Best Accommodations in Yellowstone National Park

Revered as the first national park in the United States and often recognized as the inaugural national park globally, Yellowstone—a UNESCO World Heritage Site—preserves approximately 3,472 square miles of the finest creations of nature. With half of the world’s geothermal features and one of the largest ecosystems on the planet, the park spans across the states of Wyoming, Idaho, and Montana.

Established in 1872, Yellowstone National Park derives its name from the river that runs through it and boasts the highest concentration of mammals in the lower 48 states. Attracting over 4 million visitors in 2017, Yellowstone is among the top five most visited national parks worldwide.

Guests at Yellowstone National Park may stay in one of the lodges located within the park; however, these accommodations tend to fill quickly and typically require reservations well in advance. Moreover, only two lodges within Yellowstone—Old Faithful Snow Lodge and Mammoth Hotel—remain operational during the winter season. Nevertheless, numerous nearby towns offer convenient access to the National Park along with excellent lodging options.

Below are some of the nearest towns to Yellowstone National Park, allowing you to decide where to stay for easy access. First, however, let’s explore the accommodation choices available within the park grounds.

Accommodation Options Within Yellowstone National Park

Declared in 1872 by President Ulysses S. Grant as the first national park worldwide, Yellowstone National Park presents a unique experience that is a must for everyone to enjoy at least once in their lifetime. Situated at the core of the Greater Yellowstone Ecosystem, the Park is home to over 67 different mammal species, 330 species of birds, and 1,350 species of vascular plants. While visiting, explore the myriad lakes, hot springs, geysers, and forests that characterize Yellowstone. Whether you are a wildlife photographer seeking the perfect shot or an adventure enthusiast wanting to hike, fish, ski, or accompany a park ranger in deeper exploration of the vast area, Yellowstone caters to all interests.

Good for: All types of travelers.
Other Highlights: Yellowstone Lake, Fishing Bridge, Mud Volcano, Natural Bridge, West Thumb Geyser Basin, Red Mountains, and Norris Geyser Basin.

Hotel Recommendations:

• Old Faithful Inn – The largest log structure globally, Old Faithful Inn is not only the most popular lodging within Yellowstone but also a national historic landmark. Built in 1904 from logs and stones, this property features comfortable rooms and suites along with a grand fireplace in the lobby. Offering 327 rooms and a hand-crafted clock made of copper, wrought iron, and wood, Old Faithful is open to visitors from early May until mid-October each year. Ideal for all types of travelers.
• Mammoth Hot Springs Hotel & Cabins – One of the only two accommodations remaining open year-round, Mammoth Hot Springs Hotel & Cabins is situated on the grounds of the former Fort Yellowstone. A short distance from the namesake hot springs, the property features one-room suites to affordable guestrooms and cabins equipped with cozy beds, private bathrooms, and hot tubs (in selected cabins). Suitable for all types of travelers.
• Old Faithful Snow Lodge & Cabins – The second accommodation in Yellowstone National Park to remain open during winter months, Old Faithful Snow Lodge & Cabins represents a modern full-service hotel within the park. A remarkable example of classic “parkitecture,” the Snow Lodge is constructed from timber, logs, and cedar wood. Accommodation options include well-furnished guestrooms and stylish cabins. Guests can enjoy the on-site full-service dining area, grill, and gift store. Great for all types of travelers.
• Lake Yellowstone Hotel & Cabins – Open exclusively from May to October, Lake Yellowstone Hotel & Cabins is proud to be recognized as a National Historic Landmark. With elegant white columns, the Sun Room offers enchanting views of Yellowstone Lake, complemented by the soothing sounds of a string quartet for perfect tranquility. Guests can select from cabins, premium rooms, or general and presidential suites. Common amenities include free valet service, telephone, wired internet access, and access to the Lake Hotel Business Center. Perfect for all types of travelers.
• Canyon Lodge & Cabins – With over 500 rooms and cabins, Canyon Lodge & Cabins is the largest sustainable lodging facility within Yellowstone National Park. Operating from June to October, the property is located near the Grand Canyon of the Yellowstone River. Accommodation types include standard and superior lodge rooms, suites, and western cabins equipped with private bathrooms and modern furnishings. Guests can relax at the dining lounge or enjoy views of the surroundings from the patio. Great for all types of travelers.
• Grant Village – Established in 1984, Grant Village honors President Ulysses S. Grant, who declared Yellowstone the world’s first National Park in 1872. Consisting of six two-story structures with 50 rooms each, Grant Village is positioned near the West Thumb of Yellowstone Lake. Close to Grand Teton National Park, the lodge features standard and premium lodge rooms with modern amenities, a lounge area, a full-service restaurant, a gift store, and a casual diner with captivating lake views. Suitable for all types of travelers.
• Lake Lodge Cabins – If breathtaking views of Yellowstone Lake and the surrounding landscape are on your agenda, Lake Lodge Cabins is the destination—imagine a wide veranda with rocking chairs to enjoy the surrounding natural beauty. Guests may choose to stay in Frontier, Pioneer, and Western Cabins. The main lodge, featuring classic log construction, a lounge, and two fireplaces, serves as the property’s main attraction. An on-site gift store caters to your souvenir shopping needs. Lake Lodge Cabins are operational from early June until the end of September. Perfect for all types of travelers.
• Old Faithful Lodge Cabins – Situated near Old Faithful Inn, Old Faithful Lodge Cabins is a single-story lodging property constructed in the 1920s. Built primarily from stone pillars and logs, the property provides stunning views of Old Faithful Geyser. Accommodation options include Frontier Cabins (featuring a private bathroom) and standard Historic Cabins (without a private bathroom). Guests at the latter can access nearby communal showers. The main lobby contains a cafeteria-style food court and snack shop. AC, TV, and radios are not available on the premises. Suitable for all types of travelers.
• Roosevelt Lodge & Cabins – Built in the 1920s near the Tower Falls area within Yellowstone National Park, Roosevelt Lodge & Cabins is named after a nearby campsite popularized by President Theodore Roosevelt. The lodging facility offers rustic cabins, family-style dining, and an opportunity to embrace your “Old West Spirit.” Frequently visited by families and anglers, the property features a charming front porch with rocking chairs, horseback trail rides, and the renowned Old West Dinner Cookout, where guests enjoy steaks and engaging conversations. Frontier Cabins include cozy double beds and a private bathroom, while Roughrider Cabins deliver a more rustic vibe with one or two beds, a wood-burning stove for warmth, and nearby communal showers. Great for all types of travelers.

