72-Hours in Jackson Hole
Locals here in Jackson Hole often joke that we are on a permanent vacation. Jackson Hole is the ultimate outdoor playground for adults and kids alike. We are surrounded by the stunning Teton, Gros Ventre, and Snake River mountain ranges. The Snake River bisects the valley floor, and we are neighbored by two of the greatest National Parks in the country, Grand Teton National Park and Yellowstone National Park. Jackson Hole has no shortage of summer activities. The plethora of activities can send one’s head into a spin, but don’t worry, we’ve laid out the best way to spend a weekend in Jackson Hole.
Day One
Morning
After getting settled in at your luxurious home-away-from-home for the weekend, head on out to Persephone Bakery for provisions to keep fueled for the day; with three locations you’re only minutes away anywhere in town. While you can’t go wrong with anything Persephone puts out, the kouign amann (pro. queen a-mahn) and a scone skillet are the perfect selections for a balanced sweet and savory breakfast treat. Persephone does a latte right, bringing coffee culture to Jackson that can arguably rival those of European or Australian origins.
After your stomach is full, head out to explore the town. Start by taking a picture under the iconic Jackson Hole antler arches at the town square in downtown Jackson, a must for anyone who comes to town. Then, spend your time wandering around the lovely art galleries like Gallery Wild, known for a fresh modern take on wildlife art, and get your shopping fix at one of the many boutique retailers, like Nest or Altitude.
Afternoon
All that shopping is sure to work up an appetite, so pop into the iconic Jackson Hole Drug for a quick bite. Originally opened in 1919, this long time shop has now been revamped and rejuvenated by the great-granddaughters of the original owner, reviving a long time family legacy in Jackson Hole. Enjoy an old-time treat at the soda fountain or eat a full lunch.
Adjusting to Jackson Hole’s high elevation of 6,237 ft (1901 m) can be tough on even the most trained athletes. Hydration and easy movement are two keys to mitigating the effects of the elevation. Ease into your afternoon with a private yoga session with Ainslie Mintz. With over 300 hours of training, and 10 years of teaching experience she can customize classes to any ability and need. After you stretch out it’s important to hydrate, so follow your yoga session with a hydration therapy from House Call Hydration to ensure you’re ready for your more strenuous adventures in Jackson Hole.
Evening
While Jackson may be small, its dining options and nightlife are not. Any night of the week, you are sure to find live music somewhere in town. Try your luck on Tuesdays at the Wort Hotel at the famous Silver Dollar Bar for live bluegrass, or get some free swing dancing lessons Thursday evenings at the Cowboy Bar to get your weekend dancing shoes warmed up; either way, you’re bound to have a great time. As for food, stop by Trio for an excellent wine selection and delicious Prince Edward Island Mussels dripping in a butter white wine sauce to die for; or for a more low key dining affair pop into Teton Tiger for a spiked Thai Tea and some Shanghai Street Noodles.
Day Two
Morning
Grab a bagel and schmear or build your own bagel sandwich at Pearl Street Bagels, and head off to Grand Teton National Park early to enjoy the park to yourself before the crowds arrive. Be sure to take a picture at the entrance sign with the glorious Teton Mountain Range as your backdrop, one of many photo stops of the day. Head into the park and go to the Taggart-Bradley Lake trailhead. From here you can choose a short 2.5-mile round trip hike to Taggart Lake or make a lovely 8-mile loop around both lakes. If driving is more your speed, head to the north entrance of the park at Moran Junction, then slowly head south, back to Jackson. Take your time as you return to Moose Junction, making sure to stop at the Snake River Overlook, Jackson Lake, Jenny Lake, and the many viewpoints along the way.
Afternoon
After enjoying the views of Grand Teton National Park, head back to town to grab some lunch. One local favorite is Teton Thai Plate, hidden down a little alley just behind Old Time Photos on Cache Street, the main street heading back into town. Then, browse through Gaslight Alley, just one alley over to stock up on Jackson Hole souvenirs for everyone. Visit MADE for one of a kind, hand-produced gifts, then head to Mursell’s Sweet Shop with goodies to satisfy any sweet tooth. Before you leave, check out Valley Book Store for the literary lovers in your life.
Evening
Get ready for the ultimate luxury river adventure, as you head out with Jackson Hole Vintage Adventures on our Wooden Boat Tour & Dinner. Just like getting an early start to miss the crowds of Grand Teton Nat’l Park in the morning, heading out on the river in the early evening provides an intimate experience, as the day crowds have melted away and the animals begin to come out. Enjoy a tailored experience with the best guides in the valley, and a dinner to write home about; with caprese skewers, grilled bison filet and berry cobbler with mascarpone and grand marnier you may forget you’re riverside and not at a 5-start restaurant. As the sun sets behind the Teton Range, settle in next to the camp fire for an unforgettable evening with family or friends.
Day Three
Morning
After an early start and a delightful evening on the river, there’s no need to jump off to the races this morning. Enjoy a bit of a lie-in, and then head off to Nora’s Fish Creek Inn for breakfast, a Wilson staple for almost 40 years. This cozy cabin is filled with local history, so take a seat at the bar or one of the delightfully mismatched tables, grab a Jackson Hole Daily, and enjoy bottomless coffee. When it comes to food, start with the classic 2 eggs, or if you’re feeling adventurous, the huevos rancheros are the best in town.
Afternoon
Take a drive out to the National Museum of Wildlife Art to enjoy works from over 100 distinguished artists, part of the museum’s permanent collection, alongside a selection of rotating exhibitions. After browsing the galleries, and seeing some spectacular art, head to the first level to their in-house eatery, Palate, for lunch with one of the best views in Jackson Hole. Overlook the Elk Refuge and the Gros Ventre Range while sipping a nice glass of wine and eating delicious nibbles.
Evening
For your last evening in town, head out and make the best of it. Start with happy hour at one of the many wonderful bars in down like Local, with a fabulous wine selection and even creative bartenders to whip you up any drink you fancy. Once the happiest of hours comes to a close, wander over to the Snake River Grill, the ultimate cap to an amazing weekend. While there are no wrong choices on their menu, the infamous steak tartare pizza is something not to be missed. Once full on the deliciousness served up by the SRG team, wander the downtown boardwalk shops and galleries, like Gallery Wild and find a beautiful souvenir to take home with you.
Whether you choose to spend a weekend in Jackson Hole or an entire week, or two weeks, be sure to follow Jackson Hole Vintage Adventures to get a local perspective on the best of Jackson Hole.
Have questions? Contact us about making a reservation for a private tour on the Snake River.