Entire home

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

Choose dates to view prices

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

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

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

View in a 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

City center stay.Within a 15-minute walk of the cottage, you'll find Yellowstone National Park North Entrance and Yellowstone National Park. Gallatin National Forest and Yellowstone River are also within half a mile (1 km).

What's nearby

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

Getting around

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

Restaurants

  • ‪Wonderland Cafe & Lodge - ‬5 min walk
  • ‪Cowboy's Lodge & Grill - ‬5 min walk
  • ‪Terrace Grill - ‬14 min drive
  • ‪Mammoth Hot Springs Terrace Grill - ‬15 min drive
  • ‪Yellowstone Perk - ‬7 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.

Property manager

Eleanor Stone

Languages

English

Similar properties

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
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

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

  • No pets allowed
  • Note from host: There are no exceptions.

Children and extra beds

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

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

How close is Perfect for two! Less than half mile from Yellowstone. 'Downtown' location. to the airport?

This cottage is 56.7 mi (97-min drive) away from the West Yellowstone, MT (WYS-Yellowstone) airport, the closest popular airport to the property.

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

As of Aug 19, 2025, prices found for a 1-night stay for 2 adults at Perfect for two! Less than half mile from Yellowstone. 'Downtown' location. on Aug 26, 2025 start from $165.0, excluding 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.

Does Perfect for two! Less than half mile from Yellowstone. 'Downtown' location. have an airport shuttle?

Airport shuttle services are not available at this cottage.

Does Perfect for two! Less than half mile from Yellowstone. 'Downtown' location. offer free breakfast?

This cottage does not offer free breakfast.

Is there a casino at Perfect for two! Less than half mile from Yellowstone. 'Downtown' location.?

No, there is no casino at this cottage.

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

Check-in begins at 4:00 PM.

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

Free parking is not available at this cottage.

Does Perfect for two! Less than half mile from Yellowstone. 'Downtown' location. have a pool?

This cottage does not have a pool.

Does Perfect for two! Less than half mile from Yellowstone. 'Downtown' location. have a spa?

There are no spa services available at this cottage.

How close is Perfect for two! Less than half mile from Yellowstone. 'Downtown' location. to downtown Gardiner?

This cottage is 0.2 mi away from Gardiner.

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

Reviews

10

Exceptional

Rating 10 - Excellent. 206 out of 216 reviews
Rating 8 - Good. 7 out of 216 reviews
Rating 6 - Okay. 3 out of 216 reviews
Rating 4 - Poor. 0 out of 216 reviews
Rating 2 - Terrible. 0 out of 216 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

lisa h.

Liked: Cleanliness

A little GEM

So cute, very clean, would highly recommend. Super easy access to Yellowstone and walking distance to fun cafes and restaurants. The kitchen had everything we needed including small oven, refrigerator, toaster etc….Everything pristine and lovely!
Lilac Cottage
North Yellowstone
Sunset, North Yellowstone
Mammoth
Stayed 3 nights in Aug 2025

10/10 Excellent

Ryan G.

Liked: Cleanliness
Stayed 2 nights in Jul 2025

10/10 Excellent

sheila p.

Liked: Cleanliness

Sweet garden

Wish we could have stayed longer! Sweet garden!
Stayed 1 night in Jul 2025

10/10 Excellent

Matthew P.

Liked: Cleanliness
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

Traci D., SIMPSONVILLE,SC

Liked: Cleanliness

Perfect host and location

The cottage was better than advertised! The hosts were very accommodating. The kitchen had everything you needed and included a few treats for us. Our only regret is that our stay was not longer.
Stayed 2 nights in Jul 2025

10/10 Excellent

Julie L.

Liked: Cleanliness
We loved the location, it was easy check in and check out process. My husband has mobility issues but was still able to move around fine in the small space. Would highly recommend!
Stayed 2 nights in Jul 2025

10/10 Excellent

TIM H.

Liked: Cleanliness
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

10/10 Excellent

Lindsey C.

Liked: Cleanliness

Perfect :)

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

10/10 Excellent

Christy S., Hurricane, WV

Liked: Cleanliness

I didn’t want to leave!

We sure loved this place. If I were a VRBO host, it’s exactly how my rental would look and be. Hands down, my favorite place we’ve stayed.
Stayed 2 nights in Jun 2025

10/10 Excellent

Martha N.

Liked: Cleanliness
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

10/10 Excellent

Chris ..

Liked: Cleanliness

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

Doug W.

Liked: Cleanliness
Host was awesome
Stayed 2 nights in Jun 2025

10/10 Excellent

Lucinda B.

Liked: Cleanliness
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

10/10 Excellent

Brian D.

Liked: Cleanliness
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

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