Wyoming attracts those who need not the frills and thrills of traditional vacation hotspots or high-octane amusements. It attracts those who are drawn instinctively to areas of earthy subsistence, where the only apparent wealth is a wealth of nature and beauty. The town of Jackson Hole is a reflection of its greater state, having both an aesthetic appreciation of its wilderness, as well as a nod to a heritage of ranching and farming.
Although many people use the names of Jackson and Jackson Hole interchangeably, in fact, Jackson Hole refers to the valley in which the town of Jackson is located. Jackson, Wyoming is the only incorporated town in the Jackson Hole valley, and it is the largest city and the county seat of Teton County. Jackson Hole is rich in Western culture and United States history. It was originally inhabited by Native American tribes, such as Shoshoni and Crow but later became the place to be for fur trappers. Many famous mountain men also visited the area. Jedidiah Smith, Jim Bridger, and David Jackson, who the town was eventually named after, were among a few of these famous mountain men. Today, Jackson Hole is still known around the country for its beautiful scenery and wildlife. It is surrounded on the western side by the Teton Mountain Range, on the eastern side by the Gros Ventre Mountain Range, by Grand Teton National Park to the northwest and the town of Jackson to the south. If nature isn't your thing, they also have many museums for the history buff, plenty of shops for the shopaholic, and delicious cuisine for the food lover.
Jackson Hole hosts many special events year round. Elkfest, Old West Days, and the Fall Arts Festival are just a few. In 2009, Jackson was named a Preserve America Community. This means that they protect and celebrate the town's heritage. Jackson Hole prides itself on encouraging their guests to experience the local history. Beautiful Jackson Hole is like going back into the exciting times of the Old West.
Jackson Hole offers a great variety of cuisine. There are delis, casual dining, homemade Italian food, even chuckwagons! Fuel up with hearty fare from one of the many restaurants before heading out for a day of adventures in the great outdoors. Some restaurants vary their hours during the winter and summer months so check before you go.
Jackson Hole is home to over a dozen bakeries. These offer fresh pastries and bagels, fresh roast coffee, even omelets. Hopping breakfast spots provide hearty fare at budget-friendly prices.
The fun doesn't stop in Jackson after the slopes close. With over 15 bars and clubs, the fun in Jackson Hole never stops! Many establishments cater to the aprés ski crowd, like the Mangy Moose Saloon, which has live music most afternoons, and the Spur Restaurant & Bar, located at the Teton Mountain Lodge, which is known for its epic bar food. If music is more your thing, check out the Pink Garter Theatre, Dornan's Spur Bar, Town Square Tavern, or the Silver Dollar Bar at the Wort Hotel.
From Western couture to jeans and T-shirts, Jackson Hole has a great shopping experience for everyone! There are several shops that sell souvenirs and accessories that embody the Old West vibe that is tradition that is still paramount in Jackson. Here, you will find everything you need from clothing and items to stock your closet or your home.
