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

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Golf
Smart TV, books
Fridge, microwave, oven, stovetop
Exterior
Property grounds

Reviews

10 out of 10
Exceptional

Entire home

1 bathroomSleeps 2500 sq ft

Popular amenities

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

Explore the area

Map
Gardiner, MT
  • Roosevelt Arch
    ‪8 min walk‬
  • Yellowstone National Park North Entrance
    ‪16 min walk‬
  • Mammoth Hot Springs
    ‪18 min drive‬
  • West Yellowstone, MT (WYS-Yellowstone)
    ‪120 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

  • Parks' Fly Shop - 5 min walk - 0.3 miles
  • Roosevelt Arch - 8 min walk - 0.5 miles
  • Yellowstone National Park North Entrance - 16 min walk - 0.9 miles
  • Yellowstone Hot Springs - 9 min drive - 8.4 miles
  • Mammoth Hot Springs - 18 min drive - 6.5 miles

Getting around

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

Restaurants

  • ‪Wonderland Cafe & Lodge - ‬6 min walk
  • ‪Cowboy's Lodge & Grill - ‬5 min walk
  • ‪Mammoth Hot Springs Terrace Grill - ‬15 min drive
  • ‪Yellowstone Perk - ‬7 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.

Property manager

Eleanor Stone

Languages

English

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  • Kitchen
  • Air conditioning
  • Outdoor Space
  • Parking available
9.8 out of 10, Exceptional, 167 reviews
BRAND NEW, CENTRALLY LOCATED ONE BLOCK FROM YELLOWSTONE NP.

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
  • Smoke-free property
  • 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
Minimum check-in age: 24

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

Pets

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

Children and extra beds

  • This property doesn't allow children

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
  • Minimum check-in age: 24

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 there parking available at this cottage?

No, this cottage doesn't offer parking.

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.

Is Perfect for two! Less than half mile from Yellowstone. 'Downtown' location. a good place to stay for couples?

Couples staying at this cottage will appreciate amenities like a kitchen and a smart TV as well as a garden.

Are there hot tubs at Perfect for two! Less than half mile from Yellowstone. 'Downtown' location.?

No, this cottage doesn't have a spa tub.

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.

Are there connecting rooms at this cottage?

No, there aren't connecting rooms at this cottage.

Are there rooms with balconies that I can book at Perfect for two! Less than half mile from Yellowstone. 'Downtown' location.?

No, you won't find accommodations with balconies at Perfect for two! Less than half mile from Yellowstone. 'Downtown' location..

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

Reviews

10

Exceptional

Rating 10 - Excellent. 192 out of 202 reviews
Rating 8 - Good. 7 out of 202 reviews
Rating 6 - Okay. 3 out of 202 reviews
Rating 4 - Poor. 0 out of 202 reviews
Rating 2 - Terrible. 0 out of 202 reviews

10/10

Cleanliness

9.2/10

Staff & service

9.6/10

Amenities

9.4/10

Property conditions & facilities

10/10

Eco-friendliness

Reviews

10/10 Excellent

ellie s.

Liked: Cleanliness

Excellent

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

10/10 Excellent

Robert S.

Liked: Cleanliness

Awesome adventure!

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

10/10 Excellent

Jean M.

Liked: Cleanliness

Totally amazing cottage!

Lilacs in full bloom, cozy and quiet, exquisitely stocked and beautifully furnished! Eleanor and Tom made this a perfect home away from home with cute unexpected extras! Super hosts
Stayed 4 nights in May 2025

10/10 Excellent

christopher h.

Liked: Cleanliness

Perfect Retreat

Everything two people could need. Yes, it’s a small cottage, but it doesn’t lack for anything and has a nice sitting area just outside. Conveniently located with a grocery store just down the street and the North entrance to the park a few minutes away. We plan to return next May. Eleanor and Tom are wonderful hosts.
Stayed 8 nights in Oct 2024

10/10 Excellent

Jessica S.

Liked: Cleanliness

Cute place in great location

We enjoyed our time in Gardiner. Host was very communicative. The unit is very well equipped with kitchen supplies, games, and park information. Easy commute into the park.
Stayed 3 nights in Oct 2024

10/10 Excellent

JoAnn J.

Liked: Cleanliness

Cozy Cottage

We enjoyed our stay at the Lilac Cottage. It was perfect for the two of us. Everything we needed for a great stay was provided by the hosts. The courtyard garden was beautiful but we did not get to enjoy it as our weather was cold and rainy. This is a great location while visiting Yellowstone.
Stayed 3 nights in Sep 2024

10/10 Excellent

Cullen B.

Liked: Cleanliness

Amazing cozy cottage

We loved our stay at the Lilac Cottage! After spending the whole day in Yellowstone we were ready to relax and enjoy a comfortable and clean place and the lilac cottage provided just that!
Stayed 1 night in Aug 2024

10/10 Excellent

Casey G.

Liked: Cleanliness

Great little house in Gardiner

My wife and I stayed here during our visit to Yellowstone National Park. If you are looking for a small place for a couple, then this is the place for you. The hosts were great.
Stayed 4 nights in Sep 2024

10/10 Excellent

Cathy M., North Carolina

Liked: Cleanliness

Lilac Cottage Comfort

Our second time at this lovely home, and enjoyed it just as much as the first time. The location is ideal to YNP, and the tourist stops if you want. We cooked our breakfasts and dinners at the cottage, the kitchen having everything you need. The owners are marvelous, and close but it is still very private. Sitting in the yard is ideal after a long day.
Stayed 3 nights in Aug 2024

10/10 Excellent

Holly R.

