What is the best base city for Yellowstone?

Yellowstone National Park, with its geothermal wonders, diverse wildlife, and breathtaking landscapes, is one of America’s most iconic and popular national parks. However, when planning your visit, one of the first questions travelers ask is: “What’s the best base city for Yellowstone?” The answer depends on what you want to see, where you want to stay, and what kind of adventure you're seeking.

There are several great cities to choose from around the park, each offering its own set of advantages. From quaint towns with direct access to the park to lively cities with many amenities, let’s take a closer look at some of the best options for base cities near Yellowstone.If you want to stay close to Yellowstone's geothermal wonders, West Yellowstone is your best bet. For a mix of natural beauty and city amenities, Jackson is a great choice, offering access to both Yellowstone and Grand Teton National Park. If easy access to wildlife and the Mammoth Hot Springs is a priority, Gardiner is an excellent option. History lovers and those keen on visiting the Lamar Valley will find Cody to be a perfect base, rich in Western heritage and offering great wildlife viewing. For those seeking more amenities and a larger city atmosphere, Bozeman is ideal, providing plenty of conveniences while still being within reach of Yellowstone’s entrances.

1. West Yellowstone, Montana

Best for: Easy access to the park and a small-town feel.

If you’re looking for convenience and proximity to Yellowstone’s famous attractions, West Yellowstone is one of the best choices. Situated just outside the park’s West Entrance, this small Montana town offers easy access to the park's major features like Old Faithful, the Grand Prismatic Spring, and Yellowstone Lake. West Yellowstone has plenty of hotels, cabins, and campgrounds, making it an ideal location for families and first-time visitors.

The town also has a variety of restaurants, shops, and visitor centers where you can get up-to-date information and purchase supplies. It’s an especially great choice if you plan to spend most of your time in the park's western portion.

2. Jackson, Wyoming

Best for: Exploring both Yellowstone and Grand Teton National Park.

Jackson, Wyoming, is a larger and more vibrant town located about 60 miles south of Yellowstone’s South Entrance. Known for its charming Western vibe, Jackson offers luxury hotels, fine dining, and lots of outdoor recreation opportunities. It’s also a great base if you're planning to visit both Yellowstone and Grand Teton National Park, as it’s centrally located between the two.

With the Teton Range as a backdrop, Jackson is not only a hub for wildlife viewing, hiking, and skiing but also offers an array of art galleries, shops, and restaurants. It’s perfect if you want a mix of outdoor adventures and city amenities. However, keep in mind that it’s a bit farther from Yellowstone’s most famous attractions, so expect longer drives to reach certain areas.

3. Gardiner, Montana

Best for: Access to Yellowstone’s North Entrance and unique wildlife experiences.

Gardiner is located just outside Yellowstone’s North Entrance, providing direct access to the park’s Mammoth Hot Springs area. If you're interested in visiting some of the park’s unique geothermal features, as well as spotting wildlife like bison, elk, and wolves, Gardiner is an excellent choice. The town itself has a rustic charm, with a small selection of accommodations, restaurants, and shops.

Gardiner is also the gateway to the famous Roosevelt Arch, one of the park's iconic landmarks. It’s a quieter town compared to West Yellowstone or Jackson, making it ideal for those who want to avoid the crowds and immerse themselves in the natural surroundings.

4. Cody, Wyoming

Best for: History buffs and those interested in Western culture.

Cody, Wyoming, is about 50 miles from the park’s East Entrance and offers a fantastic blend of history, culture, and adventure. Founded by Buffalo Bill Cody, the town is rich in Western heritage and is home to several museums, including the Buffalo Bill Center of the West. If you’re interested in learning about the history of the American West, Cody is a great option.

While it’s a bit farther from the park's major geothermal attractions, Cody is an excellent base if you’re planning to visit the park’s eastern side, such as the Lamar Valley, known for its prime wildlife viewing opportunities. It also offers a unique blend of outdoor activities and cultural experiences.

5. Bozeman, Montana

Best for: A larger city with lots of amenities and access to the park’s North and West Entrances.

Bozeman, Montana, is a lively college town that offers a larger selection of accommodations, restaurants, and services compared to the smaller towns near Yellowstone. Located about 90 miles from the park’s West Entrance, it’s an excellent base for those who want the conveniences of a bigger city, but still want to experience the beauty of Yellowstone.

Bozeman is a good starting point for exploring both Yellowstone and the surrounding Gallatin National Forest. It’s also close to the Bridger Bowl Ski Area and other recreational activities, making it a great year-round destination.

The Best Base City Depends on Your Yellowstone Experience

Ultimately, the best base city for Yellowstone will depend on what you want to experience during your visit. Whether you're interested in exploring geysers, soaking in natural hot springs, hiking through forests, or learning about the history of the Old West, there’s a base city that fits your style of adventure.

If you want to stay close to Yellowstone's geothermal wonders, West Yellowstone is your best bet.
For a mix of natural beauty and city amenities, Jackson is a great choice.
For easy access to wildlife and the Mammoth Hot Springs, consider Gardiner.
History lovers and those keen on visiting the Lamar Valley will enjoy Cody.
If you need more amenities and prefer a larger city, Bozeman is ideal.