Things to do in Jackson Hole: a year-round guide

Jackson, Wyoming is rugged and wild, brimming with old Western nostalgia and timeless glamour. Nestled in the greater Jackson Hole Valley, this charming mountain town is home to renowned ski resorts, epic mountain views, and a ton of Western flair, all on the doorstep of Grand Teton National Park. Here, long summer days are made for exploring with endless mountain trails to wander and mouthwatering dining to enjoy. One visit to this ruggedly beautiful town simply isn’t enough. But if you only have a weekend, here’s how to experience the best of Jackson, plus a few hidden gems and local favorites, in just three unforgettable days. 3:00 p.m. | Explore Jackson Town Square After settling in, stretch your legs with a walk around Jackson Town Square, the heart and soul of the community, framed by massive elk antler arches at each corner. Pop into local shops selling everything from vintage Western trinkets to handmade jewelry and stylish homewares. 4:00 p.m. | Tapas and tannins Once you’ve worked up an appetite, head to 5:30 p.m. | Jackson Hole Shootout Before dinner, catch the 7:00 p.m. | Dinner at The Wort Head to the 10:00 p.m. | Nightlife in the Wild West If you’re still up for more, make your way to the   9:00 a.m. | Jackson Hole Farmers Market Ease into your morning with a relaxed stroll through the 10:00 a.m. | Coffee and breakfast After the market, head to 11:30 a.m. | Ride the aerial tram Head to Teton Village and ride the At the top, grab a famous gourmet waffle at 2:00 p.m. | National Museum of Wildlife Art On your way back into town, consider a quick detour to the 5:30 p.m. | Early dinner in town After a day of adventure and exploring, settle in for dinner at 7:00 p.m. | Moo’s Gourmet Ice Cream Be sure to save room for this fan-favorite ice cream shop. Swing by for a scoop after dinner and don’t forget to try the legendary wild huckleberry flavor. 7:30 p.m. | Jackson Hole Rodeo If you want the true Jackson experience, there’s no better place to find it than the 6:30 a.m. | Wildlife Safari in Grand Teton National Park Wake up bright and early for a one-of-a-kind 12:00 p.m. | Brunch After your safari, make your way to 2:00 p.m. | Last looks and leisure time Back in town, take one last stroll through Jackson’s shops, including Gaslight Alley, a nook that houses locally owned shops including the popular MADE, which features handmade items from American artists. Take a seat on a patio for a refreshing drink as you bid Jackson a fond farewell for now. See the complete collection of

Jackson, WY blends rugged beauty with the adventurous spirit of the Wild West—and its event calendar does the same. Adrenaline-fueled rodeos, celebrations in the great outdoors, and world-class performances make this mountain town a year-round hub for entertainment, enrichment, and family fun. Winter (December–February) Get ready for serious family fun—and a hefty dose of cuteness—at this beloved Jackson tradition. The dog sled race kicks off with a ceremonial start in Town Square, where crowds gather to cheer as teams of mushers and their spirited dogs burst out of the chute and into the snowy wilderness. More than just a race, it’s a celebration of endurance, teamwork, and the unique bond between humans and their four-legged athletes. Bring the whole family—and your furry friends—to join in the excitement and cheer on these incredible teams. Jackson Hole amps up the holiday magic, transforming its small-town charm into a full-blown winter wonderland. The celebration kicks off the day after Thanksgiving with the beloved Town Square Lighting Ceremony. Locals and visitors gather as the iconic elk antler arches glow, wrapped in thousands of twinkling lights. Carolers fill the air with song, Santa makes his rounds, and the square buzzes with festive energy. The season continues with holiday concerts, outdoor markets, sleigh rides, and ice skating under the stars. Don’t miss Santa rappelling from the tram, shopping at the Holiday Bazaar, or the annual Christmas show at the Jackson Hole Playhouse. Spring (March–May) If great food and drink are your idea of a winter sport, Winter Fest should be at the top of your Jackson itinerary. This three-day celebration, hosted by Jackson Hole Food & Wine, brings together local chefs, winemakers, and mixologists for an unforgettable culinary experience. Expect exclusive tastings, wine-paired dinners, après-ski cocktails, and intimate seminars that go beyond the plate. Whether you're here to sip, savor, or learn something new, Winter Fest is a flavorful way to dive into Jackson’s budding food scene. Tickets go fast, so be sure to book early. Every May, Jackson Hole hosts an iconic Western celebration that celebrates the history and culture of the American West. This 10-day festival brings the town’s cowboy spirit front and center with parades, rodeos, stagecoach