Table of Contents
ToggleYellowstone is not just a park; it’s a once-in-a-lifetime experience. Whether you’re an adventure seeker or just looking to relax in nature, there’s something here for everyone. With diverse landscapes, geysers shooting high into the sky, and breathtaking wildlife, every moment in Yellowstone is filled with awe. And the best part? You can make it your home away from home, even if just for a few days.
Why visit Yellowstone National Park? Here’s why:
- Unmatched natural beauty – home to breathtaking landscapes, waterfalls, and wildlife.
- Geysers & hot springs – witness the world-famous Old Faithful and colorful Grand Prismatic Spring.
- Wildlife encounters – see bison, elk, bears, and even wolves in their natural habitat.
- Outdoor adventures – hiking, camping, fishing, and scenic drives for all types of travelers.
- Rich history – the world’s first national park with fascinating geological wonders.
- Starry nights – experience stunning dark skies away from city lights.
- Family-friendly activities – perfect for all ages, whether you’re into adventure or relaxation.
Before we jump into the best places to stay, let’s take a quick look at some stats about Yellowstone National Park:
Category | Details |
Location | Wyoming, Montana & Idaho |
Size | 2.2 million acres |
Annual Visitors | ~4.8 million (2022) |
Number of Lodges | 9 inside the park |
Campgrounds | 12 (Over 2,000 sites) |
Wildlife Species | 67 mammals, 300+ birds, 16 fish |
Top Attractions | Old Faithful, Grand Prismatic, Lamar Valley |
Best Time to Visit | June – September (summer) or May & October (fewer crowds) |
1. Old Faithful Inn
If you wanna stay inside the park and soak in history, this is the place. Built in 1904, Old Faithful Inn is a rustic yet elegant lodge near the park’s famous geyser. You can literally walk outside and see Old Faithful erupt every 90 minutes. Rooms vary from high-end suites to simple historic rooms with shared bathrooms. But heads up—it fills up fast, so book way in advance!
2. Mammoth Hot Springs Hotel & Cabins
Located in the northern part of Yellowstone, this hotel is perfect if you wanna be close to wildlife. Elk literally roam around the property. The hot springs terraces are right nearby, and it’s open year-round (unlike some other lodges). There are modern rooms and cozy frontier cabins for a rustic experience.
3. Lake Yellowstone Hotel & Cabins
Now, if you’re all about views and relaxation, Lake Yellowstone Hotel is where it’s at. This is the oldest operating hotel in the park, and it’s got a classy, 1920s vibe. The massive windows in the dining area overlook Yellowstone Lake, and the rooms range from elegant suites to basic cabins. It’s a bit on the pricey side, but totally worth it for the experience.
4. Roosevelt Lodge Cabins
Looking for something a little more wild? Roosevelt Lodge gives you that authentic Old West feel. Located near Tower Falls, this spot is less crowded than the park’s busier areas. You can stay in rustic cabins and even go on horseback trail rides or a chuckwagon dinner. It’s not fancy, but it’s an adventure.
5. Canyon Lodge & Cabins
Wanna be centrally located? This is one of the biggest lodging areas in Yellowstone, near the Grand Canyon of the Yellowstone. Tons of modern rooms and cabins to choose from. Plus, it’s a great base for exploring Lamar Valley (aka the best spot for wolf watching).
6. Grant Village
If you’re traveling in a group or family, Grant Village is a great option. It’s got two restaurants, a visitor center, and it’s right by Yellowstone Lake. It’s a bit more affordable than some other lodges, but it’s still inside the park, which is a huge plus.
7. West Yellowstone (Best Option Outside the Park)
Not into staying inside the park? No problem. West Yellowstone, Montana, is the best gateway town for Yellowstone visitors. Tons of hotels, motels, restaurants, and attractions. Plus, you’re super close to the West Entrance, which gets you to Old Faithful and geysers quickly.
8. Gardiner, Montana (Another Great Option Outside the Park)
Gardiner sits right at the North Entrance, making it an awesome spot if you wanna explore Mammoth Hot Springs and Lamar Valley. It’s got cool little lodges, Airbnbs, and even Yellowstone Hot Springs nearby. If you’re road-tripping, this is a great base.
Final Thoughts
There’s no shortage of places to stay in and around Yellowstone. If you want history and convenience, stay inside the park. If you prefer a bit more flexibility and don’t mind a short drive, the towns of West Yellowstone and Gardiner are solid choices. No matter where you stay, one thing’s for sure—you’re in for an unforgettable trip!