The AB List: Jackson Wyoming

Not my first rodeo

Yee Haw

It’s been a minute since I’ve written here, but I’ve been far from idle. The last few months at Kinn have been full—new launches, campaigns, collaborations—and when I wasn’t heads down building, I was intentionally offline, out in the real world collecting inspiration the analog way. Most recently, that meant a trip to Jackson, Wyoming. Big skies, wild ponies, cold rivers, and that kind of quiet that hits reset on your whole system.

The Iconic Horse

As we drove alongside the Grand Teton Mountain range, outside of Jackson, we passed herds of wild horses and open ranch land that reminded me how much beauty this country holds. It made me think about the symbolism of the horse—how often it shows up in brands tied to heritage and legacy.

brought my 35mm film cam to Jackson

The horse embodies freedom, control, elegance, and strength—qualities reflected in the brands that choose it. I like to think those same traits guide my own way of living. As someone who grew up horseback riding and being around horses, there’s something about horses that inspires me deeply. Many of my favorite companies incorporate the horse into their branding.

Hermès was born in the stables, and that origin still lives in every stitch. Ralph Lauren’s polo player speaks to heritage with polish. Ferrari’s prancing horse is all speed and style—power without chaos. Ford Mustang channels something wilder—raw, free, made for the open road. Gucci’s horsebit is subtle but rich with reference, a quiet nod to tradition. And then there’s Porsche, whose rearing horse signals precision and performance, grounded in history but always pushing forward. Even Burberry tipped its hat to Equestrian—its iconic horse-and-knight logo was crowd-sourced in 1901, a nod to tradition, strength, and style led by the people. Together, these brands use the horse not just as a symbol, but as a statement—one that blends power, elegance, and legacy into a language we instinctively understand.

The horse represents intentional movement—personal, powerful, and free. It’s a symbol that reminds me to live with purpose and seek out beauty. My trip to Jackson brought that into focus, and I’m sharing the places and pieces that stayed with me.

This AB List is part travel guide, part Western-inspired roundup. A mix of spots I loved and pieces I’d collect—nothing trendy, all grounded, lasting, and a little wild in the best way.

Jackson, Wyoming

If you ever find yourself in the small town of Jackson, here are my recs

To Stay in Jackson

1. Hotel Yellowstone at Jackson Hole - This opened last Fall, just in time for the Aman next door to shut down for renovations. The property is private to guests only and is made up of 36 private suites, all with impeccable views.

2. The Cloudveil - The most convenient location in the downtown square. Part of the Autograph collection, you can expect an upscale Marriott aesthetic.

3. Caldera House - Located at the base of Jackson Hole ski resort, it’s a boutique alpine club made of suits and has an amazing Italian restaurant.

4. Rusty Parrot Lodge - Part of the Small Luxury Hotels network, this is a family-owned and run hotel since 1990, and was recently renovated and has a great spa.

To Eat in Jackson

1. Jackson Drug - A former historic Mercantile evolved into a soda-fountain diner, this spot is all about the classics—come for the smashburgers, stay for the milkshakes served in vintage metal cups. Nothing fancy, just the good stuff.

2. Kampai - Helmed by Chef Chris Massad (formerly of Akiko’s and Nobu), this sleek Jackson spot brings elevated Japanese cuisine to the mountains with standout sushi.

3. Calico - With its wraparound porch, lawn bar, and breezy indoor-outdoor setup, this spot was made for lingering summer dinners.

4. Gun Barrel - Not for the faint of heart (or your vegan friend), this taxidermy-filled spot serves up the best mesquite-grilled game and steaks in town—bold, rustic, and unapologetically Western.

5. Dornans - A homestead since 1922. In summer, grab a meal at the open-air Chuckwagon; year-round, head to the Pizza & Pasta Co. inside The Spur Bar. Their Trading Post also covers all the essentials—wine store, groceries, deli sandwiches, firewood, and more. A favorite spot of mine!

To Do in Jackson

1. Drinks at Million Dollar Cowboy Bar - A Wyoming icon dating back to the pre-Prohibition era, the Million Dollar Cowboy Bar serves up live honky-tonk, stiff drinks, and saddle barstools.

2. Horseback Riding Trail - I recommend Heart Six for river crossing riding and Mill Ranch for cookout rides with a meal outdoors.

3. Jackson Hole Playhouse - A lively Western stage show that feels straight out of the old days. Skip the dinner, grab a drink beforehand, and enjoy the nostalgic ride.

4. Horse Whispering at Diamond Cross Ranch - an intimate and private experience with a horse up close that will change your life!

5. Jackson Rodeo - Get there early to grab a good seat (general admission fills fast) and bring cash for snacks and drinks. Rodeo can be controversial for some, but seeing it live tells a different story—one of deep respect, tradition, and real sportsmanship. It’s gritty, heartfelt, and one of America’s most honest sports.

To Shop in Jackson

1. Grit General - From heirloom brands such as RRL, exclusive private labels, limited edition boots, and a museum-quality selection of turn-of-the-century Navajo rugs, weavings, and jewelry, Grit is a must-shop.

2. Kemo Sabe - Sure, it’s touristy, but sipping champagne while crafting your own custom hat feels like a rite of passage. From hat belts to diamonds, every detail is personal, elevated, and done just right.

3. Diamond Cross Ranch Store - Merch so good, it sells out on Revolve. Made in USA.

4. Hide Out Leathers - Best spot to shop curated one-of-a-kind leather pieces from local artists. I love their silver dollar belts. Been around for years.

5. Hines Goldsmiths - The first jewelry store in Jackson, since 1970. I got a fine charm for my travel charm bracelet last time I was here. They have the best collection of Fine in Jackson.

The Western Edit

A curated shopping guide inspired by the open plains—these are a few of my top picks, but you can explore the full Western Edit for the full roundup.

1. Wyomin Classic Hoodie - by Diamond Cross Ranch, where I always stay when I’m in Jackson

2. Gucci Horsebit 1955 card case wallet - the iconic Gucci horsebit, in mini form

3. Stetson Lobo 10X Straw Cowboy Hat - shantung straw, which is prized for its durability and lightweight feel, perfect for summer heat

4. Cherry Rodeo Champ Socks - love everything Cherry makes

5. Bagatiba Horse Signet Ring - horse silhouette in gold gloss with a frosted rectangle background

6. DS&DURGA Cowboy Grass Perfume - I have a few DS&D signature scents, love them all!

7. American Cowboys - a tasteful coffee table book, with an opening from Taylor Sheridan

8. “Wild Rush” by Beau Simmons - a photographer friend of mine who sells a collection of western prints at House of Spoils.

9. Toteme T-Lock pony hair - love a subtle pony hair, btw pony hair is not from horses lol

10. Kinn Horseshoe Hoop Earrings - a modern classic 14k gold earrings for everyday

11. Double RL Sandalwood Candle - by RRL, Ralph Lauren’s heritage western line.

12. Jacques Marie Mage LABARGE Shades - From the first Last Frontier titanium series, love JMMs!

XO Jody