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

Cottage with kitchen, near Yellowstone National Park North Entrance

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

Lilac Cottage is behind apple tree and among lilac bushes bordering the yard.
The cottage sits behind the owners' home. This is the backyard.
Lilac Cottage guests have a sweet yard to enjoy.
Entry to cottage. Bathroom and kitchen in view.
Eating area.

Reviews

10 out of 10
Exceptional
1 bathroomSleeps 246.5 sq m

Popular amenities

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

Explore the area

View map
  • Place, Roosevelt Arch
  • Place, Yellowstone National Park North Entrance
  • Place, Mammoth Hot Springs
  • Airport, West Yellowstone, MT (WYS-Yellowstone)

Rooms & beds

0 bedrooms (sleeps 2)

STUDIO

1 Queen Bed

1 bathroom

Bathroom 1

Bathtub or shower · Toilet

Spaces

Kitchen
Garden
Dining area

About this property

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.

Add dates for prices

Amenities

Kitchen
Free WiFi
Air conditioning
Outdoor space
Parking available
Barbecue

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House Rules

Check in after 4:00 PM
Minimum age to rent: 24
Check out before 11:00 AM
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Children

Adults only
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Events

No events allowed
Groups staying nearby cannot congregate here
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Pets

No pets allowed
There are no exceptions.
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Smoking

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

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
On-site parties or group events are strictly prohibited
Note from host: Groups staying nearby cannot congregate here
Host has indicated that there is a carbon monoxide detector on the property
Host has indicated that there is a smoke detector on the property
Safety features at this property include a fire extinguisher and a deadlock

We should mention

This property does not have any lifts
A car is recommended for transport to and from this property

About the area

Gardiner

Located in Gardiner, this cottage is in the city centre. The area's natural beauty can be seen at Yellowstone National Park North Entrance and Yellowstone National Park. Make sure you get close to the area's animals with activities such as game walks and birdwatching.
View more Cottages in GardinerOpens in a new window
Map
Gardiner, MT

What's nearby

  • Parks' Fly Shop - 5 min walk - 0.4 km
  • Roosevelt Arch - 8 min walk - 0.7 km
  • Gardiner Community Library - 8 min walk - 0.7 km
  • Yellowstone National Park North Entrance - 16 min walk - 1.3 km
  • Mammoth Hot Springs - 18 min drive - 10.4 km

Getting around

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

Restaurants

  • ‪Mammoth Hot Springs Hotel Dining Room - ‬14 min drive
  • ‪Terrace Grill - ‬14 min drive
  • ‪Wonderland Cafe & Lodge - ‬5 min walk
  • ‪Antler Bar and Grill - ‬11 min walk
  • ‪Cowboy's Lodge & Grill - ‬5 min walk

Frequently asked questions

Is Perfect for two! Less than half mile from Yellowstone. 'Downtown' location. pet-friendly?

No, pets are not allowed at this property.

How much does it cost to stay at Perfect for two! Less than half mile from Yellowstone. 'Downtown' location.?

As of 1 November 2025, prices found for a 1-night stay for 2 adults at Perfect for two! Less than half mile from Yellowstone. 'Downtown' location. on 16 November 2025 start from NZ$286.09, including taxes and fees. This price is based on the lowest nightly price found in the last 24 hours for stays in the next 30 days. Prices are subject to change. Choose your dates for more accurate prices.

What time is check-in at Perfect for two! Less than half mile from Yellowstone. 'Downtown' location.?

Check-in begins at 4:00 PM.

What time is check-out at Perfect for two! Less than half mile from Yellowstone. 'Downtown' location.?

Checkout is at 11:00 AM.

Where is Perfect for two! Less than half mile from Yellowstone. 'Downtown' location. located?

Located in the heart of Gardiner, this cottage is within a 15-minute walk of Gallatin National Forest, Yellowstone National Park North Entrance and Yellowstone National Park. Yellowstone River and Parks' Fly Shop are also within 5 minutes.

Reviews

10

Exceptional

Reviews are presented in chronological order, subject to a moderation process, and verified unless otherwise labelled.
Learn moreOpens in a new window
Rating 10 - Excellent. 218 out of 228 reviews
Rating 8 - Good. 7 out of 228 reviews
Rating 6 - Okay. 3 out of 228 reviews
Rating 4 - Poor. 0 out of 228 reviews
Rating 2 - Terrible. 0 out of 228 reviews

10/10

Cleanliness

9.2/10

Staff & service

9.6/10

Amenities

9.4/10

Property conditions & facilities

10/10

Eco-friendliness

10/10

Check-in

10/10

Communication

10/10

Location

10/10

Listing accuracy

Reviews

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

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

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

10/10 Excellent

Oliver D.

