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Where to stay in Jackson Hole
Jackson Hole is a valley defined by extreme geography. Most visitors stay in the town of Jackson, a grid of wooden boardwalks and historic storefronts, or Teton Village, situated directly at the base of the mountains. Choosing between them dictates whether your trip revolves around nightlife and dining or immediate access to ski lifts and hiking trails. Expect a reliance on rental cars if you plan to explore both zones during your stay.
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Compare car rentals in Jackson HoleTown of Jackson
This is the valley's cultural hub, centered around the iconic elk antler arches in Town Square. It feels like a genuine Western town, with walkable blocks packed with steakhouses, art galleries, and bars like the Million Dollar Cowboy Bar. You can easily walk to the bus transit center to reach the mountains, but having a car remains convenient for grocery runs and regional access.
Teton Village
Located at the base of Jackson Hole Mountain Resort, this area is purpose-built for convenience. The atmosphere is upscale and energetic, dominated by resort hotels and ski-in/ski-out condominiums. Everything is highly walkable within the village core, including the Aerial Tram station and various high-end après-ski spots. It is isolated from the town's broader amenities, requiring a thirty-minute drive for major shopping or varied dining.
Wilson
Tucked away at the base of Teton Pass, Wilson offers a rustic, forested retreat that feels far more residential than the village or town. While it lacks a dense commercial center, it features a few local staples like Nora’s Fish Creek Inn. It is a strategic base for those who want to avoid heavy tourist crowds while keeping transit times to the slopes reasonable.
One thing to think about
Avoid staying directly along Highway 89 if you are a light sleeper. The road serves as the primary artery through the valley, meaning heavy truck traffic and constant commuter noise can disrupt quiet mornings or nights regardless of how remote your lodge initially appears on a map.
Once you have a bed
The things that sell out first in Jackson Hole are the small-group tours and the skip-the-line tickets.
Top tours & activities
Common questions
Do I need to rent a car to enjoy Jackson Hole?
While a public bus system, START Bus, connects the town of Jackson with Teton Village, a rental car is highly recommended. It provides the freedom to visit Grand Teton National Park, drive through the valley, and reach trailheads or regional grocery stores that are not accessible via limited public transit routes.
When is the best time to visit for hiking and wildlife?
Late June through early September offers the most reliable weather for high-elevation hiking in the Tetons. This period also provides the best opportunities for wildlife viewing, as animals are active after the snowmelt. Be prepared for chilly evenings even in mid-summer, as the high desert altitude causes temperatures to drop significantly after sunset.
Is Jackson Hole expensive compared to other mountain towns?
Yes, it consistently ranks as one of the priciest destinations in the United States. Lodging and dining premiums are driven by the limited private land available in the valley. You should budget significantly more than you would for similar mountain towns in the Rockies, especially during the peak winter ski season or mid-summer.
Hotel links go to Booking.com.