montana fun places to visit

41 Fun Things To Do & Places To Visit In Montana

By: Author Jerric Chong

Posted on Published: June 28, 2021  - Last updated: October 17, 2023

With its craggy cliffs and wide open spaces, Montana is one of the most beautifully remote places in the US.

Its nickname is “Big Sky Country,” and its blue horizons stretch over all kinds of caves, canyons and caverns.

It’s a state known for its stunning natural beauty as well as its many opportunities for outdoor adventure.

If you’re into hiking, biking, climbing, camping, ziplining or stargazing, this is the destination for you!

A common misconception about Montana, however, is that it has nothing to offer besides its mountains.

The Rockies only take up part of the state, and the rest has plenty of big, bustling cities with restaurants, malls, museums and movie theaters.

There are also a number of ski resorts where you can enjoy five-star amenities such as spas and steakhouses even as you take in the gorgeously rugged scenery outside.

Whether you’re looking for outdoor thrills or indoor luxuries, Big Sky Country has a little something for everyone.

Here are just a few things to do in Montana on your next getaway!

Table of Contents

1. Glacier National Park

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Trekking through the Rocky Mountains is one of the most amazing things to do in Montana, and there are numerous parks where you can scale cliffs, dive into lakes, clamber over rocks and hike to the tops of hills and summits.

If you’re looking for the best of the best, however, you’ll want Glacier National Park .

Hailed as a “hiker’s paradise,” Glacier National Park offers stunning vistas as far as the eye can see.

Many of them are at great heights, including Logan Pass at 7,700 feet and Reynolds Peak at 9,100 feet, but there are also beginner-friendly trails around ponds, plains, tree groves and mountain valleys.

Native species include everything from goats to grizzly bears.

Flowers bloom in all directions.

If you’re looking to fill your scrapbook with amazing photos, Glacier National Park is the place to take them.

There’s nothing like a sunrise over a snow-tipped mountain to make you glad that you traveled to Montana!

Address: Montana, United States

2. Montana State Capitol

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With its large dome overlooking beautifully manicured lawns and other stately buildings, the Montana State Capitol is one of the nicest places to visit in Helena.

The city has historic significance, too: It was only founded after diggers literally struck gold during one of their final excavations of the surrounding era.

For this reason, it’s sometimes called the “Last Chance” city.

What can you do at the state capitol?

It depends on what you’re interested in.

It’s one of the most famous places in Montana, so there’s a certain prestige in simply being there.

You can also take tours, marvel at artwork and artifacts, and participate in scavenger hunts inspired by Lewis and Clark.

When you’re done at the capitol, you might consider exploring the rest of Helena as well.

It boasts many tourist attractions in the form of shops, restaurants, theaters, museums and cathedrals.

If you want to know what Montana is all about, start with a visit to the Montana State Capitol.

It’s one of those genuinely cool places that you’ll want to put on your bucket list, especially if you’re trying to hit all of the major landmarks of the state.

Address: Montana Ave. and 6th St Montana Ave & 6th St, Helena, MT 59601, United States

3. Lewis and Clark Interpretive Center

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Located in Great Falls, Montana, the Lewis and Clark Interpretive Center is one of the major points of interest of the mountain states.

Like its name suggests, it’s dedicated to the explorers Lewis and Clark, and it offers everything from artifacts to informative videos about their story, their journey and their impact on American history.

The first thing that you’ll notice when you step into the museum is its two-story diorama of the Missouri River.

It’s hugely colorful as well as surprisingly educational about nature.

From there, you can take a self-guided tour through the exhibits that line the halls, or you can sign up for an audio tour that features actors portraying Lewis and Clark as they reminisce about the past.

There are other forms of entertainment as well.

For example, you can test your strength by pulling a tugboat against a river current.

Kids will love it!

Ultimately, however, the true value of the Lewis and Clark Interpretive Center lies in its historical preservation.

If you’re at all interested in the explorations of the colonial west, this is the museum for you.

Address: 4201 Giant Springs Rd, Great Falls, MT 59405, United States

4. Museum of the Rockies

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Another place that celebrates the breathtaking beauty of the Rocky Mountains, the Museum of the Rockies goes even further with its educational programs dedicated to equality, cultural awareness and environmental conservation.

Located in Bozeman , permanent exhibits include everything from “Enduring Peoples,” which chronicles the lives and times of Native American and Northern Plains tribes, to “The Living History Farm” with costumed actors roleplaying Montana’s frontier days and teaching kids about things like fur trading and butter churning.

Temporary exhibits have been devoted to plants, animals, architecture, music and major historical events such as the gold rush of the 1800s.