rides, and the popular Town Square shootout reenactment. The energy is high, the boots are dusty, and the streets are buzzing. Fan favorite events include the ElkFest antler auction, the chili cook-off, and the Million Dollar Music Fest, where big-name bands light up Town Square in an unforgettable open-air concert. Add in live entertainment, local brews, and plenty of Western flair, and you've got a full dose of Jackson’s wild and wonderful heritage. While technically part of Old West Days, this springtime favorite for foodies is absolutely worthy of its own spotlight. Each May, more than 25 local restaurants roll out curated prix fixe menus that showcase the best of their seasonal offerings. It’s a delicious excuse to revisit your go-to spots or finally try that place you've had your eye on. From laid-back bistros to elevated dining rooms, it’s a week of great food, great ambiance, and a whole lot of local flavor. Every spring, the Jackson Hole Snow Devils host this high-octane event that’s been drawing crowds since 1975. The World Championship Snowmobile Hill Climb brings top riders from across the country to Snow King Mountain to race straight up its steep, icy face. Thousands of fans gather at the base to cheer them on, cowbells ringing and drinks in hand. It’s not just a race—it’s a lively spring event, complete with beer gardens, food vendors, live music, and a town-wide buzz that carries late into the night.  Jackson’s annual April Fools’ tradition is equal parts hilarious and downright joyful. Gaper Day invites skiers and snowboarders of all skill levels to hit the slopes in their wildest, wackiest costumes like neon retro gear, Speedos, tutus, and anything else that sparks laughter. It’s a playful celebration of the season’s end, where creativity and silliness rule the day. After shredding the mountain, the energy spills into town with fun-filled apres-ski antics at local bars, making Gaper Day one of Jackson’s most delightfully eccentric traditions. Summer (June–August) Jackson Hole’s 4th of July celebration mixes classic Americana with authentic Western flair. The day kicks off with a joyous downtown parade with cowboys, marching bands, colorful floats, and local groups all showcasing community pride. In the afternoon, the Jackson Hole Rodeo brings the rugged frontier to life, followed by a dramatic Town Square shootout reenactment that’s pure Old West theater. As the sun sets, the sky lights up with a fireworks show framed by the towering Tetons—a fitting finale to a truly Jackson-style Independence Day. Every summer, the Grand Teton Music Festival brings eight weeks of world-class music to the Wild West. From July through August, audiences enjoy a rich mix of orchestral, chamber, and solo performances featuring world-renowned musicians and guest artists. The festival’s classical repertoire comes alive in the stunning, all-wooden Walk Festival Hall in Teton Village, creating an experience that’s as inspiring as the music itself. Alongside evening concerts, the festival offers community events and family-friendly programs, making it a welcoming celebration of live music for all ages. An action-packed Western tradition, the Jackson Hole Rodeo lights up town twice a week all summer long. Every Wednesday and Saturday evening at the Teton County Fairgrounds, the rodeo showcases thrilling events like barrel racing, bronc riding, and roping—all against the stunning backdrop of a Tetons sunset. Watch seasoned pros and rising stars compete for the grand prize, and soak in the grit, skill, and showmanship that make this sport so iconic. Whether it’s your first rodeo or one of many, it’s a perfect way to spend an evening under the wide Wyoming sky. Fall (September–November) Held each September, the Jackson Hole Marathon offers one of the most scenic racecourses in the country. Runners wind through wide-open spaces and quiet roads, ultimately finishing at the base of the Teton Mountain Range in Teton Village—a breathtaking reward for the athletic feat. The event includes a full marathon, half marathon, and relay options, welcoming runners of all levels. For those who like to celebrate their accomplishments in style, the post-race “Hobble” pub crawl adds a fun, local twist to the finish line festivities. Every fall, Jackson Hole turns into a living gallery for one of the nation’s top celebrations of Western, wildlife, and landscape art. Over 12 days, more than 50 events bring together acclaimed artists, collectors, and art lovers for an immersive experience. Galleries and venues across town offer curated exhibits, artist meet-and-greets, and other cultural events. Highlights include the QuickDraw and auction, where artists create original pieces in real time, the popular gallery walk, and the elegant Art Brunch.  Whenever you visit Jackson, you’ll find experiences as bold and memorable as the Tetons themselves.

