27+ Fun Things to Do in Driggs, ID & the Teton Valley (2024)

We’d initially planned a road trip to the Teton Valley in Idaho for March 2020, so it of course became the first of many cancelations. But a couple years later, we finally made it there! And it was everything we’d expected, and then some.

Known as “The Quiet Side of the Tetons,” the Teton Valley is just that – far less crowded, less touristy, and less expensive than the eastern side near Jackson, WY, and Grand Teton National Park. If you’re visiting the park, or skiing at Grand Targhee Resort, staying in the Valley is more affordable and gives you a homier place to go back to in the evenings.

But the Teton Valley is also an incredible destination in itself. There are tons of fun things to do in Driggs and nearby Victor, and the entire valley is packed with outdoor adventures for all four seasons.

This guide has all our picks for the best things to do in Victor, Driggs, and throughout Teton Valley, Idaho – and scroll down to the bottom to find out where to eat, drink, and stay during your trip.

Some links in this post are affiliates, meaning we may earn a small commission if you make a reservation or place an order.

The Best Things to Do in Driggs & Victor, ID

Driggs and Victor, just eight miles apart, are the two main towns in Idaho’s Teton Valley. Each one only has around 2,200 people, but there’s still lots to do, so make sure you spend some time in both!

Wander downtown Driggs.

To get a good sense of this tiny-but-packed town, make exploring the downtown area one of your first things to do in Driggs – and save some time to look in the many shops. Stop in Peaked Sports and Habitat – High Altitude Provisions for all types of outdoor gear, The Rusty Nail for upscale décor, and The Wardrobe Company for everything from clothes to home goods to gifts.

Stop in the Teton Geo Center.

The free Teton Geo Center is packed with exhibits related to the Teton Valley, capturing the adventurous spirit of the area. You’ll learn about the history of the region and its many activities – like hot air ballooning, skiing, and ice sculpting – complete with displays of vintage equipment. And among the profiles of local outdoor professionals is one of an accomplished avalanche rescue dog named Otter!

Check out the Warbird Airplane Museum.

Visiting the Warbird Airplane Museum is another of the free things to do in Driggs. This collection of vintage planes is part of the Teton Aviation Center at Driggs Airport, just north of downtown. For history buffs and aviation enthusiasts, it’s a must-see. There’s not much information available about the museum, so call to check the hours before you go by.

Take a tour (and stay for a tasting!) at Grand Teton Distillery.

The Teton Valley has a surprising number of craft beverage makers, but only one of them offers tours – Grand Teton Distillery, which makes vodka (out of Idaho potatoes, of course) and whiskey. Tours and tastings are available by appointment, easily booked on their website.

Wander downtown Victor.

The small downtown area of Victor is also well worth taking some time to meander around. Don’t miss Estate Collectibles if you’re into antiquing, or Food Shed Idaho if you love gourmet food. And be sure to stop in 2^nd ACT Thrift Store, a neat secondhand store that supports a local arts and theatre non-profit.

Browse at Victor Outdoor Seconds.

If you’re into the outdoors, browsing through Victor Outdoor Seconds is definitely one of the top things to do in Victor. Yes, this consignment shop is a little disorganized, but it’s also the kind of place where you’ll find hidden gems.

Unlike so many used gear shops, they’ve got quality stuff at great prices. And what’s available ranges from hiking pants and snowboards to Yakima rack parts and drysuits, and everything in between.

See a show at Pierre’s Theatre.

A historic building in the heart of Victor, Pierre’s Theatre has alternately served as a playhouse and movie theater throughout its 80-year history. After a pandemic closure, it recently re-opened under a new owner with a vision to bring the theatre back to life. Check their schedule for movie showings, plays, and other events.

Cycle the Victor to Driggs Rail-Trail.

