9 Reasons You Should Finally Go to Jackson Hole (No Skiing Required)

Sunset’s Insider Guide series highlights seasonal diversions and secret travel tips from local experts. Follow along as we learn where to eat, drink, stay, and shop.

Todd Williams

Meet the Insider: David DeFazio, founder of Wyoming Whiskey

Location: Jackson Hole, Wyoming

David DeFazio’s adventurous spirit has led him to experience everything his Wyoming backyard has to offer, from fly-fishing to backcountry skiing to guiding whitewater rafting expeditions to eventually becoming the co-founder of Wyoming Whiskey. Originally an attorney, DeFazio now works with co-founders Brad and Kate Mead to craft exceptional bourbon made with locally grown, non-GMO corn, winter wheat, barley, and winter rye. Here, he shares his favorite local establishments that share a passion for Western craftsmanship.

The Cloudveil

STAY

First opened in 1941, The Wort Hotel is the historic hotel in Jackson. It manifests its rich past through newly appointed Western-themed rooms and accommodations. Few hotels bring that authentic character to life while still maintaining a level of luxury that travelers desire, but the Wort accomplishes this effortlessly. Don’t miss live music on Tuesday nights, where you can swing dance with the best of ‘em. The Cloudveil is centrally located on the Town Square in Jackson and provides a modern, rustic elegance. It also helps that it has an excellent Parisian brasserie-style restaurant in-house called The Bistro and a comfortable lounge to enjoy live music and cocktails while feeling the vibe of the town.

Kendra Alessandro

EAT

Glorietta Trattoria offers outstanding Italian fare and top-flight cocktails, and it’s just a short walk from the Town Square. A seat at the bar usually results in healthy conversation with the bartenders and other bar-favoring diners. Located on Glenwood Street just a block from the Town Square, The Kitchen offers New American cuisine with a raw bar serving up a healthy offering of sushi. This is a spot where you can often walk in and get either a seat at the bar or a table without reservations. My recommendation: the bison tartare.

Stephen Shelesky/Courtesy of Jackson Hole Mountain Resort

DRINK

There’s nothing more Western than a shot of Wyoming Whiskey and a Coors Banquet at Million Dollar Cowboy Bar, enjoyed while sitting on a saddle at the bar. Live music, dancing, pool tables, and historic murals all add to the experience. If you’re looking for a great cocktail and an unmatched view, take the Bridger Gondola up to Piste Mountain Bistro at the Jackson Hole Mountain Resort in Teton Village. You’ll be 2,500 feet above the valley floor with unobstructed views of the Snake River and mountain ranges to the south and east. Drink in the views. All of the cocktail selections are delicious.