A land of majestic mountain tops, roaming wildlife, and adventures awaiting you and your family every day. Jackson Hole is a diamond in the rough, and it just may very well be your new favorite destination to make unforgettable memories with your family.
Jackson Hole has something for everyone, from nature lovers and adventure-seekers to families simply looking for a peaceful retreat.
In this guide, you’ll find out why Jackson Hole is the best family destination. Everything from when to visit to a breakdown of the perfect family itinerary, click here for all the info you need to plan an epic Jackson Hole family vacation.
Jackson Hole Family-Friendly Times to Visit
Each season the beauty of Jackson Hole has its way of telling us why it is such a desired location. Wildflowers are blooming, the wildlife is on the move in spring; summer affords endless outdoor recreation; fall drapes gold and other colors over hills and mountainsides; winter adds its snow to turn it into a playground.
For animal lovers, spring is ideal as animals are active from hibernation. Summer enjoys activities such as hiking, rafting, and visiting national parks. The fall months feature breathtaking foliage without the crowds, and winter is home to all-star slopes and a cozy evening by the fire.
Think about the time of year during packing. In spring and fall, you want to pack light layers and waterproof clothes (especially a jacket), and during summer the priority is these sun rays. During the winter, be sure to pack your insulated clothing and snow gear for those cold days shredding the slopes of jackson hole family vacation.
Getting to Jackson Hole
Welcome to Jackson Hole family vacation, where journeying in is the experience. Jackson Hole Airport (JAC) is the most direct with easy connections from major cities. Or take a road trip, with views of the Rockies throughout.
Jackson Hole Airport is easily navigable if flying. It’s compact and family-friendly, so you won’t face any hassle dealing with kids. If you’re planning on road-tripping through the parks, schedule a few scenic stops at places like Snake River Overlook so that you can snap photos with jawdropping backdrops.
Where to Stay Family-Friendly Accommodations
There are a number of family-friendly places to stay for jackson hole family vacation. High-end hotels such as Teton Mountain Lodge have large suites, pools, and family-friendly features. For those on a budget, Snow King Resort is lovely and affordable.
Many people opt for vacation rentals, as they offer the comforts of home with greater flexibility. Think about the advantages and disadvantages—they offer kitchen facilities, you can all fit in one place, but some rentals may not have full-service hotel amenities.
Things to Do in and Around Jackson Hole
Jackson Hole has its own set of must-sees, so no first-time trip is complete without hitting classic Jackson Hole. One cannot miss Grand Teton National Park; it provides family-friendly hikes, wildlife sightings, and gorgeous views. The National Museum of Wildlife Art is engaging for younger visitors with several fun interactive exhibits, and Jackson Town Square makes for a nice stroll, shopping, or an obligatory antler arch photo op.
Fun in the Sun for Your Entire Family
An adventurer’s paradise, Jackson Hole family vacation offers endless outdoor activities of the all-ages variety. Find a few family-friendly hiking trails, such as the Taggart Lake Trail, where you can also spot some animals or just have a peaceful glimpse of their lake. Guides take the experienced lead on scenic safaris and nature walks, and you don’t have to worry about safety: every guide is well-trained in knowledge of fauna.
Viewers get to see, from afar, moose, elk, and even bears—oh my! They’re very dangerous, so always stay safe and follow park rules in order to enjoy this experience.
Things to do in the winter that are fun with your entire family
Jackson Hole has something for everyone in the family during winter, and it is nothing short of magical. Speaking of those beginner slopes, Jackson Hole Mountain Resort has the kids covered with ski lessons to get you started. Try snow tubing and ice skating at Snow King Resort or go on an unforgettable sleigh ride in the National Elk Refuge.
For the adventurous, one of the options includes guided snowmobile tours that travel through Yellowstone. Get ready to don your heavy coats and head on out into a winter wonderland.
Adventures and Day Trips During Summer
The summer months in Jackson Hole open up the scope of adventures. Go on an exhilarating whitewater rafting adventure down the Snake River, or take a more serene float trip (great for toddlers!). Mountain views as you ride through horseback adventures that are so much cowboy original.
Chill out at the scenic lakes in the region, such as Jenny Lake, where families can swim and paddleboard or just hang out on the beach. The backdrop of mountains and crystal clear waters makes for a perfect frame.
Year-Round Indoor Activities
Rainy day? No problem. There is no shortage of indoor activities in Jackson Hole to keep your family entertained. Explore hands-on exhibits and creative play at the Jackson Hole Children’s Museum. The Jackson Hole Historical Society and Museum has excellent interactive displays for older kids.
If you’re looking for more active indoor fun, make your way over to your local bowling alley or arcade, where laughter and competition can be found. These are perfect places to unwind after exploring.
