When most travelers imagine Wyoming, they picture the High Plains, grazing buffalo, and desert sands stretching as far as the eye can see. What they are less likely to consider is that, within this sparsely populated western state, there is Jackson — colloquially referred to as Jackson Hole — a beautiful town full of fine dining, luxury shopping, and multimillion-dollar homes belonging to some of the biggest names in worlds of entertainment, politics, and business. While Jackson is a surprisingly cosmopolitan enclave, part of the town’s appeal lies in the slower pace of living you will encounter here — quite literally the opposite energy of fast-paced metropolises like New York City, where many of Jackson’s visitors hail from. If you happen to find yourself in this picturesque prairie paradise, make sure to make the most of Jackson’s vibrant culture and natural beauty by partaking in the town’s wealth of summer activities.
Bid on a bottle at the Jackson Hole Wine Auction: Philanthropically-minded amateur sommeliers will delight in Jackson’s premier social event, the Jackson Hole Wine Auction. This three-day celebration of food and wine, which benefits the Grand Teton Music Festival, features talks from professionals in the wine industry, tastings, chances to mingle with fellow appreciators of fine food and wine, and a series of private parties hosted by the who’s who of Jackson Hole. Private Jet Services is a featured title sponsor of the Wine Auction and will be co-hosting one of the private dinners which are sure to be an unforgettable evening.
Celebrate classical music at the Grand Teton Music Festival: Jackson’s Grand Teton Music Festival is undeniably the music event of the summer, drawing crowds from around the world to the beautiful Jackson Hole Valley to celebrate their love of classical music. Now in its 55th season, this year’s festival will feature performances of Mendelssohn’s Octet, the music of Rodgers and Hammerstein, choral performances by the National Collegiate Chorale of Scotland, and children’s programming, among other rousing musical presentations.
Challenge yourself on one of Jackson Hole’s hiking paths: In the town itself and throughout the surrounding area are some of the most challenging hikes you will find anywhere in the United States. Offering stunning vistas of the Tetons, Snake River, and the Jackson Hole Valley, intrepid explorers can test their mettle on hikes at Snow King, Static Peak, and the ominously named Avalanche Canyon.
Treat yourself to a spa day: After a day of hiking, there is nothing more welcome or well-deserved than some serious pampering. Soothe tired muscles with reflexology or hot stone massage at the Four Seasons, clear your skin and mind with a relaxing volcanic earth clay ritual at the Teton Lodge, or relax while enjoying sweeping views of the mountains in Hotel Terra‘s infinity pool and hot tub.
Enjoy a good meal: Jackson’s culinary scene is among the most inventive and adventurous you will find anywhere in the states. Fans of fine dining will enjoy the ambiance and curated steakhouse fare at the Four Seasons’ Westbank Grill. Should you find yourself tiring of American cuisine, head over to Asian-fusion restaurant The Kitchen, where you can enjoy dishes like green papaya salad, pho, and honey-ginger pork chops. Before you leave town, make sure to stop into Jackson’s most celebrated eatery, the Snake River Grill, where Culinary Institute-trained, James Beard Award-nominated chef Jeff Drew creates culinary masterpieces from buffalo steak to funnel cake.
Jackson Hole is so much more than a ski destination — with everything from classical music to fine dining nestled in one of the world’s most naturally beautiful locations, Jackson is truly a sight to behold all year. To discover Jackson Hole first-hand, reserve your air travel with Private Jet Services today.