The Allure of Jackson Hole: Wyoming's Wild Wonderland

Discover the rugged beauty and luxurious charm of Jackson Hole, Wyoming - a premier destination for outdoor adventures and cultural experiences year-round.

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Jackson Hole

Jackson Hole is a stunning valley nestled between the Gros Ventre and Teton mountain ranges. This Wyoming gem offers a mix of rugged beauty and luxurious charm, making it a prime destination for outdoor enthusiasts and luxury seekers alike. In the summer, visitors can enjoy hiking, horseback riding, and white-water rafting. The Snake River offers thrilling adventures, while the Grand Teton National Park provides a scenic backdrop for countless outdoor activities. Wildlife enthusiasts will be thrilled to spot elk, bison, and even the occasional bear. Winter transforms Jackson Hole into a snowy paradise. The Jackson Hole Mountain Resort boasts some of the best skiing and snowboarding in the country, with slopes that challenge both beginners and experts. The town of Jackson itself is full of Western charm, with cozy lodges, fine dining, and unique shops. Don't miss the chance to take a sleigh ride through the National Elk Refuge or relax in one of the many hot springs nearby. Jackson Hole is also a cultural hub, with art galleries, museums, and annual events like the Jackson Hole Fall Arts Festival. Whether you're seeking adventure or tranquility, Jackson Hole offers a perfect blend of natural beauty and refined experiences.

Local tips in Jackson Hole

Visit during the shoulder seasons (spring and fall) for fewer crowds and a more relaxed experience.
If skiing, try to book accommodations close to the slopes for convenience.
Take advantage of the free shuttle service in the town of Jackson to easily get around.
Pack layers as the weather can change quickly, especially in the mountains.
Make reservations for popular activities like guided tours and fine dining well in advance.

Snow-capped Mountains Landscape in Grand Teton National Park image - Free stock photo - Public Domain photo - CC0 Images

File:Beehive Geyser with rainbow, visitors, and Old Faithful Lodge in background (435f627e-51b5-4342-b993-e26b39c68548).jpg - Wikimedia Commons

File:Jackson hole new tram.jpg - Wikimedia Commons

File:National Elk Refuge (7467049882).jpg - Wikimedia Commons

File:A LARGE (28 FOOT) RAFT RUNNING WILD SHEEP RAPIDS ON THE SNAKE RIVER DURING A CONSERVATION TRIP THROUGH HELLS CANYON - NARA - 549463.jpg - Wikipedia

File:Teton Village clock tower and tram station.jpg - Wikimedia Commons

File:Jenny Lake (215840701).jpeg - Wikimedia Commons

Laurance S. Rockefeller Preserve Center - Grand Teton National Park (U.S. National Park Service)

Hiking - Grand Teton National Park (U.S. National Park Service)

When is the best time to go to Jackson Hole?

Unmissable attractions to see

Jackson Hole Mountain Resort

Discover the thrill of skiing and the beauty of nature at Jackson Hole Mountain Resort, your year-round adventure destination in Wyoming.

Jackson Town Square

Explore Jackson Town Square, a vibrant hub of culture, art, and stunning natural beauty in the heart of Wyoming's majestic landscape.

National Elk Refuge & Greater Yellowstone Visitor Center

Explore the National Elk Refuge & Greater Yellowstone Visitor Center for an unforgettable wildlife experience in the heart of Wyoming's stunning landscapes.

Schwabacher Landing

Experience the breathtaking beauty of Schwabacher Landing, where stunning mountain reflections meet serene waters in Grand Teton National Park.

Snow King Mountain

Experience year-round adventure at Snow King Mountain in Jackson, Wyoming, with skiing, hiking, and family fun in a breathtaking natural setting.

Jackson Hole Aerial Tram and Gondola Rides

Experience breathtaking mountain views and thrilling adventures at the Jackson Hole Aerial Tram and Gondola Rides, a must-visit attraction for nature lovers.

Jackson Hole Rodeo

Immerse yourself in the excitement of the Jackson Hole Rodeo, a thrilling showcase of cowboy culture and rodeo sports in the heart of Wyoming.

