I’ve now visited the Jackson Hole, Wyoming and Grand Teton National Park area three times over the past 25 years, and every time I leave, I start thinking about when I can go back.

What’s amazing is how much it’s changed.

The first time I visited, it felt like a hidden gem. Today, it’s become one of the most popular destinations in the country. Jackson is busier, the parks are more crowded, and people from all over the world are discovering what makes this area so special.

Most recently, I returned because my daughter got married in Grand Teton National Park. It was absolutely beautiful, and since we were already there, we turned the trip into a family vacation and spent several days hiking, exploring, eating our way through Jackson, and taking in everything that makes this corner of Wyoming so incredible.

If you’re thinking about visiting, here are some of my favorite places, money-saving tips, and things I wish I’d known before the trip.

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Flying Into Jackson? Here’s a Tip

One thing that makes Jackson unique is that the Jackson Hole Airport is the only commercial airport located inside a U.S. national park.

That means your vacation starts before you even leave the plane.

If possible, try to grab a seat on the right side of the plane when flying into Jackson. The views of the Tetons during the descent are absolutely breathtaking.

I’ve flown into a lot of beautiful places over the years, and this approach is one of the most memorable. Keep your camera handy because you’ll probably be taking pictures before you even land.

Save Money by Staying Outside Jackson

Let’s talk about one of the biggest expenses: lodging.

Jackson is wonderful, but it can also be very expensive, especially during peak travel season.

Instead of staying directly in Jackson, consider looking at:

• Victor, Idaho
• Driggs, Idaho
• Wilson, Wyoming

We stayed in Victor and found it to be a fantastic option. The savings on lodging were significant, and we were still within easy driving distance of Jackson and Grand Teton National Park.

The drive over Teton Pass is beautiful, so the extra drive never felt like a hassle for… Victor was about 45-50 minutes from Jackson… so you’ll have to weigh the cost benefit for your experience.

One thing I learned: if you’re staying in Idaho, stop for groceries before heading back for the evening. Grocery stores and dining options become much more limited once you’re over the pass, and many businesses close earlier than you might expect.

We stocked up on breakfast items, snacks, drinks, and sandwich supplies, which helped save quite a bit of money throughout the week.

My Favorite Hikes in Grand Teton National Park

One of the things I love most about Grand Teton National Park is that you don’t have to be a hardcore hiker to experience incredible views.

Jenny Lake

If you’re only visiting one area of the park, make it Jenny Lake.

The water is stunning, the mountain views are unforgettable, and there are several hiking options depending on your ability level.

One popular option is taking the Jenny Lake boat shuttle across the lake. It saves time and gives you easier access to some of the park’s most scenic trails.

A word of warning: Jenny Lake gets busy. Really busy.

Parking lots fill early, and lines for the boat can get long during peak season. If it’s on your must-see list, plan to arrive early.

Hidden Falls & Inspiration Point

If you’re already at Jenny Lake, continue on to Hidden Falls and Inspiration Point.

The hike is manageable for most visitors and rewards you with spectacular views overlooking the lake and surrounding mountains.

Taggart Lake

Taggart Lake remains one of my favorite hikes in the park.

The trail is relatively moderate and offers beautiful views of both the lake and the Tetons. It’s one of those hikes that feels like a huge payoff without requiring an entire day.

Phelps Lake

Phelps Lake was another highlight of our trip.

The scenery is gorgeous, and it felt a little less crowded than some of the more popular areas.

Start Your Days Early

If I could give just one piece of advice, it would be this: Start early.

Not only will you find parking more easily, but you’ll also enjoy fewer crowds and often have a better chance of spotting wildlife. The earlier we started our adventures, the more enjoyable they seemed to be.

Make Time for Jackson

As much as I love the national parks, I also love spending time in Jackson itself. In fact, it’s one of my favorite towns anywhere. The famous town square with its elk antler arches is worth seeing, but don’t rush through town.

Spend some time wandering the shops, grabbing a coffee, exploring the side streets, and enjoying the atmosphere.

Jackson has a unique western charm that somehow manages to feel both historic and modern at the same time. I have loved it for years!

And make sure to go to the rodeo if you’re there in season…. We loved it!!! It does go on rain or shine, so I recommend pay the extra $5 for covered seating. And tickets to sell out so buy in advance!

My Favorite Places to Eat

One of the best parts of any trip is finding great places to eat, and Jackson certainly delivers.

Cowboy Coffee

We loved Cowboy Coffee.

The breakfast sandwiches were fantastic and quickly became one of our favorite morning stops before heading out for the day. I’m gluten free and they had great options too!

Jackson Drug

A Jackson classic that’s worth visiting for both the food and the nostalgia. The nacho app was GREAT! I got the bison burger and loved it too. And they’re known for their milkshakes.

Gather

One of our favorite dinners of the trip. Great atmosphere and excellent food. The brussel spourts were the best I’ve ever had!

Persephone Bakery

If you’re looking for coffee, pastries, or dessert, don’t miss Persephone.

As someone who eats gluten-free, I was thrilled to find their gluten-free double chocolate chip cookie. It was amazing.

Merry Piglets

Without question, my favorite Mexican restaurant.

Actually, it might be my favorite Mexican restaurant anywhere.

We ate there twice during our trip because we loved it that much.

The enchiladas are absolutely incredible and something I’m still thinking about now that I’m home.

What I Wore

I’m linking some of my favorites below.

Whether I was hiking around Jenny Lake, exploring Jackson, traveling through the airport, or celebrating my daughter’s wedding weekend, these were some of my most-worn pieces.

Travel Essentials & Airport Outfit

Wedding Weekend Outfit (Mother of the Bride Mountain Wedding)
Dress, and Boots!

Fringe Jacket, Jewelry, and similar dress (the best!! I got so many compliments!!)

My Tecova boots are one of my very favorite purchases too! I am so glad I got them… they feel great, look great, and are wonderful quality!

More Ways to Save Money

A few additional tips that helped us keep costs down:

• Stay in Victor, Driggs, or Wilson instead of Jackson.
• Buy groceries for breakfasts and snacks.
• Carry refillable water bottles.
• Pack snacks for hiking days.
• Spend time enjoying the national parks instead of paying for expensive activities every day.
• Visit both Grand Teton and Yellowstone on the same trip to maximize your vacation.

Final Thoughts

After three visits spread over 25 years, I can confidently say Grand Teton National Park and Jackson Hole remain one of my favorite destinations.

Yes, it’s grown.

Yes, it’s busier than it used to be.

But the beauty is still there.

The mountains still stop you in your tracks.

The lakes are breathtaking.

The wildlife is incredible.

And Jackson still has the charm that keeps people coming back year after year.

Whether you’re planning your first trip or your fifth, I don’t think you’ll regret putting this incredible corner of Wyoming on your travel list.

Between the stunning scenery of Grand Teton National Park, the wildlife and geothermal wonders of Yellowstone, the charm of Jackson, and the unforgettable hiking opportunities throughout the region, it’s easy to see why so many people fall in love with this place.

I know I have.