Dining in History: The Old Faithful Inn Dining Room
If you are planning a trip to Yellowstone National Park, there is one meal that serves as much history as it does food: dinner at the Old Faithful Inn Dining Room. Located within the largest log structure in the world, this dining room offers an atmosphere that is arguably unmatched by any other restaurant in the National Park System.
Architectural Splendor
The first thing you’ll notice isn’t the menu, but the ceiling. The dining room is a masterclass in “Parkitecture,” featuring towering log beams and a massive stone fireplace that anchors the room. While the restaurant itself doesn’t offer a direct view of the famous Old Faithful Geyser, the interior ambiance—steeped in over a century of history—more than compensates for it.
What to Expect: Dining & Reservations
Planning your meal here requires a bit of strategy, as it is one of the most popular spots in the park.
- Breakfast & Lunch: These meals are first come, first served. It’s a great way to experience the room without the stress of a booking.
- Dinner: Reservations are required. * In-Park Guests: If you are staying at the Old Faithful Inn, you can book up to 60 days in advance. Guests at other Yellowstone lodges or campgrounds can book up to 30 days out.
- Day Visitors: If you aren’t staying overnight, you can check for same-day availability in person at the host stand.
- Dress Code: Despite the grand setting, the vibe is strictly casual. You are in a national park, after all; hiking boots and flannels are perfectly acceptable.
Operating Dates
For the 2026 season, the dining room is scheduled to be open from May 1, 2026, through October 12, 2026.