Craig Thomas Discovery and Visitor Center Moose
A modern architectural marvel offering stunning Teton views and engaging exhibits on park natural history.
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Fewer crowds, more relaxed experience.
Craig Thomas Discovery and Visitor Center Moose
Best Time
Fewer crowds, more relaxed experience.
Highlights
Must-see attractions
A modern architectural marvel offering stunning Teton views and engaging exhibits on park natural history.
"Wow, this is such a wonderful visitor center. Incredible. Very impressive."
🎯 Ranger Advice is Gold
Chat with rangers for the best wildlife spotting tips and trail conditions.
📸 Architecture & Views
Don't just go inside! The building's design and mountain views are spectacular.
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences
Informative Natural History Exhibits
Engaging displays on park geology, wildlife, and history. Perfect for all ages!
Architectural Marvel
Exterior and Courtyard
Stunning modern design that harmonizes with the natural landscape. A photographer's dream!
Panoramic Teton Views
Viewing Areas
Breathtaking vistas of the Grand Teton mountains. Unforgettable photo opportunities!
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Plan Your Visit to the Craig Thomas Center
Beyond the Exhibits: What to Expect
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
🎯 Ranger Advice is Gold
Chat with rangers for the best wildlife spotting tips and trail conditions.
📸 Architecture & Views
Don't just go inside! The building's design and mountain views are spectacular. 
💧 Refill Your Water Bottle
There's an outdoor water bottle refill station, handy for park adventures.
⏳ Allow an Hour
You can easily spend an hour exploring the exhibits and soaking in the views.
Tips
from all over the internet
🎯 Ranger Advice is Gold
Chat with rangers for the best wildlife spotting tips and trail conditions.
📸 Architecture & Views
Don't just go inside! The building's design and mountain views are spectacular.
💧 Refill Your Water Bottle
There's an outdoor water bottle refill station, handy for park adventures.
⏳ Allow an Hour
You can easily spend an hour exploring the exhibits and soaking in the views.
🚗 Plenty of Parking
Ample parking available, making it easy to access the center.
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Visitors consistently praise the Craig Thomas Discovery and Visitor Center for its impressive modern architecture and informative exhibits that cater to all ages. The stunning views of the Teton Range are a major highlight, making it a must-visit for its beauty and educational value. While some visitors noted a lack of playgrounds, the overall experience is overwhelmingly positive, with many recommending it as a starting point for exploring Grand Teton National Park.
"Very well maintained visitor center, Very friendly staff. It's like a mini museum. Great variety of snacks and souvenirs. Clean restrooms, two sets of them."
Jeon
"Learning center with nice exhibits about the history of the park, animals, nature, and geology. Great for both kids and adults. Bathrooms are available. Entry to building is free, but National Park itself requires a pass."
Adam Schwartz
"Never coming back to this park! Don’t visit. No play grounds anywhere! What park doesn’t have playgrounds?"
Austin Corbett
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
The Craig Thomas Discovery and Visitor Center is located in Grand Teton National Park, just south of Moose, Wyoming. It's easily accessible by car via Teton Park Road. Ample parking is available on-site.
During the summer season, the free park shuttle (GTNP Shuttle) often stops at major points of interest, including the Craig Thomas Discovery and Visitor Center. Check the official Grand Teton National Park website for current shuttle routes and schedules.
If you're driving through Grand Teton National Park, the visitor center is conveniently located along Teton Park Road. It's a central hub for information and a great place to start your exploration.
Entry to the Craig Thomas Discovery and Visitor Center itself is free. However, a valid Grand Teton National Park entrance pass is required to enter the park.
From Jackson Hole, head north on US-89/US-191/US-26. Turn left onto Teton Park Road towards the visitor center. The drive is scenic and takes about 20-30 minutes.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
No, admission to the Craig Thomas Discovery and Visitor Center is free. You do, however, need a park entrance pass to access Grand Teton National Park.
Operating hours vary seasonally. It's best to check the official Grand Teton National Park website for the most up-to-date information on hours of operation before your visit.
Yes, the Craig Thomas Discovery and Visitor Center is one of the locations where you can obtain backcountry camping permits. Be prepared for potential wait times during peak season.
Yes, there is a fee for a Grand Teton National Park entrance pass, which is valid for 7 days. You can purchase passes at any park entrance station or online in advance.
The visitor center often hosts ranger-led programs, talks, and demonstrations. Check the park's schedule upon arrival or online for details.
🎫 🧭 Onsite Experience
The center features engaging exhibits on the park's natural history, geology, wildlife, and human history. It's designed to be informative and interactive for all ages.
Absolutely! The exhibits are very kid-friendly, and there are often Junior Ranger programs available.
Yes, rangers at the visitor center can provide detailed maps, trail information, and recommendations based on your interests and fitness level.
Yes, clean restrooms are available inside the visitor center.
The visitor center offers spectacular, unobstructed views of the Teton Range. It's a fantastic spot for photography.
📸 📸 Photography
The viewing areas offer iconic shots of the Teton Range. The building's architecture itself is also a popular subject.
Early morning or late afternoon often provides the best light for capturing the mountains and the building.
Generally, photography is allowed inside the exhibits, but it's always good to check for any specific signage or ask a ranger.
The building's integration with nature, its rustic yet modern design, and the courtyard are all highly photogenic.
A wide-angle lens is great for capturing the expansive mountain views and architecture. A telephoto lens can be useful for wildlife if you spot any nearby.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
While there are no playgrounds directly at the visitor center, the interactive displays and the sheer wonder of the Teton views will keep younger visitors entertained. It's a perfect place to start your park adventure, get maps, and learn about kid-friendly activities within Grand Teton National Park.
📸 Photography Enthusiasts
+1Beyond the building, the visitor center provides unparalleled, unobstructed views of the Teton Range. This makes it an ideal spot for landscape photography, especially during the golden hours of sunrise and sunset. Don't forget to bring your wide-angle lens to capture the grandeur of the mountains and the impressive architecture.
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
Architectural Significance
+1Visitors often remark on how the architecture 'speaks with its natural surroundings.' The building features expansive windows that frame the iconic Teton peaks, drawing the outside in. The use of wood, stone, and glass creates a warm and inviting atmosphere, while the thoughtful layout guides visitors through exhibits and towards breathtaking viewpoints. It's a structure that complements, rather than competes with, the natural beauty of Grand Teton National Park.
This visitor center is more than just a functional building; it's an experience in itself. The design encourages contemplation and appreciation of both the natural world and human ingenuity. It has been recognized for its design excellence, making it a must-see for architecture enthusiasts and anyone who appreciates thoughtful environmental design.
Wildlife Viewing Opportunities
Moose and elk are frequently mentioned as animals that can be seen in the general vicinity of the park, especially during certain seasons. The area around Kelly, a short drive from the visitor center, is often cited as a good spot for moose sightings. Early morning and late evening are generally the most active times for wildlife.
Remember to always maintain a safe and respectful distance from all wildlife. Bring binoculars for a closer look without disturbing the animals. The visitor center can provide guidance on ethical wildlife viewing practices to ensure both your safety and the well-being of the animals.
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