Picture-perfect destinations like Big Sky, Montana and Jackson Hole, Wyoming are coveted ski towns with sweeping views, iconic slopes and close-knit communities. With two strong options to choose from, it’s hard to decide between Big Sky vs. Jackson Hole for your dream residence.  The decision comes down to compatibility. These two mountain towns share many characteristics, but also vary in size, amenities, slope options and atmosphere. This comparison guide breaks down each resort town’s unique personality, so you can decide which one works best with your lifestyle. A quick overview: Big Sky vs. Jackson Hole Jackson Hole and Big Sky are popular The popular town caters to urban-minded nature lovers, and its center exudes deeply rooted Western culture at every turn. Annual attractions include the Grand Teton Music Festival, Jackson Hole Rodeo and Old West Days for a snapshot of local mountain life.  The quaint yet lively town is best for a private, relaxed second-home experience, located 50 miles south of Bozeman Yellowstone International Airport. However, Town Center and Mountain Village offer year-round dining, shopping and entertainment options.  Does Big Sky or Jackson Hole offer better skiing?   When considering Big Sky vs. Jackson Hole skiing amenities, compare the resorts’ acreage, number of lifts, tourist densities and overall cost. Big Sky is more varied and vast, over double the acreage of Jackson Hole.  Big Sky offers a convenient network of lifts and a scenic tram, while Jackson Hole shines with challenging runs that sometimes require backcountry treks. Both receive over 400 inches of annual snowfall and are world-renowned as top Big Sky Big Sky Resort is known for its variety and called “The Biggest Skiing in America” for good reason, boasting over 300 official runs on 5,850 acres of skiable terrain. The Lone Peak Tram lifts passengers 11,116 feet high, and a network of 39 additional lifts provides easy access to other runs in the massive range.  The slopes are rated for all ski levels, from beginner-friendly routes like Lower Morning Star to challenging double black diamond runs like Big Couloir. The trails tend to be less crowded, and you can expect more than one acre of terrain for every skier, lending to a peaceful, wait-free experience.  Jackson Hole Jackson Hole Mountain Resort is nestled in the steep slopes of the Teton Range and stretches about 2,500 acres, with 133 named runs and comprehensive backcountry access. Only 10% of the resort’s trails are beginner-friendly, and there are only 13 lifts. The Aerial Tram climbs 10,450 feet in less than nine minutes and leads to the resort’s most famous runs.  Ambitious runs bring ambitious crowds, so you can expect longer lines and heavier trail traffic during peak season. Teton Village is in the heart of the resort and is especially busy, but popular despite the crowding for advanced skiers chasing unforgettable descents into scenic powder drops. Year-round activities Whether you’re living in Big Sky, Montana, vs. Jackson Hole, Wyoming, you can expect robust activities beyond the ski slopes. Both destinations host annual festivals, scenic tram views and outdoor activities like kayaking and hiking.  Big Sky tends to be a few degrees cooler year-round and brings in fewer crowds, while Jackson Hole attracts tourists and has a slightly warmer summer season. The key difference between the two Big Sky Big Sky’s alpine meadows and evergreen forests bloom from late spring to early fall, best seen hiking or mountain biking through the region's 50 miles of scenic trails. The Big Sky tram offers relaxed views of Lone Mountain and its encompassing range, carrying passengers 9,024 feet to its summit.  Big Sky is about an hour from Yellowstone National Park’s West Entrance, providing convenient access to the park’s most popular attractions, such as the Grand Prismatic Spring and Old Faithful Geyser. Attractions beyond the skiing season include an annual summer concert series, food and wine festival and the annual Big Sky PBR event. Jackson Hole Jackson Hole comes alive in the warmer months, offering experiences like horseback rides in the Teton mountain range to whitewater rafting adventures down the Snake River. Snow King Mountain is a popular summer attraction for families. The ski hill transforms into an adventure park that offers a roller coaster, zip line and mini-golf.  