They weren't messing around when they named Yellowstone the first national park. Spanning over 3,471 square miles, Yellowstone is a monster of a national park, so it’ll come. as no surprise that the planning portion of a trip to Yellowstone can feel rather daunting. There are a handful of places to stay in and around the park, each with a personality (and price tag) of its own. After plenty of research, I landed on staying in the town of West Yellowstone, MT due to what seems to be the easiest access to the park entrance. The town itself is actually in a tiny strip of Montana that somehow slivers in between Idaho and Wyoming, so chances are you'll be able to cross three or four states off your list over the course of one trip.
This no-frills, western town is the coolest introduction to the area, packed with fun gift shops, tasty restaurants, and enough ice cream to go around for everyone. Creatively named after its location along the west entrance of Yellowstone, a stay in town makes an early wake-up call and a full day of exploring the national park much more doable.
The best things to do around West Yellowstone, MT
Grab a huckleberry milkshake or ice cream.
One interesting little quirk that is rather specific to Montana is the huckleberry. Yes, like the fruit that is kind of a blueberry but not? It's slowly become one of my favorite stops around small-town Montana: finding sweet treats and homemade goodies packed with the little delights. West Yellowstone is no different. Stop at the Espresso West stand for a huckleberry milkshake or any of the ice cream shops around town for some homemade goodness.
Go antiquing and expect great local recs.
Pop into Once in a Blue Moon Antique Shop at least once, if not just for a chat with one of the owners. This adorable little blue and pink cottage has been run by Dave and his wife, and they'll be sure to give you great local advice for underrated things to do around Yellowstone. THANKS, DAVE. Plus, there are tons of little trinkets for purchase that rotate every day.
Plan a night at the theater.
Try to catch a show at the Playmill Theater in town. Each summer, global pandemic permitting, the Playmill puts on a showcase in the intimate little theater right in town. It's a unique way to tap into the western ways and give your legs a break from wandering around Yellowstone all day.
Seek out a fly fishing excursion.
The rolling plains and winding rivers of Wyoming could feed all of your fishing desires for a lifetime. There are a ton of fly fishing shops and adventure companies in West Yellowstone where you can plan fly fishing excursions based on any leisurely availability during your time around town.
Hit a western saloon.
There are plenty of cool western bars around West Yellowstone but if you're in search of a local bite, head to the Wild West Pizzeria & Saloon. Must order: 'Butch Cassidy 'pizza. Sorry, vegans, this one isn't for you. This pie is smothered with BBQ sauce, baked beans, red onions, and pulled pork and wow. I ate the entire pizza in one sitting. The vibe at this bar is classic western dive with pool tables, a full bar, and plenty of cowboy hat-wearing customers. Major plus? It's one of the latest serving food restaurants in West Yellowstone.
And last but most epically, visit Yellowstone National Park.
Staying in West Yellowstone gives you easy access to the stunning beauty of Yellowstone National Park, without the wilderness. You’ll be planted right at the entrance of the park within two minutes driving distance from downtown West Yellowstone, making it the perfect hotbed for easy in and out of the park throughout the day. Try to hit the park early in the morning or later in the evening for the best chance of wildlife sitings and smaller crowds at the bigger attractions like The Grand Prismatic Spring and Old Faithful.
WHERE TO STAY AROUND WEST YELLOWSTONE.
For those trying to stay on a dime, book as soon as possible to lock in the best pricing right in town. Due to the high demand for the few area accommodations, expect to pay more for less when it comes to back country America. I ended up at the Best Western Desert Inn, which was everything I needed it to be. There was an indoor pool and hot tub, continental breakfast beginning at six am, and walking distance to all the cool places in West Yellowstone.