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Perfect for two! Less than half mile from Yellowstone. 'Downtown' location.

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A house with a red door, a garden with a lawn, and a tree with purple flowers.
A kitchen with white cabinets, a granite countertop, a red cutting board, a sink, and a calendar on the wall.
A garden with a lawn, a wooden chair, and a tree with purple flowers.
A living room with two armchairs, a small table, and a lamp. There is a window with lace curtains and a picture frame on the wall.
A garden with a variety of plants and flowers, a wooden bench, and a swing.

Reviews

10 out of 10
Exceptional

Entire home

1 bathroomSleeps 2500 sq ft

Popular amenities

  • Kitchen
  • Free WiFi
  • Air conditioning
  • Outdoor Space
  • Parking available
  • Barbecue grill

Explore the area

View in a map
Gardiner, MT
  • Place, Yellowstone River
    ‪2 min walk‬
  • Place, Roosevelt Arch
    ‪9 min walk‬
  • Place, Yellowstone National Park North Entrance
    ‪17 min walk‬
  • Airport, West Yellowstone, MT (WYS-Yellowstone)
    ‪101 min drive‬

Room options

About the neighborhood

Gardiner

This cottage places you within a 15-minute stroll of popular sights such as Yellowstone National Park North Entrance and Yellowstone National Park. The cottage includes a kitchen, a refrigerator, and a microwave.
View more Cottages in GardinerOpens in a new window

What's nearby

  • Yellowstone River - 2 min walk - 0.1 miles
  • Parks' Fly Shop - 5 min walk - 0.3 miles
  • Roosevelt Arch - 9 min walk - 0.5 miles
  • Gardiner Community Library - 10 min walk - 0.5 miles
  • Yellowstone National Park North Entrance - 17 min walk - 0.9 miles

Getting around

  • West Yellowstone, MT (WYS-Yellowstone) - 97 min drive

Restaurants

  • ‪Wonderland Cafe & Lodge - ‬5 min walk
  • ‪Terrace Grill - ‬14 min drive
  • ‪Mammoth Hot Springs Hotel Dining Room - ‬14 min drive
  • ‪Backcountry Bistro - ‬6 min walk
  • ‪Yellowstone Grill - ‬1 min walk

About this property

Entire place

You'll have the entire home to yourself and will only share it with other guests in your party.

Perfect for two! Less than half mile from Yellowstone. 'Downtown' location.

Access to Yellowstone Park from our north entrance was fully restored October 30, 2022 with a beautiful new road! Our sweet backyard cottage is nestled among the fruit and flower trees of the yard. It is easily within walking distance to the grocery store, coffee, shopping, restaurants, laundromat, post office, and local arch park events. It is at the north entrance to Yellowstone Park, as is all of Gardiner. The cottage is in the heart of town but shielded from the main street by the owners' home. The yard is shared with the owners but privacy is afforded by the layout. The owners' home was built in 1930 and its cottage was built in 1940 by former owners, the Eastons. It is believed that their intent was to rent the cottage to visitors of Yellowstone, making it a very early vacation rental in this town. The cottage is a perfect fit for two people who want to day trip to northern Yellowstone, book local activities like rafting, biking, horseback riding, and return to a simple, basic, clean environment to relax. Our guests note that the well cultivated green and floral landscaping add to the charm and character of their experience. The stucco cottage still has the details of its early history with the old style glass door knobs and kitchen cabinets. There is a comfortable queen bed, sitting area with Smart tv, eating area, full but small kitchen, and full bathroom. It is clean, well cared for, and you are welcome! We keep our reservation calendar updated to the minute and our description on this page accurate. So as you're reading this page if Lilac Cottage sounds like a good fit for you and if the dates you want are open on our calendar and you have no questions, you are welcome to book directly without contacting us (use Instant Booking option). Just follow VRBO's process with your credit card. We'd be in touch immediately upon booking, through VRBO. If you do have specific questions not answered here, please email Eleanor through VRBO. NOTE: Because the lilacs and other historic bushes and trees were planted in 1930s and 40s, Tom is constantly pruning and removing sections for new growth.
The cottage is air-conditioned and features a kitchen with a refrigerator, an oven, a microwave, and a stovetop. Guests can enjoy a Smart TV and stay connected with free WiFi. Other standard amenities include a coffee maker, an ironing board, and a dining table.

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Property amenities

Internet

  • Available in the cottage: Free WiFi

Parking and transportation

  • Car recommended
  • Parking on site

Kitchen

  • Blender
  • Coffee grinder
  • Coffee/tea maker
  • Cookware, dishware, and utensils
  • Electric kettle
  • Microwave
  • Oven
  • Paper towels
  • Refrigerator
  • Spices
  • Stovetop
  • Toaster

Dining

  • Dining table

Bedrooms

  • Bedsheets provided

Bathroom

  • 1 bathroom
  • Bathtub or shower
  • Hair dryer
  • Shampoo
  • Soap
  • Toilet paper
  • Towels provided

Living spaces

  • Dining table

Entertainment

  • Books
  • Games
  • Smart TV

Outdoor areas

  • Barbecue grill
  • Garden

Laundry

  • Laundromat nearby

Comfort

  • Air conditioning
  • Heating

Pets

  • No pets allowed

Suitability/Accessibility

  • 2 steps to reach entrance
  • No elevator
  • Smoking not allowed
  • Note from host: Smoking is not allowed on the entire property.

