10 Things to Do in Jackson Hole, Wyoming
Last year, we took the most unforgettable road trip through the American Mountain West. We made our way through incredible landscapes, mountains, and picture-perfect small towns across Montana, Idaho, and Wyoming, and of course, discovered the best things to do in Jackson Hole, Wyoming.
We rolled the windows down through hills and prairies and put our faces and arms out to feel the air rush in as we drove along the open road. Music was playing, and the colors in the landscape and the sky looked so romantic and vivid. Every turn brought new adventures, from scenic drives to incredible diners. We even saw a bear on the roadside.
Beyond the natural beauty of the region, one of the highlights of our trip was spending a few days in Jackson Hole, Wyoming. The town is known as a home base for travelers exploring the Teton Mountains and Grand Teton National Park. It has a country charm that’s very characteristic of the area and a food scene that rivals many larger cities in the U.S.
Whether you’re an avid nature lover, an adventurer, or someone looking for a summer destination or a mountain town to explore, Jackson Hole offers something for everyone.
And there truly is something for everyone: the historic town square with its elk antler arches, local art galleries, boutique shops, and great cafes and restaurants.
Of course, no trip here would be complete without visiting the National Parks and being outdoors. Hiking trails, wildlife spotting, river rafting, and even a bit of horseback riding bring visitors closer to the natural beauty that makes this region so extraordinary.
In this guide, we’re sharing our favorite experiences and tips to help you make the most of your time in Jackson Hole. These are the best things to do in Jackson Hole, Wyoming, from popular destinations to off-the-beaten-path gems.
Best Things to Do in Jackson Hole, Wyoming
Explore Mormon Row & Ride the Gondola
One of the best things to do in Jackson Hole is to wake early to catch the sunrise and explore Mormon Row. Set near the Teton Range, these historic homesteads offer a glimpse into Wyoming’s past, where settlers carved out a life on the open plains. Walking through those barns, which, although weathered, are postcard-perfect, it’s easy to imagine what life was like here generations ago.
After wandering the plains, switch gears with a ride on the Jackson Hole Mountain Resort gondola. From the top, you can take in the sweeping vistas at your own pace, wander different trails, or grab a bite at one of the mountaintop lodges.
Go Horseback Riding in Jackson Hole
If there’s one way to feel truly connected to the spirit of Jackson Hole, it’s on horseback. Hands down, it’s one of the most memorable experiences to add to your list of things to do in Jackson Hole, Wyoming.
Ride through wide-open valleys with the Teton Mountains rising majestically in the distance. On guided trail rides, you may hear the stories of the wranglers, many of whom grew up in the area and know the land like the back of their hand. Listening to them share tips about local wildlife, history, and ranch life makes the experience feel personal and authentic.
Many ranches also offer post-ride treats, from homemade baked goods and coffee served around a campfire to full cowboy cookouts or dinners.
Breakfast in Jackson Hole: Persephone Bakery & Snake River Roasting
Two really good spots to grab breakfast while in Jackson Hole are Persephone Bakery and Snake River Roasting, although we also tried a couple of local breakfast trucks that had incredible breakfast burritos and coffee.
Persephone Bakery has earned a well-deserved reputation for its pastries and cozy atmosphere. It’s very popular with visitors, offering both a cozy indoor space and an outdoor seating area where you can enjoy your coffee and breakfast.
Snake River Roasting felt calmer and more local. The moment we went inside, we were greeted by the smell of roasted coffee. We sat with our lattes and egg sandwiches and watched locals greet one another while visitors slowly discovered the town.
Explore the Jackson Town Square
Another of the most popular things to do in Jackson Hole is to stroll around the Jackson town square. Stop at local shops and boutiques that showcase Wyoming craftsmanship. Each store offers something unique: some feature fun handmade jewelry from local artists, while others carry modern pieces, winter clothes, and vintage garments.
There are also incredible art galleries, specialty stores, and fun souvenir shops. And speaking of souvenirs, if you want one of those classic tees, crewnecks, or hoodies that say Jackson Hole, grab one at Lee’s Tee.
Midnight Lunch was another favorite of mine; the store is well known for its fleeces, but they also make customized trucker hats.
If you want a custom cowboy hat, head to Kimozabe, the sister store of the well-known Aspen location.
The food scene around the town square is also excellent. Stop for lunch at one of the western bistros or at Liberty Burger, and after dinner, visit one of the cowboy pubs.
In the evenings, especially during the summer, there’s live music. We always saw someone playing guitar, local art displays, and a steady flow of both visitors and residents.
If you are visiting in the winter, there’s an ice rink in the middle of the square where you can skate to warm up from the cold.
Visit a Lake
Don’t miss a boat ride on the shuttle service at Jenny Lake, one of the top things to do in Wyoming. These boats will take you across the lake to the Cascade Canyon Trailhead, where you can explore a vast area of the Jackson Hole landscape. Depending on which trail you choose, you can also reach Hidden Falls, one of the park’s most beautiful waterfalls.
There are tours that take you on a full-day adventure, hiking, exploring the lake, and learning about the area.
If you’re adventurous or prefer swimming to boating, you can swim in the Alpine lake during the summer months, a chance to check off your bucket list by swimming in an alpine lake. Another fun lake is Phelps Lake, where you can hike, picnic, and even jump from the rocks or cliffs. For a different perspective, you can also go kayaking on Jackson Lake or Yellowstone Lake.