Towns Near Yellowstone National Park

Jackson, Wyoming

As the primary gateway to both Yellowstone and Grand Teton National Park, Jackson is a picturesque town nestled in the heart of Jackson Hole Valley. One of the most scenic and contemporary towns, Jackson affords access to two remarkable locations for the price of one. Travelers intending to visit Yellowstone traverse through pristine lakes, wildflower-filled fields, and rugged peaks of Grand Teton, finding themselves amidst the mesmerizing landscape of the latter. Numerous celebrities maintain luxurious holiday homes in this town. A prominent ski destination, Jackson becomes a winter wonderland as ski enthusiasts flock to the renowned Snow King and Jackson Hole ski resorts. However, take a moment to explore the remarkable arches at the corners of the Town Square, constructed from hundreds of elk antlers.

Good for: All types of travelers.
Other Highlights: National Elk Refuge, National Museum of Wildlife Art, George Washington Memorial Park, Virginian RV Park, Jackson Hole Children’s Museum, and Grand Teton Gallery.

Hotel Recommendations:

• Rustic Inn Creekside – Elevating the concept of luxury, Rustic Inn Creekside is an opulent hotel and spa renowned for its extraordinary features and services. Guests can select from palatial rooms, private cabins, or lavish spa suites. After beginning their day with a delectable complimentary breakfast, they may venture to Yellowstone National Park for a day of exploration. At day’s end, guests can choose from various massages and treatments at the expansive 2,300-square-foot spa or enjoy an exquisite dining experience at the on-site restaurant and bar. Perfect for all types of travelers.
• The Alpine House – This eco-friendly hotel situated in lively Jackson Hole Town Square offers well-appointed accommodations equipped with state-of-the-art amenities along with a complimentary breakfast buffet and free Wi-Fi. Guests at this property can savor freshly brewed beer and organic wines at the on-site bar. A spa treatment at the hotel’s facility offers much-needed rejuvenation after a day spent exploring the National Park. Most rooms feature cable TV, private bathrooms, and fireplaces. Suitable for solo travelers, couples, and small families.
• Homewood Suites by Hilton Jackson – Just a short walk from the historic Town Square, this elegant hotel presents beautifully decorated guestrooms with amenities such as flat-screen TVs with satellite channels, fireplaces, kitchenettes, dining areas, ensuite bathrooms, and outstanding views of the city or the surrounding mountains. A complimentary shuttle service to Teton Village and a daily breakfast are provided by the hotel. Great for all types of travelers.

