Yellowstone Country Inn

This hotel's most notable feature is its exceptional proximity to Yellowstone National Park's west entrance, making it an ideal base for sightseers and families eager to explore the park. Many guests find it to be a good value option in the often-expensive West Yellowstone area, especially those who secure its spacious rooms or family suites that can accommodate larger groups. While some rooms have been recently updated, others are described as dated and in need of renovation. The hotel is generally considered suitable for budget-conscious travelers who prioritize location over extensive amenities. However, recurring themes in guest feedback include inconsistent Wi-Fi connectivity and a general lack of in-room conveniences. To ensure a comfortable stay, it is advisable to confirm specific room amenities like a microwave or refrigerator upon booking, and to be prepared for potential internet access limitations.

Facilities & Amenities
Guests frequently note the absence of an elevator, requiring a walk up stairs to access upper-floor rooms, which can be inconvenient for some. A pervasive issue highlighted by many is the unreliable and often unusable Wi-Fi, with connectivity frequently limited to the lobby area, making it difficult to stay connected in rooms. The ice machine is consistently reported as broken, forcing guests to purchase bags of ice from the office. Many rooms lack a coffee maker, phone, or alarm clock, which are standard amenities in most accommodations. Furthermore, the availability of microwaves and refrigerators varies significantly by room, often requiring specific requests. Guests also report issues with the TV service, including limited channels and frequent signal loss, making it largely unwatchable. Some rooms also suffer from a scarcity of working outlets and non-functional hair dryers.

Cleanliness & Room Comfort
Feedback on cleanliness and room comfort is notably mixed. While some guests describe their rooms as clean and spacious, particularly the larger suites, a significant number report issues such as filthy carpets, stains on furniture, and even mold or musty odors in bathrooms. The overall impression for many is one of dated decor and a property in need of major renovation, with observations of peeling wallpaper, worn furniture, and uneven floors. Comfortable beds are mentioned by some, but many others found them lumpy, sloped, or generally uncomfortable, impacting sleep quality. Noise levels are a frequent complaint, with thin walls allowing sounds from neighbors and road traffic to disturb guests. Additionally, issues like broken blinds, non-functional heating, small bathrooms, low water pressure, and a lack of towel racks or hooks are commonly reported, detracting from the overall room experience.

Dining & Food Quality
The hotel does not offer a full breakfast service, which is a common point of disappointment for guests, especially given the early starts often required for park visits. While coffee is provided in the lobby area, its availability is frequently limited, with some guests reporting that it is not ready early in the morning or is put away too soon, leading to frustration. There are no in-room coffee makers, meaning guests must rely on the lobby offering or seek coffee elsewhere in town. This consistent lack of on-site dining options means guests need to plan for their meals, particularly breakfast, by visiting nearby establishments. For those staying in the larger suites equipped with kitchenettes, the ability to prepare their own meals offers a significant advantage and cost-saving opportunity, though this amenity is not universally available across all room types.

Location & Accessibility
The hotel's central location is consistently praised as a major advantage, being just minutes from the Yellowstone National Park west entrance. This prime spot allows guests easy access to the park for early morning excursions or late evening returns. Beyond the park, the hotel is within easy walking distance to various shopping and restaurants in West Yellowstone, providing convenience for meals and souvenirs. However, parking is a significant and recurring concern, with many guests describing the lot as crowded, tricky, or simply too small, leading to difficulties finding a spot, especially during peak hours. Additionally, the absence of an elevator means guests must use stairs to reach upper-floor rooms, which can be challenging for those with mobility issues or heavy luggage.

Staff & Service
Feedback regarding the staff and service is quite varied. Many guests commend the friendly staff at the front desk, describing them as helpful and accommodating, particularly during the quick check-in process. Some also appreciate the attentive service from housekeeping. However, a notable number of reviews express dissatisfaction, citing staff who appeared disinterested, unhelpful, or even rude, especially when addressing issues like non-working amenities or room problems. There are also reports of staff being unavailable or slow in their responsiveness to guest requests, such as providing ice or addressing maintenance concerns. This inconsistency suggests that while some guests experience positive interactions, others encounter service that falls short of expectations.

Additional Information
Many guests feel the hotel is overpriced for the quality of accommodation provided, often attributing the high rates to its desirable location near the park rather than the property condition or amenities. Some reviews mention unexpected surcharges that increase the final cost significantly. Issues with the cancellation policy are also highlighted, with guests expressing frustration over strict rules that prevent refunds or date changes, even in unforeseen circumstances. The hotel's office hours are a point of concern for some, as the front desk is not staffed 24/7 and may not open before 7 AM, which can be inconvenient for early departures or late arrivals. Overall, the hotel is frequently described as an older establishment that, despite some updates, is still in need of considerable tender loving care.