After you decide to visit Yellowstone National Park, the first question that pops up in your mind is where on stay? This amazing park full of geothermal features, unspoiled nature and animals offers a wide range of accommodations in the national park itself or close to it. All of these options offer a different kind of character and benefits to your journey.
Whether you like to stay within park boundaries or in neighboring towns, we take a tour of the 20 best places in which to base yourself when visiting Yellowstone.
Yellowstone National Park Overview
Before diving into the lodging options, here are some key details about Yellowstone to help plan your visit:
When to Visit Yellowstone National Park
For the perfect equilibrium of good weather and less crowded conditions, head here in spring (April and May) or fall (September and October). These are the seasons when wildlife is most active and there’s less park traffic. Therefore, if you aim to attempt other ventures as well this summer is the best but more crowded. While winter provides a calm and snowy ambiance for those who prefer solitude.
Which Entrance Is Best to Enter Yellowstone
Originally this is one of the first things you decide as part of your Yellowstone visit. The sheer number of parks can make it overwhelming to pick the best entrance (five!). In short, our article is here to narrow it down by looking at the route you might take on your trip and the surrounding amenities where possible hotel options are concerned.
Navigating Yellowstone National Park
Yellowstone lacks a park-wide shuttle system more prevalent in other areas. Though an experimental shuttle program currently runs in Canyon Village, the best way to fully explore is by using your own vehicle.
Cost To Enter Yellowstone National Park
The charge is $35 for a seven-day vehicle pass, which can be purchased at any park entrance. If you will be visiting a number of national parks four or more times within the year, it may behoove your wallet to buy an America the Beautiful Pass ($80) which covers admission to over 400 national park sites.
Please Note: Review The Closure of Trails and Road Conditions.
Just make sure to check the Yellowstone National Park Site before you go for any updates on trail availability or roadwork that may interfere with your plans.
Staying Within Yellowstone: 6 Exceptional Lodging Options
If you want to get the real Yellowstone experience, then staying inside of a park is definitely your best bet.
This section is going to introduce you some of the best places in Yellowstone National Park for those that want to be near it all. These famous accommodations are so popular that they can be reserved up to 1 year in advance, thus it is crucial you make a reservation early.
But don’t worry! When you discover the lodgings of this park have been totally occupied, worry no much other choice is we offer few magnificent alternatives close by that type we will investigate later in this guide.
But in the meantime here are where you can live right on top of all that incredible Yellowstone splendor.
1. Old Faithful Inn
If you are planning a trip to Yellowstone and need lodging, I would definitely recommend looking into Old Faithful Inn.
This historic gem is centrally located within the park, nestled in a serene forest with rustic cabins and organic gardens just minutes away from Old Faithful. Constructed in 1904, the inn offers a place to rest your head but more than that, an opportunity to experience and connect with history within this incredible Park.
The entire place, from its grand lobby with hearth of stone to the patina and warm nostalgia in each room was imbued with what Yellowstone means.
Experience Yellowstone’s geothermal wonders in The inn offers you proximity to the park that few can rival. Can you picture exiting your home to catch the impressive Old Faithful eruptions right at your doorsteps.
Despite its appeal, the Old Faithful Inn provides easy access to other park highlights like Grand Prismatic Spring, The Magnificent Canyon of Yellowstone Valley as well as Hayden Valley and also soft-hued Yellowstone Lake.
2. Snow Lodge and Cabins
Experience one of the last wild places in the Northern Hemisphere with a winter escape at Snow Lodge and Cabins.
With activities ranging from wildlife viewing to winter snowshoeing and summer hiking, you can do it all here and in any season.
Yellowstone Lake, not far down the road offers relaxation and adventure where you can have your cake of both worlds or lake!
With cozy spots like the Western Cabins and Frontier Cabins, you can stay inside Yellowstone in comfort. Snow Lodge and Cabins are the perfect combination for seeking adventure or provincial relaxation.
3. Lake Yellowstone Hotel
All hail The Queen of the Lake — a real gem in Yellowstone National Park is Lake Yellowstone Hotel. Combine that with its timeless elegance and presence on the shores of Yellowstone Lake, and it seals itself as a visitor favorite.
A charming early 20th-century hotel with cosy to elegant accommodation options. With panoramic vistas right above North America’s largest high-altitude lake, wildlife-watching and fishing are just the dawn patrol.