Liked: Cleanliness

Lilac Cottage

Wonderful!
Stayed 4 nights in Aug 2024

10/10 Excellent

Debbie w.

Liked: Cleanliness

Lovely little cottage

We really enjoyed our stay the the Lilac Cottage! Eleanor thought of everything. It was perfect great location, walking distance to everything. Would absolutely stay there again!
Stayed 3 nights in Aug 2024

10/10 Excellent

Franziska B.

Liked: Cleanliness

All around Perfect!

Ideally located just a few minutes from the North Entrance of Yellowstone Park, the Lilac Cottage offered all amenities and more. Very attention to detail and extremely comfortable for even a longer stay. The cottage was in top notch condition and very well looked after. The backyard was a serene place in the afternoon to relax with a book and glass of your favorite drink. Perfection!
Stayed 5 nights in Aug 2024

10/10 Excellent

Alex M.

Liked: Cleanliness

Convenient and Clean!

Perfect for 2 and minutes away from the North entrance. If you're going to the park don’t pass this cottage up!
Stayed 2 nights in Jul 2024

10/10 Excellent

Laurie C., Middleboro, Ma

Liked: Cleanliness

Yellowstone

We stayed our first night after a day at Yellowstone, then a second night after another day at Yellowstone. Very close to the North entrance and we had a very comfortable stay. Thank you!
Stayed 2 nights in Jul 2024

10/10 Excellent

Daniel L.

Liked: Cleanliness

Great Place to Stay Near Yellowstone

This cute and comfortable cottage was the perfect base camp for our visit to Yellowstone. The property was nicely equipped with all the essentials for our stay. The next visit to the park may be in early fall to avoid the summer crowds; I'm hoping we can land this property again when we return!
Stayed 5 nights in Jul 2024

10/10 Excellent

Ada D., Elizabeth, in

Liked: Cleanliness

Handy to Yellowstone

Gardiner is right by the north entrance of Yellowstone N.P. We were able to visit the park two days, going two different directions and returning to this cottage. Well stocked and a treat was waiting for us in the freezer! Thanks for sharing!
Stayed 2 nights in Jul 2024

10/10 Excellent

Jenny R., Rock island

Liked: Cleanliness

Yellowstone visit

This is an amazing place to stay! Can walk to restaurants and grocery store. Eleanor is super friendly. There is an information book that is put together with all the restaurants and is super helpful! Just a wonderful experience all together!
Stayed 6 nights in Jul 2024

10/10 Excellent

Janice W., Mechanicsville, Va.

Liked: Cleanliness

Quaint, convenient cottage

We recently stayed at this lovely little cottage in Gardiner. Check in was easy, cottage is in back yard of owners, they are available if needed but give you your privacy. Cottage is in walking distance of many restaurants, activities. Close to Yellowstone, which we visited several days we were there. Cottage was small but just right for two of us & had everything we needed. A lovely, relaxing stay. Would highly recommend
Stayed 4 nights in Jun 2024

10/10 Excellent

Collin M.

Liked: Cleanliness

Lovely cottage in a lovely town

We had a great time in Gardiner while we visited Yellowstone. This cottage was a perfect place to come back to after a long day in the park. It was quiet, clean, safe, and private. It had everything we needed. Eleanor and Tom are great hosts. Check in and out was very simple and easy. I would recommend this cottage to anyone!
Stayed 4 nights in Jun 2024

10/10 Excellent

Carrie G.

Liked: Cleanliness

Great stay

Everything as stated in listing. Owners gave great information!
Stayed 2 nights in Jun 2024

10/10 Excellent

G. Spencer B.

Liked: Cleanliness

Perfect for two!

The Lilac Cottage was wonderful! We loved our stay. The owners thought of everything! We enjoyed the beautiful views and cozy cottage. We had a great time relaxing in the recliners after a day of exploring Yellowstone. It was so close to everything in Gardiner. Our only regret is not being able to stay longer. 10/10
Stayed 2 nights in Jun 2024

10/10 Excellent

Connie C.

Liked: Cleanliness

Stay in Gardiner at Lilac Cottage

This cottage was absolutely beautiful and was equipped with everything anyone would ever need to be comfortable and feel at home. The English garden type yard was lovely and I could watch the birds play in the water as I downloaded the photographs that I took each day. The hosts were extremely nice and overall the stay was very pleasant and enjoyable. I highly recommend this cottage in Gardiner. Parking was really nice, too, as there is a dedicated spot. The cottage is right downtown so the store and station are minutes away.
Stayed 6 nights in Jun 2024

10/10 Excellent

Debbie

Traveled with partner
Liked: Cleanliness, amenities, property conditions & facilities
We love Lilac Cottage!! Very comfortable, quiet, and clean! Hosts have made this darling cottage available with everything you could possibly need and more!! We will stay here again!!
Stayed 2 nights in Jun 2024

10/10 Excellent

Valerie H.

Liked: Cleanliness

Montana Trip for Niece's Wedding '24

This property is the perfect cottage for a quiet, comfortable vacation spot for two with easy access to YNP. Just as advertised! The hosts are accommodating, friendly, and thoughtful, providing everything you need to make your stay feel like home. I recommend the Lilac Cottage highly.
Stayed 3 nights in Jun 2024

10/10 Excellent

Amanda B.

Liked: Cleanliness

Perfect for Two

Very clean and convenient location. The owner is super sweet and helpful. The property is well maintained and extremely clean. We will definitely be back!
Stayed 1 night in Jun 2024