Sure, you could quickly drive the eight miles that separate Driggs and Victor – or you could cycle the rail trail that parallels the highway. It’s a straight shot on a nice flat path, with no cars to worry about, and it only takes about 45 minutes (just don’t forget you’ll also have to ride 45 minutes back to your starting point!). So slow down, savor the experience, and take in the stunning views.

If you need to rent a bike, get one at Peaked Sports if you’re starting your ride in Driggs, or at Wheel Wranglers if you’re riding from Victor.

Things to Do Near Driggs, ID & Throughout the Teton Valley

As adorable as both Driggs and Victor are, the biggest appeal of the Teton Valley lies outside the towns. It’s a playground for outdoors lovers, all year round, and here are the best ways to experience it.

Cycle part (or all!) of the Ashton-Tetonia Trail.

Was the eight miles of the Victor to Driggs Rail Trail not enough? No problem, the nearby Ashton-Tetonia Trail, a gravel/dirt trail following the abandoned Teton Valley Branch of the Union Pacific Railroad, is nearly four times as long!

No matter how much of it you pedal, you’ll be treated to quiet nature and stunning views of the Teton Range – but make sure you pass over one of the three historic train trestles. Pick up a rental bike at Peaked Sports in Driggs if you don’t have your own.

Visit one of the waterfalls near Driggs.

The two popular waterfalls in the Teton Valley are both well worth the drive to see. Just over an hour north of Driggs – and along an eponymous scenic byway – is the thunderous Mesa Falls, with its visitor center (summer only) and short nature trail. Make sure to stop at both the Upper and Lower sections of the falls, only about 1.5 miles apart.

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And about 45 minutes south of Driggs is Fall Creek Falls, scenically situated over a cluster of islands in the Snake River. Enjoy the views from above, or hike/scramble/wade down to the bottom if you’re feeling adventurous.

Drive a scenic byway in the Teton Valley.

This part of Idaho is nothing if not scenic, and the easiest way to see it is by taking a scenic drive near Driggs. The Teton Scenic Byway starts right by Fall Creek Falls in the tiny town of Swan Valley, and runs for 70 miles through Victor, Driggs, Tetonia, and up to the town of Ashton, ID.

And where the Teton Scenic Byway ends, the Mesa Falls Scenic Byway begins. From Ashton, it continues for 29 miles, taking you right past Mesa Falls before ending just outside Harriman State Park.

Go hiking near Driggs.

There are more hikes in the Teton Valley than you’d ever be able to tackle in one trip, but Darby Wind Cave, just over the border in Wyoming, is probably the most popular. An approximately 3-mile (one-way) trail that passes a waterfall and ends at the cave (which you can carefully explore the front of, depending on water levels), it’s moderately strenuous but well worth the effort. The trailhead is at the parking lot at the end of Darby Canyon Road, about 25 minutes southeast of Driggs.

Another of the top hikes near Driggs is the Palisades Creek Trail, beginning about 50 minutes south of town at Palisades Creek Trailhead. The first section of the trail is a moderate 5-mile (one-way) hike to the gorgeous Lower Palisades Lake. If you’re up for continuing another (steeper) 2.5 miles, you’ll be rewarded with the even more stunning Upper Palisades Lake.

Not all of the Teton Valley hikes are so long! We did the Sheep Bridge Trail near Alta, WY, a mostly flat 2.2-mile (one-way) hike along Teton Creek. And you’ll start with stunning views of the mountains from right at the New Sheep Bridge Trailhead – which is only about 15 minutes northeast of Driggs.

Take a dip in one of the hot springs near Driggs.

After all the activity the Teton Valley has to offer, nothing will feel better than soaking your muscles in one of the area’s hot springs. About 35 minutes northwest of Driggs is the closest and cheapest option, Green Canyon Hot Springs. In addition to the indoor warm pool and outdoor hot pool, there’s also a cold plunge pool, kept at a chilling 55 degrees!