Other points of interest include the planetarium for stargazing and the paleontology collection for marveling at dinosaur bones.

Fun fact: The museum boasts the largest T-Rex skull in the entire country!

If you’re looking to combine education and entertainment in Montana attractions, swing by the Museum of the Rockies and learn a little something.

Address: 600 W Kagy Blvd, Bozeman, MT 59717, United States

5. Yellowstone National Park

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Yellowstone National Park is the most famous of Montana attractions.

Though it’s primarily located in Wyoming , it covers so many miles that it also stretches into Montana and Idaho as well.

There are many places of interest in this world-famous park, including mountains, cliffs, canyons, rivers, forests and lakes.

Waterfalls thunder over rocks.

Geysers erupt with spray and steam.

Hot springs are everywhere.

There’s even a supervolcano!

Activities at Yellowstone include traditional fare such as hiking and camping as well as more unique experiences such as horseback riding in the backcountry.

Though summer is the most popular time for tourists, there’s also plenty of stuff to do in the winter, including skiing.

If you’re looking for the must see destinations of Montana, make time for Yellowstone National Park.

The alpine scenery is so wondrous that it’s literally used for postcards, and it offers endless adventure for visitors of all types.

Address: United States

6. Grizzly and Wolf Discovery Center

Montana is known for its diverse range of wildlife, especially in the mountain regions where bears, coyotes, moose, wolverines and elks roam freely.

But have you ever wondered what happens when these animals get sick or hurt?

The Grizzly and Wolf Discovery Center is a rescue and rehabilitation center for many types of wildlife.

Despite the name, it isn’t just devoted to bears and wolves; it also welcomes everything from tiny ground squirrels to gigantic swooping birds of prey.

The mission of the nonprofit is to help these critters while also educating the public about the important roles that they play in local ecosystems.

In addition to observing the wildlife, visitors can also check out educational exhibits and watch videos and demonstrations by the staff.

There are even livecams posted online so that folks can watch the animals anywhere and anytime!

If you want to support a good cause and have a good time while in Montana, schedule a visit to the Grizzly and Wolf Discovery Center.

It’s open 365 days per year, so whether you’re headed there tomorrow or next summer, the grey wolves will be waiting for you.

Address: 201 S Canyon St, West Yellowstone, MT 59758, United States

7. Rimrock Mall

Rimrock mall

Looking at the stylish white frame and square-cut glass windows of the Rimrock Mall , you’d never guess that it was originally the site of a beet farm, but that’s Montana for you.

Rimrock Mall is the largest mall in the state, and it’s also one of the most diverse in terms of goods and services.

There are luxury fashion boutiques; there are cheap kiosks for jewelry and body art.

You can get your nails done or your dog groomed.

You can watch something in the movie theater.

You can enjoy a meal at the food court.

You can even get a check-up at the medical center!

Additionally, since the mall plays host to many special events in Billings, its hometown, you can always find book signings or musical acts to enjoy on the weekends.

If you’re in need of an “I Heart Montana” t-shirt, stop by the Rimrock Mall.

You’ll get your shirt, and you’ll probably walk out with bagfuls of other gifts and souvenirs, too.

Address: 300 S 24th St W, Billings, MT 59102, United States

8. Montana Chocolate Company

Montana Chocolate Company

Everything about the Montana Chocolate Company is old-fashioned.

Not only is it located in the tiny, sleepy mountain town of Stevensville, but it’s right on Main Street, and it’s a small shop that does everything by hand.

The truffles are sculpted by hand.

The nuts, creams and caramels are dipped by hand.

Even the fudges and the brittles are drizzled and decorated by hand.

Another fun thing about the shop is that they embrace their Montanan roots with creative twists on old favorites.

For example, they sell “Grizzly Paws,” “Elk Tracks” and even “Road Kill” chocolates.

They also utilize many of Montana’s signature ingredients, including huckleberries, for their bars and pastries.

Other things to buy at the shop include Montana-themed souvenirs like mugs, magnets and t-shirts as well as locally-made crafts and jewelry.

Do you have a sweet tooth?

Do you like supporting local businesses while you travel?

Swing by the Montana Chocolate Company for delicious treats just like mama used to make!

Address: 755 Main St, Stevensville, MT 59870, United States

9. Hyalite Canyon

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If you like the night sky, Hyalite Canyon is one of the best places to visit in Montana for stargazing.

It’s close enough to civilization that you don’t have to trek for days into the wilderness to get a good view, but it’s also far enough from the lights of the big cities to offer stunning skyscapes filled with stars, galaxies and nebulae.

There are fun things to do in the daytime as well.

Known for its misty peaks, the Hyalite Canyon Recreation Area is a popular place for hiking, biking and camping.

