West Yellowstone MontanaATTRACTIONS & THINGS TO DO
Listed below are the best attractions and things to do near West Yellowstone, Montana.
1. Grizzly and Wolf Discovery Center
WILDLIFE SANCTUARY EXPERIENCE
The Grizzly and Wolf Discovery Center is a wildlife sanctuary where visitors can experience the daily life of bears, wolves, and river otters up close. This facility offers interactive educational exhibits that demonstrate the integral relationships of bears and wolves within the Yellowstone ecosystem and the challenges of coexisting with wildlife. Recognized in the top 10% of attractions worldwide by Tripadvisor travelers, the center maintains accreditation that ensures excellent animal care and educational standards.
2. Playmill Theatre
FINEST FAMILY ENTERTAINMENT
Playmill Theatre continues its nearly fifty-year tradition of providing the "Finest in Family Entertainment" with three popular hits each season. The rustic venue offers a night of great theatre in beautiful West Yellowstone, making it a cultural highlight for visitors. With a 4.9 rating on Tripadvisor, it remains one of the top attractions for those seeking evening entertainment after a day of outdoor adventures.
3. Back Country Adventures
OUTDOOR EXPLORATION TOURS
Back Country Adventures offers snowmobile and snow coach tours through Yellowstone's winter landscape. Visitors can experience wildlife sightings and take advantage of numerous photography opportunities amidst the park's natural wonders. The company has earned a 4.7 rating from visitors who appreciate the guided outdoor experiences.
4. Yellowstone River
SCENIC NATURAL WONDER
The Yellowstone River provides visitors with stunning natural beauty and numerous recreational opportunities near West Yellowstone. With a 4.8 rating on Tripadvisor, this natural attraction draws nature enthusiasts for activities like fishing, rafting, and photography. The river serves as an important ecological feature of the greater Yellowstone ecosystem and offers a peaceful setting for visitors seeking connection with nature.
5. Earthquake Lake
NATURAL DISASTER MEMORIAL
Earthquake Lake was formed in 1959 when a massive earthquake triggered a landslide that blocked the Madison River. The site now serves as both a natural attraction and a memorial to the 28 people who lost their lives in the disaster. Visitors can learn about the geological events at the visitor center while enjoying the scenic beauty of this 4.6-rated attraction.
6. Museum of the Yellowstone
REGIONAL HISTORY SHOWCASE
Museum of the Yellowstone preserves and showcases the rich history of West Yellowstone and its connection to America's first national park. Exhibits feature historical artifacts, photographs, and interactive displays that tell the story of early tourism, transportation, and development in the region. Rated 4.3 by visitors, the museum provides valuable historical context for understanding the cultural significance of the area.
7. Hebgen Lake
RECREATIONAL WATER PARADISE
Hebgen Lake is a popular recreational body of water near West Yellowstone offering activities like fishing, boating, and camping. The lake is known for its excellent trout fishing and scenic mountain views that draw outdoor enthusiasts throughout the summer season. With a 4.6 rating, visitors appreciate both the natural beauty and recreational opportunities available at this picturesque mountain lake.
8. Two Top
SCENIC MOUNTAIN ADVENTURE
Two Top is a highly-rated outdoor adventure destination near West Yellowstone with an impressive 4.8 visitor rating. The mountain area offers spectacular views of the surrounding landscape and is particularly popular for snowmobiling in winter months. Visitors can experience the natural beauty of Montana's mountains while engaging in seasonal recreational activities.
9. Yellowstone Giant Screen Theatre
IMMERSIVE FILM EXPERIENCE
Yellowstone Giant Screen Theatre provides an immersive cinematic experience featuring films about Yellowstone and other natural wonders. Located at 101 South Canyon Street, the theater offers a perfect indoor activity for visitors looking to learn more about the region's natural history. The large-format screen creates a captivating visual experience that complements outdoor explorations of the actual park.
10. Rendezvous Ski Trail System
NORDIC SKIING PARADISE
The Rendezvous Ski Trail System offers over 35 kilometers of groomed trails for cross-country skiing enthusiasts near West Yellowstone. During winter months, the system attracts both recreational skiers and competitive athletes with its well-maintained trails through beautiful forested terrain. The trails are designed for various skill levels, making it an accessible winter activity for visitors to the area.
11. Zipline and Adventure Park
THRILLING OUTDOOR CHALLENGE
The Zipline and Adventure Park provides adrenaline-seeking visitors with exciting aerial challenges and zipline courses. The facility features a ropes course that tests physical abilities while offering unique views of the surrounding area. This attraction delivers thrilling experiences for families and adventure enthusiasts looking to add excitement to their West Yellowstone vacation.
12. West Yellowstone Shopping District
LOCAL RETAIL EXPERIENCE
The West Yellowstone Shopping District offers visitors a charming collection of local shops selling souvenirs, outdoor gear, and Montana-made products. Visitors can browse through various boutiques and specialty stores while taking in the small-town atmosphere of this gateway community. The shopping area provides both practical supplies for park visitors and memorable keepsakes to commemorate trips to Yellowstone.
13. Local Breweries
CRAFT BEER DESTINATION
West Yellowstone's local breweries offer visitors a taste of Montana craft beer culture after days of outdoor adventure. These establishments serve house-made beers in casual, welcoming environments that reflect the mountain town's character. Visitors can enjoy locally-crafted beverages while sharing stories of their Yellowstone explorations with fellow travelers and locals alike.
14. Custer-Gallatin National Forest
VAST WILDERNESS EXPLORATION
Custer-Gallatin National Forest surrounds West Yellowstone with over three million acres of public lands offering countless recreational opportunities. Visitors can explore hiking trails, fishing spots, camping areas, and wildlife viewing locations within this expansive forest system. The national forest provides a less crowded alternative to Yellowstone National Park while still offering spectacular mountain scenery and outdoor experiences.
15. Caribou-Targhee National Forest
PRISTINE ALPINE ENVIRONMENT
Caribou-Targhee National Forest extends from West Yellowstone into Idaho, offering additional public lands for outdoor recreation. The forest features diverse ecosystems, from sagebrush plains to alpine meadows and dense coniferous forests. Visitors can enjoy activities like hiking, wildlife viewing, mountain biking, and fishing in this less-visited but equally beautiful complement to Yellowstone National Park.