Jackson Hole EcoTour Adventures

Discover breathtaking landscapes and wildlife encounters with Jackson Hole EcoTour Adventures – an unforgettable journey into nature's heart.

BrushBuck Wildlife Tours

Discover the wilderness of Wyoming with BrushBuck Wildlife Tours, where adventure meets nature in stunning landscapes and rich wildlife.

Teton County Parks & Recreation

Discover Teton County Parks & Recreation in Jackson, Wyoming - a hub for outdoor activities, family fun, and breathtaking natural beauty.

Rendezvous Park

Discover the beauty of nature at Rendezvous Park in Wilson, Wyoming – a serene escape for outdoor enthusiasts and families alike.

Center for the Arts

Explore the vibrant cultural scene at the Center for the Arts in Jackson, Wyoming, where creativity and community come together through diverse artistic expressions.

Cowboy Coaster at Snow King Mountain

Discover the Cowboy Coaster at Snow King Mountain for a thrilling ride through breathtaking landscapes in Jackson, Wyoming, perfect for adventure seekers and families.

Emily Stevens Park

Experience the tranquility of Emily Stevens Park in Jackson, Wyoming, where scenic beauty meets recreational fun for all ages.

Jackson Hole Winery

Explore Jackson Hole Winery for an unforgettable tasting experience of locally crafted wines in the heart of Jackson, Wyoming.

Essential places to dine

Wendy's

Savor delicious fast food at Wendy's in Jackson – perfect for tourists craving quick bites amidst breathtaking Wyoming scenery.

Cutty's Bar & Grill

Experience mouthwatering local cuisine and craft beverages at Cutty's Bar & Grill in Jackson, Wyoming - your perfect dining destination.

The Bird

Experience delectable grilled cuisine at The Bird in Jackson; where flavor meets comfort in the heart of Wyoming's breathtaking landscapes.

Glorietta Trattoria

Experience authentic Italian cuisine at Glorietta Trattoria in Jackson, Wyoming – where every dish tells a story.

Miazga's

Experience exquisite dining at Miazga's in Jackson, where local flavors meet exceptional service in an inviting atmosphere.

The Blue Lion

Experience exceptional American cuisine at The Blue Lion in Jackson, WY—where local flavors meet fine dining excellence.

Teton Tiger Restaurant and Cocktail Bar

Discover exquisite Asian cuisine and vibrant cocktails at Teton Tiger Restaurant & Cocktail Bar in Jackson, Wyoming - A must-visit culinary destination.

Domino's Pizza

Discover mouthwatering pizza and chicken wings at Domino's Pizza in Jackson, WY - perfect for travelers seeking tasty convenience.

China Fun Restaurant 鹿角酒家

Experience authentic Chinese cuisine at China Fun Restaurant in Jackson, WY – where tradition meets flavor in every dish.

Orsetto Italian Bar and Eatery

Discover authentic Italian flavors in Jackson at Orsetto Italian Bar and Eatery – where tradition meets taste.

Lotus

Discover the essence of organic dining at Lotus in Jackson - where fresh ingredients meet innovative recipes in a vibrant atmosphere.

Subway

Experience fresh flavors at Subway in Jackson – your go-to spot for quick sandwiches and salads while exploring Wyoming's natural beauty.

Quiznos

Experience mouthwatering gourmet sandwiches at Quiznos in Jackson, Wyoming—perfectly crafted for every taste bud.

The Restaurant at White Buffalo Club

Experience exquisite fine dining with top-quality steak and locally sourced ingredients at The Restaurant at White Buffalo Club in Jackson Hole.

Markets, malls and hidden boutiques

T.J. Maxx

Explore T.J. Maxx in Jackson, Wyoming for unbeatable deals on clothing, accessories, and home goods, perfect for every savvy shopper.

Belle Shops | Town Square

Explore Belle Shops in Jackson, WY for unique gifts, home goods, and exquisite jewelry that capture the spirit of your travels.

Lee's Tees

Discover unique souvenirs at Lee's Tees in Jackson, Wyoming, where stylish T-shirts embody the spirit of the American West.

