If you’re dreaming about towering mountains, wild rivers, and small-town Western charm,
should be at the top of your list. Tucked into
—and it’s packed with things to do in every season.
Whether you’re planning a family vacation, a couples’ getaway, or a solo trip, these
will help you build an unforgettable itinerary.
1. Walk Under the Famous Antler Arches in Town Square
Start your Jackson adventure right in the heart of town at
Jackson Town Square (officially George Washington Memorial Park).
At each corner of the square, you’ll find big, curved arches made from elk antlers. They’re one of the most recognizable sights in Jackson and a must for photos.
- Stroll the square and peek into local shops and galleries.
- Grab a coffee or ice cream and people-watch from a bench.
- Visit in the evening to see the arches lit up—it feels almost magical.
If you’ve seen photos of Jackson online, chances are you’ve already spotted these arches. Standing under them, with the mountains in the background, really lets you know: you’ve arrived in
Jackson Hole.
2. Explore Grand Teton National Park: Mountains, Lakes, and Wildlife
Just a short drive north of Jackson is one of America’s most stunning parks:
Grand Teton National Park. The jagged Teton Range feels so close it’s like you can reach out and touch it.
Some classic things to do in Grand Teton:
- Scenic drives: Take the Teton Park Road or Moose–Wilson Road for postcard views.
- Jenny Lake: Hike around the lake, ride the boat shuttle, or take the trail to Hidden Falls.
- Oxbow Bend: A peaceful spot at sunrise or sunset—perfect for photos and wildlife sightings.
If you’re not a big hiker, don’t worry. You can see a lot of beauty right from the car or with very short, flat walks. Want a little more adventure? There are trails for every level, from easy lake loops to serious backcountry hikes.
3. Take a Scenic Float or Whitewater Rafting Trip on the Snake River
The
Snake River winds right through the Jackson Hole valley, and floating it is one of the best ways to experience the area.
You generally have two options:
- Scenic float trips: Calm water, great for families and anyone who wants to relax and look for wildlife like bald eagles, moose, and beavers.
- Whitewater rafting: South of Jackson, the river narrows into a canyon with fun rapids—great for thrill seekers.
I remember the first time I floated the Snake River—the guide pointed out a bald eagle perched in a cottonwood tree just a few yards away. The boat went quiet as everyone just watched. It felt like a scene from a nature documentary.
If you’re searching for
outdoor things to do in Jackson, WY, a Snake River trip should be high on your list.
4. Ride the Jackson Hole Aerial Tram at Teton Village
About 12 miles northwest of Jackson, in
Teton Village, you’ll find the famous
Jackson Hole Aerial Tram. Locals simply call it “Big Red.”
In just about 12 minutes, the tram climbs over 4,000 vertical feet to the top of Rendezvous Mountain. On a clear day, the views stretch for miles across the valley and the Tetons.
Things to do at the top:
- Walk around and soak in the 360-degree views.
- Hike one of the trails if you’re feeling active.
- Grab a waffle at Corbet’s Cabin (yes, waffles at 10,000+ feet).
In winter, the tram is a gateway to some of the most legendary ski terrain in North America. In summer, it’s one of the best
Jackson Hole attractions for non-skiers.
5. Go Wildlife Watching in the National Elk Refuge
On the edge of Jackson, just a few minutes from Town Square, is the
National Elk Refuge. In winter, thousands of elk migrate here from the surrounding mountains.
In colder months, you can:
- Take a horse-drawn sleigh ride out among the elk.
- See bighorn sheep on the rocky hillsides near Miller Butte.
- Stop by the visitor center to learn how the refuge protects wildlife.
Even in summer and fall, the open space of the refuge makes a beautiful backdrop to the town. You might spot pronghorn, coyotes, or birds of prey soaring overhead.
If you love animals and want to experience real Wyoming wildlife close to town, this is the spot.
6. Experience a Real Western Rodeo in Jackson
From late spring through summer, the
Jackson Hole Rodeo brings the Old West to life. It’s one of the most fun things to do in Jackson at night, especially for families.
You’ll see:
- Bull riding
- Bronc riding
- Barrel racing
- Roping events
The arena is just a short drive from downtown. Even if you’ve never been to a rodeo before, the energy of the crowd, the smell of dust and popcorn, and the sound of hooves pounding the dirt create an experience you won’t forget.
