The Grand Canyon of the Yellowstone (1872), a painting by Hayden survey participant Thomas Moran, demonstrated the grandeur of the new park to American viewers. Photo: Public Domain – Smithsonian American Art Museum
America’s national parks offer spectacular scenery, abundant wildlife, and unforgettable adventures. But for many travelers, the experience doesn’t end when the day’s exploring is done.
In 7 National Park Lodges to Swoon Over This Summer, travel writer Catherine Parker highlights some of the most iconic historic lodges found within America’s national parks. From Yellowstone’s legendary Old Faithful Inn to elegant lakeside retreats and rustic wilderness hideaways, these properties are destinations in their own right.
Many of these architectural treasures were designed to blend seamlessly with their natural surroundings, using local materials and handcrafted details that helped define the National Park Service’s distinctive “Parkitecture” style. More than a place to sleep, they offer a chance to connect with the history, beauty, and spirit of America’s most treasured landscapes.
Whether you’re planning a national park vacation or simply dreaming about your next getaway, these remarkable lodges may inspire your next adventure.
Read the full article in the Spring/Summer 2026 issue of Healthy Aging® Magazine and discover seven unforgettable places to stay in some of America’s most spectacular national parks.