Services and conveniences

  • Iron/ironing board

Location highlights

  • In the city center

Things to do

  • Birdwatching nearby
  • Fishing nearby
  • Hiking/biking trails nearby
  • Horseback riding nearby
  • Kayaking nearby
  • Mountain biking nearby
  • Rafting nearby
  • Wildlife walks nearby

Safety features

  • Carbon monoxide detector (host has indicated there is a carbon monoxide detector on the property)
  • Smoke detector (host has indicated there is a smoke detector on the property)
  • Fire extinguisher
  • Deadbolt lock

General

  • Garden
  • Property does not allow children
  • Recycling
  • Unit size: 500 square feet

Policies

Check-in

Check-in time starts at 4:00 PM
Contactless check-in available

Check-out

Check-out before 11:00 AM
Contactless check-out available

Special check-in instructions

You will receive an email from the host with check-in and check-out instructions
Information provided by the property may be translated using automated translation tools

Rules

Follow checkout list that is on the welcome letter in Cottage.
Entrance gate needs to be closed and latched each time that you exit/enter the property.
Maximum number of nights allowed to book - 18

Pets

  • This property doesn't allow pets
  • Note from host: There are no exceptions.

Children and extra beds

  • This property doesn't allow children

Events

No events allowed
Groups staying nearby cannot congregate here

Smoking

Smoking is not permitted
Smoking is not allowed on the entire property.

Important information

You need to know

Extra-person charges may apply and vary depending on property policy
Government-issued photo identification and a credit card, debit card, or cash deposit may be required at check-in for incidental charges
Special requests are subject to availability upon check-in and may incur additional charges; special requests cannot be guaranteed
Onsite parties or group events are strictly prohibited
Note from host: Groups staying nearby cannot congregate here
Host has indicated there is a carbon monoxide detector on the property
Host has indicated there is a smoke detector on the property
Safety features at this property include a fire extinguisher and a deadbolt lock
This property is managed through our partner, Vrbo. You will receive an email from Vrbo with a link to a Vrbo account, where you can change or cancel your reservation
  • Check-in: 4:00 PM
  • Check-out: 11:00 AM

We should mention

Details about charges, deposits, or other important information:

  • This property is managed by a private host, not a professional engaged in trade or business.
  • Charges for extra guests may apply and vary depending on the property's policy.
  • A cash deposit, credit card, or debit card for incidental charges, as well as a government-issued photo ID, may be required at check-in.
  • Special requests are subject to availability at the time of check-in and can't be guaranteed. Certain requests may come with additional charges.
  • Onsite parties or group events are strictly prohibited.
  • Note from host: Groups staying nearby cannot congregate here
  • Onsite safety features include a carbon monoxide detector, a fire extinguisher, a smoke detector, and a deadbolt lock.

Additional information about polices, regulations, and more:

  • There are no elevators.

Property is also known as

Perfect Two Less Than Half Mile Yellowstone. 'downtown' Location
Perfect Two Less Than Half Mile Yellowstone. 'downtown' Location

Frequently asked questions

What is there to do close to this cottage?

This cottage is located in Gardiner, a short 14-minute walk from Yellowstone National Park North Entrance and also 14 minutes on foot from Yellowstone National Park. You'll also find Gallatin National Forest and Yellowstone River less than a mile away.

Is this cottage adjacent to a casino?

No, this cottage is not connected to a casino.

Is there an indoor pool at this cottage?

No, there is no indoor pool at this cottage.

Does this cottage offer breakfast?

No, this cottage doesn't offer breakfast.

Does this cottage allow pets to stay free of charge?

No, pets aren't allowed at this cottage.

Perfect for two! Less than half mile from Yellowstone. 'Downtown' location. Reviews

Reviews

10

Exceptional

Rating 10 - Excellent. 241 out of 251 reviews
Rating 8 - Good. 7 out of 251 reviews
Rating 6 - Okay. 3 out of 251 reviews
Rating 4 - Poor. 0 out of 251 reviews
Rating 2 - Terrible. 0 out of 251 reviews

10/10

Cleanliness

9.2/10

Staff & service

9.6/10

Amenities

9.4/10

Property conditions & facilities

Reviews

Verified review

10/10 Excellent

Diane B.

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy
Very convenient to the Park and businesses in town.
Stayed 5 nights in May 2026
Verified review

10/10 Excellent

Wayne P.

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy
The Lilac Cottage is a great place to stay. Super-convenient location, clean and quiet. Cute yard that’s shared with Eleanor & Tom. Wonderful stay!!
Stayed 2 nights in May 2026
Verified review

10/10 Excellent

Nicole O.

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy
This is so close to the entrance, many walkable options for dining if you just dont want to use the well stocked kitchen at the home. Everything was very comfortable. Its a great place to go after a long day in the park. It is so nice to be so close. Safe and perfect for 2.
Stayed 3 nights in May 2026
Verified review

10/10 Excellent

Clarice W.

