If you want to see bison, Lamar Valley is the place to guarantee it. They’ll dot the fields in the distance and probably even get up-close and personal with the cars, creating a traffic jam or two (fortunately, the scenery is so beautiful that you won’t mind the delay!). Other animals to keep an eye out for include coyotes, foxes, elk, wolves, bears, and pronghorn. Dawn and dusk are the best times to see them. Especially if you’re staying in West Yellowstone, reaching the valley can take a while, so plan to make a day trip out of it.

Remind the kids that this is not a petting zoo: wild animals can be unpredictable and dangerous. Enjoy the sights from the comfort of your car.