Have a close view of a natural phenomenon while learning about the science behind it. The show happens 20 times daily.
The Old Faithful Visitor Education Center explains why the Old Faithful geyser in Yellowstone National Park exists. The appearance of this natural marvel is a crowd-pleaser every time it happens. With 20 eruptions spaced out over a day, you won’t have to wait long before the next spectacle occurs before you. Visit the Old Faithful Visitor Education Center directly in front of the geyser to find out expected times of eruptions, which happen almost like clockwork, giving the geyser its appropriate name.
In addition to providing the eruption schedule, the center is a resource for information on this popular attraction as well as others throughout the park. View exhibits that explain what’s happening far below the surface to produce geysers, geothermal lakes, steaming springs, mudpots and fumaroles within the park’s confines.
The entire Yellowstone area sits on an active volcano deep below the earth’s surface. It is constantly in a state of flux, spewing hot water, mud, steam and gases at various exit points in the park. View the informative films Yellowstone of Fire and Water and Yellowstone Today in the center’s theater before you visit the viewing spots.
Park rangers staff the center to answer any additional questions. Younger visitors can use the hands-on exhibits and view the geyser model. Learn how they can become Young Scientists and be awarded a badge or be Junior Rangers while exploring the park. Find informative and interesting publications on the natural feature as well as souvenir items in the bookstore. Parking is available in an extensive lot adjacent to the center.
Ask at the center about day hikes in the Old Faithful area to travel to other hydrothermal features and geological formations. Near the center you’ll see Old Faithful Inn, a seven-story log structure built in the early 1900s and now a national historic landmark.
Access Old Faithful Visitor Education Center from a southerly or westerly direction on Grand Loop Road. You’ll need to buy a Yellowstone National Park daily or weekly pass. Note that the center and the road to Old Faithful are closed in winter.
