The first time you drive into the valley and see the Teton Range, you’ll understand. There are no foothills. The mountains just explode out of the earth, a jagged, dramatic wall of rock and snow that commands your attention and instantly signals that you’ve arrived somewhere truly special.
As a local travel agency in Jackson Hole, we’ve seen that look of awe on countless travelers’ faces, and we know it’s just the beginning of an unforgettable adventure.
This is your expert guide to the can’t-miss sights and experiences that make this destination one of the most beloved in the world. From the majestic national parks to the charming town square, we’re here to share our list of the absolute best attractions in Jackson Hole.
Whether you’re a first-time visitor or returning for another dose of mountain magic, these are the places that will define your trip.
The Crown Jewels: The National Parks
Jackson Hole is the gateway to two of America’s most incredible national parks. They are the primary reason people travel from all over the world to be here, and they are the heart and soul of any visit.
Grand Teton National Park: The Heart of the Valley
This is the park that provides the stunning, ever-present backdrop to life in Jackson Hole. Its accessibility and dramatic beauty make it a daily destination for locals and visitors alike.
- Jenny Lake: This is the postcard-perfect centerpiece of the park. The best way to experience it is by taking the scenic shuttle boat across the crystal-clear water. From the drop-off point, it’s a short and rewarding hike up to the beautiful Hidden Falls.
From there, it’s a little further to Inspiration Point. This area offers a breathtaking panoramic view of the lake and the valley below. It’s one of the most popular and memorable experiences in the entire park.
- Mormon Row: For a dose of history and one of the most iconic photo opportunities in the American West, you must visit Mormon Row. This historic district features a line of beautifully weathered barns and homesteads, perfectly framed by the Teton Range in the background. Arrive early in the morning to catch the golden light of sunrise hitting the peaks.
- Scenic Drives: Aside from being one of the best attractions in Jackson Hole, this 42-mile Scenic Loop Drive is a fantastic way to see the park’s highlights from the comfort of your car. There are numerous pullouts for taking photos and spotting wildlife. A local’s tip is to stop at the Oxbow Bend Turnout, where Mount Moran often reflects perfectly in the calm waters of the Snake River.
- Official Park Information: For the most current details on trail conditions, road closures, and ranger programs, always check the official Grand Teton National Park website.
Yellowstone National Park: The Legendary Day Trip
Just about an hour north of Jackson lies the south entrance to Yellowstone, the world’s first national park. While you could spend weeks exploring its vast wilderness, a long day trip from Jackson Hole allows you to see some of its most famous geothermal wonders.
- Old Faithful & Geyser Basins: Watching the famous Old Faithful geyser erupt is a rite of passage for any visitor. It’s a powerful and predictable display of nature’s force. But don’t stop there. Make sure to visit the Midway Geyser Basin to see the Grand Prismatic Spring, the largest hot spring in the United States, which dazzles with its immense size and vibrant, rainbow-like colors.
Unforgettable Wildlife Encounters
One of the most thrilling parts of any trip to Jackson Hole is the chance to see incredible wildlife in its natural habitat.
The National Elk Refuge Sleigh Ride
This is a truly magical and unique winter-only attraction. Just outside the town of Jackson, thousands of majestic elk gather on the National Elk Refuge to spend the winter.
From December to April, you can take a horse-drawn sleigh ride that takes you right into the middle of the massive herd. Getting that close to these incredible animals is a peaceful and unforgettable experience.
For booking information, you can visit the National Elk Refuge website.
Wildlife Safaris
While you can certainly spot wildlife on your own, a guided safari is the best way to maximize your chances.
Professional guides are experts at tracking animals and know the best spots to find moose, bison, pronghorn, bears, and even elusive wolves. They take you out at dawn and dusk when the animals are most active and provide high-powered spotting scopes for amazing views.
A guided safari is definitely one of the best attractions in Jackson Hole, Wyoming. It’s also one of the more popular requests when crafting custom Wyoming itineraries for our clients.
Signature Thrills and Adventures
For those who want to get their heart pumping, Jackson Hole offers world-class adventure attractions.
Jackson Hole Mountain Resort
Located in Teton Village, Jackson Hole Mountain Resort is a legendary destination for both winter and summer fun.
- The Aerial Tram: “Big Red,” as it’s affectionately known, is a must-do in any season. The tram car climbs 4,139 vertical feet to the summit of Rendezvous Mountain, offering jaw-dropping 360-degree views of the Tetons, the valley, and the surrounding wilderness. In the summer, you can hike down from the top; in the winter, you can ski down.
- Legendary Skiing: In the winter, the resort is a paradise for skiers and snowboarders, famous for its challenging terrain and abundant, light “cowboy powder” snow.
The Snake River
The mighty Snake River offers two distinct but equally amazing aquatic adventures in the summer.
- Whitewater Rafting: For a fun-filled thrill, a whitewater rafting trip through the Snake River Canyon will have you splashing and laughing through exciting rapids.
- Scenic Float Trips: For a more relaxed experience, a gentle, scenic float on the upper sections of the river within Grand Teton National Park is perfect for families and anyone wanting to spot wildlife from the water.
In-Town Gems and Cultural Hubs
The adventure isn’t just in the mountains. The town of Jackson itself is a major attraction.
Jackson’s Historic Town Square
This is the charming and iconic heart of the town. The square is famous for its four large arches, each one made from thousands of naturally shed elk antlers collected from the nearby refuge. Surrounded by historic wooden boardwalks, unique shops, art galleries, and lively restaurants, it’s the perfect place for an afternoon stroll.
The National Museum of Wildlife Art
Overlooking the National Elk Refuge, this beautiful museum is a fantastic cultural attraction. The building itself is a work of art, blending seamlessly into the hillside. Inside, you’ll find a world-class collection of wildlife art, from historic paintings to contemporary sculptures.
It’s the perfect activity for a quieter afternoon or a day when the weather isn’t cooperating.
How a Travel Agency in Jackson Hole Brings These Attractions to Life
Reading about these incredible places is the first step. But a professional travel advisor can take these best attractions in Jackson Hole and weave them into a perfect, seamless vacation — just for you.
At Labbé Travel, we know the best times to visit each spot to avoid the crowds, we can secure the hard-to-get bookings for popular tours, and we can build a logical itinerary that saves you time and eliminates stress. Our specialty is creating custom itineraries that are perfectly tailored to your interests and travel style.
Ready to explore these incredible attractions for yourself? Contact our Jackson Hole travel experts today, and let’s start planning your adventure of a lifetime!