Laid Back Luxe in Jackson Hole and the Grand Tetons

Make sure to arrive in Jackson in time to attend the famous Jackson Rodeo. Planning your luxe western rodeo style outfit is part of the fun, so do some online research for inspiration. Nothing to wear? A hat from Kemo Sabe Jackson would be the perfect souvenir. Just make sure you don’t look like its your first rodeo.

Everyone knows that the key to a good road trip is the perfect playlist and great food. Before you head out of town, stop at Persephone for coffee and pastries (or a full breakfast if you must). Pick up Edge Wyld grazing-to-go cups and sack lunches to take with you into the park or have them delivered early for a fee.

Start the 42-mile scenic drive on the outer loop first for sweeping panoramic views of the Grand Tetons. Then, once you have seen the landscape in a greater context, you can explore individual stops along the inner loop. Beginning early gives you the best chance at spotting wildlife, beautiful lighting and increased serenity before the park fills up.

There are many stops and turnouts along the loop, but these are what I consider to be Must See Stops: Moulton Barns, Oxbow Bend, Cathedral Group, Jenny Lake and Dornan's in Moose.

Dornan's in Moose: Privately-owned for over 100 years, this complex nestled within the National Park offers everything from gas to camping supplies. If you didn’t stop at Persephone, you can grab breakfast at the Chuckwagon or stock up on car snacks and picnic items at the Trading Post.

Moulton Barns: Iconic structures from the early 1900s, are some of the most photographed barns in the world.

Oxbow Bend Turnout: One of the most recognizable views and prime spots for wildlife viewing; particularly gorgeous during the evening golden hour (just before sunset) and in the fall when the leaves turn golden.

Cathedral Group Turnout: Cathedral-like spires of Teewinot Mountain, the Grand Teton and Mount Owen found on the Jenny Lake Road.

Jenny Lake: Spend the afternoon on the water with your own gear, or rent canoes, kayaks and paddle boards from Dornan's. For the less adventurous, Jenny Lake Boating also offers scenic cruises and shuttle service to the popular Hidden Falls hike (about 1 mile roundtrip). Not much can compare to this glacier-carved lake.

Dornan's: Round out the day at Dornan's. This privately owned complex nestled within the National Park has existed for over 100 years and offers everything from gas to camping supplies. Its claim to fame is the patio, where you can capture a classic sunset view of the Tetons while enjoying a relaxed pizza dinner. Don’t be surprised if, upon hearing that you went to the Grand Tetons, people ask if you ate at Dornan's.

Depending on the level of comfort and ages of your group members, choose between a gentle scenic float on the Snake River or a much more adventurous whitewater rafting trip. Both options take roughly three hours, leaving you plenty of time to shower and head to Gather for a burger and a beer.

Sleep in, have breakfast on the balcony, relax in the whirlpool, spend time playing family games, get a massage, order room service… you get the idea. After two full days of adventure, spend time restoring and reconnecting. Once you’re rested, peruse the shops (don't miss Made for handmade upscale souvenirs) and see who’s playing at the Million Dollar Cowboy Bar.

Take a two-hour to half day ride through the majestic Bridger Teton National Forest, where you will appreciate views of the Tetons from an 8,000-foot elevation. Spend your last night enjoying an elevated picnic and a great bottle of wine under the stars, or treat yourself to a celebratory dinner at the lovely Coelette. Housed in a 1915 residence, the original logs were inventoried and replaced in their exact location during renovations for the restaurant. This elegant historic setting is the perfect place to commemorate your trip.