Cody, Wyoming

Located to the east of Yellowstone National Park, Cody is a city in Northwest Wyoming named after Colonel William Frederick “Buffalo Bill” Cody, who played a pivotal role in the town’s restoration. The area exudes a cowboy ambiance and is renowned for its summer nightly rodeo. As a gateway to Yellowstone, Cody offers exceptional hiking opportunities. For added excitement, travelers can experience horseback riding and authentic ranching activities at several nearby ranches. Old Trail Town, a neighboring attraction, allows visitors to explore a recreated historic town showcasing relics and collectibles from ghost towns dating back to the 1800s.

Good for: All types of travelers.
Other Highlights: Cody Dug Up Gun Museum, Cody Night Rodeo, City Park, Buffalo Bill Center of the West, and Grand Teton National Park.

Hotel Recommendations:

• The Cody – Providing free airport shuttle service, an indoor pool, a fully-equipped gym, and free Wi-Fi in public areas, The Cody is located within a kilometer of Cody Old Trail Town and Cody Rodeo Ground. Guestrooms at the property feature comfortable double beds, flat-screen TVs with cable channels and DVD players, safety deposit boxes, and ensuite bathrooms with complimentary toiletries. A complimentary breakfast is offered daily. Great for solo travelers, couples, and small families.
• Americinn Cody-Yellowstone – Featuring a spacious lobby adorned with exotic big game décor, this splendid hotel offers comfortable guestrooms with modern facilities. Guests may begin their day with a refreshing swim in the indoor pool followed by an optional hot breakfast, then explore the delightful town. Perfect for all types of travelers, including large groups of up to five members.
• Yellowstone House of the Three Bears – Boasting expansive self-catering houses situated just a few kilometers from Yellowstone Regional Airport, the property offers magnificent facilities such as barbecues, kitchenettes equipped with all necessary utilities, outdoor furniture, washing machines, dining areas, and free private parking. Yellowstone House of the Three Bears is a five-minute walk from historic Cody’s main street. Suitable for large groups of up to ten members.

Island Park, Idaho

A short drive from the West Entrance of Yellowstone National Park, Island Park is a small town in Idaho with only a few hundred residents. However, before you dismiss it as just another access town to Yellowstone, consider Island Park’s 36.8-mile Main Street, recognized as the longest of its kind in the world. Furthermore, a volcanic eruption over two million years ago, which released ash 2,500 times more than Mount St. Helens in 1980, resulted in the creation of the Island Park Caldera, one of the largest globally. For those seeking scenic landscapes, try canoeing along the 5-mile water trail at Henry’s Fork.

Good for: All types of travelers.
Other Highlights: Harriman State Park and Wildlife Refuge, Henrys Lake State Park, Island Park Dam, and Johnny Sack’s cabin.

Hotel Recommendations:

• Timbers at Island Park – Perfect for sports and adventure enthusiasts, Timbers at Island Park features tennis courts and a 9-hole golf course, assisting guests with ski and cycling tour arrangements. Others can relax at the outdoor pavilion and enjoy barbecues. Each fully-furnished apartment includes a kitchenette, cable TV, and a gas fireplace. Great for families and large groups of up to six members.
• Eagle Ridge Ranch – Nestled within an authentic old west cattle ranch, Eagle Ridge Ranch offers charming cottages furnished in a western style, complete with kitchenettes, patios, barbecues, and satellite TV with DVD players. The accommodating staff can help guests arrange horseback riding, snowmobiling, fishing, and ice fishing, depending on the season. Suitable for all types of travelers.

West Yellowstone, Montana

West Yellowstone is a charming mountain town located merely one mile from Yellowstone National Park. With its airport, it presents an excellent option for visitors seeking quick and convenient access. Due to its close proximity to the National Park, this mountain town is among the most popular choices for travelers. The town center contains several shops, restaurants, museums, and tourist services, creating an easily walkable experience. A notable attraction is the Yellowstone Museum, dedicated to the history of the National Park and the tourist rail service to the area. West Yellowstone, with its numerous souvenir shops, also provides a great shopping experience.

Good for: All types of travelers.
Other Highlights: Grizzly & Wolf Discovery Center, IMAX – West Yellowstone, West Yellowstone Ski Education Foundation, and West Yellowstone Heritage Park.

Hotel Recommendations:

• Days Inn West Yellowstone – Located a couple of kilometers from the west entrance of Yellowstone National Park, Days Inn West Yellowstone offers well-decorated guestrooms with comfortable bedding, free Wi-Fi, and private bathrooms with bath or shower options. Guests can dine at the on-site restaurant and utilize the complimentary shuttle service for town exploration. Great for all types of travelers.
• Kelly Inn West Yellowstone – Just a short distance from Grizzly & Wolf Discovery Center, Kelly Inn West Yellowstone offers fully-equipped guestrooms featuring tea/coffee makers, refrigerators, satellite TVs, microwaves, and private bathrooms with complimentary toiletries. Guests can refresh at the indoor pool and hot tub. A complimentary buffet breakfast is served daily. Suitable for all types of travelers, including large groups of six members.
• Holiday Inn West Yellowstone – Conveniently located near the Museum of the Yellowstone, Holiday Inn West Yellowstone provides complimentary shuttle service to and from the West Yellowstone Airport. The neutrally-colored rooms include modern furnishings and functional workspaces. The pet-friendly hotel features an on-site gym, an indoor pool and hot tub, a delightful restaurant and bar, as well as a casino with video poker and Keno. Perfect for all types of travelers.