MADE

Discover MADE in Jackson Hole, your go-to destination for unique local gifts, art, and fashion accessories that celebrate the spirit of Wyoming.

Jackson Mercantile

Explore Jackson Mercantile: Your destination for unique gifts and local treasures in the heart of Jackson, Wyoming.

Jackson Trading Company

Explore Jackson Trading Company for unique gifts and local treasures in the heart of Jackson, Wyoming, capturing the spirit of your adventure.

Jackson Hole Pendleton

Discover quality clothing and unique home goods at Jackson Hole Pendleton, where local culture meets craftsmanship in the heart of Wyoming.

KÜHL Jackson Hole

KÜHL Jackson Hole - Your ultimate destination for high-performance outdoor clothing and gear in the stunning landscapes of Wyoming.

Five and Dime General Store

Discover the essence of Wyoming at Five and Dime General Store, a charming spot for unique local goods and souvenirs in Jackson.

Hide Out Leathers

Discover handcrafted leather goods and unique jewelry at Hide Out Leathers in Jackson, Wyoming, where craftsmanship meets creativity.

Jackson Hole Resort Store

Explore the heart of Jackson Hole at the Resort Store, where unique gifts and local treasures await every traveler.

Moose on the loose

Discover a treasure trove of unique souvenirs, clothing, and gifts at Moose on the Loose in Jackson, Wyoming, capturing the spirit of the American West.

Mountain Dandy

Explore Mountain Dandy in Jackson, WY - a unique gift shop offering antiques, home goods, and artisanal creations from local artisans.

Bella Fine Goods - Jackson Hole

Explore Bella Fine Goods in Jackson Hole for a unique blend of furniture, art, and jewelry that captures the spirit of Wyoming.

Native Jackson Hole

Explore exquisite handcrafted jewelry at Native Jackson Hole, where local artistry meets the spirit of the American West.

Essential bars & hidden hideouts

Bubba's Bar-B-Que Restaurant

Experience the rich flavors of Southern barbecue at Bubba's Bar-B-Que in Jackson, WY, where every bite tells a story of culinary excellence.

Million Dollar Cowboy Bar

Discover the iconic Million Dollar Cowboy Bar in Jackson, Wyoming, where the spirit of the Wild West comes alive with live music, cowboy decor, and friendly vibes.

Gun Barrel Steak and Game House

Indulge in game and steak specialties at Jackson's Gun Barrel Steak and Game House, a family-friendly fine dining gem.

Liberty Burger

Discover Liberty Burger in Jackson, Wyoming – a gourmet hamburger haven with local flavors and a cozy atmosphere perfect for all food lovers.

Hand Fire Pizza

Savor artisanal pizzas and craft cocktails in a unique setting at Hand Fire Pizza, a must-visit eatery in scenic Jackson, Wyoming.

The Merry Piglets Mexican Grill

Experience the vibrant flavors of Tex-Mex cuisine at The Merry Piglets Mexican Grill in Jackson, Wyoming, a must-visit for food lovers.

Sidewinders American Grill

Experience the heart of American cuisine at Sidewinders American Grill in Jackson, WY, where comfort food meets local flavor.

Silver Dollar Bar

Enjoy American cuisine and live music at Silver Dollar Bar, a must-visit grill and bar in Jackson, Wyoming, perfect for tourists and locals alike.

Cafe Genevieve

Experience the essence of Jackson at Café Genevieve, where delicious brunch and crafted cocktails meet rustic charm in a cozy setting.

Local Restaurant & Bar

Experience the best steaks and local flavors at Local Restaurant & Bar in Jackson, Wyoming – a must-visit for culinary enthusiasts.

Snake River Brewing Co.

Experience the finest craft beers and delicious meals at Snake River Brewing Co. in Jackson, Wyoming, a must-visit for beer enthusiasts and food lovers alike.

Gather in Jackson Hole for Food & Drink

Discover the flavors of innovative American cuisine in Jackson Hole at Gather, where every meal is a celebration of local ingredients.

Cutty's Bar & Grill

Experience the vibrant flavors of Jackson at Cutty's Bar & Grill, a local favorite for delicious food and a warm atmosphere.

