Jackson Hole, Wyoming

Jackson Hole, Wyoming is one of my all-time favorite places to visit. There is so much charm around every corner and so much untouched beauty in the Tetons. I always feel my happiest when I’m here and feel utterly sad to leave. I always post a lot of photos and stories on Instagram whenever I visit, and I’m consistently asked for my itinerary. Although I’m not providing you with a true itinerary, I still wanted to share my favorite things to do, places to eat, and places to stay in order for you to create your own itinerary.

How do I know so much about Jackson being from California? My grandpa introduced me to this magical town a long time ago during a time of massive change in my life. I’ve been coming back multiple times per year ever since. There is something so rejuvenating and magical about Jackson, and you’ll find yourself walking with an extra pep in your step!

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Feel free to reach out to me directly if you have any additional questions. I’ve intentionally left out some specific locations in order to support “The Keep Jackson Hole Wild” movement, which helps preserve those spots’ natural resources by preventing overcrowding and destruction, as well as boost awareness of conservation efforts. 

Here are a few things to know and a few random tips before diving into my specific suggestions:

• These suggestions are meant for spring, summer, and fall trips.
• Be sure to check road closures when you’re visiting during the winter. Road closures occur early in the season. You’ll most likely need to travel through Idaho and Montana to get to the northern part of Yellowstone National Park if you’re traveling from Jackson.
• If you’re wanting to visit the Tetons AND Yellowstone National Park in the same trip – Do not visit during the winter.
• The busiest season in Jackson is the summer, particularly in July and August where visitors can enjoy temps between 70 and 90 degrees. September is still summery in temperature (besides cold nights), but is quieter. The fall months, October and November, are unpredictable.
• Book hotels before you travel. Jackson is not the destination to wing it when you roll into town.
• Highly recommend making restaurant reservations. There are a lot of tourists, all looking to eat at the local restaurants.
• My number one tip: Buy the Annual National Park pass if you’re planning on going to Yellowstone National Park and Grand Teton National Park instead of individual passes. It’s a better value!
• Find bear spray when you arrive if you’re going to explore the Tetons. You can always return it if you don’t end up using it, which is hopefully the case.
• Avoid telling locals that you’re from California unless they ask 🙂 RESPECT the locals.

JACKSON HOLE, WYOMING

WHO THIS TRIP IS PERFECT FOR

• This trip is perfect for the individual who craves an adventure, has a deep appreciation for history and undeveloped land, and is a sucker for a charming small town…And, let’s not forget, someone who needs an excuse to throw on a cowboy hat.

WHAT TO DO IN JACKSON HOLE, WY

• Horseback Riding at Spring Creek Ranch: Lots of rides to choose from…1-Hour, 2-Hour, Private vs. Group. This trail ride gives you a unique view of the Grand Tetons and Jackson.

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• Kayaking in the Tetons: You will not regret these views. The Tetons feel like they’re right in your face!
• Picnic in the Tetons: Fun lunch time activity to continue your outdoor adventures. Be sure to pack bear spray! Food attracts wildlife, so be smart. We picked up lunch from Picnic, which is a new concept by Persephone Bakery.

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• Shop around Jackson Square: Lots of locally curated shops to visit. I’ve shared my favorites below.
• Ride Bikes along the Bike Path next to the National Wildlife Refuge.
• Head to the Tetons: They will literally be in your backyard! There are lots of things to do there like hiking and kayaking.

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WHERE TO STAY IN JACKSON HOLE, WY

• Huff House Inn and Cabins – This is my newly favorite hotel to stay in! It has an “old meets new” vibe due to the history of the actual house. The location is right on Broadway, which is one of the main streets that takes you directly to the square. It’s also on the same street as Persephone Bakery, which is a huge plus. I stay in one of the fourteen rooms, which have luxury amenities (including a fireplace). There is notable historic charm with unique and contemporary furnishings. You will love this option!
• Hotel Jackson – I love the design and aesthetic of this hotel. It’s great for a special occasion, as it’s a little pricey. The location is great and near the square with lots of restaurants to choose from. You can also arrive in style on a private charter flight (year round).
• Budget friendly: Cowboy Village Resort – This is a great options for kids! The Cowboy Village Resort is an authentic log cabin property with modern amenities and convenience. It’s still in the square area, but not as close to everything as Huff House and Hotel Jackson are. If it’s cold outside, you’ll want to take your car into the square. When I’ve stayed here, I can hear the local rodeo at night.

