The Local’s Guide to Jackson Hole: 7 Must-Visit Spots Beyond the Tourist Traps

1. String Lake

String Lake is one of many lakes in Grand Teton National Park, but it is often less crowded than some of the larger neighbors. While Jackson Lake and Jenny Lake are popular for tourists to see, String Lake is incredibly beautiful and was one of my favorite places to have a picnic and spend an afternoon when I lived in Jackson. It is a narrow lake—hence the name—that you can hike around and swim in. Although, I should warn you that all the lakes in the area are very cold. Children don’t seem to mind, but the chilly temperature did bother me as I got older. If you want to really picnic like a local, grab some fried chicken at Albertson’s before going to the lake.

2. Miniature Golf

I am sure you are thinking that you are not going on vacation to play miniature golf. However, this isn’t just your average course; this is miniature golf with a view. Snow King Mountain's mini-golf course is located at the base of the mountain and offers views of the town and the Teton Mountains. It is a cute little 18-hole course that is fun for all ages. When you finish with your game of golf, you can check out the other activities at the Snow King Mountain Adventure Center, like the Alpine Slide, which is quite a rush!

To help you plan your day, here is a quick overview of some of these local favorites:

3. The National Museum of Wildlife Art

I was pretty young when the National Museum of Wildlife Art was built, but I can remember watching as the beautiful structure went up. It was designed to look like a stone castle and sits on a hill overlooking the National Elk Refuge, which is where the elk migrate when winter comes. It is a great place to go on a rainy day or when you need a break from the sun. The art is absolutely breathtaking, as are the views from the terrace. The Sleeping Indian Mountain is one of the many spectacular sights you can see from the museum. There is also a nice restaurant on-site where you can stop in for lunch after you have toured the galleries.

4. Merry Piglets

One of the most popular restaurants among the locals is Merry Piglets. It is a Mexican restaurant with fabulous food and a great atmosphere. Merry Piglets is located in downtown Jackson and is a perfect place to go after exploring the unique shops in the town square. It does get very busy because of how great the food is, so you might want to head there for an early lunch or dinner to avoid the crowd. Don't forget to try their famous salsa!

5. Calico Italian Bar and Restaurant

This is a fantastic Italian restaurant to take the family, especially if you have young kids. It is located just outside of Jackson on the way to Teton Village. You may want to check out the official Calico website for reservations just to be sure you have a seat. One of my favorite things about this restaurant is the beautiful porch you can have dinner on. It overlooks a large yard that kids can play in while you wait for your meal, and it sits next to a vegetable garden that is used by the chefs. The food is wonderful and authentic, making it a local staple for years.

6. The Bird

To really experience Jackson Hole like a local, you have to go to The Bird. While the old Camp Creek Inn was a long-time favorite, The Bird has taken over as the ultimate "locals' refuge" south of town. The drive down Highway 89 is beautiful, and while tourists are starting to find it, the vibe remains authentically Jackson. You have to try their famous burgers—voted best in the valley—or their incredible wings. The back deck offers some of the best views of the Snake River Range, and the atmosphere is always lively and welcoming. It's the perfect place to unwind after a long day of exploring Wyoming's beauty.

7. The Million Dollar Cowboy Bar

This is a bar that is frequented by locals and tourists alike, and for good reason. It is arguably the most famous bar in Jackson. I never had the opportunity to go in when I was growing up because I left before I turned 21, but it was always top of my list for when I returned. I have wanted to sit on those famous saddle bar stools for quite a long time. Almost my entire family has pictures of themselves on these stools, and it's a bit of a local rite of passage. If you are looking for a night on the town with live music and a true Western feel, the Cowboy Bar is where you want to be.

If you're heading to Jackson Hole, make sure to pack these essentials:

I loved living in Jackson Hole and still have a very special place in my heart for the town. If you are planning a visit, these are great places to include in your itinerary to get a little taste of some of the local’s favorite spots. Have you ever been to Jackson Hole or visited the nearby beautiful lakes in Wyoming?