Meal times are equally enjoyable and the windows overlooking Lake Puyehue make a trip to eat in the hotel restaurant pleasant. Savor signature flavors of freshly prepared foods against an exquisite backdrop outside the window.
4. Mammoth Hot Springs Hotel and Cabins
Mammoth Hot Springs Hotel and Cabins: Set amidst the world renowned Mammoth Hot Springs terraces this hotel offers a combination of modern comfort with an excellent location in America’s oldest national park.
No matter what type of traveler you might be, various accommodations from snug hotel rooms to rustic cabins are available for guests.
The spectacular setting in Mammoth Village is the only thing that makes this place stand out, as it offers direct access to these travertine terraces and geothermal features whose scenery changes with each visit.
The hotel dining is delightful offering great views of the natural landscape beyond.
Mammoth Hot Springs Hotel and Cabins is a perfect base for touring the northern section of Yellowstone National Park, opening up more spectacular natural attractions.
5. Canyon Lodge and Cabins
Canyon Lodge and Cabins If you want to live in one of the five (5) modern lodges with a total capacity for over 400 guests rooms or stay at any among 100 more cabins, Canyon lodge has it covered.
The best thing about Canyon Lodge is that it’s a fantastic convenient location for your Yellowstone itinerary in general and the Grand Canyon of Yellowstone. Big destinations like Artist Point and Uncle Tom’s Trail are within easy reach.
Guests can dine at the lodge after an adventure-filled day exploring the park, offering a range of options used to accommodate diverse tastes and appetites.
6. Grant Village Lodge
The Grant Village Lodge has a view of Yellowstone Lake that rivals any in the park, but they also tend to more down to earth experience for those camping nearby.
Aside from the fact that it’s located right at peaceful Yellowstone Lake where you can fish, boat, and hike to your heart’s contentsects. If you are mesmerized by geothermal features, then a trip to the nearby West Thumb Geyser Basin is necessary in order to witness some of Yellowstone’s wonders.
But what makes Grant Village special is its peaceful, serene nature to serve as a relaxing place after exploring.
Insider Tip: If you really want to make more memories, take the Yellowstone Lake Twilight Tour. The tour is around 4-5 miles, can last between 2.5 – 3 hrs for a complete adventure! Following a brief orientation and overview by your guide, you’ll paddle along the lakeshore to West Thumb Geyser Basin where underwater geothermal features can be seen from above and below the water. Palate cleansers all around — we enjoy a few more snacks on the return and get to check out Fijian flora at our own pace. Seeing the steam rising from its neighbor geysers with a backdrop of evening sun is one to remember!
Staying Near the Park: Top Nearby Towns and Accommodations
Yellowstone’s immense popularity often means that securing accommodations within the park can be tricky, sometimes requiring reservations up to a year in advance.
We understand how challenging that can be! Fortunately, there are several nearby towns that offer convenient access to the park, each with its own charm.
In this section, we’ll guide you through the best places to stay in these surrounding communities.
West Yellowstone, MT (West Entrance): 6 Best Places to Stay
West Yellowstone, MontanaNumber one entrance: West Yellowstone – This is totally subjective after all they ALL enter the park. The town is the busiest place in West, servicing most of your visitor service needs while being a prime launch point from which to explore both Upper and Lower Loops.
The closest airport is Yellowstone Airport (WYS) which offers convenient access by air. West Yellowstone is few hours driving from Bozeman, Montana or Idaho Falls at just 90 miles and 115miles respectively.
The town of West Yellowstone will be the closest base to home in order for you easy get admission to within 2 miles from park crucial factors like:
- Old Faithful: Just a 55-minute drive from West Yellowstone, you can witness the famous geyser’s eruptions.
- Grand Prismatic Spring: A short 40-minute drive brings you to this geothermal wonder, showcasing Yellowstone’s dazzling natural colors.
- Grand Canyon of the Yellowstone: In 1 hour and 10 minutes, you’ll reach this breathtaking canyon with its dramatic waterfalls.
- Hayden Valley: Only 1 hour and 20 minutes away, this valley offers some of the best wildlife viewing in the park.
- Mammoth Hot Springs: In just 1 hour and 25 minutes, explore the unique terraces of Mammoth Hot Springs.