Explore Grand Teton National Park
In this list of best things to do in Jackson Hole, you can’t miss Grand Teton National Park. Some of our previous recommendations, like Mormon Row and Jenny Lake, are inside the park, and these aren’t the only incredible spots; every turn and every road is breathtaking.
Drive the park’s scenic roads or bike the trails at sunrise to watch the Tetons wake up. It’s also the best time to spot wildlife, like moose, elk, or bison, as they move through the landscape.
There are many hiking trails and scenic stops throughout the park. Personally, we explored the entire park, focusing less on checking off “must-see” attractions and more on appreciating the landscapes, stopping at our own pace whenever a turn or viewpoint caught our eye.
Some of our top recommendations, besides the ones we mentioned before, include Elk Ranch Flats for bison sightings, Blacktail Ponds for moose sightings, Schwabacher Landing, Oxbow Bend, and Cascade Canyon.
Go to the Jackson Hole Rodeo
Nothing says Western fun or an American summer like a good rodeo and summer fair, which is why it belongs on any list of things to do in Jackson Hole, Wyoming. Jackson Hole delivers both with pride.
Stroll around the fairgrounds and sample snacks from small vendors. Good food, classic fun, and a mechanical bull you can try your luck at to see if you also have those cowboy genes.
Don’t forget to wear your cowboy hat, because I think everyone looks better in one. Once the rodeo begins, it’s impressive to see the skill, courage, and tradition behind every ride and race. The announcers also add to the fun.
Drinks at the Million Dollar Cowboy Bar
For drinks, one of the most iconic and well-known spots in town is the Million Dollar Cowboy Bar. You can head there to grab a drink, make new friends, dance, or listen to live music.
No matter how you spend your evening, whether chatting at the bar or joining in on the dancing, you’re almost guaranteed to have a good time at the Million Dollar Cowboy Bar. It’s one of those classic experiences that belongs on any list of things to do in Jackson Hole, Wyoming.
Dinner at Glorietta or Local Restaurant & Bar
The best meal we had in town was at Glorietta, and the second best at Local Restaurant & Bar. Jackson Hole has a wide range of dining options, from upscale eateries to casual pizza and burger spots, so you’ll definitely have plenty to choose from.
At Glorietta, we enjoyed a simple but flavorful Italian-focused meal. We tried the meatballs, vodka pasta, spaghetti, and tiramisu, and I loved every bite. Honestly, I could eat that meal every day for the rest of my life.
At Local Restaurant & Bar, we had the wagyu chef burger and the buffalo bolognese, also absolutely delicious!
Visit Yellowstone National Park
Another National Park you should have on this list of the best things to do in Jackson Hole is Yellowstone National Park. While many travelers focus on nearby Grand Teton National Park, adding Yellowstone to your itinerary also opens the door to an entirely different landscape.
From short boardwalk strolls around geothermal areas to longer hikes through forests and valleys, there’s something for every type of traveler. It’s also the perfect place to watch the thermal features and the valleys, and to spot wildlife, like bison or even wolves.
Our top recommendations for Yellowstone National Park include Old Faithful, Grand Prismatic Spring, Lamar Valley for wildlife sightings, Mammoth Hot Springs, and Yellowstone Lake for sweeping views of the water and surrounding mountains.
Taking a day, or even better, two, to explore Yellowstone adds depth to your Jackson Hole adventure and offers a completely different side of the American West, one filled with raw geothermal power, abundant wildlife, and unforgettable landscapes.
Whitewater Rafting in the Snake River
If you’re craving a bit of adventure, whitewater rafting is among the best things to do in Jackson Hole. It’s easily one of the most thrilling experiences you can add to your itinerary.
You’ll float, paddle, and move between bursts of rapids, surrounded by incredible scenery.
There are many whitewater rafting tours with different levels, making it a great choice for anyone who enjoys water-based adventures. Whether you’re a first-timer looking to try something new or someone who already loves being out on the water, there are trips suited to different comfort levels. It’s the perfect mix of fun, scenery, and just enough adrenaline to make the day feel unforgettable.
Go Fishing
Fly fishing is another popular experience and one of the most fun things to do in Jackson Hole, Wyoming. TheSnake River is well known for its thriving trout populations, particularly native cutthroat trout, making it a true paradise for anglers drawn to the beauty of Jackson Hole.
Whether you’re a seasoned angler or trying it for the first time with the help of a local guide, fishing in these waters can feel both peaceful and exhilarating.
Spend an afternoon by the river, fishing or relaxing, watching the shapes of the clouds, and dipping your feet in the water just for fun.
Final Thoughts on the Best Things to Do in Jackson Hole, Wyoming
By now, you’ve probably realized that the list of things to do in Jackson Hole, Wyoming, is nearly endless.
Regardless of when you go, there’s always a new trail to explore, a restaurant to try, or a hidden spot waiting to be discovered around the next corner.
Jackson Hole is breathtaking in every season, and truly, any time of year is the perfect time to visit. Part of the fun is choosing the experience that suits you best. Whether it’s a snowy winter escape filled with skiing, a colorful autumn getaway, or the warmer months packed with hiking, swimming, and outdoor adventures.
If this guide has inspired you, why not plan even more adventures? We’ve created detailed travel guides for other iconic U.S. destinations, from Bozeman, Montana, to the hidden corners of Scottsdale, Arizona. Each guide is packed with insider tips, local recommendations, and practical advice.
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Besitos from Jackson Hole,
Laura
