Old Faithful Inn

Tucked within the heart of Yellowstone National Park, Old Faithful Inn is a testament to the area’s rich history and natural wonders. Built in 1903-1904, this architectural marvel has stood the test of time, earning its place as a national historic landmark. As the largest log structure in the world, the Old Faithful Inn caters to countless travelers seeking a unique and memorable experience.

From its prime location to the impressive log and stone construction, the Inn has an undeniable allure. Visitors often rave about the outstanding views of the iconic Old Faithful geyser and the exceptional proximity to other attractions in the park.

The Old Faithful Inn offers various accommodations and amenities designed to suit a wide range of tastes and budgets.

As a seasoned hotel reviewer, you’ve likely encountered numerous establishments, each with a distinct character. The Old Faithful Inn is no exception, with its blend of history, elegance, and rustic charm intertwined to create an unforgettable stay.

To make the most informed decision, read on as we delve deeper into the distinctive features and services of the Old Faithful Inn in our comprehensive review.

History of Old Faithful Inn

The Old Faithful Inn, situated in the heart of Yellowstone National Park, boasts a rich history and a distinct rustic charm. This impressive log structure, completed in 1904, has stood tall beside the park’s legendary Old Faithful geyser, witnessing decades of geyser eruptions and generation after generation of stunned guests.

Designed by none other than the talented 29-year-old architect Robert C. Reamer, the Old Faithful Inn reflects the harmony of nature in its asymmetric design and enormous wood structure. Aiming to create a space that complements the natural beauty and chaos of the park, Reamer’s creation became a masterpiece of the distinctive “Parkitecture” style. The building was constructed for $140,000.

As a U.S. National Historic Landmark and a member of the Historic Hotels of America since 2012, the Old Faithful Inn has established a significant reputation for offering its guests a one-of-a-kind experience.

Infused with a blend of history, natural wonder, and rustic beauty, the Old Faithful Inn has also sparked the imaginations of many who have conjured up ghost stories and tales of paranormal activity, further adding an air of mystique to this iconic structure.

Architecture and Design

Upon entering the Old Faithful Inn, you will be immediately struck by its stunning architecture. Conceived by architect Robert C. Reamer, the inn was completed in 1904 and represents a prime example of rustic resort architecture. The grand, steeply gabled lobby faces the famous Old Faithful geyser, making it the perfect spot to appreciate its potent beauty.

One highlight of the Old Faithful Inn’s architectural design is the magnificent stone fireplace. This imposing feature serves as a centerpiece within the lobby. The fireplace’s intricate design showcases the natural materials used throughout the inn, blending harmoniously with its surroundings.

As you relax near the warmth of the fireplace, you will find yourself immersed in the rustic charm that the inn exudes.

The bar is another aspect of the inn’s architecture that should not be overlooked. Designed with elegance and functionality, this space provides a comfortable setting with a unique touch.

Bold wooden structures and warm lighting set the stage for lively evenings savoring a drink amidst the breathtaking landscape.

Aside from the stone fireplace and bar, Old Faithful Inn features additional design elements that add to its rustic appeal. Upon exploring further, you will discover winding wood staircases, intricate balconies, and cozy nooks. These features combine to create an enchanting atmosphere reminiscent of a fairy tale.

Rooms and Accommodation

When booking a stay at the Old Faithful Inn, you’ll find a variety of rooms to choose from. Some offer more comfort and amenities than standard hotel rooms, while others provide a more rustic experience, depending on your preferences.

Rooms in the East Wing and West Wing offer higher comfort and cleanliness. These accommodations typically include air conditioning, ensuring your house room is a pleasant temperature during your stay.

On the other hand, rooms with shared baths provide a more budget-conscious option for guests. While these rooms may not feature air conditioning, they still maintain a certain level of cleanliness and charm expected from guest rooms in such a historic establishment.

It’s important to plan room reservations, as Old Faithful Inn is the most requested lodging facility in Yellowstone National Park. Advanced booking is highly recommended to secure your desired room.

Amenities and Facilities

When staying at the Old Faithful Inn, you can expect a range of amenities to enhance your experience. One essential facility provided is complimentary Wi-Fi. While at this historic landmark, you’ll stay connected with friends and family, sharing photos and stories of your Yellowstone adventures.

After a long day exploring the park, you may seek comfort in the Inn’s showers private bathroom. The bathrooms are well-maintained and equipped with modern fixtures, ensuring a refreshing and relaxing experience.

In addition to the above, the Old Faithful Inn offers a gift shop on the premises, perfect for grabbing souvenirs or any Yellowstone Packing List essentials you may have forgotten. From postcards to clothing, this shop is the ideal place to find something to remember your trip by.

The Inn boasts impressive facilities, including a grand lobby with a massive stone fireplace and large windows overlooking the upper geyser basin. Throughout the building, you’ll find rustic yet elegant touches that enhance the architectural style and showcase the beauty of Yellowstone.

Read Also: Famous Wyoming Landmarks to Visit

Dining Experience

During your visit to Old Faithful Inn, the dining room offers a remarkable experience. With its historic log cabin ambiance, you will feel immersed in the rich history and beauty of the surrounding national park. Seating 300 guests, the Old Faithful Inn Dining Room ensures ample space to enjoy your meal.

The Old Faithful Inn Dining Room’s menu caters to various tastes and budgets. You’ll find American cuisine, vegetarian options, and gluten-free choices to accommodate your dietary preferences. The Western Buffet, available during lunch hours, is an excellent choice if you are pressed for time or want a quick, delicious meal.

