City Guides
J.J. Owens’ Guide to Jackson Hole, Presented by Watchonista
As part of our “City Guide” series, today, we are excited to kick off ski season with an inside look into one of the U.S.’s top winter destinations: Jackson Hole, Wyoming.
By Jessica “J.J.” Owens
Contributor
Wyoming is incredibly special to me; every significant childhood memory takes place in the Grand Tetons. Learning how to ski, dog sledding, and even a family tradition of getting ice cream on the first day the temperature dips below zero, Teton County will always have my heart.
However, with more and more “Aspenites” heading to Jackson, the once relaxed cowboy town of serious skiers still has many spots where there’s not a Moncler coat in sight and plenty of post-slope pizza to go around.
Watch Time
One of the only places to get a watch in Jackson Hole is Oden Watches & Jewelry.
Specializing in Omega and NORQAIN, the store even collaborated with NORQAIN to release a limited-edition diver with the Grand Tetons engraved on the case back.
Where to Stay
Let me preface this recommendation by saying Jackson does have an Aman. And though the Amangani is a wonderful spa oasis, we are here to ski, so there is no better slope-side retreat than the Four Seasons Resort.
Located right at the base of Teton Village and filled with excellent restaurants, this is the place to stay and sip champagne slope side.
Where to Dine
If someone were to tell me that some of the best Lebanese food I would ever eat would be in Jackson Hole, I wouldn’t believe you. Nevertheless, FIGS definitely fits that description.
Located in the Hotel Jackson, this rustic restaurant serves delicious mezze, incredible za’atar fries, and amazing tabbouleh. And if you see a man in a Loro Piana pullover and a Teton Gravity Research cap drinking Turkish coffee, say hi. That will most likely be my dad!
Where to Play
Everyone knows the Million Dollar Cowboy Bar; it is undeniably iconic. But a local favorite is the Mangy Moose Steakhouse and Saloon.
Located right near the Tram, this alpine establishment is guaranteed a good time and an even better cast of characters.
Where to Shop
Founded in Jackson Hole, Stio is the preferred retailer of mountain gear for those in the know.
Featuring a curated selection of goods for any and all mountain activities and sustainable designs, Stio was made with locals in mind. Pro-Tip: My forever favorite from the brand is their Hometown Down Scarf.
Only in Jackson Hole
As I mentioned earlier, a tradition I hold dear is that on the first day of below 0°F (-18°C) temperatures, my family would always go to Moo’s Gourmet Ice Cream.
With unique local flavors like Wild Huckleberry, Dark Malted Vanilla, and Uddercup (roasted peanut with semi-sweet chocolate), this famed shop is a go-to for tourists and locals. Still, on nights below zero degrees, I’d be hard-pressed to find anyone but myself enjoying Moo’s cantaloupe sorbet.
Après All Day
When you’ve had one too many *ahem* “hot chocolates” at the Four Seasons, you should head on over to my favorite hangout spot, Caldera House.
This contemporary ski club serves up some of the best slope-side sushi at Shin Shin Sushi (helmed by Josh Neiman of Aspen’s Nakazawa), as well as heartier pizzas and pasta at Corsa. Pro-Tip: If the winter weather is starting to get to you, check out their spa for the Caldera HydraFacial. It really combats the cold!
Wild Card
For the adventurous types, I highly recommend taking the famed Jackson Hole Tram up to Corbet’s Cabin Top of The World Waffles. And with its earth-shattering views and mouth-watering food, this waffle shack is basically a religious experience.
Not only is the Traditional Waffle with Brown Sugar Butter the best pre-run fuel I’ve ever found, but the vibe inside is one of the best in the world. And it can only be found at “the top of the world.”
(Photography by Watchonista)
Andrea “IamCasa” Casalegno’s Guide to Milan, Presented by Watchonista
By Andrea Casalegno
, Contributor
After two city guides focused on great North American cities, we thought it was time to hop across the pond to Europe. So, where better to continue the...
Rhonda Riche’s Guide to Toronto, Presented by Watchonista
By Rhonda Riche
, Editor-At-Large
Watch collectors collect more than watches. We collect experiences, secret spots, insider info, and we can rattle off expert opinions and insights on our...
J.J. Owens’ Guide to New York City, Presented by Watchonista
By Jessica “J.J.” Owens
, Contributor
Watch collectors collect more than watches. We collect experiences, secret spots, insider info, and we can rattle off expert opinions and insights on our...