Entire home

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

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

A house with a red door, a garden with a lawn, and a tree with purple flowers.
A garden with a lawn, a wooden chair, and a tree with purple flowers.
A garden with a variety of plants and flowers, a wooden bench, and a swing.
A kitchen with a refrigerator, oven, and a dining area with a table and chairs.
A dining area with a table set for two, a metal cart with kitchen items, a window with lace curtains, and a view of the outdoors.

Reviews

10 out of 10, Loved by Guests
Top 10% of guest reviews in this area

Highlights

  • Cook, dine, and unwind
    Top-rated for its fully equipped kitchen, perfect for every meal.
  • Centrally-located
    You're never far from where you need to be with this convenient location.
  • Discover nearby landmarks
    Near Yellowstone National Park
1 bathroomSleeps 2

Popular amenities

  • Onsite parking available
  • Kitchen
  • Air-conditioning
  • Barbecue grill
  • Garden
  • Free Wi-Fi

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

Where you'll sleep

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.

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House Rules

Check in after 4:00 PM
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

Property # 602487vb
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

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. Discover the area's water adventures with kayaking and rafting nearby, or enjoy the great outdoors with hiking and mountain biking.
View more Cottages in GardinerOpens in a new window
Map
Gardiner, MT

What's nearby

  • Gallatin National Forest - 1 min walk - 0.0 km
  • Yellowstone River - 2 min walk - 0.2 km
  • Parks' Fly Shop - 5 min walk - 0.4 km
  • Roosevelt Arch - 9 min walk - 0.8 km
  • Yellowstone National Park North Entrance - 17 min walk - 1.5 km

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

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

On-site parking is available at the property.

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. 244 out of 254 reviews
Rating 8 - Good. 7 out of 254 reviews
Rating 6 - Okay. 3 out of 254 reviews
Rating 4 - Poor. 0 out of 254 reviews
Rating 2 - Terrible. 0 out of 254 reviews

10/10

Cleanliness

9.2/10

Staff & service

9.6/10

Amenities

9.4/10

Property conditions & facilities

10/10

Check-in

10/10

Communication

10/10

Location

10/10

Listing accuracy

Reviews

Verified review

10/10 Excellent

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy
We had a great time in Yellowstone and enjoyed staying in your place!
Stayed 2 nights in Sep 2026
Response from VrboOwner on 10 Sept, 2026
Thanks Greg! Happy to hear you enjoyed the Park and our Cottage.
Verified review

10/10 Excellent

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy
The Lilac Cottage was perfect for my husband and I during our visit to Yellowstone. The cottage is very clean, well kept, well stocked and as cute as can be. It's very evident Eleanor and Tom put much love and care into the cottage. Such a special place!!
Stayed 3 nights in Sep 2026
Verified review

10/10 Excellent

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy
The Lilac Cottage was really sweet. Very clean. We liked that it was a couple minute walk from town, so close enough to go to restaurants, but it felt private and quiet.
Stayed 2 nights in Sep 2026
Response from VrboOwner on 11 Sept, 2026
Thanks guys! Glad it suited you well.
Verified review

10/10 Excellent

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy
Sweet comfortable cottage close to stores and restaurants. Wish we’d been there longer than one night!
Stayed 1 night in Jul 2026
Response from VrboOwner on 15 Jul, 2026
We do too! Thanks for being great guests
Verified review

10/10 Excellent

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

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy
We really enjoyed the cottage! It was very clean and cozy and perfect for a couple who is spending most of the day in the park. Eleanor was excellent with communication ahead of our arrival and you can see she really cares about creating a home feeling for guests.
Stayed 4 nights in Aug 2026
Response from VrboOwner on 11 Aug, 2026
Aw, thank you Parker! Sorry we didn’t get to meet but so glad you enjoyed the cottage and felt at home.
Verified review

10/10 Excellent

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy
Very clean and well organized with everything we would need or want. I recommend this cottage.
Stayed 2 nights in Aug 2026
Response from VrboOwner on 19 Aug, 2026
Thanks for being a great guest Laurie! Your gentle use of the cottage was appreciated.
Verified review

10/10 Excellent

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy
A lovely spot just at the gateway to Yellowstone, in a town that has loads of cute bars and restaurants to fill you up after or before your adventure. Eleanor and Tom made us feel welcome and gave us our privacy even though we shared a garden and a grill. We would definitely stay here again.
Stayed 3 nights in Jul 2026
Response from VrboOwner on 3 Aug, 2026
Thank you both and we’re so glad you appreciated the privacy.
Verified review

10/10 Excellent

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy
Great location near Yellowstone NP. Easy walking to amenities in Gardiner. Hosts made sure everything went well. Would definitely stay here again.
Stayed 4 nights in Jul 2026
Verified review

10/10 Excellent

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy
Amazing location and close to everything—walking distance to many bars, restaurants. Very cute and clean cottage with all the essentials. Private location. A must stay!! Wonderful hosts!
Stayed 4 nights in Jul 2026
Verified review

10/10 Excellent

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy
This was an excellent place to stay. Loved every minute! It was private, locally owned and really enjoyed the town. Everything was within walking distance, the locals were friendly and well informed about the park. The host was spectacular and very friendly!! We were able to get in out of the park with no worries and no long lines.
Stayed 6 nights in Jul 2026
Verified review

10/10 Excellent

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy
Lilac cottage had everything we needed and even some we didn’t know we needed! The camp chairs and cooler were very helpful. Location was great —just a few blocks from the entrance to Yellowstone. Highly recommend!
Stayed 2 nights in Jul 2026
Response from VrboOwner on 14 Jul, 2026
Glad you enjoyed your stay and sorry we didn’t meet!
Verified review

10/10 Excellent

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

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy
Lilac Cottage was perfect for my wife and I. We stayed in August and loved the place. It is right down the street from the Northern entrance so it was a perfect location. Taking a walk down to Gardiner to have a huckleberry shake was great way to cap a day in Yellowstone.Eleanor sent very helpful information before our trip and had everything that you could need when you arrived. It was nice meeting you and we would highly recommend your place to friends and family.
Stayed 3 nights in Aug 2026
Response from VrboOwner on 25 Aug, 2026
We always enjoy knowing that our guests had a great vacation. Glad that the cottage could be a part of it, Herb!
Verified review

10/10 Excellent

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

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

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy
Great, cozy, clean, well equipped place
Stayed 2 nights in Aug 2025
Response from VrboOwner on 4 Sept, 2025
Thanks so much Jim and we hope you can return someday!
Verified review

10/10 Excellent

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

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

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

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

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
Response from VrboOwner on 20 Aug, 2025
Thank you both so much for the review and I’m glad the Cottage pleased you! We like to supply it with the things that we look for when we’re on vacation away from home
Verified review

10/10 Excellent

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

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

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy
They have one of the best lots in the country, and they created a guest house to share it with others. It is so close to Yellowstone, you can see the park from the yard. I traveled solo, so I can’t say how well it would fit two people, but I found it to be perfect.Eleanor was a delight, eager to help with anything but otherwise determined to stay out of the way. She let me borrow bear spray, so I didn’t have to rent or buy it. The welcome packet was thorough, and they provide a designated parking spot.Gardiner is a cute little town, and the house is right on the main strip. You can easily walk to restaurants and shops.I highly recommend this place! (The pic was from the pizza place I walked to, right near the Roosevelt arch.)
Stayed 3 nights in Jul 2026
Response from VrboOwner on 19 Jul, 2026
How kind Becky, thank you. Tom has curated a sweet yard and we’re glad that guests like you enjoy it!

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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