It is basically impossible to resist the holiday cheer and festive vibe that surrounds winter vacations in Jackson Hole this time of year. There is always something going on and there are so many activities to do that center around the holidays, it’s tough to find enough time to fit them all in or choose which ones you just can’t miss. It doesn’t matter if you want to hit the slopes or enjoy other outdoor activities, if you want to check out the downtown lights and shops, if you want to get in on some good eats or the craft beer or wine scene, or if you just want to relax and cozy up by the fire—Jackson Hole is the ultimate holiday and winter destination!
Mountain fun anyone?
Let’s start with the obvious! Jackson Hole is a ski town at heart and ski and snowboard enthusiasts have the option of hitting not one, but three local mountains all within close proximity. Jackson Hole Mountain Resort, Snow King, and Grand Targhee play host to all skill levels and all lovers of outdoor fun! The King has a fun tubing park and a Cowboy Coaster if you and the family feel like giving your leg muscles a break but still having some outdoor fun. There’s also the option of backcountry ski touring, heli-skiing or snowmobile tours. If cold, crisp sunshine and endless stretches of pristine pow (aka powder) are calling to you, we’ve got you covered.
Something for the kids!
Kids will never be bored hanging out in the Hole! There are endless kid-friendly activities in and around the town. How about a horse-drawn sleigh ride with hot cocoa through where the elk winter at the National Elk Refuge? Or take a walk through the downtown core and watch the kids’ eyes light up with wonder at the magic of all the lighting displays. And you can ice skate on the town square. Watch Santa drop in on Christmas Eve at 4:30 pm at the base of the tram up at Jackson Hole Resort. Beginning December 7th, there’s a Holiday Art Bazaar at the Center for the Arts and 12 Days of Christmas activities at the Wort Hotel. And, a super fun family event is the musical dinner theatre at the Playhouse Theatre’s Saddle Rock Saloon. This year’s play is called Christmas Survival Kit and it’s guaranteed to make the entire family laugh it up and have a fantastic time together.
Local foodie faves and spirited Spirits!
If fine wining and dining is up your alley, try the Snake River Grill (known for its fresh, chef-prepared, local favorites and wide selection of fine wines) or Bar Enoteca (which features a Mediterranean menu and a new, modern wine bar that’s definitely a local favorite).
If you are into craft beer, head to one of the local breweries, Roadhouse Brewing Co. Pub & Brewery and Snake River Brewing. With over 30 beers on tap, they have beers covering all palates surrounded with fun, friendly staff and locals. And, if you love the Apres-ski scene, take yourself to the Mangy Moose in Teton Village. The Moose is famous in The Hole and a must see stop on your downtown lights tour.
Just Chillax!
We get it! Not everybody wants to run around from activity to activity or be out in the cold mountain air all day and night, so it’s a good thing that there are plenty of places to relax and roll with the flow around Jackson Hole this winter. There are plenty of cozy cabins, chalets, and suites available with wood fireplaces front and center where you can curl up with a book or close your eyes and listen to music while you warm your feet by the fire. If massages and manicures are your jam, checkout the Chill spa at Hotel Terra or the spa at the Four Seasons or go for a saltwater float at Healing Waters Therapeutic Float Center.
New Year’s Baby!
We can’t forget the plethora of places to celebrate New Year’s around Jackson Hole with fireworks, music, and fun! Jackson Hole Mountain Resort and Snow King Mountain hold a torchlight ski/snowboard parade down the mountain and Jackson Hole Mountain Resort also hosts a Glow Worm Parade for the kiddos (where they substitute torches for glow sticks and let the kids ski down Eagles Rest run). Each parade is followed by fireworks and then a variety of activities offered for individuals and families. For adults who are into the nightlife scene, the local hotspots, such as the The Mangy Moose and Million Dollar Cowboy Bar host parties with well-known live bands.
Whether you’re visiting Jackson Hole with friends or your family, you will always be able to find fun things to do this winter or holiday season! We can’t wait to see you! Have questions or looking to plan your winter vacation to Jackson Hole, contact the LPJH concierge team.
* Image one courtesy of Visit Jackson Hole, image two courtesy of Snow King Mountain and image three courtesy of Buckrail.