Jackson Drug

Discover the charm of Jackson Drug, where classic American flavors and delightful ice cream treats meet in a historic setting.

Bin22

Discover a cozy tapas restaurant and wine bar in Jackson Hole, where every bite and sip tells a story of flavor and passion.

Your Ultimate Free Travel Guide to Jackson Hole

Discover Jackson Hole with Evendo, a 100% free app-based local travel guide. Explore attractions, landmarks, restaurants, and more with ease and convenience.

Local Phrases about Jackson Hole

- HelloHowdy
  [hau-dee]
- GoodbyeSee ya
  [see ya]
- YesYep
  [yep]
- NoNope
  [nohp]
- Please/You're welcomePlease/No worries
  [pleez/noh wur-eez]
- Thank youThanks
  [thanks]
- Excuse me/SorryPardon me/My bad
  [par-dn mee/my bad]
- How are you?Howdy partner?
  [hau-dee par-tner]
- Fine. And you?Jus' fine. You?
  [jus fine. yoo]
- Do you speak English?Ya speak English?
  [ya speak ing-glish]
- I don't understandI'm lost
  [I'm lost]
- I'd like to see the menu, pleaseMenu, please
  [menu, please]
- I don't eat meatNo meat for me
  [noh meet for mee]
- Cheers!Cheers!
  [cheers]
- I would like to pay, pleaseCheck please
  [check please]
- Help!Help!
  [help]
- Go away!Leave me be!
  [leave mee bee]
- Call the Police!Call the cops!
  [call the cops]
- Call a doctor!Get a doc!
  [get a doc]
- I'm lostI'm lost
  [I'm lost]
- I'm illI'm sick
  [I'm sick]
- I'd like to buy...I'll take...
  [I'll take...]
- I'm just lookingJust browsing
  [just brows-ing]
- How much is it?How much?
  [how much]
- That's too expensiveToo pricey
  [too pry-see]
- Can you lower the price?Can you do better?
  [can you do bet-ter]
- What time is it?What's the time?
  [wuts the time]
- It's one o'clockIt's one
  [It's one]
- Half past (10)Half ten
  [half ten]
- MorningMorning
  [morning]
- AfternoonAfternoon
  [after-noon]
- EveningEvening
  [evening]
- YesterdayYesterday
  [yes-ter-day]
- TodayToday
  [to-day]
- TomorrowTomorrow
  [to-mor-row]
- 1One
  [wun]
- 2Two
  [too]
- 3Three
  [three]
- 4Four
  [fore]
- 5Five
  [fahyv]
- 6Six
  [siks]
- 7Seven
  [sev-en]
- 8Eight
  [ate]
- 9Nine
  [nain]
- 10Ten
  [ten]
- Where's a/the...?Where's the...?
  [wheres the]
- What's the address?Address?
  [address]
- Can you show me (on the map)?Show me (on map)?
  [show me (on map)]
- When's the next (bus)?Next (bus)?
  [next (bus)]
- A ticket (to ....)Ticket (to ...)
  [ticket (to)]