Town Square hosts weekly farmers’ markets and outdoor concerts that showcase the destination’s Western traditions and crafts. The Jackson Hole Fall Arts festival features local creatives, food and music over the span of 12 days each September, with more offerings comparing Big Sky vs. Jackson Hole in the summer. Jackson Hole is about 10 minutes from Grand Teton National Park and about an hour from the south entrance of Yellowstone National Park. However, commutes can reach 2 hours during high season. This side of the park is ideal for exploring the Lewis River corridor and wildlife spotting. Community and culture  Community aspects in Jackson Hole vs. Big Sky break even in terms of outdoor recreational access and appreciation, but differ in many other ways. Jackson Hole is about three times larger in population than Big Sky and has more rooted cultural gatherings and festival lineups.  Big Sky is home to just under 3,000 locals and therefore has a retreat-like, close-knit feel. While it draws tourist crowds and has foundational community services, it tends to be more sparse and quieter than its Jackson Hole counterpart.  Big Sky Big Sky is a community-minded resort town where residents prefer to connect over long hikes and escape to the powdered slopes. Newcomers can expect a slow build on friendships, but Nightlife and shopping options are fewer than in Jackson Hole, and Bozeman offers city conveniences about an hour away. Many locals prefer the neighboring city for gathering goods, Jackson Hole Jackson Hole is home to a blend of long-standing residents, nature enthusiasts and part-time owners who value culture as much as the great outdoors. This brings residents from all walks of life to the town and fuels a variety of activities year-round.  Dining and nightlife Both Big Sky and Jackson Hole evoke the vision of a cozy, classy ski lodge serving perfectly balanced cocktails and tasty, decadent bites. You can have this in the resort areas of each town. However, the two differ in a few ways.  Living in Big Sky, Montana, may be a challenge for residents who enjoy the novelty of a new restaurant or bar every week, with a smaller selection. But what it lacks in volume is made up for in quality, with specialty options like dinner and stargazing at the Montana Dinner Yurt or a Sleigh Ride Dinner at Lone Mountain Ranch.  Jackson Hole has options for everyone, from tapas to sushi spreads. The town hosts the Jackson Hole Culinary Festival in June and the Jackson Hole Food & Wine Winter Fest in February as a way to showcase its culinary diversity. Most nightlife venues are in the town’s downtown on a walkable stretch of streets, while others are nestled in Teton Village. Big Sky Big Sky’s smaller culinary selection is carefully curated with both upscale and casual eateries. Fine dining options, such as Everett’s 8800 and Horn and Cantel, offer farm-to-table fare, including bison short ribs and wagyu burgers. Family-friendly spots like Cafe 191 and Blue Moon Bakery provide comfort classics such as hand-tossed pizza and chicken-fried steak. For a unique experience, the Montana Dinner Yurt hosts a three-course dinner and is only accessible by a snowcat that plows through a scenic stretch of alpine forest. According to a local The most popular nightlife spot in town is Tips Up Big Sky, located in its center. You can expect shuffleboard and pool tables, live music and a diverse crowd in this cozy yet consistently busy hotspot. Jackson Hole Jackson Hole has a broader food and nightlife scene due to its size, offering a wider range of options for residents. One standout restaurant is the Steadfire Chophouse, offering a pasture-to-plate menu that serves caviar, oysters royal and a selection of fine steaks in Teton Village.  Those living in Jackson Hole and seeking an affordable, less touristy option can take For nightlife, many flock to the Million Dollar Cowboy Bar for nightly live music and western charm. Cost of living Whether you settle in Big Sky or Jackson Hole, you’re joining a highly coveted resort community, so prices are on the premium end. The cost of living in Big Sky Montana is a touch more affordable than Jackson Hole, but value is on the rise in both destinations. HOA fees, taxes and frequent seasonal turnover can also increase the overall cost of living, making both locales Big Sky According to Taunya Fagan’s There’s only one major grocery store and hardware store in town, and a local mentions the high prices which frequently drive residents to shop elsewhere: “Definitely do it in Bozeman. It's even worse than the typical resort markup. I saw a dozen eggs for $19 last week.” Jackson Hole The cost of living in Jackson Hole, Wyoming, was recently analyzed in the Keller Williams 2024 Grocery and household stores are more numerous in Jackson Hole than in Big Sky. While prices are elevated, having options allows shoppers to better compare prices. Healthcare and education Big Sky and Jackson Hole each provide 24/7 emergency care, but Big Sky residents may need to travel to