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It’s been a national park summer for me: Grand Canyon, Zion, West Glacier, and most recently, Grand Teton National Park, just outside of Jackson Hole, Wyoming. While every park can brag about its breathtaking views and natural beauty, what I loved about this whole part of the country was Jackson Hole’s rustic small-town charm with a dining scene that rivals any major city, and the region's abundant wildlife. We saw a mama moose with her twins, a black bear, a bison herd and pronghorns all in one day!
Jackson Hole may be famous for its winter slopes, but the destination is packed with incredible adventures in the off-season, too, from top-of-the-mountain waffles to whitewater rafting to taking a wildlife safari in the national park.Here's exactly where to stay, eat, and play in this charming Wyoming mountain town for the perfect off-season getaway.
Where To Stay
Hotel Terra Jackson Hole
Hotel Terra Jackson Hole recently unveiled a stunning renovation full of modern amenities and cozy rustic charm. Its upgraded suites — complete with full kitchens, dining areas, and spacious living rooms with gas fireplaces — are ideal for families, bachelorette trips, or milestone birthday getaways. Paired with breathtaking views of the Teton and Gros Ventre Mountains, the Chill Spa with rooftop hot tub, and easy access to local dining and shopping at Jackson Hole Mountain Resort, it’s a stylish basecamp just one mile from Grand Teton National Park.
Also situated at the Jackson Hole Mountain Resort, Teton Mountain Lodge & Spa offers elegant, mountain-chic rooms and suites featuring stone gas fireplaces, whirlpool tubs for relaxing after a day outdoors, and the full-service SpaTerre, all just steps from the resort's aerial tram and a short drive from Grand Teton National Park.
Where To Eat
Spur Restaurant & Bar, Corbet's Cabin
For a truly only-in-Jackson-Hole treat, start your day by taking the aerial tram up to Corbet's Cabin for "Top of the World" waffles, and 360-degree views of the Tetons. Choose from classic toppings like Nutella, brown sugar, peanut butter and bacon, and fresh berries — or order a few to share. Made fresh daily at 10,450 feet, they're the best high-altitude reward!
Within the Jackson Hole Mountain Resort, you'll also want to grab a bite at the iconic Mangy Moose restaurant. Standout dishes include the house-made game chili, scratch-made shareables, and David’s Chopped Salad with wild-caught salmon, named after co-owner David Yoder. Afterward, be sure to head into the legendary adjoining saloon, widely celebrated as one of the best Western bars in the U.S. with live music playing year-round.
At Spur Restaurant & Bar, Executive Chef Andrea Bolanos brings a creative international twist to the American West through meticulous, from-scratch culinary practices, including in-house butchery, custom sausage casings, and house-made kimchi and kombucha. Standout dinner options range from the delicate Ahi Tuna Tacos with avocado and soy vinaigrette to the hearty Tomahawk Pork Chop served with herb-roasted fingerling potatoes and an apple cider reduction. Seafood lovers can also savor the Corn Crusted Red Trout with couscous and lemon beurre blanc, or the Skuna Bay Salmon paired with harissa beluga lentils and charred chive oil.
Downtown, just steps from Jackson Hole’s iconic Town Square, The Bistro brings the charm of a Parisian brasserie to the heart of Wyoming. Enjoy the classics like French Onion soup (perfect on a rainy day) and Croque Madame or come for dinner for elevated bistro bites.
Persephone Bakery is a popular Jackson Hole destination for a freshly brewed coffee and freshly baked pastry on their outdoor deck, which offers prime front-row seats for people watching.
What To Do
Professional Guide Team, Jackson Hole Wildlife Safaris
Million Dollar Cowboy Bar: No trip to Jackson Hole is complete without a stop at this legendary bar. Saddle up on one of their famous saddle-horn bar stools, order a round, and two step on their dance floor for fun night out on the town.
Jackson Hole Whitewater: Hit the rapids and enjoy the pristine Wyoming wilderness where you can spot eagles soaring overhead. Jackson Hole Whitewater offers the best intro to rafting, making it ideal for beginners and families of all ages looking for a thrilling taste of the river without the extreme risk.
Jackson Hole Wildlife Safari: This was my favorite experience of the picturesque Grand Teton National Park. Jackson Hole Wildlife Safari's pro guides will take you into pristine habitats to safely spot iconic local wildlife — from bison, elk, and moose to wolves, bears, and bald eagles — while sharing fascinating insights into the region's unique ecology and history. You can even book a full day tour and take a road trip to Yellowstone National Park, which is only a 10-minute drive via the scenic John D. Rockefeller Jr. Memorial Parkway.
National Elk Refuge: Though famous for its sleigh rides in the colder months, the refuge is also picturesque in the summertime. Get lost in the open fields at the foot of the mountains for an equally Instagram-worthy adventure.
Jackson Hole Whitewater
Jackson Hole was a surprise summer travel hit, and fall is proving to be just as gorgeous. Whether you're looking to hit the winter slopes or seeking warm-weather adventures on the water and the trails, it’s an incredible year-round destination no matter who you're traveling with.
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