Jackson Hole is world-famous for its rugged peaks, legendary skiing, and wild beauty. But a trip here is shaped as much by where you stay as what you do. Many visitors choose slope-side accommodations at Teton Village or rustic cabins in the surrounding towns, but nothing offers as much immersion in the culture, history, and soul of the valley as staying in the town of Jackson itself.
For those who want to stay in the heart of Jackson Hole, the Rusty Parrot Lodge is the pinnacle of the experience: intimate, luxurious, and deeply connected to its setting.
A True Mountain Town
When the snow flies, Jackson transforms into the ideal mountain town. Far from the resort complex of Teton Village, the place feels like a community where locals and visitors cross paths every day. Staying in town lets you experience both the world-famous skiing and the rhythm of life in this remarkable corner of Wyoming.
Once you’re settled in, you’ll find you have no need to drive anywhere. One step outside puts you in the heart of it all. On one block, you’ll find boutique shops and art galleries displaying Western landscapes alongside local jewelry in silver and turquoise. Around the corner, locals warm up in coffee shops. Restaurants range from fine dining to cozy diners where visitors and longtime Jacksonites alike gather for a quick bite.
Unlike purpose-built resorts, Jackson has a heartbeat that continues whether visitors are here or not.
The Town Square
The town square is its centerpiece, marked by its famous elk antler arches. In winter, it becomes a festive skating rink. Children glide across the ice while parents warm their hands on mugs of cocoa. Look toward the road and you’ll see horse-drawn sleighs clip-clopping past, framed by snow-draped trees and twinkling string lights strung across the square.
Nowhere can you find a winter scene that more perfectly embodies the cowboy spirit of this small remaining piece of the Old West.
The Local Vibe
And if real cowboy authenticity is what you’re looking for, there’s no better time than late fall and early winter. Between fall and winter, Jackson is in a period of transition, the town shifting from being populated mostly by locals to swelling with the crowds of ski season. In fall, restaurants and shops are open, but the atmosphere is unhurried and real. It’s the Jackson Hole that residents know and love, before the ski rush. Staying in town during this time offers a rare chance to see the valley at its most genuine, and be part of it.
Easy Access to the Slopes
Staying in town doesn’t mean sacrificing convenient access to the slopes. A quick shuttle ride puts you at the base of Jackson Hole Mountain Resort in Teton Village. Even more convenient is Snow King Mountain, which rises right from the edge of town—perfect for a quick morning run or night skiing under the lights.
At day’s end, you’ll find yourself back in the heart of town rather than far away at the base area. That means après-ski option expand far beyond a single cluster of bars and restaurants. Whether it’s a night of fine dining, a casual burger, or a quiet glass of wine right here at the Wild Sage Restaurant, you’ll have choices that fit any mood.
Why Stay at the Rusty Parrot?
Choosing to stay in town already sets you up for a richer experience. Choosing the Rusty Parrot Lodge elevates that experience even further.
The Rusty Parrot trades the enormity of sprawling hotels for an intimate space that makes your stay feel personal and unhurried. The atmosphere is more akin to a private retreat than a traditional hotel. After a day in the cold, that sense of intimacy and warmth is exactly what makes a winter vacation restorative.
From the Rusty Parrot, the town square is only a short stroll away. Galleries and cafes are mere blocks away, close enough that you never need to get into a car.
After skiing, you might slip into the outdoor hot tub, steam rising into thew inter air while snow falls around you. From there, it’s just steps to the Wild Sage, the lodge’s restaurant, where our team has crafted menus inspired by the seasons and sourced from the region.
The Best of Jackson Hole, All in One Place
The best place to stay in Jackson Hole depends on what kind of experience you want. If convenience to the slopes is all that matters, slope-side lodging may do. But if you’re looking for something deeper, a sense of place and connection to the town’s energy, then staying in Jackson itself is the way to go.
Born and raised in Jackson Hole, Wilden McIntosh-Round brings a deep-rooted love for the area into his work as a writer. In his versatile career as a content creator and copywriter, he has worked with brands like Samsung and Rolling Stone, but the best part of his job is partnering with local businesses to share their unique stories.
