Jackson Town Square

Jackson Town Square is the beating heart of Jackson Hole and one of those rare destinations that's genuinely great for every member of the family, from newborns in strollers to teenagers who claim they're 'bored' by tourist stuff. The square is a one-acre open green space bordered by boardwalk-lined streets and framed by four massive arches made from naturally shed elk antlers — a sight that's as photogenic as anything else in Wyoming.

For families, the Town Square works as both a destination and a launching pad. As a destination: the antler arches alone justify the stop. Kids love posing under them, and the arches look spectacular in photos.

The open lawn is flat and stroller-friendly, and young kids can run freely without much danger of getting lost since the square is bounded on all sides. Benches and shade trees make it easy for parents to sit and watch.

As a launching pad: everything else in Jackson surrounds this square. Within two blocks you'll find ice cream, candy stores, restaurants ranging from quick-service to sit-down, toy shops, and the kind of old-West boardwalk storefronts that kids find inherently exciting. It's very easy to spend a leisurely hour working your way around the square perimeter, ducking into shops and grabbing snacks.

Summer evenings bring the square to life in a special way. The town hosts free concerts and events throughout summer, often on the square itself. Street performers occasionally set up shop. The whole area has an energy that kids respond to — it feels like a frontier festival town, which isn't entirely wrong.

Parking is the main challenge in summer. Street spots disappear by 9 AM on busy days; the parking garage on Millward Street is your best bet. The square itself is free to access at any time.