If you are planning a trip to Jackson Hole, Wyoming this summer you have come to the right place. As a former resident of three years and a lead concierge at a luxury hotel in Jackson Hole, I have insider knowledge that goes way beyond the typical tourist guides.

Whether you are wondering what to do in Jackson Hole in the summer, where to eat in Jackson Hole, or how to make the most of every single day, these recommendations cover it all. From the best hikes in Grand Teton National Park and white water rafting on the Snake River to the local restaurants the locals actually eat at and the hidden gems most visitors never find — this is your ultimate guide to spending a summer in one of the most beautiful places in the world. Real tried and true advice from someone who called Jackson Hole home.

Play during the Day

Horseback Riding – Heart Six Ranch has the BEST views and ride in my opinion. you go way up higher in elevation and can see the entire Teton range from afar. It’s absolutely gorgeous and breathtaking. If you’re wondering what to do in Jackson Hole in summer, this is definitely an activity worth experiencing.

Rent SUP boards/kayaks – rent them from rendezvous river sports and take it into Grand Teton National Park more specifically, String Lake or Jenny Lake would be the best. For those looking for ideas about what to do in Jackson Hole in summer, this is a top choice for outdoor fun.

Rent a boat on Jackson Lake– this would be really fun, especially for a bigger group! you can pack a cooler with a lunch or something and rent a pontoon or a decker boat by the hour. Its SO BEAUTIFUL and you are RIGHT in front of the tetons. 

Hiking – there is an unlimited amount of hiking trails in Jackson/GTNP. My favorites are table mountain, sleeping indian, amphitheater lake, delta lake, lupine meadows. Snow King is a easy but STEEP hike right in town! As you decide what to do in Jackson Hole in summer months, hiking truly stands out among the activities.

Rent 4×4 – with this you can go out in to the gros ventre or shadow mountain which has way less tourists. Scenic Safaris rents them out and they are really fun!! They’ll give you a trail map and show you where to go. Consider a 4×4 adventure when you create your list of what to do in Jackson Hole in summer.

Rafting– whitewater rafting on the snake river is really fun especially if its high tide. I would book private at Dave Hansen Whitewater so you’re not in a boat with 6 other people than your family. They max them out at 14 or 16 people so it can get annoying with so many strangers in it!

Play At Night

In Jackson

[my usual Friday night line up was Bin 22->Local->Cowboy->Rose]

Cowboy Bar– this is A MUST. It’s a Jackson staple and very famous because it has saddles as seats at the bar. It’s a really fun place where the locals go to play pool and hang out and tourists go for pictures. It’s awesome. With so much nightlife, you’ll never wonder what to do in Jackson Hole in summer evenings if you hit this spot.

The Rose– on Friday night’s it’s DJ night so it’s like a club in there. LOL. It’s fun but they are famous because it’s an amazing specialty cocktail bar. 

Pinky G’s – close out the night with a slice of pizza from here. It’s worth it.

Chamber mixers – google Jackson Hole chamber of commerce or look on their facebook close to your arrival date. every week in the summer, the chamber has a mixer that is FREE drinks and food at fun businesses!

*just a thought, go up Curtis Canyon around sunset. It’s through the national elk refuge. It’s awesome. Alongside all the other great ideas for what to do in Jackson Hole in summer, this view shouldn’t be missed.

Town Square– on the town square every night at 6pm (I’m pretty sure its still 6?) there are actors who do a “cowboy shootout”. It’s pretty fun to watch, especially for kids!

Eat

In Teton Village:

Teton Thai: Best Thai food EVER!

Spur – It is inside Teton Mountain Lodge and has the best margaritas and a espresso cocktail called insomnia. Get either (or both) and you won’t regret it

Piste Mountain Bistro/Gondola– ride the gondola (it’s free after 5 or you can pay to go up at 4:30) up to happy hour! the views are really awesome even at mid-mountain. After a day full of what to do in Jackson Hole in summer, this is the perfect way to relax.

Local – the BEST happy hour and cocktails and dinner. This is every local’s favorite as well as tourists. This is where I met Harrison Ford so keep your eyes peeled for celeb sightings because there is sure to be one.

Bin 22 – tapas restaurant that is bomb. Go and grab a bottle or two of wine and order everything on the menu. Great dinner place especially girls night and such.

King Sushi – another amazing happy hour option. They can only seat 20 people in this old cabin so make sure you go at 4:30pm when they open and happy hour lasts until 5:30! It’s $3 wells drinks and $5 wines and sushi specials too. If you’re planning what to do in Jackson Hole in summer, dining here should be high on your list.

Sweet Cheeks Meats – awesome grab and go breakfast and lunch shop! You will not be disappointed and the owners are the sweetest people so everyone loves supporting them.

Teton Tiger- asian fusion restaurant that has the best indian food. Also really great cocktails.

Cuttys– It’s a Philly bar with 30 different philly cheese steak options and the best pizza in town.

Snake River Grill – the best restaurant and the most expensive restaurant in the valley 🙂 but its worth it. Their steak tartar pizza for appetizer is VERY famous and a MUST ORDER.

Nora’s (in wilson, closer to teton village) – best. brunch. ever. 

Peresphone – best. egg sandwich. ever. and honestly just like my fave place ever.

Cafe Genevieve – great breakfast in town. Exploring Jackson Hole in summer means you have endless options for what to do and where to eat.

Trio – sister restaurant to Local and equally dank. This is where Will took me on our first date so it’s especially special to me! Always a great menu and service!

Creekside Market – no better sandwiches in the valley. Turkey club on a croissant was my go-to order for three years and it never let me down. The best place to stop and grab some yummies before heading off to your adventure!

Thai Me Up- really good happy hour specials (order the skid curry, no ragrets) with super dank wings, fries, asian fusionish foods and good beers brewed in house!