Our last two days in Yellowstone with kids were the perfect mix of awe and adventure. We had already explored geysers, canyons, and wildlife, but I wanted to end the trip with two things: a classic Yellowstone moment and something totally new. We got both — watching Old Faithful erupt in all its glory and then riding side-by-sides through the mountains of Big Sky, Montana.
Breakfast at Three Bear Lodge
By day three, we were all a little tired from our big adventures, so we decided to start slow. We went into town for breakfast at Three Bear Lodge Restaurant and their buffet did not disappoint. Pancakes, bacon, eggs — the works. It was the kind of hearty breakfast that fills you up for a day in the park.
The kids loved picking their own food, and everyone left happy.
Max said, “Best breakfast of the trip!”
After breakfast, we packed up for another day of exploring Yellowstone with kids, heading straight for the most famous spot in the park — Old Faithful.
Seeing Old Faithful
There’s a reason Old Faithful is one of the most popular attractions in Yellowstone. It’s not just the eruption — though that part is incredible — it’s the feeling of standing there with hundreds of other people, all waiting for the same moment.
We arrived about 20 minutes before the next eruption, which gave us time to walk through the Old Faithful Inn. The inn itself is worth a visit — a giant log lodge with balconies, creaky floors, and old fireplaces that make you feel like you’ve stepped back in time. The construction with logs is so cool!
When the geyser finally erupted, it was everything I hoped for. The kids’ faces lit up as water shot into the sky, and we could feel the heat and hear the hiss from where we stood on the boardwalk.
Ted said, “It was like a giant water cannon!”
It was such a simple moment, but it’s the one they still talk about when we remember our trip to Yellowstone with kids.
Hiking to the Grand Prismatic Overlook
After watching Old Faithful, we drove back toward the Grand Prismatic Spring for one last look. On our first day, we had only seen it from the boardwalk below, so this time we took the short hike to the overlook where you can see it from above.
It’s a quick walk but steep in a few spots. When we reached the top, the view was unreal — the colors spread out like a giant watercolor painting, with steam rising into the crisp September air.
Ruby said, “It looks like a rainbow in the ground.”
If you’re visiting Yellowstone with kids, this hike is a must. It’s short enough for little legs but gives you one of the best views in the park.
A Relaxed Evening in West Yellowstone
We kept our third day short and sweet. After several days of long drives and big hikes, everyone was ready for some downtime. We walked around West Yellowstone, grabbed souvenirs, and then grabbed pizza for dinner from Wild West Pizza & Saloon. It was the perfect chance to slow down and just enjoy being together.
Day Four: Side-by-Sides in Big Sky, Montana
On our last day, we checked out of our cabin early and drove toward Big Sky, Montana, for one final adventure before our evening flight out of Bozeman. I wanted something fun and different — and side-by-side trail riding was perfect.
We rented from Summit All Terrain Rentals, and I can’t say enough good things about them. The staff gave us a quick safety demo, explained the trails, and then sent us off on our own. The trails wound up through the mountains with big open views and bursts of golden aspens.
Matt loves to drive a side-by-side, and we laughed almost the entire time. Dusty, bumpy, and absolutely beautiful — it was one of those experiences that makes you feel like a kid again. I was happy that I thought ahead to wear dirty clothes and bring our clean clothes to change into before the flight. We were dusty!!
June said, “That was my favorite part of the whole trip!”
After turning in the vehicles, we drove to Bozeman, grabbed dinner, and finished our trip with a stop at Genuine Ice Cream. It felt fitting to end a family adventure like this with a scoop of ice cream.
Why This Family Trip to Yellowstone Was So Special
Every trip we’ve taken as a family has been fun in its own way, but this one felt different. We spent more time outside, saw more wildlife, and shared more laughs than usual. We didn’t allow our kids to have their devices in the car, driving around was the adventure and I wanted them to be present and see everything! Not having their devices meant we talked and laughed more together. There’s something about being in Yellowstone with kids that slows you down and reminds you what’s really important — connection, adventure, and a sense of wonder.
It wasn’t a “relaxing” vacation by any means, but it was the kind of trip that fills your heart. We came home tired, dirty, and grateful — all signs of a perfect adventure.
If you’re thinking about planning a Yellowstone with kids trip, do it. You’ll never forget it.
If you missed the first two posts in this series, start with Part 1: 3 Days in Yellowstone with Kids—Geysers, Falls & Family Adventure and Part 2: Epic Yellowstone Day with Kids—Canyons, Hikes & Wild Encounters to read about the full journey.