The lakes offer fishing and canoeing opportunities.

You can rock climb in the summer and ice climb in the winter.

Ultimately, however, the biggest appeal of Hyalite Canyon is its views.

You can’t visit Big Sky Country without gazing upwards at least once!

Make a trip to Hyalite Canyon for incredible site seeing both night and day.

10. Pictograph Cave State Park

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Montana’s history stretches back thousands of years, and nowhere is this more apparent than Pictograph Cave State Park .

The drawings carved into its rocks are more than two millennia old!

To see these drawings for yourself, you’ll need to hike a trail that leads to the pictograph caves.

Along the way, you’ll pass a number of signs about the geology, vegetation and indigenous cultures of the area, and you can take breaks at designated picnic areas.

The birds and the reptiles of the rocks might keep you company as you eat.

Once you reach the pictographs, you’ll want to whip out your camera right away.

Their history can be felt in every jagged and faded line.

The oldest drawing is a turtle, but others include warriors, glyphs, mythical creatures and even rifles and other modern weapons that suggest the arrival of Europeans to the area.

You don’t have to be a history buff to be awed by Pictograph Cave State Park.

With the weight of 2,000 years behind it, it’s impressive all on its own.

Address: 3401 Coburn Rd, Billings, MT 59101, United States

11. Flathead Lake

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One of the best vacation spots in Montana is only accessible by boat.

It’s called Wild Horse Island, and it’s a place where indigenous tribes used to breed their mares and stallions to keep them from being stolen.

Today, Wild Horse Island is a tourist destination located in the middle of Flathead Lake , which has also become one of the state’s most popular places to go.

It offers stunning natural beauty as well as ample outdoor activities in the form of hiking, swimming, sailing, fishing, camping and picnicking.

Parts of the lake are on tribal land and will require a permit from visitors; others are open to any member of the public.

Flathead Lake also happens to be one of those locations that’s fun to visit year round.

In the summer, you can hike hills and flower-covered valleys that are dazzling in the sunshine.

In the winter, you can rent a cabin in the trees for warm and cozy nights surrounded by snow.

Whether you’re interested in horses or horticulture, Flathead Lake is a must see destination in Montana.

You could spend sunup to sundown exploring its wonder, and you still wouldn’t cover all of its ground or sample all of its activities.

You’ll just have to come back again next year!

12. Western Heritage Center

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If you’re looking for free things to do while you’re in Montana, you might like the Western Heritage Center .

It offers numerous events and activities at free or minimal cost, and that isn’t even including the cool stuff found in the museum itself, which is a treasure trove of photos, videos, artifacts and other collectibles from the Western frontier.

Exhibit topics include everything from women ranchers to indigenous cultures in Montana.

You can wander the halls on your own time, or you can sign up for “high noon” lectures or historic walking tours that explore the surrounding Yellowstone River Valley.

You might also be interested to know that the heritage center is more than a century old.

Originally established in 1901, it’s withstood the test of time to become one of the area’s top historical destinations, and there’s a certain magic to that fact.

You’ll be walking the same corridors as real frontiersmen once did!

Put on your 10-gallon hat and check out the Western Heritage Center.

It isn’t the biggest or flashiest of Montana attractions, but it’s a darn interesting one.

Address: 2822 Montana Ave, Billings, MT 59101, United States

13. Big Sky Resort

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While your mental image of Montana might be filled with prairies and tumbleweeds, the truth is that it’s also a thriving wintertime destination.

It can receive as much as 300 inches of snowfall each year, much of it in the mountains, and it can become quite the winter wonderland with glittering white snow capping the cliffs and covering the tree tops.

Big Sky Resort isn’t the only place to enjoy the snow in Montana, but it’s one of the best.

It covers almost 6,000 acres and offers a half-dozen terrain parks for skiers of all skill levels.

It’s also a popular site for snowboarding, snowshoeing and “snow biking” on motorized bikes.

Other activities are offered when the snow starts to melt, including golf, archery, paintball and horseback riding.

All things considered, Big Sky Resort is one of the nicest of Montana’s attractions.

It doesn’t even matter when you visit since every season has something new and exciting to do.

If you’re looking for awesome places to visit in the northwest, you won’t want to miss this one!

Address: 50 Big Sky Resort Rd, Big Sky, MT 59716, United States

14. Boiling River

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Despite its name, the Boiling River isn’t 100 percent hot.

It’s actually known for its dual temperatures where the water can be scalding hot or icy cold just a few feet apart.

The reason for this bizarre phenomenon is because a natural hot spring feeds into the river, but due to the unique twists and turns of the landscape, it often retains its original temperature rather than mixing together.

