Jackson Hole in Summer: A Weekend Guide

Jackson Hole, Wyoming in summer is like an adult playground! If you’re looking for western, outdoorsy vibes, Jackson is the perfect place for you to visit. It certainly was one of my favorite summer trips this year. Here is everything you need to know, see, eat, and do while you’re there!

Jackson Hole in Summer: A Weekend Guide

How to get to Jackson Hole in Summer

Jackson Hole is located near Grand Teton National Park, Yellowstone National Park, and is very close to the border of Idaho. If you’re flying, there’s an airport in Jackson Hole (JAC) and depending on where you’re coming from, it can be a great option because it’s only 15 minutes. Just know it’s a smaller airport so can be a bit pricier. Other airport options are Salt Lake City (4.30-hour drive from Jackson) and Idaho Falls (1.45 hours from Jackson).

If you’re coming from Boise, ID, the drive to Jackson Hole is about 5 hours 40 mins. If you drive through Teton Pass like we did, be sure to look out for the famous old sign greeting people to the Wild West!

Where to Stay

The Lodge at Jackson Hole – We stayed here for our last visit to Jackson Hole and it was a wonderful getaway. We really wanted somewhere rustic and comfortable with nice beds and we got all of that and more staying here! While it’s not right in the center of town, there is a free shuttle to take you anywhere or you can walk downtown in about 15 minutes. Check out my full review of the hotel here and see current rates here.

Airbnb – There are also quite a few amazing Airbnb’s in the area if you’re looking for something more like home. Use my code for a discounted stay.

Where to Eat and Drink

BREAKFAST/BRUNCH

Persephone Bakery – This is a local favorite spot for wonderful brunch and pastries. They have a beautiful deck to sit outside as well.

Pearl Street Bagels – Want something quick and yummy? Grab a breakfast bagel and coffee at Pearl Street. I loved their lox bagel.

LUNCH

Coelette – Go here for a trendy atmosphere and wonderful lunch or dinner with outdoor seating. I love it for the decor!

Mangy Moose – This is a popular spot for skiers, but just as popular in the summer. Tucked into Teton Village this is a great lunch spot to grab a beer and check out the eclectic western decor.

Picnic – This is a cute spot for breakfast or lunch with scrumptious farm to table fare.

DINNER

The Local – I didn’t go here, but was told by more than 4 people that it was their favorite dinner spot in Jackson. Next time!

Thai Me Up – This is actually part of Melvin Brewing, but we LOVED the Thai food here along with the beer. Highly recommend their green curry.

DRINKS

There are a lot of fun and classic bars in Jackson. Here are a few of the more popular spots:

Millionaire Cowboy Bar
Bar J Chuck Wagon
Silver Dollar Bar
Still West Brewery
Tiger West Bar

Looking for a great coffee spot? Try Cowboy Coffee.

What to Do

Snag your photo at the Jackson Towne Square antler arches.

There are 3 or 4 of them so don’t worry about waiting long or not getting a photo.

Spend a day in Grand Teton National Park and hike Jenny Lake

I had no clue how close Grand Teton National Park was to Jackson, but I probably should have done more research because it’s VERY close! While in the park, we hiked the Jenny Lake trail and went up past Inspiration Point for the best views of the Tetons and the lake. The hike can be pretty long if you continue on, but we just went about 3 miles in and went back the same way (3 miles out). This is a very heavily trafficked hike so just know you won’t be alone. Just make sure you get there early for a parking spot. Also, look out for animals! We saw a moose and I know a lot of people see bears on the regular.

Grand Teton Viewpoints

While driving through the park, I also recommend stopping for epic photos at these viewpoints. Unfortunately, while we were there it was so smoky that we couldn’t even see the Tetons at all (only on in the morning) hence my photo below. However, these would be spectacular on a normal day. I must go back.

Snake River Outlook
Schwabacher Landing
Mormon Row Historic District

Visit the National Museum of Wildlife Art

This museum is on a hill overlooking the elk refuge and while I didn’t go myself, I think I’ll go next time. Even the building itself was amazing and I’ve heard it’s very beautiful inside. There are also quite a few other galleries in downtown Jackson Hole if art is your thing.

Float the Snake River

After a long hike or a hot day, there are not too many better things than getting in the water! Try floating the Snake River for a fun day activity. Some parts of the river are much more intense and you’ll need a guide, so make sure you’re floating on the calmer stretch.

Walk around Teton Village

You don’t have to only go to the ski resort in the winter! Go take a walk around Teton Village and imagine what it would be like in the winter. There are plenty of shops and restaurants in the area to keep you busy. Plus, you can take the summer tram up to the top for some epic views or hikes.

Go brewery hopping

Take a day and spend it trying the different breweries in the area! Be sure to try Melvin Brewing, Snake River Brewing, and StillWest Brewery & Grill.

Horseback ride

For a true wild west experience, go on a trail ride with some iconic views. Try Teton Village Trail Rides for a great experience for all skill levels.

Go Whitewater Rafting

Try one of the many scenic floats trips to enjoy near Jackson Hole on the Snake River! TripAdvisor has some great options if this is something you’d like to try.

Visit Snow King Mountain

There are plenty of fun activities to do in the summer at Snow King Mountain. Into mountain biking, this is a great spot. Interested in zip lining or going on a ropes course? They’ve got it! Want to spend the day with your kids? They also have mini-golf, a maze, and an alpine slide.

Visit Jackson Hole Mountain Resort

Jackson Hole Mountain Resort isn’t just world-class in the winter, it’s also a popualr destination in the summer. With many lifts and trails for hiking in the Tetons, they also have mountain biking and a bike park as well as aerial trams and gondolas open all summer for sweeping views of the valley.