Top 8 Things To Do In Yellowstone National Park - Besides See Old Faithful

Have you been to America’s first National Park? If so, congrats! You have experienced some of the coolest country the USA has to offer. If not, do not worry.

Today I will be going over an important topic: top sights and things to do in Yellowstone National Park — that are NOT Old Faithful. Trust me, you’ll thank me later. Let’s dive in!

1. The Grand Canyon of the Yellowstone

Don’t think of a giant canyon when you think of Yellowstone? Well you should! This canyon hosts two impressive waterfalls: the upper falls and the lower falls. The lower falls has spectacular viewing through various spots along the canyon, from a far away view (like pictured) to standing at the brink itself. Do yourself a favor and make the stop, you won’t regret it.

2. Visit the Rangers Cabin museum

A bit off the beaten path, the Rangers Cabin museum is well worth the stop. Located next to a popular geyser basin sits this quaint attraction. Ever wondered what life is like for a backcountry ranger? Well look no further! Get a hands on tour of a model backcountry cabin filled with real life relics and stories of famous rangers. The perfect touch of history to level up your Yellowstone adventure.

3. Art Gallery at Canyon Village

Thought there wouldn’t be any art in Yellowstone? Think again! At the Canyon visitors center, indulge yourself in the upstairs art exhibition. View famous paintings of the Canyon Falls (you really gotta see the first point) as well as various taxidermy animals you’ll encounter while in the park. A little culture never hurt anyone.

4. Visit the Gateway Towns

There’s more than one way to get into Yellowstone. From Cody, WY and Jackson, WY to Cooke City, MT and West Yellowstone, you can’t pick a bad entrance. But do yourself a favor and follow the path less taken. As cool as Jackson is, it’s expensive and crowded. Try going through Cooke City and the Beartooths. Or stop by the Buffalo Bill Museum in Cody on your way in. They don’t call is the Greater Yellowstone Ecosystem for nothing, check out what all the little towns have to offer, you won’t be disappointed!

5. Eat Dinner at Lake Hotel

I understand this may be a splurge, but it’s worth it. It’s not every day you get to eat at a fancy restaurant, in a National Park, by a beautiful lake at sunset. Split a meal if you’d like, but in my opinion, it’s worth the stop. The iconic yellow lake hotel is a special gem in dear Yellowstone. Check it out for yourself.

6. Find a Hike

What’s so amazing about 2.2 million acres? Endless hiking! And there’s a trail for everyone. But because Yellowstone is so popular, I would suggest stopping by a rangers station and talking to one of the National Park workers find the perfect hike for you. A little off the beaten path never hurt anyone — especially with such gorgeous scenery and wildlife to check out!

PS: try checking out lamar valley near the river for some beautiful trails, if you don’t mind sharing with the fly fishermen.

7. Stop at Every Waterfall

You might think a waterfall isn’t so jaw-dropping, but in Yellowstone, every fall is worth the stop. Take the time to enjoy the small stuff and don’t be in a rush. You may just miss the magic.

8. Book a Horseback + Carriage Ride

And I couldn’t end this post without touching on my favorite thing in the park: horses! Didn’t think there were horses in Yellowstone? Think again! Through May – September, over 200 horses call Yellowstone home. Plan to stop by Canyon Village for a one or two hour ride through the forest or Roosevelt Lodge to see Yellowstone the original way — on a wagon ride. Even if you aren’t an expert horseman, these rides are for you. The horses and wranglers are there to make sure you have a memorial ride. See the backcountry the original way!

So there you have it, 8 things to do in and around Yellowstone National Park — besides Old Faithful. Have you been before? What was your favorite part? I’d love to hear from you in the comment section! Let’s get adventuring folks!