Swimming is allowed in the river, and so are calmer water activities such as tubing.

Boating isn’t allowed due to the currents.

To reach the water, you’ll have to hike to it, so pack a good pair of boots.

A dip in the Boiling River is definitely one of the most unique things to do in Montana.

It’s an experience that you’ll never forget, and it’s a story that you’ll continue to tell long after you go home.

Address: N Entrance Rd, Gardiner, MT 59030, United States

15. Bison Range

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The bison is an iconic symbol of the Old West, but it can be hard to glimpse them in the wild thanks to their scarcity and the sheer range of their natural habitats.

Fortunately, places like the Bison Range exist!

The Bison Range covers approximately 18,000 acres in northwestern Montana’s foothills and grasslands.

Somewhere between 300 – 500 bison call it home, and visitors can get quite close to them thanks to scenic driving routes that run through their territory.

There are also a few walking trails, but for safety purposes, these are focused on small flora and fauna rather than the mighty beasts of the herd.

Tourists can also check out the visitor’s center to learn more about the region and to get maps and advice about maximizing their time in bison country.

How many times in your life can you say that you saw hundreds of bison roaming free?

The Bison Range provides a rare opportunity for travelers and adventure seekers, so if you’re headed to northern Montana, don’t miss your chance to make unforgettable memories here.

Address: 58355 Bison Range Rd, Charlo, MT 59824, United States

16. Great Falls Farmer’s Market

Great Falls Original Farmer’s Market

You’ve never seen a farmer’s market quite like this one.

After all, how many farmer’s markets offer pony rides?

Held every year from June to September, the Great Falls Farmer’s Market is more like a months-long festival than a traditional “market.”

There are the usual produce stands, of course, as well as freshly-baked bread and a variety of homemade jams.

There are also flowers, crafts, jewelry and other knickknacks that you’d expect from a farmer’s market.

What makes this market different is both its size and its vendor diversity.

There are more than 100 folks selling their goods and services every week, and with that many people, there’s always something new to try.

Pony rides are just the beginning.

If you’re wondering what to do while canvassing the great state of Montana, make a detour for the Great Falls Original Farmer’s Market.

You won’t regret it!

Address: 2 Park Dr S, Great Falls, MT 59401, United States

17. Earthquake Lake

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With a name like Earthquake Lake , you’d probably expect this to be a very dramatic destination, and you’d be right.

In 1959, an earthquake struck the sleepy towns of southern Montana.

It completely baffled scientists who didn’t expect it and natives who never thought they’d live to see a 7.3 earthquake in their neck of the woods.

Many lives were lost, and millions of tons of mud and sand formed a landslide around the lake.

Today, visitors can tour “Quake Lake” and see the remnants of the destruction on the shores and in the surrounding mountain canyons.

There’s also an on-site facility dedicated to earthquake science that teaches things like plate tectonics and offers folks a chance to check out working seismographs and other tools of the trade.

You won’t want to miss Earthquake Lake.

It’s one of the major points of interest in Montana, and it’s a must do for history buffs, disaster enthusiasts and anyone who enjoys cool and unique sightseeing opportunities.

See for yourself if it’s all that it’s “cracked up” to be!

Address: US Route 287, Cameron, MT 59720, United States

18. Lewis and Clark Brewing Company

Lewis and Clark Brewing Company

If you like fresh, frothy beers, the Lewis and Clark Brewing Company is one of the best things to do in Montana.

Hailing the state as “America’s last great place,” they invoke the spirit of their namesake explorers as they constantly experiment with newer and better ways to make alcohol.

They also do everything without pasteurization, ensuring flavors that are an intoxicating blend of bold, natural and unique.

Another noteworthy thing about the brewery is that they love to host block parties, music festivals and tap room events.

There are always new things to see and do on the weekend, so check their schedule and see what’s coming up next!

If you’ve got a thirst in Montana, visit the Lewis and Clark Brewing Company.

You can channel the spirit of the 19th century explorers as you try new taps, enjoy local music and make like-minded friends who know their beer.

Address: 1517 Dodge Ave, Helena, MT 59601, United States

19. Montana Snowbowl

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Are you familiar with huckleberries?

They aren’t just something out of a Mark Twain novel.

They’re a real fruit, and they’re a favorite of Montanans; you can find huckleberry pies, jams, ice creams and bear claws all around the state.

You don’t have to rely on other people to get your huckleberry fix, however.

You can pluck them right off the vine at a place like the Snowbowl .

It’s a beautiful ski lodge where the snow is always fresh and powdery and the cabins are always crackling with the warmth and glow of their fireplaces.