An hour southeast of Driggs, and across the border in Wyoming, is the pricier but newer Astoria Hot Springs, run by the non-profit Astoria Park Conservancy. Its five (!) pools of differing temperatures are all outdoors with views over the Snake River, and one even has a waterfall.

What To Do in Teton Valley, ID: Summer Edition

Summer is definitely the most popular time to visit the Teton Valley. Several of the in-town attractions are only open in the summer months, and the warm weather makes it easier to take advantage of the area’s outdoor activities – including floating the Teton River, which is easily one of the top activities in Driggs.

Visit the Teton Valley Historical Museum.

A visit to the Teton Valley Museum is the perfect complement to all the outdoor adventure activities Driggs is famous for. The museum’s exhibits span three buildings and detail the history of the Teton Valley and the experiences of its early settlers. You’ll see a tipi, pioneer school room, log cabin, covered wagon, World War II machine gun, and even a snow plane.

See a movie at the iconic Spud Drive-In Theater.

What better way to wrap up a day of adventure than with a drive-in movie? A classic 1950s drive-in theatre, The Spud easily ranks as one of the most unique attractions in Driggs. Check their calendar for movie times – and make sure you come hungry, because the concession stand’s old-fashioned burgers and shakes are legendary.

Browse the Teton Valley Farmers Market.

If you’re in Driggs on a Friday morning in the summer, make sure you stop by the farmers market, held right by the Geo Center. Stock up on area produce, local cheese, small-batch baked goods, fresh flowers, original art, handmade crafts, and more unique products from across Teton Valley.

See Music on Main at Victor City Park.

And if you’re around on a Thursday evening in the summer, catch a Music on Main show at Victor City Park. The series features all kinds of music, and several local food vendors are always on-site. Check their schedule to see who’s playing while you’re in town.

Take an unforgettable sunrise hot air balloon ride.

If you’re looking for things to do in the Teton Valley that won’t break the bank…well, skip this one. But if you have the means to splurge, a sunrise hot air balloon ride over the Tetons is nothing short of magical.

Float the Teton River.

Summer in Driggs means getting out on the water! The stretch of the Teton River near Driggs and Victor tends to be calm and placid, making it perfect for a relaxed paddle on a hot summer day, even if you don’t have any experience.

There are plenty of access points, so you can easily plan a float yourself if you have two vehicles. If not, the Teton River Shuttle will move your car from your start point to your endpoint while you’re out on the water (how handy is that?).

If you need equipment, Teton River Supply rents a huge variety of canoes, kayaks, rafts, and other watercraft, and they’ll shuttle you from town to the river. Or if you’re planning to stand-up paddleboard, Wai Mauna Paddleboard Rentals specializes in SUPs – each rental even includes a short lesson – and they also operate a river shuttle.

Go horseback riding.

Heading into the Targhee National Forest on horseback will probably be one of the most memorable parts of your trip. Check out one of these highly-rated local outfitters:

Bagley’s Teton Mountain Ranch: Offers rides of three different lengths at affordable rates

Leigh Creek Outfitters: Runs 2-hour and 6-hour rides, with a big discount on the longer rides for groups of at least three

Linn Canyon Ranch: Hosts a range of activities, including horseback riding lessons, pony rides for kids, and a sunset dinner ride

Enjoy a scenic chairlift ride at Grand Targhee Resort.

You may be going to Driggs specifically to get away from the crowds on the side Wyoming side – but the chance to take a scenic chairlift ride is well worth popping across the border to Grand Targhee Resort.

The Dreamcatcher lift rises 2,000 feet over the 10-minute ride, delivering you to the peak of Freds Mountain. Once you’ve had your fill of breathtaking views from the top, you can either ride the chairlift back down or hike Bannock Trail to the bottom.

What To Do in Teton Valley, ID: Winter Edition

Winter is also a magical time to visit the Teton Valley. While some things will be closed or inaccessible, the abundance of winter recreation opportunities makes up for it – just be sure you pack warm clothes!

Go downhill skiing.

