Planning a trip to Yellowstone National Park can be an exhilarating experience, but finding the perfect place to stay can make all the difference in making your adventure truly unforgettable. With millions of visitors flocking to the park every year, it’s essential to book your accommodations in advance to avoid the hassle of last-minute scrambles. In this article, we’ll explore the best places to stay around Yellowstone National Park, taking into account factors such as proximity, amenities, and scenic beauty.
Why Choosing the Right Accommodation Matters
Yellowstone National Park is a vast wilderness area, spanning over 3,500 square miles. Staying in the right location can save you hours of driving time, allowing you to make the most of your trip. Moreover, the park’s remote location means that amenities can be scarce, making it crucial to choose a place that offers the comforts and services you need. By selecting the ideal accommodation, you can focus on what really matters – exploring the park’s breathtaking landscapes, witnessing its incredible wildlife, and creating lifelong memories.
Overview of the Best Places to Stay
In this article, we’ll delve into the top destinations for accommodations around Yellowstone National Park, including West Yellowstone, Jackson Hole, Cody, and more. We’ll provide you with an in-depth look at each location, highlighting their unique advantages, amenities, and attractions. Whether you’re looking for luxury resorts, cozy cabins, or budget-friendly motels, we’ve got you covered. So, let’s get started on this journey to discover the best places to stay around Yellowstone National Park!
Best Places to Stay Around Yellowstone National Park
Yellowstone National Park, America’s first national park, is a nature lover’s paradise. With its geysers, hot springs, and diverse wildlife, it’s a destination that attracts millions of visitors every year. However, finding the right place to stay can be a challenge, especially during peak season. In this article, we’ll explore the best places to stay around Yellowstone National Park, including towns, cities, and lodges that offer comfortable accommodations and easy access to the park’s attractions.
West Yellowstone, Montana
Located just outside the west entrance of Yellowstone National Park, West Yellowstone is a charming town that offers a range of accommodations, from budget-friendly motels to luxury resorts. The town has a quaint, rustic charm, with plenty of shops, restaurants, and cafes to explore.
Some popular places to stay in West Yellowstone include:
- Explorer Cabins at Yellowstone: These cozy cabins offer comfortable accommodations and easy access to the park.
- The Hibernation Station: This rustic resort offers cabins, RV sites, and tent camping, as well as a pool and hot tub.
- Yellowstone Park Hotel: This modern hotel offers comfortable rooms, an indoor pool, and a fitness center.
Island Park, Idaho
Located about 20 miles north of the west entrance of Yellowstone, Island Park is a scenic town surrounded by beautiful mountains and rivers. It’s a great base for exploring the park’s west side, and offers a range of accommodations, from camping sites to luxury lodges.
Some popular places to stay in Island Park include: (See Also: Best Places To Stay In Door County)
- Island Park Lodge: This rustic lodge offers comfortable rooms, a restaurant, and a bar, as well as access to fishing and hiking trails.
- Henry’s Fork Inn: This cozy inn offers rooms, suites, and cabins, as well as a hot tub and sauna.
- Red Rock Lakes RV Park: This RV park offers full hookups, a dump station, and access to fishing and boating.
Jackson Hole, Wyoming
Located about an hour’s drive south of Yellowstone’s south entrance, Jackson Hole is a picturesque town surrounded by stunning mountain scenery. It’s a popular destination for outdoor enthusiasts, with plenty of opportunities for hiking, skiing, and wildlife viewing.
Some popular places to stay in Jackson Hole include:
- The Lodge at Jackson Hole: This luxury lodge offers comfortable rooms, a restaurant, and a bar, as well as access to hiking and skiing trails.
- Snake River Lodge & Spa: This upscale lodge offers rooms, suites, and condos, as well as a spa, pool, and hot tub.
- Camp Jackson Hole: This campground offers tent and RV sites, as well as cabins and yurts, and access to hiking and fishing trails.
Cody, Wyoming
Located about an hour’s drive east of Yellowstone’s east entrance, Cody is a charming town founded by Buffalo Bill Cody himself. It’s a great base for exploring the park’s east side, and offers a range of accommodations, from budget-friendly motels to luxury resorts.
Some popular places to stay in Cody include:
- The Cody Hotel: This modern hotel offers comfortable rooms, an indoor pool, and a fitness center.
- Cody Cowboy Village: This resort offers cabins, RV sites, and tent camping, as well as a pool and hot tub.
- Beck Lake Campground: This campground offers tent and RV sites, as well as cabins and yurts, and access to fishing and boating.
Inside the Park
If you want to stay inside Yellowstone National Park itself, there are several options to choose from, including lodges, campgrounds, and backcountry campsites.
Some popular places to stay inside the park include:
- Old Faithful Inn: This historic lodge offers comfortable rooms, a restaurant, and a bar, as well as access to geysers and hot springs.
- Lake Yellowstone Hotel: This elegant hotel offers rooms, a restaurant, and a bar, as well as access to boating and fishing.
: This campground offers tent and RV sites, as well as access to hiking and fishing trails.
Other Options
In addition to these towns and cities, there are several other options to consider when planning your trip to Yellowstone.
Some popular alternatives include: (See Also: Best Places To Stay At Grand Canyon South Rim)
- Big Sky, Montana: Located about an hour’s drive north of West Yellowstone, Big Sky is a scenic town surrounded by mountains and rivers.
- Dubois, Wyoming: Located about an hour’s drive east of Grand Teton National Park, Dubois is a charming town surrounded by mountains and rivers.
- Gardiner, Montana: Located just outside the north entrance of Yellowstone, Gardiner is a quaint town with a range of accommodations and amenities.
Things to Consider
When planning your trip to Yellowstone, there are several things to consider when choosing where to stay.
Some key factors to think about include:
- Location: Consider the distance to the park’s entrances and attractions, as well as the town’s amenities and services.
- Amenities: Think about the type of accommodations you need, such as Wi-Fi, restaurants, and recreational activities.
- Budget: Determine how much you’re willing to spend on accommodations, and look for options that fit your budget.
- Seasonality: Keep in mind that prices and availability can vary depending on the time of year and season.
Recap
In conclusion, there are many great places to stay around Yellowstone National Park, each with its own unique character and advantages. Whether you prefer the rustic charm of West Yellowstone, the scenic beauty of Island Park, or the luxury of Jackson Hole, there’s something for everyone.
Remember to consider factors such as location, amenities, budget, and seasonality when choosing where to stay, and don’t forget to book early to ensure availability.
With its stunning natural beauty, diverse wildlife, and rich history, Yellowstone National Park is a destination that’s sure to leave you in awe. So why wait? Start planning your trip today, and get ready for the adventure of a lifetime!