Huckleberry bushes can be found all around the slopes, and guests are allowed to pick and eat as many as they want.

If you’re looking for neat places to see in Montana, consider the Snowbowl.

It offers lots of recreational fun as well as cold, crisp and delicious berries that will burst on your tongue!

Address: 1700 Snow Bowl Rd, Missoula, MT 59808, United States

Planning to visit Missoula soon? Why not check out some of the best things to do in Missoula ?

20. American Computer and Robotics Museum

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With its breweries and bison ranges, Montana might not be the first state that comes to mind when you think about technology, but it’s the location of a very interesting attraction: the American Computer and Robotics Museum .

Like its name suggests, the museum is dedicated to computers, robotics, communications, technology and artificial intelligence.

It traces these subjects back more than 2,000 years when they were just dreams of ancient civilizations.

Visitors can look at various tools and machines related to the history of computing.

They can check out exhibits on brains, automation, algorithms, telegraphs and software.

They can even take a crack at vintage computer games like Pong and Spacewar!

Computers didn’t pop into existence in the late 20th century.

Rudimentary computing machines have been around since the days of the ancient Greeks who wanted to predict the position of the stars.

To learn all about it, visit the American Computer and Robotics Museum.

Address: 2023 Stadium Dr #1a, Bozeman, MT 59715, United States

21. Ringing Rocks

Ringing Rocks

The Ringing Rocks are a unique phenomenon that can only be found in a few places in the world, including Montana.

They’re rocks that sing!

When you tap on them with a mallet, they make strange but beautiful chime-like sounds.

Why do they emit these noises?

No one is sure, but geologists have speculated that it’s due to the rare chemical compositions of these 2,000-year old rock formations.

It might also have something to do with the way that the rocks have eroded and shifted against each other over time.

Another fun fact is that the rocks don’t sing on their own.

They’re only musical in their big pile of boulders.

This has deterred many thieves over the years, which is a good thing for you and future travelers who can still experience their magic firsthand.

If you’re wondering what to do while on vacation in Montana, consider the Ringing Rocks.

You can only see them in a few places in the entire world, and they’ll give you a great experience and an even greater story to tell when you get home.

Address: Whitehall, MT 59759, United States

22. Castle City Ghost Town

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America had a “silver rush” in the late 1800s that resulted in many towns being founded and abandoned along the path to promised riches.

Castle City Ghost Town is just one of these towns, but it’s the only one that still stands in Montana today.

Notable sights include all of the old, historic buildings that marked Wild West frontiers, including saloons, jails and a number of brothels.

Visitors can explore the architecture and poke around at the many rusted objects and abandoned vehicles that dot the landscape.

Another cool thing about the town is that it’s rumored to be haunted.

According to legend, Calamity Jane spent a few months in Castle in the 1890s, and she was up to no good.

Castle City Ghost Town is one of the coolest places to go in Montana, but it’s also one of the eeriest.

If you like your tourist attractions with a bit of dark and spooky glamour, this is the town to visit!

Address: Meagher, MT 59053, United States

23. Chico Hot Springs Resort and Day Spa

Chico Hot Springs Resort & Day Spa

The Chico Hot Springs Resort and Day Spa is one of the most luxurious places to visit in Montana.

It’s attached to the Chico Resort, but you don’t have to be lodging with them to enjoy their amenities.

You can book a date with a mud mask as part of any travel experience, including vacations, weddings, honeymoons and destination getaways.

Do you want to pamper yourself?

Sign up for a massage or an aromatherapy treatment.

Do you want to release all of the tension in your shoulders?

Slide into the natural mineral spring pools, which steam in the cold air of the mountains and provide many health benefits as well as an amazingly relaxing experience.

There are many other places to go in the resort as well, so if you are interested in staying there, be prepared for a full roster of entertainment options that includes hiking, skiing, river rafting, horseback riding, painting classes, wagon rides and more.

Vacations can be tiring.

When you need to recharge, call the Chico Hot Springs Resort and Day Spa.

It’s one of the nicest things to do in Montana, and you might never want to leave once you’ve slipped into the hot springs for a nice hot soak!

Address: 163 Chico Rd, Pray, MT 59065, United States

24. Havre Beneath the Streets

In the early 1900s, a fire destroyed much of the city of Havre.

Local business owners decided that they couldn’t wait the long years for everything to be rebuilt on top of the ashes, so they did something unique: They moved below the ashes.

Havre Beneath the Streets, also known as the “Havre Historical Underground,” is an entire subterranean city that lies below the unassuming surface of the modern-day streets.

Many of the buildings have a slightly illicit air, including the bordellos, opium dens and honky tonks, but there are also legitimate enterprises such as taverns and butcher’s shops.

