Why Jackson Hole Stays on Our Family Bucket List
Jackson Hole is on our family bucket list almost every year.
There is always something new to try, but much of what draws us back is the comfort of returning to our favorite traditions: walking through Town Square, taking in the mountain views, riding the Cowboy Coaster and finding something that feels adventurous enough to become a story we retell later.
Spend a Full Day at Snow King Mountain
Snow King rises directly above the town of Jackson, making it easy to move from downtown shopping to a full mountain adventure without driving far.
For families who want to experience several activities, Snow King’s Big King pass options can offer good value.
Depending on the pass, activities may include the Cowboy Coaster, Alpine Slide, Amaze’n Maze, mini golf, and scenic gondola.
The Big King Ultimate option may also include the zipline tour and Treetop Adventure.
The Cowboy Coaster is one of our family favorites as gravity helps you zoom down the mountain for nearly a mile of curves, dips and turns.
The Alpine Slide offers a classic choose-your-own-speed ride down the mountain, while the Treetop Adventure challenges participants with elevated ropes, swinging obstacles and climbing elements.
The different activities make it possible for family members to choose what fits their interests and bravery level.
Visit the Snow King Observatory & Planetarium
One of Snow King’s most unusual (and new) experiences is the mountaintop Observatory & Planetarium.
Being able to ride to the top of the mountain and then explore astronomy, science and the night sky makes this feel like much more than an ordinary mountain attraction.
Programs can include planetarium presentations, Science On a Sphere, telescope experiences, the telescope control room and stargazing from the rooftop deck.
Families can choose daytime programs, shorter planetarium experiences or evening astronomy sessions.
Check times carefully because programs vary by day, and later sessions offer darker skies.
Attend a Concert at 8,000 Feet
The King Concert Series brings nationally touring artists to the summit of Snow King.
Guests ride the gondola to the mountaintop venue, where the stage is surrounded by expansive views of Jackson and the Tetons.
It is difficult to imagine a more dramatic concert backdrop.
Concert dates and add-on experiences vary, so check the current calendar before planning your trip.
Shop and Explore Around Town Square
We always leave time to wander through the shops around Jackson Town Square, take pictures beneath the antler arches, and find a treat or meal.
Shopping in Jackson can be part window-shopping and part treasure hunt. There are Western stores, art galleries, souvenir shops, candy stores and plenty of places children will want to explore.
During the summer, families can also watch the free Town Square Shootout every evening at 6 p.m., Memorial Day through Labor Day. The long-running performance brings Old West characters and theatrical action to the square (put on by the actors from the Jackson Hole Playhouse). Arrive early enough to find a viewing spot and be prepared for noise, theatrical gunfire and crowds.
See Joseph at the Jackson Hole Playhouse
The Jackson Hole Playhouse combines Western atmosphere, dinner and professional live theatre in a historic downtown setting.
Its 2026 production of Joseph and the Amazing Technicolor Dreamcoat reimagines the familiar musical with a playful Old West twist.
The show’s colorful storytelling, energetic music and family-friendly humor make it an easy addition to a Jackson itinerary—especially for families who love theatre as much as we do.
Choose a Scenic Float or Whitewater Adventure
A river trip offers a completely different view of the Jackson area.
A scenic float is ideal for families who want to relax, watch for wildlife and enjoy the landscape. Whitewater rafting is better for those who want splashes, teamwork and a little more adrenaline.
Review current water conditions, minimum ages and safety requirements carefully.
The right choice depends on the season and the youngest member of your group.
Save Money by Staying in Victor, Idaho
Lodging in Jackson has become expensive, especially during peak summer weekends.
We have found it worth driving over Teton Pass and staying in Victor, Idaho.
We have fallen in love with Teton Valley Resort, which works well as a base camp for visiting Jackson, Island Park and the surrounding mountains.
The cabins are clean, stylish, and more affordable than many comparable Jackson options.
Most importantly for us, they provide enough room for our entire family. The drive adds some time, but the savings and extra space have made it worthwhile.
BEFORE YOU GO:
Best for ages: The whole family.
Time to allow: Plant at least three days, two nights, for your Jackson and Teton adventure.
What to bring: Dress for the weather, which can sometimes turn cool in the evenings. You’ll need closed-toe shoes for Snow King Mountain.
Reservations: Get Snow King tickets at https://snowkingmountain.com and Jackson Hole Playhouse tickets at https://www.jacksonholeplayhouse.com.
Good to know: Spend one day in Jackson and the rest of your trip exploring Grand Teton National Park or the Targhee areas. Our favorite hikes/stops include Jenny or String Lake in Grand Teton National Park, Phelps Lake just outside of the park, Packsaddle Lake near Victor and Grand Targhee on the Idaho side.
Our family was hosted for the Snow King Mountain and Observatory experiences. As always, the experiences and opinions shared are our own.