Our first stay in Yellowstone
JUST got home late last night. I have been agonizing over writing this review for the past week.
First and foremost, a sincere shoutout to Demetri (Manager of The Old Faithful Hotel) for his humor and ability to smile what I am sure was a very long day.
Our first stay in Yellowstone was an old favorite – The Yellowstone Lakehouse. Grandeur from the past right on the lake. Views to die and the cutest sitting room with rounded glass windows to sip Champagne by as you watch the lake.
The following week we checked into The Old Faithful Hotel. I have been visiting and taking kids and grandies to this park forever. But, I had never booked rooms here. This was the very first time.
To say it was hectic getting into reception would be an understatement. No big deal … it’s summer and lot of families enjoying themselves.
A porter took us to our room.
I was prepared for charming, old rooms nestled together in this beautiful building. If you’ve not gone inside to see the main area…please put it on the list. It’s magnificent!
I was stunned into silence. Our luggage was brought in and we were told fan in closet.
The room was a disaster. No where to put luggage, bags or the Diet Coke I’d just snagged. The carpet was stained beyond description, the bathroom had a deadbolt lock that locked from the outside and a shower that would make Norman Bates giggle. A sink in the middle of the room with 20 watt lighting finished things out. I’m not going to even describe the dust and dirt.
We locked the door and went to reception. We managed to meet the most wonderful man (and Mgr), Demetri. He ushered us into his office. It took 10 minutes of laughing and chatting before the line began to form in the hall adjacent. Others had a similar experience and came to chat.
We shared our concern about the accommodations. Without missing a beat, Demetri said “You are correct. It’s awful. It needs updating or a total rebuild” After a moment, I asked if perhaps he had another room we might take. He had one smaller! OMG! And, you had to share a bathroom. I truly thought he was just trying to make me laugh with the bathroom comment. Sadly, he was not.
The larger rooms and many of the smaller rooms actually SHARE bathrooms here. My first time as an adult running into this!
He then shared what the management is up against in the park. Evidently, this hotel, built in 1903 has never had a thorough update and really needs to be rebuilt. But, the powers that be don’t want to refurbish the hotel. They think it’s “historic” just the way it is….and, he sees maybe 20 of “us” a day and smiles though the entire day:). They are SO lucky to have him.
We managed to get through one night and checked out.
Now, all of this being said…we are NOT campers. I am always honest about that issue. But, when you are paying five-star prices for indoor camping…..it’s NOT ok.
I hope I’ve not offended any of you with this review. But, I have always given my HONEST opinion when traveling and this one is no different.
PS. There is a second story bar with violin music in the evening where you can see the star of the show – Old Faithful – and, you can do this without checking in:)
