Taste of the West
Let me tell you, feeding a family while on vacation can be quite the adventure. But here in West Yellowstone? It's a breeze! As a mom of both little ones and teens, I've discovered that staying at the Kelly Inn West Yellowstone is like hitting the jackpot when it comes to keeping everyone's tummies happy and full.
First off, can we talk about how amazing it is to have so many great dining options nearby? After a long day of corralling kids through Yellowstone National Park, the last thing I want to do is search far and wide for a good meal. From the Kelly Inn, we're perfectly situated to enjoy some of the best eats in town.
Now, let's talk about the food. Our days always start at the Running Bear Pancake House. Talk about a breakfast that fuels you for a day of adventure! My teenagers can't get enough of their huge stacks of pancakes, while my little one adores their "bear cub" sized portions. And me? I'm all about their hearty omelets packed with delicious ingredients. It's become our morning ritual, and I swear the smell of coffee and syrup is enough to get even my grumpiest teen out of bed with a smile.
For dinner, we've got a couple of favorites. Madison Crossing Lounge has been a go-to spot. It's only a five-minute stroll from Kelly Inn, which is perfect when you're dealing with tired kids (and equally tired parents!). They've got this amazing trout dish that's absolutely delicious - it's so good, it's even tempted my "I don't eat fish" son to give it a try.
But let me tell you about our newest obsession: Firehole BBQ. Oh. My. Goodness. This place is a carnivore's dream come true! My husband and teenage son practically drool at the mention of their name. And get this – they're not just locally famous, they're nationally recognized! Firehole BBQ has won several awards at the National BBQ Cup, including Grand Champion. Yes, you heard that right – we've got championship-level BBQ right here in West Yellowstone!
As if that wasn't cool enough, Firehole BBQ was even featured on the Travel Channel show "Diners Drive Ins and Dives." My kids thought it was the coolest thing ever to eat at a "TV famous" restaurant. Their pulled pork is out of this world, and don't even get me started on the brisket. Even my picky eater cleaned her plate!
Now, if you've got a sweet tooth in the family (and let's be honest, who doesn't?), you've got to try the huckleberry ice cream. It's a local specialty that you can find at several spots around town. My youngest has dubbed it "purple heaven," and now it's all she talks about. It's become our special dessert treat, and hunting for the best scoop in town has turned into a fun family activity.
But here's the real secret – and fellow moms, listen up – West Yellowstone has some fantastic options for when Mom and Dad need a little grown-up time. After the kids are tuckered out from a day of adventure (thank you, comfortable Kelly Inn beds!), my husband and I have snuck out for a quick drink at the Yellowstone Tap Room. They've got this amazing selection of Montana microbrews and local spirits. It's like a little oasis of adult conversation, just a short walk away from our home base at Kelly Inn.
And let's not forget about those crisp Montana mornings when you need a strong cup of coffee to face a day of family activities. The Book Peddler, right by the Kelly Inn, has been my lifesaver. Great coffee, yummy pastries, and books! It's my little moment of zen before the day's excitement begins.
What I love most about the food scene here is how it changes with the seasons. In spring, we've enjoyed fresh salads at Madison Crossing that even got my veggie-averse son to eat something green. Summer brought us amazing berry desserts that had my daughter proclaiming she was going to become a "berry farmer" when she grows up. Fall? Oh, the apple treats! And in winter, there's nothing better than warming up with a hearty elk chili after a day of snow adventures.
Staying at the Kelly Inn West Yellowstone has made our family vacations so much easier and tastier. There's something for everyone, from my adventurous eater to my "I only eat chicken nuggets" phase kid.
If you're planning a family trip to Yellowstone, take it from this mom – the Kelly Inn is where you want to be. Not just for the comfy rooms and the pool (which, trust me, you'll appreciate after a long day), but for the convenient access to all these amazing food options.
So, come on over to the Kelly Inn West Yellowstone. Where the beds are comfy, the food is fantastic, and making your kids happy is just a stone's throw away. Your family food adventure awaits!
Remember, kids, calories don't count on vacation! (Okay, they do, but with all the exploring you'll be doing in Yellowstone, it all balances out, right? Right???)