No doubt a ski trip to Grand Targhee Resort is one of the biggest reasons people visit this area. It’s far less crowded and more affordable than nearby Jackson Hole Mountain Resort (and actually has more skiable acreage).

With nearly 100 runs to ski or ride, everyone from first-timers to pros will stay busy at Grand Targhee. And while many visiting skiers stay at the resort itself, it’s just 25 minutes from Driggs – and you’ll save even more by staying there instead.

Take a backcountry skiing tour.

If you’re interested in backcountry skiing but not ready to go out on your own (and, ahem, not on a tight budget), a trip with Teton Backcountry Guides is the perfect opportunity. There are options for beginners (as well as up to expert-level skiers), and every trip is private and tailored to your group. They know the terrain, choose the routes, and plan for safety – so all you have to worry about is your skiing.

Go cross-country skiing near Driggs.

If you ask us, cross-country skiing is the ultimate activity for winter in Driggs. You can go out on your own, enjoy some solitude, and appreciate the area’s natural beauty, usually for free or by donation – no guide or lift ticket needed.

So pick up rental skis if you need them at Peaked Sports, and choose from one of the dozen or more places to cross-country ski in the Teton Valley. Tons of information on trails, conditions, and events is available from JH Nordic and Teton Valley Trails & Pathways.

A few great places to go cross-country skiing near Driggs:

Ashton-Tetonia Trail: popular as a bike path during warmer months, with Felt-Bitch Creek being the most scenic section

Teton Reserve: family-friendly trails on a golf course, halfway between Victor and Driggs

Darby Creek: the closed-for-winter road to the Darby Wind Cave trailhead, running along the creek

And if you’re new to cross-country skiing or just want to improve, pop over to Teton Pines Nordic Center and take a lesson.

Head out on a snowshoe hike.

Snowshoeing is another great way to enjoy Driggs in winter. You can snowshoe out on many of the area’s hiking trails, and most (but not all) of the cross-country ski trails allow snowshoeing as well.

Peaked Sports also rents snowshoes, so pick up a pair if you need them, and then hit one of the trails. Like with cross-country skiing, check JH Nordic and Teton Valley Trails & Pathways for more details and updates.

A few of the best places for snowshoeing near Driggs:

South Leigh Canyon: mostly flat, forested trail that’s great for a relaxed snowshoe hike

Moose Creek: slightly steeper trail following the creek, beginning just outside of Victor

Fox Creek: more challenging route along the creek, which you’ll likely have to yourself

Try your hand at fat-tire biking.

Fat biking is like regular biking…but harder! Imagine biking through sand, on a bicycle that’s heavier and harder to control. That’s pretty much fat-tire biking.

But it’s a fun challenge and a unique way to get outside in the winter, and you can give it a try at Grand Targhee Resort. They offer fat bike rentals and groom 15 miles of trails open to cyclists – and since you know the trails will be well maintained, this is a great place to try it out.

Go ice skating in Victor.

One more way to enjoy winter in the Teton Valley: head to Kotler Arena, the covered outdoor ice rink in Victor. Skate rentals are available, and they usually have open skating on Friday nights and weekends.

The Food Scene in Victor & Driggs, ID: Restaurants, Breweries, & More

You’ll be blown away by the variety and quality of restaurants in Driggs and Victor, believe me. These towns may be small, but the food scene is thriving.

What + Where to Eat in Driggs, Idaho

Start your day at Rise Coffee House. This local café is the place to go for quality coffee and a nourishing breakfast in Driggs. If the weather’s nice, make sure you sit in their adorable outdoor area.

Or pick up breakfast at Big Hole Bagel and Bistro. Their namesake bagels are by far the best in the Teton Valley – and the cinnamon rolls probably are, too!

Do some plane spotting while you eat at Warbirds Cafe. Eating here is one of the top things to do in Driggs, thanks to the top-notch food and the chance to see private aircraft take off and land practically right in front of your table.

