Visit the National Fish Hatchery
Jackson Hole is home to the National Fish Hatchery and this little-known local attraction is fascinating. Located four miles north of the town of Jackson and adjacent to the National Elk Refuge, the National Fish Hatchery welcomes visitors for free tours from 8 a.m. to 4 p.m. daily (except on federal holidays) for a close up view of Snake River cutthroat trout. Observe fish in several indoor tanks and view photographic displays of spawning and stocking.
Check Out the Night Sky With Local Astronomers
Wyoming Stargazing offers free, year-round, public stargazing events every (clear sky) Thursday, when the temperature is above zero degrees Fahrenheit, in the northwest corner of the Stilson parking lot off Hwy. 390 and 22, behind the bus hut where there are no lights. Astronomy educators use one of their large aperture telescopes to show you planets, stars, planetary nebulae, galaxies and more. There is no need to reserve your spot in advance; just come and go as you please.
In the event of bad weather, a cancellation notice will be posted at wyomingstargazing.org or on the organization's Facebook and Instagram accounts. However, you can instead head over to the stargazing's office (1135 Maple Way, Unit 1) for a sci-fi moving screening! Popcorn, apple cider, and hot cocoa are offered free of charge.
A $25/person donation is suggested if you enjoy the experience.
Walk the Sculpture Trail at Wildlife Art Museum
The National Museum of Wildlife Art boasts a three-quarter-mile Sculpture Trail, designed by award-winning landscape architect Walter Hood. The famed trail places sculpture against the striking Gros Ventre Mountain Range backdrop and the National Elk Refuge. There is no fee to amble around and appreciate impressive sculptures of bison, moose, elk, birds and more. The trail also features something for the kiddies—two climb-on buffaloes, the only "please touch" sculptures.
Bonus Freebies
Kids of all ages can enjoy two different JH Public Art installations, created using natural materials: "Mama Mimi" the giant troll out in Rendezvous Park in Wilson ("R Park") and the "Bison and Wallow" sculpture at the Greenspace on the Block off of Town Square.
You can also try your hand (and foot) at the free bouldering park at the base of Snow King Mountain. The park features three large boulders/walls for all ages and skill levels.