- Lamar Valley: For exceptional wildlife sightings, Lamar Valley is around 2 hours and 20 minutes from West Yellowstone.
7. Explorer Cabins
These conveniently located quarters this close to the park has a desirable balance of modern amenities and rustic charm, including an apartment with kitchenette as well as wood-burning fireplace and private entrance for all the restful isolation you need.
One of the great features is patio seating with fire pits, a perfect spot for those cold star-studded nights when s’mores are in order.
I thought the cabin I stayed in was really great, both time and again finding it to be impossibly clean and comfortable — with friendly employees always on hand eager to share suggestions or a smile.
8. 1872 Inn
With a grown ups explanation, this high level experience lies close to Yellowstone’s Western Entrance at the 1872 Inn in West Yellowstone.
Every room has complimentary WiFi, as well as a gas fireplace and flat-screen tv. manufacturer,in addition to different suites consist of trey ceilings.entityAt northed tipkitchenettes are available.)
In addition, the property provides a sauna and fitness facilities as well as use of their lobby computer with printer. The hotel also serves a daily hot breakfast as well, and during check-in you are met with bags of chips and bottled water for your comfort.
9. Kelly Inn
Kelly Inn at West Yellowstone is a great pick for guests looking to be amped up when it comes.
With a selection of amenities, the inn provides an indoor pool, hot tubs and complimentary breakfast with free WiFi. Rooms include a storage space, air conditioning and flat-screen satellite TV as well other comforts. There is a sauna that guests may enjoy, as well as the business center and 24-hour front desk to help with their needs.
The best part is that it has a great location — just 2 minutes walk to the National Geographic IMAX Theatre, and within close proximity of Yellowstone Park West Entrance (a mere 3-minute drive).
10. Clubhouse Inn
If this describes you on your next Yellowstone vacation, Clubhouse Inn is a great choice and only 3 minutes from the West Entrance.
It also offers an indoor pool, a hot tub and free Wi-Fi. All rooms are provided with natural woods and a flat screen TV, small refrigerator, microwave oven and coffee set.
Get your morning started with a free continental breakfast — yogurt, pancakes, fruit and coffee will fuel you for the day in Yellowstone.
11. Yellowstone West Gate Hotel
Yellowstone West Gate Hotel in located just about 5 blocks from the entrance into Yellowstone National Park.
The hotel includes an indoor pool, and guests can stay connected with free Wi-Fi. All the rooms have microwaves and refrigerators for your convenience.
Start your day off right with a free, hot continental breakfast each morning. The hotel is also complete with a business center, as well as an indoor hot tub for guests to cool down in during their stay.
12. Gray Wolf Inn & Suites
One of our top picks in West Yellowstone is the Gray Wolf Inn & Suites which a short walk from the Grizzly and Wolf Discovery Center.
Among them is an indoor (heated) pool with a hot tub that are perfect after spending all day at the park.
Rooms make for a perfect fit and have satellite TV available. They also offer refrigerator, microwave and coffee maker for a comfortable living.
Gardiner, MT (North Entrance): 4 Top Places to Stay
One of the most frequented entrances to Yellowstone National Park is via Gardiner, Montana (North Entrance).
A place with soul, which exudes the kindness of their people in its accommodations, restaurants or annestemás attracting visitors.
Pro Tip: Hot springs nearby make it the perfect way to end a day exploring Yellowstone. Boiling River Hot Springs, just where the hot spring waters mix with Gardner River is a unique place to some special people.
Located near Lamar Valley, Gardiner is an ideal place to see wildlife. You will be seeing the wildlife in their original habitat including bison, elk, wolves and so much more.
Approximate drive times from Gardiner to major locations in Yellowstone:
- Old Faithful: A longer drive, about 1 hour and 40 minutes, but well worth it to witness this iconic geyser.
- Grand Prismatic Spring: Reach the famous spring in roughly 1 hour and 25 minutes.
- Grand Canyon of the Yellowstone: The majestic canyon is just 1 hour and 15 minutes away.
- Hayden Valley: Enjoy the stunning landscapes of Hayden Valley within 1 hour and 25 minutes.
- Mammoth Hot Springs: Only a short 15-minute drive from Gardiner to explore the impressive terraces.
- Lamar Valley: For exceptional wildlife viewing, Lamar Valley is just 1 hour and 10 minutes away.