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy
The concerns and hospitality of the host was amazing. They made sure we knew all the ins and outs of visiting their area in non-opportune times. They even texted us during our stay to make sure we were aware of changing wheather conditions. On top of all that the lodging was so comfy and cozy and they provided items to make the stay even better. I will be a return guest. Not sure you can say anthying better than that.
Stayed 2 nights in Oct 2025

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

10/10 Excellent

Lucy C.

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy
This little place was awesome! So close to the park, walkable town, and an amazing host. The host thought of everything. Lighting in the cottage was perfect and thoughtful, there were 2 new recliners that were amazing after hiking all day, the bed was comfortable, and even the towels were top notch. Also the kitchen had everything we needed to cook several meals. The yard was immaculate and charming. We loved our stay here!
Stayed 4 nights in Sep 2025

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

10/10 Excellent

Lindsey C.

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

Perfect :)

Very comfortable two nights and it had everything we needed.
Stayed 2 nights in Jun 2025

10/10 Excellent

Ed F.

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

Yellowstone Getaway

This was a perfect location for my wife and I to spend 3-4 days exploring Yellowstone. Tom and Eleanor are fantastic hosts and were very accomodating. Location was great and we would stay here again in a heartbeat!!
Stayed 4 nights in May 2024

10/10 Excellent

Alex M.

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

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

Mark R.

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy
This was the perfect size place to stay for the two of us. The cottage is so beautifully decorated and comfortable. We found ourselves ending the nights on the recliner chairs catching up after a long day in Yellowstone hiking. All of the restaurants and downtown shops are just across the bridge from the home and we walked to dinner both nights. The bed is on the separate side of the cottage from the kitchen and table which made it great for me to get up early and be in a separate area with my laptop and coffee while my girlfriend could sleep in a little longer. We only stayed two nights, but would definitely stay here longer if we make it back out. I was not able to find a corkscrew anywhere in the kitchen, so either I did not look well enough or they did not have one. I carry my own small cheap version with me (we love to relax with some wine at the end of the day). The ice-cream in the freezer was a really nice treat.
Stayed 2 nights in Oct 2025

10/10 Excellent

Jeffery H., Portland

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

Great location. Great space. Great host.

The property is very close to the north entrance which makes access great. The property is well stocked for meal preparation. The owners are very accommodating. I would stay again.
Stayed 5 nights in Aug 2021

10/10 Excellent

JoAnn J.

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

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

Einat O.

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy
This was truly the most generous hospitality I’ve ever experienced. Everything was prepared with care and thoughtfulness. The place itself is cute, cozy, and welcoming - shining clean and maintained at the highest standard.The kitchen and pantry were exceptionally well equipped, which allowed us to cook our own meals with ease. We especially appreciated being able to use the property’s grill.It was clear that the Stones went above and beyond to think of everything a guest might need.The location is also excellent - just a short drive to the northern entrance of Yellowstone, which made exploring the park very easy. Having a grocery store nearby was extremely convenient.Beyond the amenities and location, what really stood out was the warmth and generosity of the hospitality. We felt cared for and comfortable throughout our stay. It felt like being welcomed into a home.We would absolutely recommend this property wholeheartedly to anyone looking for a relaxing, spotless, and thoughtfully prepared getaway.
Stayed 2 nights in Sep 2025

10/10 Excellent

fred b., Silver Spring

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

All the comforts of home

Everything thing we needed was there. Very comfortable and quiet. Perfect home base to explore Yellowstone.
Stayed 3 nights in Sep 2020

10/10 Excellent

Thomas C.

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

Great place

Convenient location with great hospitality. Hosts have the best equipped B&B we have ever stayed at! Everything that you would have at home from paper clips to pancake mix. Beautiful gardens and flowers. Easy and quick access to Yellowstone.
Stayed 3 nights in Jun 2023

10/10 Excellent

Valerie H.

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

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

Terrisa B.

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

Hidden gem near Yellowstone Nat Park (YNP)

The "Lilac Cottage" was the perfect get away and just minutes away from YNP. Beautifully crafted inside and out, Eleanor & Tom's hidden gem provided us everything we could ever need inside along with a beautiful garden outside to sit enjoy our morning coffee and cocktails at sunset. We would stay again! Thanks Eleanor & Tom D&T Bernard
Stayed 4 nights in Aug 2023

10/10 Excellent

G. Spencer B.

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

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

Ada D.