No one uses these businesses anymore; they’re purely the stuff of a historical tour.

All things considered, however, a tour in Havre Beneath the Streets is one of the coolest and most interesting things to do in Montana.

How many states have vintage underground brothels?

Address: 120 3rd Ave, Havre, MT 59501, United States

25. C.M. Russell Museum

C.M. Russell Museum

Do you love the frontier days?

Do you wish you’d been born in the back of a covered wagon as you bumped and jostled over the dusty trails of early colonial America?

If so, you’ll have a blast at the C.M. Russell Museum .

While technically an art museum, its premiere artist Charles Marion “Kid” Russell lived during the days of the Wild West, and all of his works feature cowboy themes.

You can grab your spurs and pony up for a wild ride through deserts, saloons, rodeos and bank-robbing outlaws.

There are even exhibits dedicated to things like the American bison and the weapons of the Old West!

The museum also boasts several architectural exhibits such as Russell’s log cabin studio and his square-framed wooden house.

Not only can you enjoy his artwork, but you can see where his inspiration struck day after day.

If you’re wondering what to do in Montana that celebrates its unique history and iconography as a frontier destination, consider a trip to the C. M. Russell Museum.

It’ll revive those cowboy days like they never left.

Address: 400 13th St N, Great Falls, MT 59401, United States

26. ZooMontana

Were you aware that there’s only one zoo in Montana?

Despite the abundance of wildlife, the sparse population and the wide-ranging natural habitats for the animals means that zoos just aren’t a thing there.

The exception is ZooMontana .

With more than 58 species calling it home, it’s a wildlife park where visitors can take in a broad and diverse mix of animals in a single location.

It’s also known for its peaceful, tranquil atmosphere; since a canyon runs right through the zoo, there are many natural cliffs and water features that simulate the native landscapes of its critters.

Species at the zoo include everything from tiny chinchillas to larger-than-life tigers, wolves and grizzly bears.

There are also cool and unique animals such as hissing cockroaches and red-tailed boa constrictors.

ZooMontana is a rarity in its state, which already makes it one of the most interesting things to see, but it’s also a cool trip in its own right.

Once you’re staring into the eyes of a raptor, everything else will fall away.

Address: 2100 Shiloh Rd, Billings, MT 59106, United States

27. Jim’s Horn House

Jim’s Horn House is one of the craziest things to see in Montana.

Created by a regular guy and housed in the shed behind his home, it’s a collection of antlers that has been gathered, cultivated and artfully displayed over the course of 60 years.

The homeowner, Jim, is known to locals as “The Antler Man.”

Jim doesn’t actually hunt the animals.

Instead, he wanders through the backcountry of Montana and picks up antlers that have been shed by local deer, elk, moose and antelope.

Then he adds them to a rattling floor-to-ceiling collection in his shed.

The end result is one of the weirdest but most interesting natural history displays that the world has ever seen.

To visit, you’ll need to contact Jim directly; he’ll turn you away if you just show up at his door.

Be polite and ask when you can come to his home.

Jim’s Horn House definitely has to be seen to be believed!

Address: Three Forks, MT 59752, United States

28. Whitefish Mountain Resort

Whitefish Mountain Resort

Another great place to enjoy wintertime fun, the Whitefish Mountain Resort is a premiere skiing destination in the Rockies.

It’s conveniently located right by an airport and offers tons of events, activities and amenities for travelers worldwide.

Your first decision will be about lodging.

The resort offers everything from cozy cabins nestled in the snow to luxurious hotel suites with hot tubs and high thread counts, so it’s just a matter of choosing the type of vacation experience that you want.

Once you’re settled in, you can hit the slopes.

There’s skiing and snowboarding; there are dog sledding shows and guided tours around the mountain.

You can even hop on the lifts to find “night skiing” trails under the glowing moon.

The best places to vacation in Montana are the ones that take advantage of its stunning natural beauty.

At Whitefish Mountain Resort, you won’t have to worry about sightseeing.

Every view from your window will be picture-perfect, and it’ll only get better once you actually venture outdoors.

Address: 1015 Glades Dr, Whitefish, MT 59937, United States

29. A Carousel for Missoula

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With its carved, hand-painted animals, A Carousel for Missoula is one of the niftiest sites to see in Montana.

It’s even better when you learn its history.

It was designed, funded and constructed entirely by volunteers, and to this day, it charges just 75 cents for kids’ rides.

Another nice thing about the carousel is that it’s located in a prime area of Missoula .

A riverwalk is just a few blocks away, and nearby tourist attractions include everything from a baseball stadium to a performing arts theater.

If you’re on a budget in Montana, consider a trip to a Carousel for Missoula.