The nearest airport is in Bozeman (BZN), and you can reach Gardiner from there in about 1 hour and 24 minutes.
13. Yellowstone Gateway Inn
If you prefer the intimate, bed and breakfast type of lodge then look no further than Yellowstone Gateway Inn.
The hosts are big on Montana hospitality, doing their best to make you feel right at home and sharing helpful advice so that you can maximize your time in Yellowstone.
Enjoy the mouth-watering aroma of a traditional Montana breakfast that will have you looking forward to getting up in the morning before spending an exciting summer day in Glacier Park.
14. Absaroka Lodge
Absaroka Lodge features very comfy modernized rooms with kitchenettes included!
Peaceful riverside setting is one of the highlights here. Imagine relaxing along the banks of the Yellowstone River among serene natural environs.
The perfect place to unwind following a day of hiking, it is located just 5 miles from the historic Roosevelt Arch at Yellowstone’s North Entrance.
15. Dreamcatcher Tipi Hotel
Stay in a unique Tipi at Dreamcatcher and you can literally sleep under the Rockies, enjoying nature to its fullest. One great feature is the overnight tipis— roomy, cozy tents you can sleep in.
These tipis combine the ‘roughing it’ of camping together with more creature comforts such as warm bedding, heating and electricity to make your stay a restful one.
The Dreamcatcher Tipi Hotel: Well what really sets this glamping experience apart from the rest is its communal campfire area. When the sun sets behind towering mountains, guests can huddle around a firepit for s’mores and tales beneath an epic canopy of stars.
16. Antler Lodge
Situated on the Yellowstone River near Gardiner, Antler Lodge provides a warm and homey feel to your Yellowstone experience. In the end, Sheridan Beach Resort and Spa is a cozy lodge offering up several different kinds of stay from humble guest rooms to homey cabins that all toe the same line in creating rustic interiors with an inviting aura.
Antler Lodge is characterized by its breathtaking location riverside. Picture waking up to the tranquil sounds of a river flowing and enjoying your morning coffee while experiencing breath-taking mountain sunrises.
Its convenient closeness to downtown Gardiner provides easy access to local dining and attractions.
If you are looking for a cozy, friendly and central base from which to enjoy Yellowstone then I would have to put my personal recommendation on Antler Lodge.
Colter Bay, WY (South Entrance): Ideal for Exploring Both Grand Teton and Yellowstone
The solution- South Entrance to Yellowstone ideal for those visiting both the parks!
As for lodging, the northern end of Grand Teton is where you want to be based — at Colter Bay or thereabouts.
Colter Bay is also a convenient base from which to explore nearby famous attractions in Yellowstone:
- Old Faithful: 1 hour and 25 minutes
- Grand Prismatic Spring: 1 hour and 30 minutes
- Grand Canyon of the Yellowstone: 1 hour and 50 minutes
- Hayden Valley: 1 hour and 40 minutes
- Mammoth Hot Springs: 2 hours and 40 minutes
- Lamar Valley: 2 hours and 50 minutes
Cooke City-Silver Gate, MT (Northeast Entrance): Top Choice for a Quiet Stay
Best option if you are seeking a Peaceful Airbnb/VRBO residence.
When visitors choose to stay in Cooke City Silver Gate, Montana instead of using the park entrance at Gardiner and driving up through Lamar Valley they get a different “start” than most Yellowstone experiences.
Its biggest advantage is that it has immediate access to the picturesque Beartooth Highway — a road made in heaven for anyone looking to take scenic-byway-style driving trips through stunning landscapes.
Cooke City, with easy access to Lamar Valley — one of the most famous wildlife viewing areas in Yellowstone frequented by nature enthusiasts hoping to see all of the park’s unique animals up close.
With the town’s easygoing vibe it is nice option than some of the more crowded gateway towns, for those looking for a sanctuary from all humanity.
It’s just that, it’s in Cooke City — and with all things Cooke city comes some limitations With fewer dining and accommodation selections than larger towns, visitors should be prepared for limited amenities.
Further, a few of Yellowstone’s most well-known attractions are significantly more distant from Cooke City and would require hours spent in the car before you could reach these sites.
Hence, the longer driving time required between some Cherry Creek hotels and key Yellowstone attractions Here are about how long it will take to get from Cooke City in comparison to other Key locations in or near park as well.
