Every year, millions of visitors travel to Yellowstone National Park to see its hydrothermal wonders, wildlife, and stunning landscapes. Nestled just outside the park’s West Entrance is West Yellowstone, Montana, a mountain town that’s more than just a place to pass through on your way into Yellowstone.
From fly fishing and wildlife experiences to local restaurants, shops, and nearby lakes, there are plenty of things to do in West Yellowstone before or after a day in the park. If you’re planning a larger Yellowstone, Grand Teton, and Jackson Hole trip, use our Jackson Hole trip-planning guide to start mapping out the next part of your adventure.
Things to Do in West Yellowstone
Explore Historic Downtown
Downtown West Yellowstone is filled with local shops, souvenir stores, restaurants, coffee shops, and plenty of places to grab ice cream. Take some time to walk around, browse the shops, and enjoy the mountain-town atmosphere.
Go Fly Fishing
For anglers visiting the area, the Madison River offers opportunities for fly fishing near West Yellowstone. Whether you’re a beginner or an experienced angler, you can also find guided fishing trips based out of the area.
Visit the Grizzly & Wolf Discovery Center
Want to learn more about the wildlife that calls the Greater Yellowstone region home? Visit the Grizzly & Wolf Discovery Center in West Yellowstone.
This nonprofit wildlife park and educational facility gives visitors the opportunity to see grizzly bears, gray wolves, and other native wildlife while learning more about the animals and ecosystems of the Yellowstone area.
Spend Time at Hebgen Lake
Located outside West Yellowstone, Hebgen Lake is a great place to spend a summer day. Visitors can enjoy activities such as boating, fishing, and camping while taking in the surrounding mountain scenery.
Experience the West Yellowstone Rodeo
For another taste of the West, check out the West Yellowstone Rodeo, located just outside town. Depending on when you visit, you can catch a rodeo or book a trail ride for another way to experience the area’s western character.
Because schedules are seasonal, check the current rodeo calendar when planning your visit.
Where to Eat in West Yellowstone
Whether you’re looking for a family-friendly diner, a quick lunch, or a western saloon, West Yellowstone has options for just about every craving.
Breakfast
If you’re looking for a classic sit-down breakfast, stop by the Running Bear Pancake House. It’s a straightforward option for fueling up before a full day of exploring Yellowstone.
Another option is Euro Cafe, located in the heart of West Yellowstone and serving breakfast and brunch.
Lunch
For something quick, Ernie’s Bakery and Deli is a grab-and-go option with made-to-order deli sandwiches.
Old Town Cafe is another family-friendly choice in West Yellowstone, with burgers and other casual favorites.
Dinner
For barbecue, check out Beartooth Barbecue. If you’re in the mood for pizza, Wild West Pizzeria & Saloon offers pizza in a lively, casual atmosphere.
Whatever you choose for dinner, save room for a sweet treat from The City Creamery.
Where to Stay in West Yellowstone
West Yellowstone offers a wide range of lodging, from campgrounds and RV parks to cabins and hotels. Where you stay will depend on the kind of Yellowstone vacation you’re planning.
Hotels
West Yellowstone has plenty of hotel options, including several with a classic western feel.
The Stage Coach Inn is a historic hotel in the heart of West Yellowstone. Another historic option is the Madison Hotel.
If you’re looking for a rustic atmosphere with more modern amenities, Three Bear Lodge is another option to consider.
Cabins
For travelers who prefer a cabin, Hibernation Station offers cozy accommodations for everything from family vacations to couples’ getaways.
Nearby, Explorer Cabins at Yellowstone are another option for travelers looking for a cabin-style stay close to town.
Camping and RV Parks
Traveling to West Yellowstone in an RV? You’ll find several RV parks around town, including Buffalo Crossing RV Park, Pony Express RV Park, and Yellowstone Grizzly RV Park.
If you’d rather camp outside town, there are also campgrounds in the surrounding Custer Gallatin National Forest. Options mentioned in the area include Baker’s Hole Campground along the Madison River and Lonesomehurst Campground and Cherry Creek Campground near Hebgen Lake.
Is West Yellowstone Worth Visiting?
Yes. West Yellowstone is more than just a gateway to Yellowstone National Park. Its location makes it convenient for exploring the park, but the town and surrounding area offer outdoor recreation, wildlife experiences, dining, and lodging that make it worth exploring on its own.
West Yellowstone can also fit naturally into a larger Greater Yellowstone trip that includes Yellowstone National Park, Grand Teton National Park, and Jackson Hole. If Jackson Hole is next on your itinerary, consider seeing another side of the region on a Snake River Scenic Float.
Continue Your Greater Yellowstone Adventure in Jackson Hole
After exploring Yellowstone and West Yellowstone, continue south toward Grand Teton National Park and Jackson Hole, where the Snake River offers a different way to experience the Greater Yellowstone ecosystem.
Teton Scenic Float Tours’ Snake River Scenic Float takes guests on a 13-mile stretch of the Snake River between Grand Teton National Park and Bridger-Teton National Forest. Settle into a high-back cushioned seat while your guide points out wildlife and geological features along the way. Binoculars, water and sparkling water, and YETI blankets for cooler mornings and evenings are provided.
Traveling with family or friends and want the boat to yourselves? A private Snake River scenic float offers the same scenic experience with a boat reserved for your group.
Ready to experience the Snake River? Book your scenic float.
Frequently Asked Questions About West Yellowstone
What is West Yellowstone known for?
West Yellowstone is best known as the town located next to Yellowstone National Park’s West Entrance. It’s also a destination for outdoor recreation, wildlife experiences, fishing, dining, shopping, and access to nearby areas such as Hebgen Lake.
What are some of the best things to do in West Yellowstone?
Popular activities include exploring downtown West Yellowstone, visiting the Grizzly & Wolf Discovery Center, fishing, spending time at Hebgen Lake, and attending the West Yellowstone Rodeo when it’s in season.
Is there anything to do in West Yellowstone besides visiting Yellowstone National Park?
Yes. West Yellowstone offers shopping, restaurants, wildlife attractions, fishing, nearby lakes, camping, and other outdoor recreation, making it worth exploring beyond its proximity to the national park.
Where can you stay in West Yellowstone?
West Yellowstone has hotels, cabins, campgrounds, and RV parks. Travelers can choose accommodations in town or camp in the surrounding area depending on the type of trip they’re planning.
Can you visit West Yellowstone and Jackson Hole on the same trip?
Yes. West Yellowstone, Yellowstone National Park, Grand Teton National Park, and Jackson Hole can be incorporated into a broader Greater Yellowstone itinerary. If you’re continuing to Jackson Hole, a scenic float on the Snake River can be a relaxing way to experience the landscape and wildlife of the region from a different perspective.
When is the best time to visit Teton Valley?
Summer (June–September) is best for hiking, floating, and the Friday night rodeo; winter (December–March) is best for skiing and snowmobiling at Grand Targhee.
