8 Best Hotels in Helena, Bozeman, and Southwest Montana, Montana

Consisting of 50 warmly appointed, contemporary cabins set among five clusters across the street from West Yellowstone's Grizzly & Wolf Discovery Center, this family- and pet-friendly compound is an ideal base for visiting the national park. Each climate-controlled cabin has a nicely outfitted kitchenette, and most have indoor fireplaces. Bathrooms are modern and well-designed with walk-in showers, and guests are provided with complimentary s'mores kits to use around the community firepits.

On a pretty bend of the Yellowstone River in the heart of downtown Gardiner, this immaculate little compound of cottages, suites, and studios that sleep from two to six guests has kitchens or kitchenettes in every unit along with good Wi-Fi and private exterior entrances. A common deck overlooking the river is a great spot to relax and mingle, or you can cook dinner on one of the guest grills. Four of the suites have private decks with river views, too.

This rambling, quirky spa hotel opened in 1900, offering guests leisurely soaks in its 96°F–103°F hot-spring pools and accommodations with views of 10,920-foot Emigrant Peak and the Absaroka–Beartooth Wilderness beyond. The historic property features two large outdoor soaking pools, lots of meeting space, a hilltop spa offering a wide variety of treatments, and a mix of upscale cabins, covered wagons, and simpler rooms in the main lodge (some share a bath). The excellent restaurant serves creatively prepared local game, steaks, and fish. Painter Charles Russell (1864–1926) once stayed here.

This resort between Anaconda and Butte is a great option for families. Although not much to look at, the Fairmont (not affiliated with the similarly named luxury hotel chain) has naturally heated indoor and outdoor swimming pools, a 350-foot waterslide, a playground, and a day spa in a beautiful setting. There's also an 18-hole golf course on the grounds.

Remodeled in 2021, this motor-court-style motel brings a mid-century modern touch to Bozeman and has some of the most competitive room rates in town. There's ample parking in front of each room. 

This friendly year-round compound that offers everything from rustic but economical motel rooms to roomy cabins that can sleep up to 10 guests has the perfect location for exploring Lamar Valley—it's in tiny and tranquil Silver Gate, a mile from Yellowstone's Northeast Entrance. The log-style buildings exude Western charm, and cabins have porches and outdoor seating areas; most have kitchens. An on-site general store is stocked with light groceries, beer and wine, and outdoor gear.

A towering stone fireplace and lots of natural wood greet guests in the lobby of this eco-friendly property. The homey hotel's handcrafted furniture is made from recycled natural materials. Rooms are lodge-themed and have nice touches like wildlife prints. Goldilocks and the Three Bears rooms are a real treat for kids. Creature comforts include a pool. Lower-priced motel rooms offer economy and access to the lovely lodge.

On the west end of Gardiner across from the Yellowstone River, this mid-range hotel provides a variety of room types and plenty of amenities to keep you entertained between day trips into Yellowstone. Facilities include a heated indoor pool, a basketball court, and a picnic area.