Bozeman for specialty services. Jackson Hole’s school system is larger and is home to a top-tier high school, while Big Sky’s district and student population remain comparatively small. Both locations offer families easy access to outdoor education and recreation. Big Sky Bozeman Health Big Sky Medical Center provides 24/7 emergency care and pharmacy services in the Meadow Village region of Big Sky. For specialized care, residents often head to Bozeman Health Deaconess Hospital, with Big Sky’s school system consists of Ophir Elementary, Ophir Middle School and Lone Peak High School. The student-to-teacher ratio ranges from 10 to 12 students per teacher, supporting more personalized learning. The district also offers experiential learning programs like Expedition Yellowstone, an immersive park experience for fourth graders.  Jackson Hole Living in Jackson Hole, Wyoming, is ideal for those who want convenient, low-logistical healthcare. The St. John’s Health campus is comprehensive with full in-patient services, cardiology and surgery centers and cancer care. They also manage off-campus emergency centers conveniently located in Teton Village.  Teton’s school district houses 2,800 K-12 students and has a student-to-teacher ratio of about 1:11, fostering strong classroom relationships. Housing Both cities offer high-end real estate options suitable for an upper-income individual or family. Prices stay elevated due to the limited availability of properties, although recent developments in Big Sky have increased the number of available homes compared to Jackson Hole. Both towns boast scenic alpine views, and the Big Sky Big Sky has several large-scale communities like Yellowstone Club and Moonlight Basin designed for skiers seeking quick slope access and amenities. Newer town homes can be found in Town Center and Meadow Village, which are steadily growing into more robust residential districts.  The town is exclusive but more accessible for new residents than Jackson Hole. This is because of flexible local building codes and a resort tax that funds housing initiatives. You can also explore neighborhoods near the Gallatin River if you don’t mind driving 15 minutes to the slopes.  Jackson Hole Jackson Hole’s larger footprint comes with a wide variety of housing options, from luxurious homes in the prestigious John Dodge neighborhood to condos in the heart of downtown. The town center is walkable, and most areas are close to cultural attractions, making it best for those who prefer a livelier pace.  However, housing inventory is extremely limited in Jackson Hole, largely due to building limitations designed to protect natural wildlife areas and ecosystems. Its proximity to world-class national parks and packed peak-season travel also makes it challenging to find consistent housing without a substantial investment.  Big Sky vs. Jackson Hole: Which should you choose? Living in Big Sky vs Jackson Hole comes down to your personal preferences. If you want the slow pace of a close-knit community on a rural stretch of paradise, Big Sky is best. If you want immersion into nature with access to amenities, Jackson Hole is more aligned to your lifestyle.  If you’ve dreamed of

Luxury mountain retreat: Chase cooler summer days in the mountains When temperatures soar in the city, there are few pleasures greater than escaping to a luxury mountain retreat. For those who value privacy, sophistication, and breathtaking scenery, destinations like Steamboat Springs, Colorado and Jackson Hole, Wyoming offer the perfect blend of cool alpine air, invigorating outdoor activities, and high-style relaxation. Whether gathering with friends or seeking quiet moments with nature, the lifestyle in these mountain towns is about savoring the best of summer’s energy and adventure. What defines the luxury mountain retreat lifestyle A luxury mountain retreat is more than beautiful architecture set against a dramatic backdrop. It’s a lifestyle shaped by crisp mornings, sun-drenched afternoons, and evenings spent under starlit skies. Owners and their guests enjoy amenities that elevate every day, from chef-grade kitchens and inviting great rooms to expansive decks, and private hot tubs. The allure lies in effortless transitions between action and relaxation: one moment, you might be on a mountain trail or fly-fishing a hidden stream; the next, you’re savoring a local vintage by the fire as the alpenglow paints the peaks. Experience Steamboat Springs summer luxury Steamboat Springs sets itself apart with an elevation of nearly 6,900 feet and a typical July high of just 78 degrees. This cool, high-altitude climate invites you to spend your days hiking aspen groves, mountain biking, or casting a