackson, visitors can begin their day deep in nature, surrounded by breathtaking landscapes, and conclude it at a cowboy-themed bar filled with locals and live music. This combination of nature and culture contributes to Jackson Hole’s distinct charm.

Here are 21 of the best things to do in Jackson Hole.

Snow King Mountain Resort

Snow King Mountain Resort may not be the largest in Jackson, but it is the most accessible. This summer playground and winter ski destination is right in town, offering easy access to the mountain sports that locals love. During summer, activities include biking, riding the gondola, and zipping down the mountain on a coaster; in winter, slopes are reserved for skiers and snowboarders eager to soak in the stunning views.

Grand Teton National Park

Jackson Hole boasts direct access to some of the nation’s finest national parks. Grand Teton National Park, home to the majestic Teton Range, is located just north of the city, within easy reach of some of the best hotels in the area. The park features stunning alpine lakes, extensive trail networks, and diverse wildlife including bears and moose.

Astoria Hot Springs

Located on the banks of the Snake River, roughly 20 minutes south of Jackson, Astoria Hot Springs is a natural thermal water source that feeds a series of rejuvenating hot spring pools. Soaking in the mineral-rich waters here is a must, especially since entry fees help support the Astoria Park Conservancy, which aims to protect local natural resources and provide community programs.

Jackson Hole Mountain Resort

In winter, Jackson Hole Mountain Resort attracts some of the world’s best skiers and snowboarders. Despite its reputation for extreme thrills, with the iconic Corbet’s Couloir, the resort offers experiences for all levels, including beginners. During summer, ski runs become biking and hiking trails, allowing ample opportunity for outdoor dining and enjoying the mountain’s ropes course.

Persephone Bakery

It’s hard to overstate the delightful treats at Persephone Bakery. Known as Jackson Hole’s beloved bakery with three locations, it serves deliciously light croissants and hearty quiches. We recommend visiting their café near Town Square to explore their scrumptious menu.

Town Square

It may be a little cliché, but a visit to Jackson wouldn’t be complete without strolling through Town Square and taking a picture under the iconic antler arches. Fun fact: these impressive arches were handcrafted using around 2,000 elk antlers shed near the National Elk Refuge.

Darwin Ranch

If the bustle of Jackson Hole feels overwhelming, consider heading east to the tranquil Darwin Ranch, known for its serene setting adjacent to the Gros Ventre Wilderness. Notable for its excellent food and dude ranch experiences, Darwin offers fishing in Snake River, horseback riding, and evenings spent around a cozy fire with a cocktail in hand.

Jackson Hole Rodeo

No summer trip to Jackson is complete without experiencing a night under the stars at the Jackson Hole Rodeo, where ropers and bronco riders showcase their skills in an outdoor arena before enthusiastic audiences. If rodeo isn’t your scene, the event also features delicious food and local beers.

Bar T 5 Wagon Cookout

For those seeking an authentic Old West experience, head to the Double H Bar. The famous Bar T 5 cookout offers a ride in a horse-drawn covered wagon, culminating in a three-hour dinner and show set in the breathtaking Cache Creek Canyon.

Million Dollar Cowboy Bar

Located right off Town Square, the Million Dollar Cowboy Bar is adorned with neon signs and features saddle-topped bar seats, providing a truly Wild West atmosphere. It’s one of the best places in Jackson to saddle up to the bar and listen to live music.

Stagecoach Bar

Just a short drive west of Jackson Hole, the historic Stagecoach Bar has been serving locals since 1942. Known simply as “the Coach,” this bar is the ideal spot for drinks, reasonably priced eats, and mingling with the friendly local clientele.

Jackson Hole Winery

Creating exceptional wines at elevations exceeding 6,000 feet can be challenging. Nonetheless, the dedicated team at Jackson Hole Winery has successfully transformed local grapes into exquisite pinot noir and viognier wines. Set against the backdrop of the Teton Range, the winery offers beautiful views alongside its celebrated wines.

Jenny Lake

One of the top attractions within Grand Teton National Park is Jenny Lake—often considered the park’s centerpiece. This stunning lake is readily accessible and offers breathtaking views of Teewinot Mountain and Mount Saint John from its eastern shore.

Yellowstone National Park

As the nation’s first national park and one of the most visited, Yellowstone National Park is located directly north of Jackson Hole. Celebrating its 150th anniversary in 2022, the park is renowned for its geysers, including the famous Old Faithful, and its diverse wildlife, such as grizzly bears.

National Elk Refuge

The National Elk Refuge is arguably the premier spot for elk watching, positioned adjacent to Jackson Hole. This vast refuge spans nearly 25,000 acres of grasslands, forests, and wetlands, ideally suited for its resident elk herd. Visitors can observe these remarkable animals from lookout points along the road or take a guided tour for a more intimate experience.

Snake River Brewing

Every great mountain town features skilled brewers crafting locally inspired beers—and Jackson Hole is no exception. Snake River Brewing has been in operation since 1994, providing an enjoyable atmosphere right off Town Square, showcasing a selection of award-winning brews complemented by refined comfort food.

Jackson Hole Playhouse

Entering the Jackson Hole Playhouse transports you to a unique world. This rustic performing arts theater offers an exceptional dinner and show, infused with an Old West atmosphere, making it a must-visit, especially for first-time visitors to Jackson Hole.

Whitewater Rafting

Just west of Jackson, the Snake River flows gracefully along the base of the Tetons. One of the best ways to see this breathtaking valley—and witness local wildlife such as moose, elk, and eagles—is by embarking on a rafting trip with one of the many local vendors.

National Museum of Wildlife Art

The National Museum of Wildlife Art is the only museum in the nation devoted exclusively to wildlife art, conveniently located just outside Jackson, near the renowned National Elk Refuge. Visitors can admire works by celebrated artists such as Georgia O’Keeffe and Andy Warhol, along with local art pieces.

Aerial Tram

There’s truly nothing like the experience of boarding a gondola and ascending the mountain in just 12 minutes. The tram climbs over 4,000 vertical feet, providing breathtaking views of the Tetons and Jackson Hole valley. Upon reaching the top, you can enjoy warm, gourmet waffles—topped with everything from Nutella to peanut butter and bacon—thanks to the team at Corbet’s Cabin.

Dog Sledding

One of the most remarkable activities to experience in Jackson Hole during winter is dog sledding. The thrill of being pulled by a team of skilled dogs through the awe-inspiring landscapes of Wyoming is unmatched. To enhance this adventure, you can even opt for a tour that concludes with a relaxing soak in a natural hot spring.