- Old Faithful: 2 hours and 40 minutes
- Grand Prismatic Spring: 2 hours and 20 minutes
- Grand Canyon of the Yellowstone: 1 hour and 40 minutes
- Hayden Valley: 1 hour and 50 minutes
- Mammoth Hot Springs: 1 hour and 25 minutes
- Lamar Valley: 30 minutes (close by)
17. Alpine Motel
For vacationers, some of the top options is Alpine Motel in Cooke City. This campsite is conveniently located right by the NE entrance of Yellowstone, which will save you time to get down into Lamar Valley — reputedly a great place for wildlife viewing.
Guest rooms range from simple to larger suites, so it is easy to beat on the more introspective side despite those who may appreciate a little flexibility when it lands.
Cody, WY (East Entrance): Top 3 Places to Stay
Cody, Wyoming, located near Yellowstone’s East Entrance, offers access to the park’s eastern regions, including the breathtaking Sylvan Pass and Yellowstone Lake.
Known for its rich Western heritage and impressive museums, Cody provides a unique starting point for your Yellowstone adventure. However, it’s worth noting that Cody is farther from some of Yellowstone’s main attractions, so longer drive times should be considered.
Here are the approximate travel times from Cody to popular Yellowstone spots:
- Old Faithful: 2 hours and 30 minutes
- Grand Prismatic Spring: 2 hours and 40 minutes
- Grand Canyon of the Yellowstone: 2 hours
- Hayden Valley: 1 hour and 50 minutes
- Mammoth Hot Springs: 3 hours
- Lamar Valley: 2 hours and 10 minutes
18. Cody Hotel
Located in downtown Cody, Wyoming this is a sleek new favorite of one mine that I wholeheartedly believe would provide you with a comfortable and pleasurable experience. When I stopped by, the hotel’s cubist exterior vibe and etched glass faced was warm even in it’s cool design.
The in hotel pool and hot tub were exactly what I needed after a long day of adventuring, plus being right down the road from the Buffalo Bill Center of the West was an easy awesome extra to add to my trip.
In conclusion, the whole experience of Cody Hotel was brilliant and I would highly recommend it for visitors who want to explore this fine part of town with a touch or two from modern living.
19. Cody Cowboy Village
If you are looking for an extraordinary western experience in Cody, Wyoming then there is no need to go further than a stay at the Cody Cowboy Village.
A comfortable refuge, these Nature Log Cabins are a true Old West atmosphere. But nevertheless, the old wooden cabins provided a special cozy summertime charm that I was quite enamored with during my time there.
20. Irma Hotel
Perhaps not surprisingly, the Irma Hotel in Cody is more than simply a bed for the night; it’s decor will transport you to another place and time – just like any good Western should.
This historic gem, once owned by Buffalo Bill himself transports you to the tradition and cowboy culture of Cody. When I was there, the character of this hotel stood out and it reminded me of pioneer days when being an outlaw meant there were actually no laws.
One of the key highlights to my one-night stay was watching a “gunfight” in front of hotel after dusk — an engaging live show that helps paint a picture as colourful and lively, bringing back Wild West elements.
The Irma Hotel is a must-visit for anyone looking to make their stay as iconic — in the lodging sense, naturally — as Cody’s attractions themselves.
Intrepid Scout’s Tips for Where to Stay When Visiting Yellowstone
The right gateway town and lodging can make or break your Yellowstone trip.
Everyone one of them allows you access to a different door to the wonders Wildwery has, so choose wisely based on your needs and interests.
- Allow for plenty of planning time: Expect overcrowding and book your accommodations well in advance. Booking a few months ahead, especially if you want to stay inside the park can give you peace of mind and a much needed break after hiking/sightseeing.
- Inside the Park: Unless your budget necessitates otherwise, stay in Yellowstone accommodations. By staying in the park you are able to entirely lose yourself within its stunning landscapes and see the wonders of the park at multiple times through out one single day.
- Gateway Towns: If park lodging is not an option or you are looking for something different, gateway towns such as West Yellowstone, Gardiner and Cody offer a variety of accommodations. There are also different distances listed in miles and some seasonal restrictions to be aware of.
- Explore Area Attractions: Some of the gateway towns take advantage, as well. Spend some time researching their specific history, local culture, and outdoor lifestyles to add another dimension of exploration during your Yellowstone drive.