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

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

Anthony L., Huntington Beach

The Lilac Cottage

Already miss the Lilac's blooms! Can't say enough good about our stay. Elenor and Tom have thought of everything to make your stay as comfortable as possible. It was nice to know they are right there IF NEEDED but give you all the privacy you need. Location is PERFECT to the park entrance and Gardiner is a fun little town to explore. GO and ENJOY! We did.
Stayed 8 nights in Jun 2018

10/10 Excellent

Jeffrey R., Millersville

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

Lilac Cottage

We loved staying at the cottage. Everything was perfect. Cottage was well appointed with everything you would need and then some. Right in town and easy to walk to restaurants, bars and shopping. Backyard has chairs and is great place to relax with drink after spending day in Yellowstone. Tom and Eleanor were friendly and answered all our questions about town. Tom is a retired park employee and can fill you in on Yellowstone. Great time at Lilac Cottage.
Stayed 3 nights in Aug 2019

10/10 Excellent

Jill H., Ohio

Perfect, little home away from home

Eleanor and Tom were wonderful hosts. There for you if you need them, but never comprised our privacy. The cottage is wonderful - even spotted an elk outside the kitchen window one morning. The cottage was VERY well stocked: games, movies, kitchen stuff including spices, blankets, etc., and nice outdoor seating area. Easy walk to grocery and Catholic church. Reserved parking spot. Incredible location - just north of the north entrance to Yellowstone.
Stayed 4 nights in Jun 2018

10/10 Excellent

William P.

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

Lilac Cottage Adventure

First time to Yellowstone. We had a great vacation. Our hosts, Eleanor and Tom, were tremendous. You need any info, they had it for you. The cottage was beautiful and very accommodating. When we moved in we were greeted by two elk at our door. Never had to go far to get anywhere. Did lots of walking. Cottage is centrally located in town. Next time in Gardiner/Yellowstone , we will definitely stay at the Lilac Cottage. A big Thank You to the Stone's.
Stayed 4 nights in Jul 2020

10/10 Excellent

DONALD W., Huntersville

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

Truly a home away from home!!

Staying here truly added to make our trip the "Trip of a Lifetime"! Eleanor and Tom were so gracious and kind. They really thought of everything. When my wife or I were looking for something and said to each other, "I bet Eleanor has it around here somewhere". And we were correct!!! It is a little piece of heaven and a stone's throw from Yellowstone. We felt at home the entire time and didn't want to leave! To Eleanor, we have to return after Covid and give you that big hug we promised!!!
Stayed 6 nights in Aug 2020

About the host

Hosted by Eleanor Stone

Host profile image
Tom and Eleanor Stone came to Yellowstone Park in the late 70s and early 80s, met and were married here. We worked in the interior of the Park for a number of years and then settled in Gardiner in 1989. We raised our two daughters in Gardiner. Newly retired in 2019 from work in Yellowstone, Tom enjoys gardening, cooking, fly fishing, reading, home projects, and learning Italian. When not working at a local cattle and guest ranch, Eleanor loves to read, take walks, nordic ski, volunteer in the community, keep in touch with her very large family, and help Tom care for the house and cottage. We have been hosting family and friends in the Lilac Cottage for years and it makes us HAPPY to have opened it in 2014 to newcomers and folks who want to enjoy the area.

Why they chose this property

We have lived in Yellowstone/Gardiner for over 40 years and have owned our home and backyard cottage since 1995. The neighborhood is a mix of residential and commercial. With all the TLC we've poured into this property you can see from the reviews that the folks who love it most are the ones who enjoy that charm of the old cottage and the beautiful, outdoor space to relax. If you prefer a "newly built place" kind of character, or a vacation rental with owners far away, this may not suit your vacation.

What makes this property unique

We love our home and cottage because of its location. It is handy to go out the door to run errands, grab a meal, raft, rent an e-bike, shop, or hop into Yellowstone, and yet this downtown property has a surprising ability to tuck you away. We love the old fashioned comfort of this small, historic property and work to keep it that way. We purposely keep the nightly rate of Lilac Cottage reasonable for this area. The reason is that we think that the additional 12% taxes (8% state and 4% local) plus the $50 cleaning fee plus the taxable VRBO Service Fee add enough to your charges! We are making our rate fair in comparison to small vacation rentals in the area and even to Gardiner motels.

Languages:

English

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