Jackson, Wyoming, is a culinary and outdoor paradise that offers much more than just stunning mountain views. Its location at the edge of Yellowstone and Grand Teton National Parks means you can enjoy a variety of lunch experiences that combine incredible scenery, wildlife, and local flavor. Whether you’re craving a horseback ride with a picnic, a private wildlife safari, or a full-day park tour, Jackson’s lunch offerings are designed to give you a memorable midday break amid some of the most breathtaking landscapes in the country.
Unlike generic lunch spots, these experiences blend adventure with gastronomy, making your meal part of the journey. Many include picnic-style lunches, wildlife viewing, and expert guides, elevating your trip from simple eating to a true part of your outdoor exploration.
Quick Overview
For a taste of the region’s rugged beauty, the Teton View Horse Riding with Lunch combines scenic riding with a gourmet picnic on Ann’s Ridge. If wildlife and park exploration are your priorities, the Private Full-Day Grand Teton National Park Tour with Picnic Lunch offers a tailored day among elk, bison, and mountain vistas. For a full immersion in Yellowstone, the Classic Yellowstone Lower Loop Picnic Lunch Tour takes you through geysers, hot springs, and expansive valleys, all with a delicious outdoor meal. Meanwhile, the Private Grand Teton Wildlife Safari offers a wildlife-focused day with a cozy sleigh ride and a hearty lunch. Lastly, for quick winter wildlife viewing, the Grand Teton Winter Wildlife Safari with Picnic Lunch provides a shorter, intimate adventure.
1. Teton View Horse Riding with Lunch
This horse-riding experience takes you into the Bridger Teton National Forest for a scenic loop with an included picnic lunch. Starting at Willow Creek headquarters, the tour climbs up to Ann’s Pond, where you might spot moose having a drink—an encounter that’s quietly magical. After that, riders ascend to Ann’s Ridge, where the included lunch is served amid jaw-dropping views of the Grand Teton mountains. The ride continues along the Ann’s Ridge Loop and down the historic Bryan’s Flat logging road, making a full loop through pristine wilderness.
What makes this experience stand out is its focus on nature and local scenery, with the ride entirely within a national forest. The guides are knowledgeable about the area’s flora and fauna, and the small group setting offers a personalized feel. The 2.5-hour tour is ideal for those who want a relaxed, outdoor meal combined with gentle horseback riding through some of Jackson’s most scenic forests. The reviews are glowing, with a perfect rating of 5.0 based on 47 reviews, highlighting the quality of the experience and the stunning views.
Bottom Line: Perfect for outdoor lovers who want a laid-back ride with a memorable picnic in a spectacular setting.
2. 4 Person Full-Day PRIVATE Yellowstone Tour in a Raised Roof Van- Picnic Lunch
This full-day private Yellowstone tour hits the mark for those wanting a comprehensive, worry-free experience of America’s first national park. The tour covers highlights like Old Faithful, Biscuit Basin, Artist Point, Black Sand Basin, and Hayden Valley—all included with your park pass. The trip is designed for small groups, with a raised-roof van that offers excellent visibility and comfort, making it easier to spot wildlife and enjoy the scenery.
What makes this tour exceptional is its personalized approach. Your guide will tailor the day based on your interests, sharing insights into Yellowstone’s geology, wildlife, and history. The outdoor picnic lunch adds an authentic touch, allowing you to dine while surrounded by wilderness. The 12-hour adventure is ideal for travelers seeking a deep dive into Yellowstone’s most iconic sights without the hassle of driving or planning logistics.
During reviews, guests mention the value of having a private guide and the flexibility to see the park at your own pace. The cost of $1,995 per group might seem steep, but considering the extensive itinerary and personalized service, it’s a solid investment for a memorable Yellowstone day.
Bottom Line: Best suited for travelers wanting a private, detailed Yellowstone experience combined with a scenic picnic.
3. Private Full-Day Grand Teton National Park Tour with Picnic Lunch
This private tour offers a focused, stress-free way to see the best of Grand Teton National Park in one day. Starting early at Jackson Home Ranch Welcome Center, your dedicated guide will take you to the top viewpoints, wildlife hotspots, and historic sites. The tour emphasizes flexible itinerary planning, allowing you to spend more time at your preferred locations.
What sets this experience apart is the use of spotting scopes and binoculars, making wildlife viewing a highlight. The included picnic lunch lets you relax amidst the mountain scenery, with opportunities to photograph snow-capped peaks and possibly spot elk, bison, or even bears. The guide shares insightful commentary on the area’s natural history, ensuring you gain a richer understanding of this rugged landscape.
Guests often comment on the personalized service and the guide’s deep knowledge—”Vinnie was so informative and made the day incredibly memorable,” says one review. At 7 to 9 hours, this tour offers a comprehensive taste of Grand Teton without feeling rushed.