WHERE TO EAT & DRINK IN JACKSON HOLE, WY

• Breakfast: Persephone Bakery – I crave Persephone Bakery on a daily basis even when I’m not visiting Jackson. Everything they create is delicious. My go-to is the Pumpkin Bread with Maple Glaze, the Quiche Lorraine, basic drip coffee, or one of their Chai Lattes. Whenever possible, Persephone Bakery collaborates with local farms and ranchers to source local and all natural ingredients.

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• Breakfast: Cowboy Coffee – This is my go-to local coffee shop to grab a quick cup of coffee. Kristine loves their chai lattes here too! The branding is really cute and the coffee is great. They also have a great breakfast, sandwich, and panini menu.

• Lunch: Picnic – A sibling restaurant to Persephone Bakery. This is a great place to order lunch to go! We ordered some goodies here when we had a picnic in the Tetons. I recommend ordering the Avocado Toast or the Mexi Chop Salad.
• Lunch: Jackson Drug – I was drawn to Jackson Drug for the first time because one of my favorite Jackson Hole bloggers owns it (Instagram: @gill_jessica). They make homemade ice cream, malts, burgers, and sandwiches. The Jackson Drug first opened its doors in 1919 in the old Clubhouse building on the east side of the square, so this a historical restaurant.

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• Dinner: Teton Tiger – Inspired cuisine from Asia cooked in the mountains of Wyoming! This is my favorite restaurant to grab dinner and I’ll never admit to how many nights in a row that I eat here. Some of my favorite dishes to order are: Chicken Satay Lettuce Wraps, Noman Eggrolls, General Tso’s Chicken, and Bangkok Street Noodles (with chicken).
• Dinner: Glorietta – The food and the design at Glorietta are very romantic. This Italian restaurant has a wonderful menu, great wine list, and a comforting motto – “You’re a Stranger Here But Once.” You’ll need a reservation here! I recommend ordering the Mozzarella Fritto and the Pappardelle Ragu.
• Dinner: Local – Local is a modern American steakhouse and bar right in the square. The menu features both classic and specialty cuts of locally-ranched meats and game alongside fresh seafood, shellfish, house-ground burgers, and seasonally-inspired food.
• Drink: Million Dollar Cowboy Bar – You literally cannot go to Jackson Hole and not have a beer at the Cowboy Bar. It’s Wyoming’s landmark watering hole established in 1937. The Million Dollar Cowboy Bar is internationally famous for its western dancing and live entertainment. Some of the finest entertainers in the country western scene have been known to take the stage here, including Waylon Jennings, Hank Williams Jr., Asleep at the Wheel, Hoyt Axton, Glen Campbell, Tanya Tucker, Willie Nelson, Commander Cody, and the James Cotton Blues Band. Nowadays, The Cowboy provides live music and continues to feature local and nationally recognized bands.

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FAVORITE BOUTIQUES IN JACKSON HOLE, WY

• Penny Lane – This is my favorite women’s clothing boutique in Jackson! The ladies who work here are so friendly and helpful. I felt like I made friends here! Most of the boutiques have a very Wyoming style (of course!), but I felt some Central California vibes mixed with Wyoming vibes at Penny Lane.
• Made – Celebrates American makers! Lots of cute, unique, and quality gifts.
• Altitude – Another women’s clothing boutique in the square. Very seasonally on trend designer pieces.

WHAT NOT TO MISS IN JACKSON HOLE, WY

• The obvious answer – Do not miss the Tetons!
• Don’t miss a sunrise at Mormon Row
• Don’t miss Teton Village if you’re visiting during the winter…It would be hard *not* to end up here though!
• Don’t skip out on the restaurant scene. Some of my all-time favorite restaurants are here!