The ride itself is cheap, and the surrounding area has plenty of low-cost and free things to do that will keep you occupied long after the hand-painted horses have come to a stop.

Address: 101 Carousel Dr, Missoula, MT 59802, United States

30. Beaverhead-Deerlodge National Forest

Philip Bird LRPS CPAGB / Shutterstock

Montana is one of the most beautiful places in the US , and the proof can be found in the Beaverhead-Deerlodge National Forest .

Unlike the remote rock formations that dominate so much of the state, this forest is lush, green and teeming with life from the bugs in the dirt to the birds flying high.

You’ll want to plan your trip carefully since the forest covers more than 3.3 million acres.

There are countless things to see and do on the lakes, fields and alpine mountain passes, but since they’re geographically distant from each other, you’ll need to prioritize.

Do you want to swim and fish?

Hit up the water with your fishing rod.

Do you prefer camping under the stars and cooking hot dogs over an open fire?

Head to the campgrounds.

There are even driving trails if you enjoy nature the best while you’re cruising in an air-conditioned vehicle and viewing it from your window.

The Beaverhead-Deerlodge National Forest is one of the top destinations of Montana.

Its beauty is unparalleled, and its size means that you’ll never run out of new things to try.

You could have an entire vacation without ever leaving the borders of the forest!

Address: 420 Barrett St, Dillon, MT 59725, United States

31. World Museum of Mining

Radoslaw Lecyk / Shutterstock

How many museums let you go into an underground mine?

At the World Museum of Mining , it isn’t just possible; it’s encouraged.

The World Museum of Mining is dedicated to the preservation of mining history.

It’s centered around an old, abandoned mine called Orphan Girl, and it offers photos, videos and tours to give you an idea of what it was like to mine copper and zinc in the 1800s.

The underground tour will take you 100 feet below the earth, so it’s best if you aren’t afraid of dark and cramped spaces!

Other places to see around the mine include industrial yards, miner memorials and mineral and rock collections.

There’s also a recreated mining town with historic buildings made out of genuine turn-of-the-century materials.

The World Museum of Mining is one of the coolest places to visit in Montana.

Whether you’re a history buff or just an enthusiastic explorer who likes underground tourist attractions, you should appreciate the significance of what’s on display here.

Address: 155 Museum Way, Butte, MT 59701, United States

32. Little Bighorn Battlefield National Monument

G Seeger / Shutterstock

The Little Bighorn Battlefield National Monument isn’t one of those flashy Montana attractions.

In fact, it’s quite solemn.

It mainly consists of small white graves dotting the green grass of a wide open plain.

If you know your history, however, you know that Little Bighorn was one of the major battles of the 19th century, and it resulted in a major loss of life between both American soldiers and the Lakota and Arapaho tribes.

This destination pays respect to both sides of the conflict with grave markers and a series of pictures and plaques putting names and faces to the fallen.

If you have a car, there’s also a scenic driving route to another battlefield nearby; if you don’t, you can just walk a trail that covers Little Bighorn in its entirety.

It isn’t a “fun” attraction, but it’s an important one.

Visit the Little Bighorn Battlefield National Monument if you want to learn more about the history that America was founded upon.

Address: I-90 Frontage Rd, Crow Agency, MT 59022, United States

33. St. Ignatius Mission

Marty Nelson / Shutterstock

You don’t have to be religious to appreciate St. Ignatius Mission .

With its gothic revival architecture that includes red clay bricks and a 100-foot bell tower, it’s a delight to the eyes as well as the soul.

The inside is just as impressive as the outside, too.

It boasts 58 colorful and hand-painted murals, and they’re all the more stunning for being the work of a church cook rather than a renowned artist.

They go hand-in-hand with the high ceilings and stained glass windows that will leave you looking up, up and up as you walk down the rows of pews.

St. Ignatius Mission is a marvel, and it’s easily one of the coolest places to visit in Montana.

If you’ll be near the city of St. Ignatius while you’re there, you’ll want to make time for the parish.

Address: 300 Beartrack Ave, St Ignatius, MT 59865, United States

34. Makoshika State Park

Laurens Hoddenbagh / Shutterstock

With a name that translates to “bad land” or “land of bad spirits,” Makoshika State Park is definitely a place that gets your attention.

Despite its reputation, however, it’s a beautiful stretch of terrain with red-brown rock formations jutting from rugged hills and cliffs under a wide open sky.

There are many sights to see at the park, including the fossilized remains of triceratops and thescelosaurus dinosaurs.

Visitors can also hike trails, camp under the stars, take lessons at an archery range or enjoy an outdoor concert at an amphitheater.

