Located in the far west of Wyoming, Jackson is one of America’s most beloved mountain towns. Known as the gateway to the Grand Teton and Yellowstone National Parks, this charming gem of a town is flanked by jagged peaks in all directions. Jackson is just as much a magnet for adventure-seekers, who come to ski the nearby slopes in winter and hike the trails in summer, as it is for celebrities. The result is a cauldron of cowboys, movie stars, and adventurists. The town’s proximity to some of the country’s most dramatic and spectacular scenery is certainly its main attraction. Jackson is often referred to as Jackson Hole, which is in fact the valley in which the town sits. Explore the region’s interesting history and culture at the Jackson Hole Historical Museum, which cuts through the town’s reputation as a glitzy retreat to reveal a mountain settlement with a tradition of logging and ranching. During the warmer months, festivities kick off at the celebrated rodeo arena in town, which has been showcasing the area’s biggest and best events since 1890.

Jackson Hole Airport (JAC) is located approximately 9 miles northeast of town. Reaching town is easy thanks to frequent shuttle service, as well as rideshare and taxi options, any of which take approximately 15 minutes without traffic. Idaho Falls Airport (IDA) is the second-closest airport, at around 90 miles west, or a 1.5-hour drive. Jackson itself is easy to navigate after you arrive, thanks to the convenient public START Bus and START Bike programs. Unless you’re planning on exploring off-the-beaten track wilderness, skip the car and take the bus or rent a bike to explore the town. Buses also connect Jackson and Teton Village.

Jackson more than lives up to its reputation as an adventure basecamp, offering good reasons to visit any time of the year. Skiers know Jackson for its fine powder, off-piste slopes, and lively après-ski scene. There are three local ski resorts in the area, and the ski season generally lasts from the end of November to the beginning of April, but conditions are at their best in January and February — also the region’s coldest months. Other winter activities include sleigh rides, snowshoe hikes, and snowmobile treks. As the snow begins to melt, mountain wildflowers and hibernating wildlife emerge, making it a great time for animal lovers to visit. Activities peak again in the summer, when travelers book vacation rentals here to take advantage of the hiking, mountain biking, rafting, and fishing, among other activities. The average highs hang around the low 80s Fahrenheit, with July and August being the hottest months. Given Jackson’s high elevation (6,200 feet above sea level), be mindful of the intense rays, and bring plenty of sun protection.

National Museum of Wildlife Art

Driving north from Jackson, you may notice life-size wildlife sculptures and a sandstone building tucked into the hillside. That would be the National Museum of Wildlife Art, a museum holding more than 5,000 pieces that detail the area’s natural history from 2,500 B.C.E. to today. The museum also houses an interactive gallery for children and a restaurant overlooking the National Elk Refuge.

Jackson Town Square

Famous for its four arches constructed from shed elk antlers, Jackson Town Square is a pleasant place to take a walk in the center of town. In the summer, it’s an ideal spot for a picnic and, in the winter, you can ice skate and stroll amid trees decorated for the festive season.

Grand Teton National Park

Established in 1929, Grand Teton National Park occupies around 485 square miles between Yellowstone National Park and Jackson. Its rocky mountain peaks, rivers, and six lakes make it an excellent base for outdoor recreation. One highlight is Snake River, which runs through Grand Teton National Park to Jackson, offering a mixture of whitewater and flat sections.