Yellowstone is one of those places that stays with you. After visiting a handful of times—and approaching it differently on each trip—I can say with certainty: it’s not just a national park, but an entire world of its own. Spanning over 2.2 million acres of steaming geysers, technicolor hot springs, roaming bison, and jaw-dropping canyons, this wild and wonderful landscape is nothing short of spellbinding. On each and every visit, you’ll find something new to love.
As the world’s first national park, Yellowstone has long been a magnet for travelers—and during spring and summer, when the sun is out and road trip season kicks into high gear, it buzzes with even more energy. But with a park this massive, the biggest challenge isn’t just what to see, it’s where to stay. Yellowstone is surrounded by character-rich gateway towns and sprinkled with unforgettable places to lay your head, from design-forward mountain yurts and riverside cabins to classic park lodges and luxury ranch resorts.
Whether you’re road-tripping with kids, adventuring with friends, or chasing a quiet couple’s retreat, we’ve rounded up the most memorable stays in and around Yellowstone to make your trip as magical as the park itself.
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Best places to stay in Yellowstone at a glance:
FAQ:
When is the best time to visit Yellowstone?
The best time to visit Yellowstone is late May through September, when the park is fully open and wildlife is active—though early mornings and shoulder seasons (late spring or early fall) help you avoid the heaviest crowds. July and August are the warmest and busiest months, so expect crowds—especially near major attractions like Old Faithful.
How do I get around Yellowstone?
You’ll need a car to explore Yellowstone, especially if you’re not traveling with a guide, as there’s no public transport inside the park. The Grand Loop Road connects most major sights, but drive times can be long due to wildlife jams and slow speed limits. Cell service is limited, so download maps in advance and fuel up whenever you can.
Where should I stay around Yellowstone for the best trip for me?
Where you stay depends on your priorities: West Yellowstone is great for families and geyser access, Gardiner (North Entrance) offers easy entry to wildlife-rich Lamar Valley, and Cooke City-Silver Gate is ideal for quiet nature escapes. Cody brings Wild West flair, and Jackson adds a luxury touch near Grand Teton. Inside-the-park lodging is unbeatable but you’ll need to book early—consider splitting your stay across different areas to explore more with less driving.
How can I avoid crowds in Yellowstone?
Start your days early—before 8 a.m.—to beat the crowds at popular spots like Old Faithful or Grand Prismatic Spring. Visit lesser-known areas like the Lamar Valley (especially in the north), Tower Fall, or the Bechler region for more solitude. Traveling in late spring or early fall also means fewer people and cooler temps, with just as much beauty.
To better navigate your next hike, download the AllTrails app—the new Peak membership includes trail traffic data, custom routes, and trail conditions.
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