Norris Geyser Basin Museum

Visitors walking along the cinder path to the open-air, stone and wood museum. — Norris Museum provides a great starting point for exploring the Norris Geyser Basin.
NPS/Janine Waller

Situated on the ridge overlooking the Norris Geyser Basin, this historic building is staffed during the summer with rangers who provide park information and facilitate ranger programs. Restrooms are located in the parking lot.

When automobiles replaced stagecoaches as the main means of transportation through the park, people were no longer accompanied by a guide. The Norris Museum was completed in 1930, and built as a "trailside museum" for visitors to learn about Yellowstone on their own. The open foyer through the middle of the Norris Museum still functions as the visitor's gateway to the Norris Geyser Basin. One of the two rooms on either side of the foyer originally contained bird specimens; both now have exhibits explaining geothermal activity and life in thermal areas.

The museums at Fishing Bridge, Madison Junction, and Norris Geyser Basin were designated National Historic Landmarks in 1982. They exemplify rustic design in the national parks and served as models for hundreds of park buildings constructed during work relief programs of the 1930s.

Visitor Services

Rangers who can assist with park information and guidance.
Exhibits covering the hydrothermal features and processes found in the Norris Geyser Basin.
Book and souvenir shopping available in the nearby Yellowstone Forever bookstore.
Restrooms are available in the parking area.