Jackson Hole has no shortage of wildlife. But you can experience our wild side another way—without binoculars, an early alarm, or standing outside in the middle of February. Just up the road from our own Flat Creek Inn, the National Museum of Wildlife Art is one of Jackson Hole’s must-see attractions.
A Museum Built for Jackson Hole
Even before you walk inside, the National Museum of Wildlife Art makes an impression. Its stone architecture blends into the hillside overlooking the National Elk Refuge, making the building feel surprisingly at home in the rugged landscape. Inside, the museum celebrates wildlife and the natural world through paintings, sculpture, photography, and other works of art. Its collection spans centuries and includes works by major wildlife artists alongside contemporary pieces that explore our relationship with animals and wild places.
In other words, there are a lot of animals on the walls. The best part is, they won’t run away or charge you when you approach them.
Don’t Skip the Sculpture Trail
In true Jackson Hole fashion, one of our favorite parts of a visit is outside. The museum’s Sculpture Trail winds through the surrounding landscape with wildlife-inspired sculptures and sweeping views of the National Elk Refuge. It’s a beautiful place for a walk. The trail also makes the museum a great stop for visitors who don’t want to be apart from the outdoors for any prolonged period of time.
A Great Stop in Any Season
The National Museum of Wildlife Art is an easy addition to almost any Jackson Hole itinerary. During summer, it pairs nicely with a day exploring Grand Teton National Park. In fall, the surrounding landscape practically becomes part of the exhibition. Winter brings an entirely different experience, with the National Elk Refuge below the museum becoming an important gathering place for wintering elk.
Practically Our Neighbor
For guests staying at Flat Creek Inn, one of the best things about the National Museum of Wildlife Art is its location. Flat Creek Inn sits along North Highway 89 across from the National Elk Refuge, and the museum is just a short drive farther north. That means you can travel from your room to the museum without having to go full-on Lewis and Clark.
Make It Part of Your Jackson Hole Getaway
Jackson Hole is famous for its mountains and wildlife, but places like the National Museum of Wildlife Art add another layer to the experience. The museum captures the fascination people have had with wild animals and wild landscapes for generations—and it does it in a setting where those landscapes are literally right outside the window.
When you’re planning your Jackson Hole trip, leave a little room between the national park drives, wildlife watching, downtown wandering, and heroic quantities of vacation snacks for a visit to the museum. Plan your visit here.
And when you’re ready to call it a day, Flat Creek Inn is right down the road.
