Museum open May–Oct in a former train depot featuring artifacts from West Yellowstone history.
The Museum of the Yellowstone is dedicated to telling the story of travel to and through Yellowstone National Park, and the Park’s influence on West Yellowstone and the Hebgen Lake Basin. The Museum is managed by the Yellowstone Historic Center, a non-profit located in West Yellowstone.
Founded in 1908, the community of West Yellowstone began with the arrival of rail service to this location. Explore the stories of the growth and changes that occurred in this town as it developed into a true community. The railroad facilities built by the Union Pacific Railroad in West Yellowstone are encompassed in the West Yellowstone Oregon Shortline Terminus Historic District. Discover the stories of the buildings and structures in the Historic District, and see historic photos of them.
The forms of transportation bringing tourists to Yellowstone National Park have changed mightily though the years – from horses and stagecoaches to modern airplanes. Learn about the evolution of travel to Yellowstone in this region with special challenges for transportation.
Directions
To find the Museum, look for the Bronze bear statue on the front lawn, the stagecoaches on the front porch, the bright yellow water wagon near the front entrance, and the large sign on the corner. The Museum is conveniently located two blocks west of the West entrance to Yellowstone National Park. Free parking is available. Check our hours and admission and plan to stop in on your way into or out of Yellowstone.
Admission to the Museum is good for two consecutive days. The admission includes all exhibits in the Museum as well as the films in the Museum that play throughout the day. In 2021, Museum of the Yellowstone will be showing the following films: Yellowstone Aflame, Earthquake of 1959, Above Yellowstone, and Dudes & Sagebrushers.
The Museum also offers free, guided walking tours of the Historic District of West Yellowstone. These special tours offer a one-of-a-kind look at the structures located within and near the Historic District. Tours meet on the front porch of the Museum throughout the summer.
The Museum of the Yellowstone is open May 8th through September 30th. Current hours of operation are 10 a.m. to 6 p.m. Monday through Friday.