Bottom Line: Ideal for those seeking a tailored, wildlife-focused adventure with excellent scenery and a relaxed picnic break.
4. PRIVATE Grand Teton Wildlife Safari, Elk Refuge Sleigh Ride & Lunch
This nature-centered tour combines wildlife viewing with a cozy horse-drawn sleigh ride into the Elk Refuge, making it a standout for animal lovers. Led by a naturalist guide, you’ll hunt for bald eagles, wolves, coyotes, and big horn sheep using provided binoculars and spotting scopes. The tour lasts about 6 hours and includes transportation directly from your Jackson hotel.
The highlight is the horse-drawn sleigh ride into the wintering elk herd—an experience praised by visitors, with one saying, “We loved the sleigh ride and the big herd of elk was so close.” Afterward, enjoy a hearty picnic lunch with hot soup or chili, served amid stunning mountain scenery. The private nature of this tour ensures personalized attention, with your guide sharing stories about local wildlife and ecosystems.
Rated highly, this tour offers a perfect balance of wildlife, scenery, and comfort. It’s best suited for those who want an intimate, wildlife-rich day with easy logistics and a warm meal.
Bottom Line: Perfect for wildlife enthusiasts who want a combination of animals, scenery, and a cozy meal in a private setting.
5. Classic Yellowstone National Park Lower Loop Picnic Lunch Tour
This full-day tour covers the highlights of Yellowstone’s iconic lower loop, including Old Faithful, the Grand Canyon of the Yellowstone, and Yellowstone Lake. Traveling in a comfortable SUV or van, you’ll visit well-known thermal areas and panoramic viewpoints, all with the help of a knowledgeable guide who explains the park’s geology and wildlife.
The standout feature of this tour is the picnic lunch in the park, allowing you to break up your sightseeing with a relaxed outdoor meal. It’s an excellent choice for travelers who want to see Yellowstone’s major sights without the hassle of planning or navigating. The one review from a past traveler highlights the value of the experience, especially when paired with the scenic stops and informative commentary.
For around $938 per person, this tour combines the thrill of exploration with the comfort of a guided experience—making it suitable for those who want a comprehensive, hassle-free day in Yellowstone.
Bottom Line: Ideal for visitors seeking a classic Yellowstone experience packed with highlights and a picnic lunch.
6. Private Grand Teton Winter Wildlife Safari with Picnic Lunch
This shorter, winter-specific tour offers a 4.5-hour peek into the winter wilderness of Grand Teton. Led by a private guide in a spacious van, you’ll look for moose, elk, bison, wolves, and bald eagles in their seasonal habitat. The tour includes all necessary optics like binoculars, making wildlife sightings easier and more enjoyable.
The highlight is the included picnic lunch, which you can enjoy amid the winter scenery. This tour is less time-intensive but allows for a more intimate, focused wildlife experience. Its smaller scale makes it perfect for travelers on a tight schedule who still want to see diverse animals and learn about the winter ecology.
Guests often mention that the guide’s knowledge enhanced their experience, making it engaging and educational. While reviews are limited, the consistent value is clear—this tour offers a quick but rich wildlife encounter in the winter months.
Bottom Line: Well-suited for winter travelers who want a focused, private wildlife spotting trip with a cozy picnic.
How to Choose
When deciding which lunch experience in Jackson suits you best, consider your budget, available time, and specific interests. For a full immersion into Yellowstone’s geothermal wonders, the Yellowstone Lower Loop Tour provides a comprehensive day. If wildlife is your priority, the Grand Teton Wildlife Safari or the Winter Safari offer intimate encounters with animals in their habitat.
Looking for a relaxed, scenic ride with a delicious picnic? The Teton View Horse Riding is perfect for gentle riding and panoramic views. For those wanting a tailored, wildlife-focused experience with flexibility, the Grand Teton Private Tour is ideal.
Book early—these popular experiences fill quickly, especially during peak seasons. Think about your fitness level, the weather, and whether you prefer a private or group setting. The key is matching the tour’s focus—geography, wildlife, or scenery—with your personal interests.
Final Thoughts
Jackson offers a stunning variety of lunch experiences that turn a simple meal into a memorable part of your outdoor adventure. The Teton View Horse Riding shines for scenic riders, while the Yellowstone Full-Day Tour is great for those wanting a comprehensive park day. Wildlife enthusiasts will appreciate the Grand Teton Wildlife Safari or the winter safari, both offering close encounters and a warm meal.
Whether you’re after an active outdoor ride, a detailed park exploration, or an intimate wildlife experience, Jackson has a lunch adventure that will enrich your trip. Planning ahead and choosing based on your specific interests will ensure you enjoy every bite and view along the way. Remember, these tours are popular—reserve early to secure your spot on these memorable lunches in the mountains.