Yellowstone National Park's Scenic Lodge Is Perfect For A Romantic Nature Getaway

While national parks show off some of the most incredible nature across the United States, many of these destinations have on-site lodging options that offer the comforts of a modern hotel. Even better, these options often exist without impeding upon the surrounding nature. From the old-school Many Glacier Hotel in Glacier National Park to accommodations overlooking Crater Lake, the deepest lake in the U.S., these serene escapes turn a national park visit into a relaxing vacation.

Wyoming is home to Yellowstone, the world's first national park. This section of the state received its protected park status way back in 1872. The Old Faithful Inn opened for visitors three decades later in 1904. This giant log cabin (said to be the biggest log structure in the world) is exactly the type of lodging you'd want to see in a place with such rare and globally famous natural features. Old Faithful Inn fits perfectly with Yellowstone's forested and mountainous backdrop, while offering interiors and amenities ideal for a romantic getaway. Plus, as the name suggests, it is located within view of Old Faithful, Yellowstone's most beloved geothermal element. Old Faithful Inn is now a designated National Historic Landmark, too, bringing an extra air of history to its steamy surroundings. Note that the property is only open seasonally during the warm-weather months.

All rooms at the Old Faithful Inn are private, and you can choose one that sleeps two for a relaxing couple's getaway. Keep in mind that rooms in the the Old House part of Old Faithful Inn have communal bathrooms and showers. This should hardly be a deterrent, as the wood-paneled interiors and vintage furnishings make rooms in the Old House look like cozy log cabins from a Western film. East and west wing rooms do include their own bathrooms, or at least showers, but have more of a standard hotel appearance.

No matter your room choice, be sure to stop by the main dining room. In keeping with the cozy log cabin design, this restaurant's interior is nearly entirely wood. However, what makes having a meal here feel even more romantic is the stone fireplace and kerosine-inspired chandeliers. The food itself is the cherry on top. The dining room is open for breakfast and lunch, though you'll need to make a reservation for dinner, and dishes range from salads to prime ribs. Perhaps end the evening with drinks at the inn's secluded Bear Pit Lounge as well.

The Old Faithful Inn is the perfect starting point for any Yellowstone adventure because it gets you close to much more of what makes Yellowstone famous than just the Old Faithful geyser. The inn is right by the walking paths that weave around the park's geysers and the many thermal pools bubbling with vibrant colors. Fan favorites along these paths include the greenish-blue Morning Glory Pool and the uniquely shaped Grotto Geyser.

Guided tours focusing on multiple aspects of Yellowstone depart from Old Faithful Inn. A particularly enchanting tour departing from the property is called Twilight on the Firehole. With this tour, a vintage yellow bus will take you on a two-hour drive as the sun goes down over the surrounding valley. Keep an eye out for wildlife and steam from the thermal pools. Sometimes, you can even see stars in the sky by the end of the tour. Given that sunset times change with the seasons, be sure to check departure times online when booking your spots.