Dining with the family in Jackson Hole
Feed your family with plenty of dining options! Persephone Bakery tempts you with their scrumptious baked goods, and Teton Tiger puts some spin on Asian favorites for dining delights. A lot of restaurants have kid-size menus, so even the fussiest of eaters won’t go hungry.
Signal Mountain Lodge has outdoor dining with views of the lake for a truly unique experience. And food trucks around town serve quick, delicious eats for gregarious families on the run.
Shopping and Souvenirs: Top Places to Buy Family Mementos
Explore Jackson Hole shops and boutiques: Take home a little piece of the valley. Made featured handmade jewelry and home goods, while the Jackson Trading Company offered one-of-a-kind Western-themed souvenirs.
Be sure to stop by at Lee’s Tees for oddball T-shirts and paraphernalia. Landmarks like these will make certain your family memories of Jackson Hole stay with you forever.
Tips for Packing When Visiting Jackson Hole
Planning what to pack for Jackson Hole takes strategy. Make sure you bring some layers for warmth—it can be cold at night and hot during the day. Good walking shoes for hiking and exploring, swimsuits if you are going in summer.
Add sunscreen, hats, and sunglasses to block the sun. Shoveling snow, skiing, and sledding are fun winter activities for the entire family to enjoy when dressed in warm, insulated gloves, hats, and thermal layers.
Jackson Hole with Kids: Safety Tips
Jackson Hole wilderness ranger—your safety comes first. Teach children wildlife safety; keep your distance and do not feed animals. Know the emergency contact numbers, such as park rangers and medical facilities.
Many attractions can attract crowds; make sure to go during off-peak hours whenever the visit you do is a popular one. A bit of planning will allow your family to explore with safety and confidence.
Exciting Day Trips to Take Outside of Jackson Hole
Why not transform your adventure into a trip to be remembered and take a day drive nearby? With so many activities to choose from and natural wonders full of color, there is no denying the need for Yellowstone National Park on this list. Go for a drive through Lamar Valley, where you will see animals.
It is a short drive to nearby towns such as Victor and Driggs, where you can find local dining options and community events. Each destination brings its own spice to your Jackson Hole adventure.
How to Plan Your Itinerary: Sample Plan (5 Days with the Family)
Here is a family-friendly sample itinerary for your Jackson Hole trip.
Day one: Jackson Town Square, National Museum of Wildlife Art, dinner
Day 2: Grand Teton National Park Day! Plenty of family-friendly hikes, as well as wildlife spotting
Day 3: Spend the day engaging in winter or summer river sports.
Day 4: Laid-back travels, exploring the art galleries and shops
Day 5: Shopping for souvenirs in town before leaving with beautiful memories
Jackson Hole Family Vacation on a Budget
Experiencing Jackson Hole does not need to be expensive. Try to stay at cheaper hotels and choose free activities like hiking or animal observation. Many attractions and tours also have family discounts, so be sure to ask ahead of time.
Eating in can also save bucks; most vacation homes offer kitchen facilities, making it easier to whip up a meal. Relax with a picnic in the park (with such beautiful views).
Family-Friendly Special Events and Festivals
There are several events and festivals in Jackson Hole depending on the time of year you visit. With art exhibits and live music, the Jackson Hole Fall Arts Festival is all about local talent. From summer concerts to outdoor movie nights, there’s entertainment for all ages.
Jackson Town Square is a holiday season dreamscape filled with twinkling lights and winter activities. Combine a visit with these events for an extra bit of thrill.
Testimonials: Experiences from Family Visitors to Jackson Hole
Or, don’t just take our word for it—as we welcome back a family that fell in love with Jackson Hole magic firsthand. One reviewer writes, “My family and I had such a great time, between visiting the national parks and spending quality time together outside. We could not be more amazed with Jackson Hole!”
Travel bloggers will give you insider tips as to which deeper trails and possible eateries beget a unique venture. Hearing their stories can make your own family adventure even better.
Questions that are asked often (FAQ)
Wondering how to plan your Jackson Hole family vacation? Answers to some frequently asked questions:
When is the best time of year to go to Jackson Hole with kids?
All the seasons have something different to offer. For skiing, winter is ideal. Outdoor exploration abounds in summer, but spring and fall feature milder weather with fewer visitors.
Choose inexpensive places to stay, seek out attractions that are free of charge, and use family discounts when possible. A well-planned trip could be memorable yet not break its bank.
Conclusion
Jackson Hole is the land of family dreams fulfilled. Whether hiking through towering vistas or packing your weekend itinerary with heart-racing experiences, this is a place where you’ll feel all the wonder and thrill for yourself. Begin planning your Jackson Hole family vacation today and make lifetime memories.
