Yellowstone National Park Wyoming, USA Travel Guide
Dining within Yellowstone focuses on feeding travelers efficiently. The concessioners offer meals familiar and convenient for a diverse visitor base. Outside the park, a "Western" culinary identity takes form, featuring robust flavours.
Wild game (bison, elk) often feature on menus. Bison makes a lean, flavorful alternative to beef. Huckleberries, a regional specialty, appear in various forms like jams, pies, and ice cream.
A lean, flavorful alternative to beef. Many park restaurants and gateway town eateries offer this true taste of the American West.
Do not miss huckleberry ice cream, pie, pancakes, jam, or lemonade. This sweet and tart treat is a regional specialty.
A traditional Western barbecue experience offered seasonally. Often involves wagon rides to a remote cookout site for an outdoor meal.
Dining rooms at Old Faithful Inn, Lake Yellowstone Hotel, and Mammoth Hot Springs Hotel. More formal, sit-down experiences in historic settings. Reservations are recommended.
Book ahead for peak season.
Lodge diners and cafeterias like Old Faithful Snow Lodge Obsidian Dining Room, Canyon Lodge Eatery, and Grant Village Dining Room.
Convenient balance of price and service.
General stores and delis (e.g., Old Faithful Basin Store, Canyon General Store) offer grab-and-go sandwiches, salads, and snacks.
Picnic areas are plentiful.
Found in gateway towns for stocking up on groceries, snacks, and picnic supplies. Limited general stores in the park carry basic groceries.
Restaurants at Old Faithful Inn, Lake Yellowstone Hotel, or Canyon Village offer stunning views to accompany your meal.
A standard tip for good service is 15-20% of the total bill. For exceptional service, consider a higher percentage.
For casual cafes or counter service, a small tip jar often sits available. For bartenders, $1-2 per drink or 15-20% of the total.
Bellhops and hotel housekeepers also accept tips. Tour guides typically receive gratuities, especially for full-day excursions.
A unique experience at Roosevelt Lodge. This seasonal activity involves guests riding a wagon or horse to a cookout site for a Western-style meal under the open sky.
Booking required for this memorable atmosphere.
Utilizing the park's numerous scenic picnic areas with your own packed meals makes a quintessential Yellowstone experience.
It offers flexibility and cost savings.
Not typically offered within Yellowstone NP. Some are available in larger gateway towns.
Limited in the immediate park vicinity. More prevalent in agricultural areas further afield.
Yellowstone does not commonly host large food festivals. Gateway towns might have small local events.
In-park dining focuses on efficiency for diverse visitors; Western themes outside.
Bring a reusable water bottle. Many restaurants within and outside the park welcome refills.
Refill stations are available.
Consider your portion size to minimize food waste. Ask for doggy bags for leftovers if applicable.
Responsible consumption reduces waste.
Many locally-owned restaurants in gateway towns play a role in their communities. Your dining choices support the local economy and culture.
Some establishments have composting or recycling programs. Consider options that visibly demonstrate sustainable practices.
Keep perishable foods refrigerated or in coolers with ice. Do not leave food unattended in vehicles, especially on warm days.
Wash hands thoroughly with soap and water before and after handling food. Use hand sanitizer if water is not available.
Dispose of all food waste in bear-proof trash cans. Do not leave food scraps or packaging unattended.
If you experience food poisoning or an allergic reaction, seek medical attention immediately. Clinics are in various park locations and gateway towns.
Call 911 for severe emergencies.
Report any wildlife feeding or improper food storage incidents to park rangers. This helps protect both visitors and animals.
Contact park staff or visitor centers.
Bring sturdy coolers and sealed containers for food storage, especially for items in your car or at campsites.
Pack reusable cutlery, plates, and cups to reduce waste from disposable items.
Always carry plenty of snacks and water, especially when hiking or exploring remote areas, as food options are limited.
Park dining options are often cafeteria-style and can have long lines during peak hours. Gateway towns offer more variety but may require a drive.
