Craig Thomas Discovery and Visitor Center — Local services in Jackson

I had the absolute worst interaction with a staff member inside the gift/bookstore at the Craig Thomas Discovery & Visitor Center on Friday, May 14th. My husband and I were visiting Grand Teton NP for several days and stopped into the visitor's center for my National Park Passport stamp. I also wanted to make a quick trip into the store to purchase a few postcards. I had bumped into a very friendly ranger outside that advised me everything would be closing shortly at 5pm, so I hurried inside. When I arrived, there were many people inside the store. The older gentleman at the cash registered screamed "We're closing! You'll have to leave!" I looked at my watch and my cell phone and it was 4:57. When he yelled at me, everyone was gawking and people that had just walked into the visitor's center just turned around and left. A female ranger went outside after them and said "I'm sorry he ran you out, what can I help with?" I was beyond embarrassed and by the time I got out to the parking lot I was crying because I just couldn't believe how nastily this man spoke to me. My husband was very upset that I was upset and wanted to go in to speak to someone but we just left the area. I plan on attempting to file a formal complaint because absolutely no one should be treated this way. Even if it was after closing time (which it wasn't), an "I'm so sorry, we're closed for the day but will re-open at X time tomorrow." would have been much more appropriate. If you're that much of a grump, you have absolutely no business working with the public and if you're in such a hurry to get home, perhaps you should...

Unfortunately most of our NP visits have been disappointing when it comes to talking with rangers at centers like this. We always seem to get someone who acts like we are burdening them with our questions or they (in a very monotone, probably rehearsed voice) point to a map and basically read what's written. We aren't newbies to hiking and have visited many NPs, yet we are always treated as kids who have no idea what we are doing (I'm 30). Normally I try to stay positive with my reviews, but I have to be honest as well. The center itself is very educational, just be prepared to educate yourself. Maybe we just caught the rangers we had on a bad day, but this has...

Of the many National Parks I’ve visited this Visitor’s Center has to be the best one I’ve been to yet. The exhibits in mountaineering, history, nature and wildlife, and conservation are wonderful. The restrooms are good size and clean. It is well staffed. The gift shop has an enormous selection of books, toys, post cards, posters, souvenirs, National Park t-shirts, Sweatshirts, socks, and hats, stickers, nicknacks, and even some limited camping supplies you may have forgotten at home. I was actually here for 90 minutes waiting out a thunderstorm and at no time was bored. Definitely worth stopping in just for the sake of...