Gateway Town

Driggs

Gateway Town

Teton Valley county seat, 34 km west. Museums & hot air balloons. Small lodging—book early.

Quick facts

Town Type
Local Haunt
Population
1984
Best Known For
Geotourism museum and hot air balloon flights; quieter alternative to Jackson with access to Teton Valley outdoor recreation
About This Town
Driggs is a county seat in Idaho's Teton Valley, known for its interactive geotourism center and hot air balloon tours—quieter than Jackson while offering similar outdoor access. Kayaking, golf, and horseback riding are readily available, plus two local history museums. Basic lodging and services make it a practical base for exploring the Tetons, though a car is essential beyond downtown.

Town overview

Town Type
Local Haunt
Population
1984
Best Known For
Geotourism museum and hot air balloon flights; quieter alternative to Jackson with access to Teton Valley outdoor recreation
About This Town
Driggs is a county seat in Idaho's Teton Valley, known for its interactive geotourism center and hot air balloon tours—quieter than Jackson while offering similar outdoor access. Kayaking, golf, and horseback riding are readily available, plus two local history museums. Basic lodging and services make it a practical base for exploring the Tetons, though a car is essential beyond downtown.
What Makes It Special
Home to the only geotourism center in the region with a focus on Yellowstone and Teton geology; annual art festival (Plein Air) draws painters in late July

Park access

Distance From Park
34 km (21 miles) west; approximately 45 minutes drive
Nearest Airport
Jackson Hole Airport (42 miles / ~1 hour) or Idaho Falls Regional Airport (75 miles / ~1.5 hours)

Where to stay & eat

Hotel Count
2
Bnb Count
0
Lodging Variety
Two small independent hotels. No B&Bs in town.
Restaurant Count
5

Visitor services

Gear Shops
Teton River Supply (watercraft rentals: kayaks, canoes, rafts, paddleboards); check Jackson for comprehensive outdoor gear retail
Banks Atms
0
Laundry Facilities
0

Things to do

Main Attractions
Teton Geotourism Center, Teton Valley Museum, hot air balloon tours, kayaking and paddling on the Teton River, 18-hole golf course, horseback riding
Summer Activities
Hot air balloon flights, kayaking and paddling on the Teton River, golf at The Links at Teton Peaks, horseback riding, Driggs Plein Air Festival (late July with art workshops and competitions)
Events Festivals
Driggs Plein Air Festival (late July): 2-day art workshops, juried art competition, and artwork exhibitions

More details

Visitor Center Location
Teton Geotourism Center, 60 S. Main Street
Accessibility
Downtown Driggs is walkable; a car is needed to access most attractions beyond the central area
Nearby Facilities
Two small hotels, 5 restaurants and cafes, watercraft rental shop, geotourism museum, history museum, balloon tour operators. Limited retail beyond downtown.

Location

Frequently asked questions

How far is Driggs from Grand Teton National Park?

34 km (21 miles) west; approximately 45 minutes drive from the park center.

Do I need a car in Driggs?

Yes. Downtown is walkable, but you'll need a car to access attractions beyond the central area.

What are the nearest airports?

Jackson Hole (42 miles, 1 hour) or Idaho Falls Regional (75 miles, 1.5 hours).

What is the Teton Geotourism Center?

An interactive museum at 60 S. Main Street with exhibits on Yellowstone and Teton geology; open Tu–Sa, 10 AM–5 PM. Adults $8; children $4.

Can I rent kayaks or paddleboards?

Yes, from Teton River Supply (N. Main & E. Howard Ave); they rent kayaks, canoes, rafts, and paddleboards starting at $55/day.

Jackson

Upscale ski town and park gateway. Everything you need: 62 hotels, restaurants, full services before the park.

Victor

Budget lodging 40 km from Teton. Small town—book ahead for summer.

Sources

  • YourNPGuide Editorial

Information is compiled from official sources, verified traveler reviews, and editorial research. Learn how YourNPGuide works.

Last updated July 2026. Report an issue.