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy
Eleanor and Tom, the owners, have created a special place to stay with the Lilac Cottage. We enjoyed the coziness and comfort of this very well appointed cottage. The kitchen has everything you needed to cook any meal you wanted. The recliners and bed are very comfortable. We also appreciated how clean it is. The Lilac Cottage has our highest recommendations. We hope to return someday, as the cottage is a great base to explore Yellowstone.
Stayed 4 nights in Jun 2026
Verified review

10/10 Excellent

Maureen W.

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy
We stayed a week in this well laid out studio with a private feel in the yard in downtown Gardiner. Eleanor has thought of everything to make it comfortable and she is a great communicator. The kitchen had whatever we needed, even a crockpot. The bathroom is roomy. We loved the dresser and the shelves left vacant for our use. The recliners are wonderful. Highly recommend.
Stayed 7 nights in May 2026
Verified review

10/10 Excellent

jim b.

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy
Great, cozy, clean, well equipped place
Stayed 2 nights in Aug 2025
Verified review

10/10 Excellent

markhansvan

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy
location was great. the place was great. the owner was very nice.
Stayed 3 nights in Sep 2025
Verified review

10/10 Excellent

Theresia K.

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy
We had a fantastic time in the Lilac Cottage. It was extremely clean and well stocked. Can fully recommend staying here.
Stayed 3 nights in Oct 2025
Verified review

10/10 Excellent

Chris

Liked: Cleanliness, property conditions & facilities, communication
Friendly and welcoming hosts, comfortable cottage, fantastically well-equipped kitchen and in an area with lots to see and do: a great location for visiting Yellowstone.
Stayed 4 nights in May 2024
Verified review

10/10 Excellent

Kathleen Randall S.

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy
The Lilac Cottage was adorable and just perfect for us! It was very well furnished and had many little extras. The location was great for visiting Yellowstone everyday that we were there.
Stayed 6 nights in Aug 2025
Verified review

10/10 Excellent

Sara Y.

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy
Great location to access the North entrance to Yellowstone NP. The hosts have thought of everything to make a comfortable and enjoyable stay. The location was peaceful and the cottage's kitchen was well-equipped to prepare meals. We hope to stay again sometime.
Stayed 2 nights in Oct 2025
Verified review

10/10 Excellent

Laurie K.

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy
We had everything that we needed for our stay. Quiet and comfortable. Perfect for our time at Yellowstone.
Stayed 4 nights in Sep 2025
Verified review

10/10 Excellent

Kenneth B.

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy

Great little cottage

We had a great stay and Eleanor and Tom were wonderful hosts
Stayed 4 nights in Sep 2023
Verified review

10/10 Excellent

Matthew P.

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy
The check in process was great. Cute cottage. The location is great for going in the north entrance to Yellowstone.
Stayed 1 night in Jul 2025
Verified review

10/10 Excellent

Beth W.

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy
Great base for visiting the upper loop. Very cute cottage within walking distance to restaurants. It had everything we needed and then some. The hosts are very friendly!
Stayed 2 nights in Aug 2025
Verified review

10/10 Excellent

ellie s.

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy

Excellent

Perfect in every way!Great placeGreat hosts!
Stayed 5 nights in May 2025
Verified review

10/10 Excellent

Chris ..

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy

Convenient Yellowstone Stay

Beautiful, cozy cottage. Very clean and well appointed. We really appreciated the Yellowstone park information and town tips.
Stayed 3 nights in Jun 2025
Verified review

10/10 Excellent

Lucinda B.

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy
We really enjoyed this cozy space. The owners have really tried to think of everything you might need and make themselves available for any questions you might have during your visit.
Stayed 3 nights in Jun 2025
Archival

10/10 Excellent

Karolin L.

Eleanor was great and her cozy cottage was perfect for us.

The location was perfect, the cottage was darling and Eleanor was the greatest!
Stayed 4 nights in Oct 2016
Verified review

10/10 Excellent

Martha N.

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy
Cute little place for a couple of nights. Was very clean and had nice touches-like ice cream in the fridge!
Stayed 2 nights in Jun 2025
Verified review

10/10 Excellent

TIM H.

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy
Wonderful comfortable cottage with everything you need. Great base to explore Yellowstone. We even saw wildlife right outside. Hosts were awesome and very helpful throughout.
Stayed 2 nights in Jul 2025
Verified review

10/10 Excellent

Brian D.

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy
Everything about Lilac Cottage was wonderful. Great location with plenty of privacy and everything couples would need. Highly recommend.
Stayed 3 nights in Jun 2025
Verified review

10/10 Excellent

Doug W.

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy
Host was awesome
Stayed 2 nights in Jun 2025
Verified review

10/10 Excellent

Daphne R.

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy

Cozy Stay

The cottage was in a great location, easy to find and so close to the park. There was everything you'd need for a comfortable stay.
Stayed 2 nights in May 2023
Verified review

10/10 Excellent

Robert S.

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy

Awesome adventure!

Five Stars! Very close to the park in an awesome little mountain town!
Stayed 4 nights in May 2025

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