line in the Yampa River, and your evenings gathering with loved ones around an outdoor fireplace. The town’s charming blend of ranching heritage and refined new-builds means there’s always something to discover, from art festivals to upscale dining along the Local luxury mountain homes are masterclasses in mountain-modern comfort. Steamboat’s luxury communities can offer wide-open spaces, private fishing lakes, and equestrian facilities, while Explore the refined side of Jackson Hole Jackson Hole is the essence of the modern luxury mountain retreat. With summer highs hovering around 80 degrees and cool evenings that invite al fresco dining, it’s no wonder this valley is favored by those who pursue a balance of adventure and indulgence. Jackson Hole’s allure lies in its connection to nature and culture: you can spend a morning on a private wildlife safari or at a Snow King stands as a contemporary masterpiece in downtown Jackson Hole, where modern design meets mountain views. The Jackson Hole lifestyle is also reflected in its renowned hospitality, fine dining, and curated wellness experiences. With nearby hiking, fly-fishing, and access to Why co-own your luxury mountain escape with Pacaso Pacaso redefines how buyers experience the luxury mountain retreat lifestyle. With Pacaso’s co-ownership model, you enjoy all the comforts and privileges of a designer home, minus the usual burdens of managing a second home solo. Each co-owner has access to beautifully furnished, professionally managed spaces in top destinations, so your time in the mountains is spent making memories, not handling logistics. Explore more remarkable Key experiences that set these retreats apart A luxury mountain retreat in Steamboat Springs or Jackson Hole places you in the heart of the mountain lifestyle. Here are just a few high points owners rave about: Elevate your summer at a luxury mountain retreat Cool evenings, endless adventure, and high-end comfort are all within reach when you choose a luxury mountain retreat in Steamboat Springs or Jackson Hole. Ready to explore what Pacaso co-ownership could mean for your lifestyle? Browse the current To learn how co-ownership opens doors to remarkable homes, read our guide to

Jackson Hole events: A world of art and culture in Jackson Hole Every September, Jackson Hole transforms into a lively hub for art lovers during the highly anticipated Highlights of the fall arts festival The Fall Arts Festival is more than an event — it is a journey through Jackson Hole’s vibrant creative community. Some of the experiences that draw visitors and locals alike include: For those seeking exclusive experiences, Pacaso ownership places you close to the action while granting the privacy and comfort of a professionally designed home. In Luxury living for art enthusiasts The festival’s reputation for high-quality art, exclusive events, and refined gatherings aligns seamlessly with the lifestyle enjoyed by Pacaso owners. Gallery receptions often extend invitations to private dinners and intimate events where you can connect with artists and fellow collectors. When the day winds down, returning to your Pacaso home means comfort, beauty, and panoramic mountain vistas — a quiet retreat after an exciting day among Jackson Hole's most inspiring creators. Imagine entertaining guests with views of the Tetons before heading out to evening receptions, or enjoying a quiet breakfast in a sun-filled dining room as you plan your festival agenda. Living in Jackson Hole: Year-round access to art, nature, and fine dining Living in Jackson Hole means more than enjoying a single event — it's about embracing a lifestyle shaped by art, nature, and community. Throughout the year, you'll find a calendar filled with Jackson Hole events like gallery openings, music festivals, and outdoor adventures. With Pacaso, you’re never far from a scenic hike, a world-class art exhibition, or an evening of fine dining. The vibrant arts scene makes Jackson Hole an inspiring place to call your own. For those who want to immerse themselves in this vibrant community, Whether you’re curating your art collection, exploring the outdoors, or simply seeking inspiration in your surroundings, owning a Pacaso home in Jackson Hole offers a front-row seat to culture and adventure. Experience Jackson Hole events with Pacaso The Fall Arts Festival is just one example of how living in Jackson Hole allows you access to events that deliver exceptional experiences to those who love culture and adventure. With Pacaso, you can enjoy the festival’s exclusive events and return each evening to a home that matches your lifestyle. Ready to take part in Jackson Hole’s most exciting events year after year? Explore