Minutes before landing in Jackson Hole, Wyoming I lifted my seat window to reveal one of the most beautiful sights- The Mountains were majestic, against the full clouds and blue sky.
I was filled with a (travel) “high”, the high you get when you land in a new destination, excited for the experience of different foods, cultures, and adventures.
Usually landing in an international airport with that big, city feel… thousands of people, in constant motion had me in for a surprise. At Jackson Hole, you feel like you arrived in a Hallmark movie.
The airport resembled a ski lodge, rustic and warm. At baggage claim, mimosas were served.
The only thing that brought me back to reality was the heavy price tag to get into Jackson Hole.
Ubers run from $40-$50, and I soon realized renting a car would be the best option. The car rentals were inside the airport, for the exception of Budget. Taking the shuttle to the rental car, had me curious as to where we were headed, but I soon found out Budget is located IN Jackson Hole. If you ever want to dodge the Uber ride, take the complimentary shuttle to Budget.
I did stick with my rental, as it only set me back $30 for my 24-hour adventure.
I checked into the charming ‘Antler Inn’, in the heart of JH. You won’t find a hotel chain here… only mom and pop motels.
For lunch, I ate at Snake River Brewing. I had a tasty draft with hints of pineapple (I’m such a sucker for pineapple), Wyoming bison and beef chili, and duck confit crostini. A-mazing.
I signed up for the sleigh ride at the Elk Refuge and it was the perfect day: sunny and the views stunning. To warm up the riders, wool blankets are provided and the guides are a plethora of knowledge.
We saw thousands of female and male Elk, spotted an eagle and coyote, and listened to Mommas calling out to their calf, and watched the calf come running.
Since this was a solo getaway, I took some “me” time to relax and nap. After a snooze, I got ready, bundled up, and headed over to Thai Me Up/Melvin Brewing. I started with a pint of Killer Bees- Blonde Ale and for dinner, Pad Thai with Chicken. The portion was huge, saving enough for a late-night snack 😉
Walking through JH had me wishing that I’d slip on the ice, hit my head, and wake up in a romantical Hallmark, Countdown to Christmas, with a dashing cowboy hovering over me…
As he helps me up and we walk along the “old west” shops and galleries… popping into Persphone bakery for a cocoa, before we go skating in the town square, lit up in hues of pinks, blues, and purples…
Unfortunately, my supplement accident insurance doesn’t kick in until April 1, so I cautiously took each step.
However, if you want to find a cowboy- you can find them at the Million Dollar Cowboy Bar. Such a cool bar! Pool tables, a live band and dance floor, and best of all, bar stool saddles!
The next morning, I popped into Persephone, that cute, hip bakery and coffee shop for a croissant. After, I swung by The Bunnery and picked up 3 bags of their homemade granola and oatmeal to take home. Both great spots for breakfast.
I walked though the many souvenir shops, wishing I could purchase it all! I loved Lee’s Tee’s- I thought the quality was top notch, the colors popped, and the designs unique. There is also a smaller shop within- Lucky You, where I found socks with the map of Yellowstone National Park.
Sadly, my 24 hours in Jackson Hole came all too quickly, but I will one day be back in this magical place… maybe next time I’ll even give the bunny hill a go 😉
Bearer of Blonde News 