Want a true Jackson evening? Pair the rodeo with a casual dinner at a local steakhouse or burger joint afterward.
7. Drive to Mormon Row and Take Iconic Teton Photos
If you’ve ever seen a classic photo of old barns with the Tetons rising behind them, there’s a good chance it was taken at
Mormon Row in Grand Teton National Park, just north of Jackson.
This historic district features old homesteads built by Mormon settlers in the early 1900s. The contrast between the weathered wood buildings and the sharp mountain peaks makes it a photographer’s dream.
Tips for visiting:
- Go early in the morning for soft light and fewer crowds.
- Bring a light jacket—even summer mornings can be cool.
- Walk the short dirt roads to explore different viewpoints.
You don’t need to be a photography pro to feel inspired here. Even a quick smartphone shot can look like a postcard.
8. Wander Jackson’s Art Galleries and the National Museum of Wildlife Art
Jackson might be a small town, but it has a big art scene—especially when it comes to Western and wildlife art.
Right outside town, across from the National Elk Refuge, sits the
National Museum of Wildlife Art. The building is built into the hillside and looks like an old stone fort, with sculptures of animals scattered across the grounds.
Inside, you’ll find:
- Paintings and sculptures of animals from all over the world.
- Works by big names in Western and wildlife art.
- Kid-friendly areas and rotating exhibits.
Back in town, you can:
- Browse art galleries along the side streets off Town Square.
- Check out local artists, photography, and Native American art.
- Pop into shops for unique Jackson Hole souvenirs.
It’s an easy way to spend a half-day when you want a break from hiking but still want to soak up Jackson’s culture.
9. Hit the Trails: Hiking and Biking Around Jackson Hole
The Jackson area is laced with trails, from gentle paths to challenging mountain climbs. You don’t have to be an expert to enjoy the outdoors here.
A few popular options near Jackson and in Teton County:
- Snow King Mountain trails: Right in town—hike up for views over Jackson or ride the chairlift and walk around on top.
- Cache Creek: A local favorite for hiking and mountain biking, just a short drive from downtown.
- Pathways system: Paved paths run for miles through the valley, great for casual biking or walking.
Many visitors are surprised by how easy it is to reach nature here. You can literally finish breakfast on the Town Square and be on a trail 15 minutes later.
If you don’t want to pack a bike, plenty of local shops rent bikes and e-bikes, and can point you toward routes that match your comfort level.
10. Take a Day Trip Toward Yellowstone National Park
While Yellowstone is huge and deserves its own trip if you can manage it, you can still see some highlights on a day trip from Jackson.
From Jackson, head north through Grand Teton National Park and into Yellowstone’s South Entrance. Depending on how early you start and how much you like to stop, you can often see:
- Colorful hot springs and steaming geysers
- Deep canyons and rivers
- Bison, elk, and other wildlife
It is a long day, but many travelers say it’s a highlight of their Jackson Hole vacation. Just make sure to gas up in town, pack snacks, and bring a warm extra layer—mountain weather changes fast.
If you don’t feel like driving, look into guided tours from Jackson. Let someone else handle the roads while you watch for wildlife out the window.
Planning Your Jackson, Wyoming Adventure
A few quick tips before you go:
- Best time to visit:
- Summer (June–August) for hiking, rafting, and long days.
- Fall (September–October) for golden leaves and fewer crowds.
- Winter (December–March) for world-class skiing and snow activities.
- Pack layers: Even in July, mornings and evenings can be chilly.
- Wildlife safety: Keep your distance from animals and always follow park rules.
Whether you’re here for the
national parks, the small-town charm of
Jackson, WY, or the endless outdoor adventures in
Teton County, this corner of Wyoming has a way of getting under your skin. Many people plan a quick visit and end up wishing they had stayed longer.
What Would You Add to the List?
Have you visited Jackson or the Jackson Hole area before?
- Did you have a favorite hike, restaurant, or viewpoint?
- Is there a hidden gem you think more people should know about?
Share your tips and experiences in the comments—your story might help someone else plan their dream trip. And if you found this guide on
things to do in Jackson, Wyoming helpful, please
share it with friends or family who are thinking about visiting the Tetons.
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