Bozeman, Montana

A picture-perfect town nestled in the Rocky Mountains, Bozeman is named after John M. Bozeman, credited with founding the Bozeman Trail. Home to Montana State University, Bozeman is consistently ranked among the top college towns in the United States. Encircled by mountains and two National Forests, the town experiences considerable rainfall, making it one of the wettest regions in Montana. The Museum of the Rockies, allied with Montana State University and IBM, houses the largest collection of dinosaur fossils in the nation, including the largest known Tyrannosaurus skull. Conversely, the Gallatin History Museum focuses on the Native American history of the area.

Good for: All types of travelers.
Other Highlights: American Computer & Robotics Museum, Children’s Museum of Bozeman, Gallatin County Regional Park, Peets Hill/Burke Park, and East Gallatin Recreation Area.

Hotel Recommendations:

• The LARK – Located in the heart of Bozeman, The LARK offers modern accommodations with air conditioning, flat-screen TVs, and free Wi-Fi. Guests will also find a 24-hour front desk, valet parking, and luggage storage at the property. Gallatin Valley Mall and Montana State University are just a short drive away. Suitable for all types of travelers.
• Lehrkind Mansion Bed & Breakfast – Positioned in a Queen Anne Mansion from 1897, this delightful bed and breakfast features spacious guestrooms and suites with contemporary amenities. Guests start their day with a complimentary full English breakfast before exploring the library and two parlor rooms filled with Victorian antiques. Perfect for solo travelers and couples.
• SpringHill Suites by Marriott Bozeman – Featuring a spa and wellness center, an indoor pool, and a state-of-the-art fitness center, SpringHill Suites by Marriott Bozeman provides luxurious guestrooms equipped with top-notch amenities. The hotel’s in-house restaurant serves American cuisine, while the helpful reception staff offers guests localized tips about the neighborhood. A complimentary buffet breakfast is provided daily. Great for all types of travelers, including large groups of up to five members.

Big Sky, Montana

Recognized as one of the most popular ski resort towns in the nation, Big Sky was once a regular ranch until TV broadcaster Chet Huntley transformed it into a premier ski hill and resort destination in the 1970s. Despite its long-standing popularity, the mountain resort remains predominantly uncrowded. Big Sky Resort, along with Moonlight Basin, offers what they proudly call the “Biggest Skiing in America.” The Gallatin River and its canyon attract kayakers, fly fishers, and white-water rafters from across the globe. For wildlife enthusiasts, a visit to the Gallatin National Forest provides an opportunity to observe waterfowl, elk, wolves, and grizzly bears.

Good for: All types of travelers.
Other Highlights: Ousel Falls Park, Beehive Basin Trailhead, Storm Castle Peak Trailhead, Garnet Mountain Fire Lookout, and Spanish Peaks.

Hotel Recommendations:

• The Lodge at Big Sky – Featuring luxurious accommodations with spectacular views of the mountains or valleys, selected rooms at The Lodge at Big Sky offer complimentary shuttle service to Big Sky Resort Ski Lifts, on-site dining options, and an indoor pool. Guests can unwind in the large common area, which features a cozy fireplace, and maintain their fitness routine at the in-house fitness center. A complimentary continental breakfast is served each day. Suitable for all types of travelers, including large groups of up to six members.
• Big Sky Resort Village Center – Situated within Big Sky Mountain Village Ski Resort, this upscale property features an outdoor pool, ski-to-door access, a hot tub, a seasonal Tuscan restaurant, and spa and massage services upon request. The spacious, well-appointed studios come equipped with air conditioning, free Wi-Fi, cable TV, fireplaces, and seating areas. An exceptional breakfast is served daily at no extra charge. Great for couples and small families.
• Summit Hotel at Big Sky Resort – Located an hour’s drive from the Yellowstone National Park entrance, this upscale resort features stylish rooms, studios, and apartments furnished with dark wood decor, cable TV, fully-equipped kitchens (in apartments), and ensuite bathrooms with complimentary toiletries. A complimentary breakfast is provided daily. Suitable for all types of travelers, including large groups of up to six members.