Five Things to Do Within Ten Minutes of Flat Creek Inn
When you stay at Flat Creek Inn, you’re close to just about everything worth seeing in Jackson without living in the middle of downtown traffic. In just a few minutes, you can be watching wildlife against a majestic backdrop, strolling under the antler arches, or grabbing a quick cup of coffee. So if you’re the type who likes to spend less time driving and more time actually doing things, here are five spots within about ten minutes of the motel.
The National Elk Refuge
Let’s start with the obvious one. The National Elk Refuge is quite literally next door. In winter, thousands of elk gather here, and the refuge becomes one of the most unique wildlife viewing areas in the country. Sleigh rides run through the herd, which is about as “Wyoming” as it gets. (Did someone say "Slay and stay special"? No? Well, you should check it out anyway.) But even outside the winter season, the refuge is still worth exploring. Spring brings migrating birds, summer brings open space and sweeping views, and you’ll often spot bison, pronghorn, and the occasional coyote doing their best BCC nature documentary auditions.
Jackson Town Square
Drive about five minutes and you’re in the heart of Jackson. Town Square is famous for its four elk antler arches, which have inspired people to think, “I should probably take a picture under that” for decades. Beyond the arches, you’ll find shops, restaurants, art galleries, and the sort of Western charm that feels authentic, rather than the kind of Western charm you'd find twenty feet from a roller coaster at Disneyland. It’s an easy place to spend an afternoon wandering around, grabbing a coffee, and pretending you’re the main character in a scenic travel montage.
Flat Creek
The inn’s namesake creek runs quietly through the area and is a favorite spot for wildlife and birds. If you’re into birdwatching, Flat Creek is known for trumpeter swans, ducks, and a variety of other species that seem to enjoy the calm water and open habitat. There's also great fishing, too (just be sure to grab a license! Stop by our C-store for details). Even if you’re not particularly into things that fly or swim, it’s one of those peaceful spots where you can slow down for a minute and appreciate that you’re in Jackson, Wyoming, and not staring at your inbox.
Scenic Drives Toward Grand Teton National Park
One of the great advantages of staying just outside downtown is how quickly you can head north toward Grand Teton National Park. Within minutes, you can be on a road with wide open views of the Tetons, winding through sagebrush and open valleys. It doesn’t take long before the mountains appear in front of you like a the world's most high-def screensaver. Even a short drive in this direction can turn into an impromptu wildlife sighting or a “we should probably pull over and take a photo” moment.
Local Coffee and Breakfast Spots
Sometimes the most important stop of the day is coffee. Fortunately, you don’t have to go far. Jackson has plenty of solid local cafés where you can grab breakfast, fuel up for a day in the Tetons, or sit for a bit and plan the rest of your adventure. Within a few minutes of the motel, you’ll find everything from quick coffee counters to full breakfast spots that take pancakes very seriously. (Which, frankly, is the right attitude.)
Stay Close to the Good Stuff
One of the best parts of staying at Flat Creek Inn is that you don’t have to choose between convenience and scenery. You’re close to downtown Jackson, right next to the National Elk Refuge, and just a short drive from Grand Teton National Park. In other words, the hardest part of your day might be deciding which direction to explore first.
