Yellowstone National Park is one of the most popular tourist destinations in the United States, and for good reason. It is home to some of the most iconic natural wonders in the world, including Old Faithful, the Grand Prismatic Spring, and the Grand Canyon of Yellowstone.
With so much to see and do, it is no wonder that many visitors choose to stay inside the park. This allows them to make the most of their time and avoid the long drives that would be required if they stayed outside the park.
However, there are also a number of great hotels and locations outside of Yellowstone National Park. These can be a good option for visitors who are on a budget or who want to stay in a more relaxed setting.
In this article, we will discuss the best hotels and locations to stay in Yellowstone in 2023, both inside and outside of the park.
Best Hotels Inside Yellowstone National Park
Old Faithful Inn
The Old Faithful Inn is one of the most iconic hotels in the world. It is located right next to Old Faithful, the most famous geyser in Yellowstone National Park. The hotel is a National Historic Landmark and has been in operation since 1904.
The Old Faithful Inn offers a variety of room types, including standard rooms, suites, and cabins. All rooms are decorated in a classic rustic style and feature amenities such as private bathrooms, televisions, and coffee makers.
In addition to its comfortable accommodations, the Old Faithful Inn also offers a variety of dining and entertainment options. There are two restaurants on-site, as well as a lounge and a gift shop. The hotel also hosts a variety of activities throughout the year, such as ranger talks, campfire programs, and musical performances.
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Lake Yellowstone Hotel
The Lake Yellowstone Hotel is another historic hotel located inside Yellowstone National Park. It is situated on the shore of Yellowstone Lake, the largest high-altitude lake in North America. The hotel was built in 1891 and offers a variety of room types, including standard rooms, suites, and cabins.
All rooms at the Lake Yellowstone Hotel feature private bathrooms, televisions, and coffee makers. Some rooms also offer balconies with views of Yellowstone Lake.
In addition to its comfortable accommodations, the Lake Yellowstone Hotel also offers a variety of dining and entertainment options. There are two restaurants on-site, as well as a lounge and a gift shop. The hotel also hosts a variety of activities throughout the year, such as ranger talks, boat tours, and fishing excursions.
Canyon Lodge and Cabins
The Canyon Lodge and Cabins is a newer hotel located inside Yellowstone National Park. It is situated near the Grand Canyon of the Yellowstone and offers a variety of room types, including standard rooms, suites, and cabins.
All rooms at the Canyon Lodge and Cabins feature private bathrooms, televisions, and coffee makers. Some rooms also offer balconies with views of the Grand Canyon of the Yellowstone.
In addition to its comfortable accommodations, the Canyon Lodge and Cabins also offers a variety of dining and entertainment options. There are two restaurants on-site, as well as a lounge and a gift shop. The hotel also hosts a variety of activities throughout the year, such as ranger talks, campfire programs, and musical performances.
Best Hotels Outside of Yellowstone National Park
West Yellowstone, Montana
West Yellowstone is a small town located just outside the west entrance of Yellowstone National Park. It is a popular tourist destination and offers a variety of hotels, motels, and restaurants.
Some of the best hotels in West Yellowstone include:
- Kelly Inn
- ClubHouse Inn West Yellowstone
- Explorer Cabins at Yellowstone
- Yellowstone Lodge
These hotels offer a variety of amenities, including comfortable accommodations, dining options, and swimming pools. They are also conveniently located near the entrance to Yellowstone National Park, making it easy for visitors to come and go.
Gardiner, Montana
Gardiner is a small town located just outside the north entrance of Yellowstone National Park. It is a popular destination for visitors who want to experience the park’s wildlife.
Some of the best hotels in Gardiner include:
- Yellowstone River Lodge
- Travelodge by Wyndham Gardiner Gateway
- Best Western Plus Yellowstone Inn & Suites
- Comfort Inn Yellowstone
These hotels offer a variety of amenities, including comfortable accommodations, dining options, and swimming pools. They are also conveniently located near the entrance to Yellowstone National Park, making it easy for visitors to come and go.
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Cooke City-Silvergate, Montana
Cooke City-Silvergate is a small town located just outside the northeast entrance of Yellowstone National Park. It is a popular destination for visitors who want to experience the park’s backcountry and wilderness areas.
Some of the best hotels in Cooke City-Silvergate include:
- Absaroka Lodge & Grill
- Silvergate Hotel & Cabins
- Alpine Motor Inn
- Cooke City Hotel
These hotels offer a variety of amenities, including comfortable accommodations, dining options, and proximity to the park’s backcountry and wilderness areas.
Other Locations
In addition to the locations listed above, there are a number of other great places to stay outside of Yellowstone National Park. These include:
- Cody, Wyoming
- Jackson, Wyoming
- Livingston, Montana
These towns are all located within a few hours of Yellowstone National Park and offer a variety of hotels, motels, and restaurants. They are also a good option for visitors who want to explore other areas of Wyoming and Montana.
Which Location is Right for You?
The best location to stay in Yellowstone depends on your individual needs and preferences. If you want to stay inside the park, you will have the convenience of being close to the action. However, keep in mind that hotels inside the park can be more expensive and book up quickly.
If you are on a budget or want to stay in a more relaxed setting, consider staying outside of the park. There are a number of great hotels and towns located within a short drive of the park.
Here are some additional factors to consider when choosing a location to stay in Yellowstone:
- Time of year: Some hotels and roads in Yellowstone National Park are closed during the winter months. Be sure to check the park’s website for more information before you book your accommodations.
- Activities: What activities do you want to do while you are in Yellowstone? If you plan on doing a lot of hiking or camping, you may want to stay inside the park for convenience. If you are more interested in sightseeing, you may be able to get away with staying outside of the park.
- Budget: Hotels inside Yellowstone National Park can be more expensive than hotels outside of the park. Be sure to factor in the cost of accommodations when choosing a location to stay.
Tips for Booking Your Hotel
Here are some tips for booking your hotel in Yellowstone:
- Book early: Hotels in Yellowstone, both inside and outside the park, can book up quickly, especially during the summer months. Be sure to book your accommodations well in advance of your trip.
- Be flexible: If you are flexible with your dates, you may be able to find better deals on hotels. For example, rates are often lower on weekdays than they are on weekends.
- Consider staying outside the park: If you are on a budget or want to stay in a more relaxed setting, consider staying outside of Yellowstone National Park. There are a number of great hotels and towns located within a short drive of the park.
Conclusion
Yellowstone National Park is a beautiful and unique place to visit. With so much to see and do, it is important to choose the right location to stay. By considering your individual needs and preferences, you can find the perfect place to stay for your Yellowstone vacation.
