The otherwise sleepy mountain resort Jackson Hole in Wyoming makes the national news every year as top American bankers converge for their official retreats.
The annual meeting of the Federal Reserve Bank of Kansas City scheduled for August 22 through 24 is drawing the spotlight this year, however, for who's dropping out.
One notable person is the Federal Reserve chairman Ben Bernanke because of a conflict in personal schedules, according to MarketWatch.com. The meeting is open to 12 Fed presidents to attend though only eight will be making it this time. Also expected is the IMF's managing director Christine Lagarde.
Despite such a high profile gathering, Jackson Hole attracts a whole different crowd the rest of the year. Adventure sports enthusiasts, skiers and tourists are drawn by the steep slopes of the Teton mountains range and the geological wonders of Yellowstone National Park besides the beauty of Grand Teton National Park and National Elk Refuge.
While the town is known as Jackson, the valley goes by Jackson Hole.
Off hours: The former ranching town is teeming with art galleries at every corner.
There are more than 25 galleries in town, according to the Jackson Hole Gallery Association. One of the more common themes: elks framed against mountains glowing in the sun. There are numerous shops selling antiques, souvenirs and jewellery.
Where to stay: Most of the hotels in the valley follow the rustic pattern, exuding a certain warmth, with lots of wood panels, wood beams and wood shingles. At the Snake River Lodge and Spa in Teton Village in Jackson, weekend room rates for this month start at US$279. Teton Village is the jumping off point for the adventure sports activities.
In Yellowstone, there is one historic hotel. It's Old Faithful Inn, named after a hot spring in the grounds. The hotel dates back to 1905, and reservations need to be made months in advance.
Getting there: The town can be reached through Jackson Hole Airport, which is served by domestic flights, as well as the road network connecting it to Salt Lake City, Utah.