5 of the Most Affordable Towns to stay outside of Yellowstone National Park
Yellowstone National Park is one of the most iconic National Parks in the world. It’s a place everyone should visit at least once in their lifetime. While Yellowstone is incredible, staying inside the park is pretty difficult, and very pricey. Which is why I wanted to curate a list on a few of the most affordable towns to stay outside of Yellowstone National Park, so you can be close enough to the parks awesomeness without breaking the bank.
1. Gardiner, Montana
Gardiner is one of the closest towns to Yellowstone’s North Entrance and is a favorite for budget travelers. This is the main place we stayed at after driving down from Bozeman. It’s only about a 10 minute drive to the entrance of the park.
We opted to stay in a small Airbnb, however there are plenty of little motels, cabins and lodging available if you don’t want to stay in an AirBnb. There are tons of shops and restaurants as well which make it a perfect place to start your day and end your day. We went to the Tumbleweed Cafe & Bookstore every morning there. The staff was so warm and welcoming, the food and coffee was delicious, and it was the perfect way to start the day.
The best part? You’ll get to see the iconic Roosevelt Arch every time you head into the park, making it a perfect photo op before starting your adventure.
2. West Yellowstone
While West Yellowstone can get busier, it offers several affordable options for lodging, especially if you book in advance. It’s located at the park’s West Entrance, and there are numerous motels, lodges, and campgrounds that cater to budget-conscious travelers.
If you don’t mind a little more hustle and bustle, West Yellowstone is a great choice, with the added bonus of a bustling downtown area full of quirky shops, restaurants, and local attractions. Just be sure to plan your trip ahead of time, as this town fills up quickly during the summer months.
3. Island Park, ID
When talking affordable towns, Island Park should come to mind as well. A beautiful little town that we stayed at on the back half of our trip. This is about 45 minutes from the West entrance of Yellowstone. As the previous one mentioned West Yellowstone, Island Park is a little further down, however this place is cheaper and more quiet and scenic in my opinion.
We stayed at a little Airbnb inside a, RV / lodging park and it was absolutely gorgeous. Rivers and mountains right outside the place as well. There are several lodging areas around here as well. If you want to stay in a cheaper location, that is a little further from the main entrance then this is a great spot. It’s still beautiful and not super inconvenient.
4. Silver Gate, MT
Just outside of the park, Silver Gate is another hidden gem near Yellowstone’s Northeast Entrance. This tiny town is very quiet and peaceful and offers several budget-friendly places to stay, including small inns and charming cabins.
It’s perfect for travelers who want a quieter, more laid-back vibe while still being close to the park’s wildlife hotspots. Silver Gate is a great spot for nature lovers who want to escape the crowds and really immerse themselves in the beauty of Yellowstone.
Make sure to check out “The Log Cabin Cafe” while you’re there for a great breakfast and coffee before heading into the park
5. Cody, Wyoming
If you’re willing to drive a little further (about an hour and a half from the East Entrance), Cody is another affordable option that’s worth considering. This historic town is home to the Buffalo Bill Center of the West, which is a great cultural stop before or after exploring Yellowstone.
Cody has a variety of affordable motels and hotels, as well as more rustic options like campgrounds and cabins. The town’s western flair and proximity to both the park and other outdoor adventures make it a great choice for those looking to stretch their travel budget.
Conclusion
Visiting Yellowstone is on the top of many peoples bucket lists, however with how big the park is, finding lodging and places to stay is pretty tough. You can stay inside the park at Old Faithful, or Canyon Village or some of the other spots, however you’re going to spend a pretty penny. By opting for one of these affordable towns, you will stretch your money further and still have an incredible and once in a lifetime experience. Best of luck!
If looking for an official Yellowstone travel guide, check out here
For a list of places you need to see in Yellowstone, click here