The Rusty Parrot Lodge reopened in 2024 after a rogue cushion flew into a fire pit on the premises five years prior, and it came back with a bit of pizzazz. While much of the building was destroyed in the fire, lodge owners were able to save most of the property’s original artwork, which caters to the current cowboy aesthetic. In fact, the walls are covered out of images you might find in Tombstone or other iconic films.
The rustic artwork isn’t the only thing that gives the lodge its character. Each room comes with a teddy bear that’s known to move every time it’s time for a turnover. Some guests have found the teddy bear typing away at their computer or striking a pose on the couch after a long day. And, of course, the property contains an array of balconies that overlook both the city of Jackson and the surrounding mountains.
Lodge Amenities
As part of the lodge’s renaissance, the property received quite a facelift. It expanded to include 40 guest rooms instead of 32. There’s a small library located on the second floor, and it’s known for its afternoon cookies. The furniture throughout the hotel is custom-designed. And there’s now a secluded courtyard area with a 12-person hot tub at the ready.
Additional amenities across the property include the Body Sage Spa – Jackson’s #1 Spa. This business offers a variety of treatments including facials, massages, and rituals. And all treatments come with access to the relaxation room, snacks and beverages, and hot tub time.
The on-premise restaurant, Wild Sage, features seasonally-inspired dishes with an emphasis on locally-sourced ingredients and elevated flare. Chef Hugo Goodwin leads the kitchen team with innovation and elegant dishes.
A Brief History of the The Rusty Parrot Lodge
The Lodge first opened in 1990 after Brandon Harrison’s family moved from Ogden, Utah for a fresh start. On one chilly evening, Harrison, one of the hotel’s managing partners explained that, “There is no division between work and family life.”
As a kid, Harrison had a bell in his bedroom that would ring anytime a guest needed bellboy services. So, he’d take a break from his homework and run downstairs to attend to his responsibilities. This family-centric character is still present throughout the hotel, today.
Getting There
Located just 15 minutes away from the Jackson airport, there are a few different transportation options for the Rusty Parrot Lodge. Rideshares and taxi-services are available at the airport. Great Western Expeditions commonly offers shuttles. And it’s possible to arrange a private car transfer, as well.
What to Do While Visiting Jackson
Visitors to the Jackson area seldom find themselves in want of something to do. With premium access to Grand Teton National Park, the area is best known for its varied wildlife, and mountain access. Here are a few must-do activities while you’re in Jackson.
- Take a sleigh or wagon ride across the Elk refuge, which is the only way humans are permitted to access the property. This tradition has been around for about 100 years, and it allows adventurers to get a close look at the local elk herd. Your tour guide doesn’t just drive the sleigh. They also supply you with tons of facts about the wildlife in the area for an educational and exciting experience.
- Book a wildlife tour with EcoTour Adventures. While there are plenty of wildlife viewing opportunities across Jackson year-round, setting yourself up with a guide increases the odds that you’ll see the animals of your dreams. EcoTour Adventures is great at spotting hard-to-see creatures like a distant moose, or even wolf. And they offer a variety of tour types, allowing visitors to choose sunset and sunrise tours to increase their odds of seeing wildlife.
- In the winter months, Great Western Expeditions offers snowshoeing tours, allowing
you to step foot into nature in your pursuit of wildlife. After a short trek in the snow, you’ll arrive at your lunch spot where you’ll get the chance to taste delicious sandwiches, chili and a beverage.
Where to eat:
There’s no shortage of delicious food in Jackson. Most restaurants offer some type of local flair, emphasizing western ingredients and farm-to-table food. Some of the region’s best restaurants include:
- Wild Sage:Executive Chef, Hugo Goodwin, is constantly inventing delicious treats that can be found on the restaurant’s rotating menu. Dishes are inspired by Jackson’s character and local game.
- Hatch Taquería & Tequilas: Located in Jackson’s historic town square, this restaurant offers a modern take on Mexican flavors, and a massive menu of tequilas.
- Local: This restaurant is a modern steakhouse with a mouth-watering menu. Grab a wagyu steak or the buffalo tartare to knock your socks off.
- Million Dollar Cowboy: A great stop in town for a drink or three, the Million Dollar Cowboy is rustic, eye-catching and known to host dances.
- Jackson Drug: One of the town’s cutest destinations is Jackson Drug, which is known for its milkshakes. This is an iconic lunch stop with a full menu to satisfy any level of hunger.
Jackson is a must-see destination in the United States for a variety of reasons. Its wildlife, culture, mountains and activities are enough to captivate visitors for years to come.