History of Jackson Hole

Long before European settlers arrived, Jackson Hole was home to various Native American tribes, including the Shoshone, Bannock, Blackfoot, Crow, and Gros Ventre. These tribes utilized the fertile valley for hunting and fishing expeditions. Artifacts and petroglyphs in the area bear testimony to their presence and activities.
In the early 19th century, Jackson Hole became a significant hub for fur trappers and traders. Notable mountain men like John Colter and Jim Bridger traversed the area. The valley was rich with beavers, whose pelts were highly sought after in the fur trade. This period marked the beginning of documented European-American exploration in the region.
In the early 20th century, the natural beauty of Jackson Hole caught the attention of John D. Rockefeller Jr. He began buying up land with the intention of preserving it. In 1943, his efforts culminated in the establishment of the Jackson Hole National Monument, which later became part of Grand Teton National Park. This move was instrumental in preserving the region's pristine landscapes for future generations.
Grand Teton National Park was officially established in 1929, protecting the Teton Range and the valley's floor. The park's creation was a result of concerted efforts by conservationists, including John D. Rockefeller Jr. and Horace Albright. The park has since become a major destination for outdoor enthusiasts, offering activities such as hiking, camping, and wildlife viewing.
The development of the Jackson Hole Mountain Resort in 1965 marked the beginning of the area's transformation into a premier skiing destination. The resort's challenging slopes and deep snowfall attract skiers and snowboarders from around the world. The rise of tourism has significantly shaped the local economy and culture, blending traditional Western heritage with modern recreational activities.
Established in 1912, the National Elk Refuge was created to provide a sanctuary for one of the largest elk herds in North America. The refuge spans over 24,700 acres and offers a critical winter habitat for elk, as well as other wildlife such as bison, wolves, and trumpeter swans. It plays a vital role in the region's ecological balance and serves as a popular attraction for wildlife enthusiasts.
The Jackson Hole Rendezvous is an annual event that celebrates the valley's rich fur trading history. It is a modern revival of the historic gatherings of mountain men, trappers, and Native Americans. The event includes historical reenactments, traditional crafts, and cultural demonstrations, offering visitors a glimpse into the life and times of the early 19th century.
Jackson Hole has long been a haven for artists and writers inspired by the rugged landscapes and Western lifestyle. The National Museum of Wildlife Art, located just outside the town of Jackson, houses an impressive collection of wildlife art. Additionally, the Jackson Hole Fall Arts Festival is a major cultural event that attracts artists and art lovers from around the globe, showcasing the region's vibrant artistic community.

Jackson Hole Essentials

Jackson Hole is located in the northwestern part of Wyoming, United States. The nearest airport is Jackson Hole Airport (JAC), which is approximately 7 miles north of the town of Jackson. The airport offers direct flights from major cities such as Denver, Salt Lake City, and Chicago, primarily during the peak tourist seasons. Alternatively, you can fly into Salt Lake City International Airport (SLC) and drive approximately 5 hours to Jackson Hole. Car rental services are available at both airports.
Jackson Hole has a variety of transportation options. Renting a car is the most convenient way to explore the area, especially for visiting Grand Teton National Park and Yellowstone National Park. Public transportation is available through START Bus, which operates routes within Jackson and to Teton Village. Taxis, ride-sharing services like Uber and Lyft, and bike rentals are also available for getting around the town.
The official currency is the United States Dollar (USD). Credit and debit cards are widely accepted in Jackson Hole, including in restaurants, hotels, and shops. However, it's advisable to carry some cash for smaller establishments or in case of emergencies. ATMs are readily available throughout the town.
Jackson Hole is generally a safe destination for tourists. Crime rates are low, but it is always advisable to take standard precautions. Avoid leaving valuables in your car and be cautious when walking alone at night. The town of Jackson and surrounding areas do not have specific high-crime neighborhoods targeting tourists, but staying vigilant and aware of your surroundings is always a good practice.
In case of emergency, dial 911 for immediate assistance. The nearest hospital is St. John's Health, located in Jackson. It is recommended to have travel insurance that covers medical emergencies. For minor health issues, there are several pharmacies available in town where you can purchase over-the-counter medications.
Fashion: Do dress in layers, as weather can change quickly. In winter, wear appropriate cold-weather gear. Don't wear overly casual attire when dining at upscale restaurants. Religion: Do respect local customs and traditions, although Jackson Hole is not particularly religious. Public Transport: Do be courteous and respectful to drivers and fellow passengers on public transport. Don't be loud or disruptive. Greetings: Do greet people with a friendly 'hello' or 'hi.' A firm handshake is standard when meeting someone new. Eating & Drinking: Do try local cuisine and tip your servers, typically 15-20%. Don't be rude or dismissive to service staff.
To experience Jackson Hole like a local, visit the Jackson Hole Farmers Market on the Town Square during the summer months for fresh produce and local goods. Engage with locals at community events or outdoor activities such as hiking, fishing, or skiing. Don't miss visiting the National Museum of Wildlife Art and taking a scenic drive through Grand Teton National Park. For a unique experience, attend a rodeo or a live music performance at the Jackson Hole Playhouse.

The Allure of Jackson Hole: Wyoming's Wild Wonderland

Local tips in Jackson Hole