In addition to the diverse main courses, do not miss out on the delectable desserts offered. Enhance your dining experience by indulging in a well-crafted sweet treat as you conclude your meal.

While dining at the Old Faithful Inn, you may come across mixed reviews regarding the quality of food and service. Remember that experiences may vary, and try to approach your visit open-mindedly. You can create a memorable and unique dining experience within this iconic and historical setting.

Location and Surroundings

As you enter the Old Faithful Inn, you’ll immediately notice its prime location within Yellowstone National Park. The historic lodging facility is just a stone’s throw away from the world-famous Old Faithful Geyser, allowing you easy access to witness the iconic geyser eruption approximately every 90 minutes.

The Inn itself is surrounded by the breathtaking natural beauty of Yellowstone, giving you ample opportunity to explore diverse landscapes teeming with wildlife. With over 3,400 square miles of geothermal features, canyons, rivers, and forests, you’ll never run out of activities and sights to experience during your stay.

While staying at Old Faithful Inn, you can immerse yourself in the unique features that make Yellowstone National Park a hot spot for nature enthusiasts. Embark on trails leading to fascinating geysers, hot springs, and other thermal features scattered throughout the park.

Many visitors recommend exploring nearby attractions such as the Grand Prismatic Spring, Mammoth Hot Springs, and the Grand Canyon of Yellowstone.

The Inn’s location provides an unbeatable setting for outdoor adventures, and its architecture is equally captivating. Constructed in 1903-1904, the world’s largest log cabin boasts an impressive combination of local logs and stone, perfectly reflecting its natural environment.

Staff and Service

The staff at Old Faithful Inn plays a vital role in shaping guests’ experiences. They are often travelers’ first point of contact and provide much-needed support throughout their stay.

Front desk staff can efficiently handle check-ins and check-outs, ensuring a seamless arrival and departure process. However, guests have received mixed reviews, some praising their helpfulness while others describing them as unfriendly. Remember that these reviews may vary based on individual expectations and encounters.

Regarding management, guests appreciate their accommodating nature, especially regarding schedules and requests. They remain accessible and diligent in supervising the second floor and daily operations. Their presence on the floor demonstrates their commitment to a smooth guest experience.

The overall level of service at Old Faithful Inn leaves room for improvement. A TripAdvisor rating of 3.8/5 for service shows that there can be inconsistencies in the quality of service provided. Nonetheless, the staff’s genuine effort to assist and cater to guests’ needs is evident.

It’s crucial to remember that each person’s encounter with the staff at Old Faithful Inn may differ, and experiences may change depending on various factors. Despite these variations, the staff’s commitment and management’s diligence shape memorable stays for many Yellowstone National Park travelers.

Outdoor Activities

While staying at the Old Faithful Inn, you can access various exciting outdoor activities in Yellowstone National Park. The park is home to various unique geological features and abundant wildlife, making it an ideal destination for visitors interested in nature and adventure.

Stepping outside the Inn, you can immerse yourself in the beauty of Yellowstone by embarking on a walking tour of the area. Explore the Upper Geyser Basin to witness stunning hydrothermal features, including the famous Old Faithful Geyser, just a 3-minute walk from the Inn. Observe the mesmerizing eruptions and learn about the geothermal processes from informative park rangers.

Near Old Faithful Inn, you will also find other impressive geysers to explore, such as the Beehive Geyser. This area offers guided tours, where you can delve deeper into the geyser basin and the history and geology surrounding these natural wonders. If you want to discover more about the park, consider booking a specialized tour, such as wildlife spotting or stargazing, depending on the season.

A visit to West Yellowstone, Montana, provides additional outdoor activities. Enjoy outdoor sports like fishing or biking or the picturesque views and sceneries as you wander the park.

When planning your visit to the Old Faithful Inn, allocate enough time to experience various outdoor activities. The park’s unique features, combined with the allure of the geyser eruptions, create a memorable and one-of-a-kind experience you won’t want to miss.

Is Old Faithful Inn Worth the Price?

As an experienced hotel reviewer, I can say that the value of Old Faithful Inn will vary depending on your preferences and priorities. Locating near the famous Old Faithful geyser, this iconic log hotel might justify the higher rates for some due to its stunning architectural design and historic ambiance.

Keep in mind, however, that the price can be steep, with average daily rates having climbed 55 percent over the past five years, jumping from $274 to $424.

Regarding accommodation, don’t expect luxury rooms, but they are generally clean and comfortable. Guests often stress the importance of booking a room in the original, older part of the hotel for the full experience.

Many guests draw from the proximity to several Yellowstone attractions, including a spectacular view of the Old Faithful geyser from the hotel balcony. For travelers who value unique architectural styles, Old Faithful Inn is a national historic site and is considered the largest log structure in the world. It was built in 1904 from locally sourced materials.

When looking to make your travel decisions, consider the following factors:

• Location: Old Faithful Inn is within walking distance to numerous geyser attractions.
• Cost: Room bookings can fluctuate greatly, with prices reaching over $400 per night.
• Amenities: While not luxurious, rooms are considered comfortable.
• Historic Charm: This landmark hotel provides unmatched ambiance and character.

Based on your priorities, budget, and preferences, evaluate whether Old Faithful Inn is worth the price. Alternative lodging options exist in and around Yellowstone, providing a range of choices to fit different needs and budgets.

Frequently Asked Questions