Note: Tours of September 19 & 21 will stay at Best Western Premier Ivy Inn in Cody on night 5, and at the Holiday Inn Sheridan on night 6.
Nights 1 - 2 : Jackson Lake Lodge - Grand Teton National Park, Wyoming
It's hard to sit still here. Everywhere you look, wilderness beckons. See the spectacular Tetons rising out of the sky above the Snake River from the huge picture windows 60 feet tall in the main lodge. Gaze across the shimmering lake and spy glimpses of wildlife ambling near the shore as you sit down to eat in the Mural Room. Or peer through your handy binoculars – a must for "up-close" viewing of mountain slopes dotted with wildflowers – while you are enjoying the only swimming pool in Grand Teton National Park. Set in the heart of the park, the Lodge offers all kinds of outdoor activities, including horseback riding, float trips and boat excursions. So when you're not off exploring postcard-perfect sights near the Lodge like Jenny Lake and the wildlife-rich Snake River with Tauck, you're free to enjoy your stay as you like.
Night 3 : Old Faithful Inn - Yellowstone National Park, Wyoming
In 1987 the Old Faithful Inn was designated a National Historic Landmark because it was "the first building in a National Park constructed in an architectural style harmonious with the grandeur of the surrounding landscape". Its seven-story-high log lobby is unique in American architecture. Created with gnarled logs and rough-sawn wood from the Northern Pacific Railroad, it has a sense of place as identifiable as the park itself. But that's not the only thing special about this 100+-year-old hotel. It is also steps from the world-famous Old Faithful Geyser, where you can count on the clockwork timing of its plume of steam that soars skyward every hour. When you are not outside marveling at this natural wonder, you can enjoy the Inn's immense lobby and huge stone fireplace, comfortable rooms and a great restaurant.
Night 4 : Lake Yellowstone Hotel - Yellowstone National Park, Wyoming
Originally built in 1891, the stately Lake Yellowstone Hotel is the oldest historic hotel in remote Yellowstone National Park. The hotel, which is situated on the shores of lovely Lake Yellowstone, is listed on the National Register of Historic Places. Its graceful, refined ambiance recalls the 1920s. The views from the hotel dining room out over the lake are magnificent, as are the vistas from the tranquil Sunroom.
Night 5 : Holiday Inn® Cody at Buffalo Bill Village - Cody, Wyoming
Did you know that more than 93% of all American travelers have stayed in a Holiday Inn? That's because they know they can find friendly services, comfortable accommodations, and welcome amenities at this well-known hotel chain. The Holiday Inn® Cody at Buffalo Bill Village is no exception. It’s just blocks away from the Buffalo Bill Historical Center and close to the Cody Nite Rodeo and Dan Miller’s Music Revue, offering you one of the best locations in this historic "Old West" town. There’s an outdoor swimming pool and a small fitness facility when you’re ready to wind down after a busy day and an on-site laundromat available to guests. The Bottoms Up Lounge is a great place to relax after a busy day.
Night 6 : The Ranch at Ucross - Ucross, Wyoming
No trip to the great American West would be complete without a visit to a real dude ranch. Days start with a cowboy breakfast spread, and end with a dinner buffet that has everything from grilled trout to Wyoming beef and tender chicken – with an apple pie that can't be beat. Lodging accommodations vary and feature views of horses grazing in the back pasture, or sage-covered hills well suited for a trail ride. There are so many activities here you'll never run out of things to do. You can choose to ride a horse or splash in the pool. Play tennis, soccer or challenge your traveling companions to a game of horseshoes. Board games make indoor time fun too. And believe it or not, there is one TV at the ranch but according to the ranch hands, there's hardly ever a kid in front of it!
Night 7 : Adoba Eco Hotel Rapid City - Rapid City, South Dakota
Ideally located in Rapid City's historic downtown district, The Adoba Eco Hotel Rapid City offers warm hospitality, an inviting atmosphere and is ideally located just steps away from popular entertainment options, shopping areas and businesses. Spacious guest rooms feature new 40-inch, 1080p, high-definition, flat screen TV's, on-demand movies, executive desks with ergonomic chairs and coffee makers. The hotel offers a heated indoor swimming pool, whirlpool, Fitness Center and Business center. The Enigma restaurant is known for its appealing menu and popular mystery dinners, while the 445 Lounge offers 65 delicious martinis.