Eat AND browse at Mini Marigold Cafe. It’s a nursery, a gift shop, and a café with delicious coffee, breakfast, and lunch options. No surprise, the café is packed with plants – and there’s seating in a beautiful garden and inside their greenhouse.

Don’t miss the milkshakes at Corner Drug. The classic soda fountain inside the local drugstore is something of an institution – as is the huckleberry milkshake it’s famous for!

Sample local beers at Citizen 33 Brewery. The only brewery in Driggs has great beer, but that’s not even close to all. There’s also a selection of wine, co*cktails, and non-alcoholic drinks, plus a full food menu.

Need some more recs? Dine at one of these best restaurants in Driggs, ID:

• Pizzeria Alpino: probably the best pizza in Driggs
• Valle Del Sol: Mexican favorites that are fresh and authentic
• Figgie’s Deli: sandwiches the size of your face
• Forage Bistro & Lounge: a small but original menu of carefully-crafted dishes

What + Where to Eat in Victor, Idaho

Grab a quick coffee at Alpine Air Coffee Hut. This cute drive-thru serves the delicious coffee Alpine Air roasts just down the road – and a host of equally delicious baked goods. Swing through on your way out of town, and fuel up for the day’s adventure.

Or have a leisurely java at French Press Coffee House. Would you rather sit down and savor your morning coffee? Choose from the huge tea and coffee menu at the Teton Valley’s newest coffee shop – and pair your drink with a mouth-watering pastry.

Indulge in a milkshake from Victor Emporium. This long-standing store sells an eclectic mix of clothing, accessories, and gifts – but it’s best known as a soda foundation, serving the kind of thick milkshakes that are perfect on a hot day.

Brewery hop between Wildlife Brewing & Grand Teton Brewing Company. Yes, there are two breweries in Victor. Spend the afternoon at Grand Teton, relaxing on their huge lawn, munching on free popcorn, and ordering off the rotating tap list. Then head to Wildlife and dine on wood-fired pizza, accompanied by their beer flight served on a ski.

Or sample a flight at Highpoint Cider. Even if cider isn’t usually your thing, you’ll definitely want to give Highpoint’s a try: it’s not dry like some ciders, and each one is packed with flavor. Plus, it’s in a neat industrial space on the edge of the Victor, and they host events every week.

Want more? Dine at one of these top restaurants in Victor, ID:

• Chiang Mai Thai Kitchen: authentic and delicious northern Thai food
• Knotty Pine: a wide range of highly-rated American fare
• Butter Cafe: amazingly tasty breakfast and brunch dishes

Where to Stay in Teton Valley, Idaho

From mountain lodges to cozy cabins to upscale hotels, there’s no shortage of memorable places to stay in Driggs and across the Valley. This area is a great place to stay even if you’re primarily visiting Grand Teton National Park or Grand Targhee Resort (although it’s a little too far from Yellowstone National Park).

Teton Hostel HideAway – Driggs: The only hostel in the Teton Valley and one of the cheapest places to stay, with individual beds available in a shared dorm

Spud Drive-In Theater – Driggs: Two funky Airstream campers and two cozy cabins to choose from, located right at the drive-in theater

Teton Valley Resort – Victor: Sleek and comfortable cabins that sleep up to 6 people, some featuring a kitchenette and fireplace

Fin & Feather Inn – Victor: A homey lodge with super cozy rooms and a very highly-rated breakfast

Teton Teepee Lodge – Alta, WY: An incredibly unique lodge, with rooms situated around a fire pit in the center of the common area

And if you’re traveling by RV or prefer to pitch a tent, there are tons of options for camping near Driggs and throughout the Teton Valley – start with this list of campgrounds.

Map of Teton Valley, Idaho

Our custom map of the Teton Valley shows everything mentioned above, including all the things to do in Victor and Driggs, where to eat and stay, and points of interest in the surrounding areas.

Click here for an interactive version of the map!

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