Special events at the park include an annual “Buzzard Day” held in June as well as various marathons and outdoor sporting events for disc golf and corn hole.

Don’t let the name scare you off.

Makoshika State Park is one of the most beautiful places in Montana, and the only bad thing would be if you missed it!

Address: 1301 Snyder St, Glendive, MT 59330, United States

35. Garden of One Thousand Buddhas

Patrick Ryan / Shutterstock

Located on the Flathead Indian Reservation of Lake County, Montana, the Garden of One Thousand Buddhas is still in development, but visitors are free to check out what’s already been built.

It’s an excellent sightseeing destination whether you’re religious or not!

Statues of the Buddha cover a sweeping circular landscape that leads to a grand pavilion in the middle.

Most of the statues are made of plain, unpretentious stone, but others are colorfully painted or beautifully presented around natural features such as lakes and gardens.

There’s a small gift shop for souvenirs, and you can also make a donation if you’d like to support the cause.

One day, the builders hope that the garden can become a pilgrimage site for people of all faiths.

Take a walk through the Garden of One Thousand Buddhas if you’re looking for a place to catch a breath, find inner peace or just experience a moment of serenity.

It hasn’t yet become the mecca that it’s destined to be, but you can tell everyone that you got in on the ground floor of something amazing.

Address: 34574 White Coyote Rd, Arlee, MT 59821, United States

36. Yellowstone Big Gun Fun

Yellowstone Big Gun Fun

Some of the stereotypes about cowboys are true.

They wouldn’t be caught dead without their pistols, and at Yellowstone Big Gun Fun , you can channel your inner yeehaw with a state-of-the-art shooting range.

Rentals are offered for rifles, handguns, machine guns and more.

You can shoot an AK-47; you can shoot an M-4. Lessons are available for beginners to learn about safe handling and shooting.

The staff also hosts regular demonstrations and workshops to learn about the history of handguns in the United States.

If you’re wondering what to do that’s off the beaten path in Montana, consider taking aim at Yellowstone Big Gun Fun.

Not only is it a fun, unique activity for your vacation experience, but it’ll also let you unleash your inner cowboy in a state known for its Wild West history.

Address: 15 Madison Ave, West Yellowstone, MT 59758, United States

37. Virginia Falls

RyanTangPhoto / Shutterstock

Some of the most stunning things to see in Montana are the waterfalls, especially when they’re tucked into mountain valleys and surrounded by smoothly eroded stone.

Such is the case with Virginia Falls .

Located in Glacier National Park, Virginia Falls is a multi-tiered waterfall that offers equal parts beauty and power.

Its waters slam into the rocks below with the force of a dozen car crashes, but it’s also a gorgeous sight, and it can be quite soothing when you stand right next to the spray and listen to the music of nature.

To reach the waterfall, you’ll have to hike to it, but you’ll have several options ranging from “a small stroll” to “miles of hoofing it across rugged terrain.”

If you like beautiful things, however, Virginia Falls is worth the effort.

It’s one of the most stunning places to visit in Montana by a wide margin.

Address: Montana 59417, United States

38. Tizer Botanic Gardens and Arboretum

Dave Thomas / flickr

Many beautiful places in Montana involve the outdoors, and the Tizer Botanic Gardens and Arboretum is no exception.

Rather than forcing you to put on your hiking boots, however, it will allow you to take a leisurely stroll around creeks, bridges, gazebos and gardens that have been carefully cultivated in a place of stillness.

Here’s just a small sample of what to see in the gardens:

– Wildflower Walk – Rose Garden – Prickly Pear Creek – Meditation Garden – Butterfly and Hummingbird Garden

There are many other attractions as well, making the Tizer Botanic Gardens and Arboretum one of the most gorgeous places to visit in Montana.

Whether you’re interested in romantic strolls along the water or family-friendly fun among the colorful set pieces of the children’s garden, there’s a little something for everyone here.

Address: 38 Tizer Lake Rd, Jefferson City, MT 59638, United States

39. Clark Fork River Market

Clark Fork River Market

If you don’t have a lot of money to burn, it behooves you to find free things to do around Montana.

One option is the Clark Fork River Market .

Essentially an overgrown farmer’s market, the Clark Fork River Market is a great place to window shop.

Dozens of vendors come together to sell fruits, vegetables, meats, flowers, crafts and more, and their sights and smells make a wonderful feast for your senses.

There’s no pressure to buy, but you might find yourself tempted when you see all of the amazing things for sale.

There’s homemade jewelry in every color.

There’s freshly made honey and freshly harvested plant seeds.

If you’re hungry, food trucks offer everything from savory burritos to sweet cinnamon rolls and caramel popcorn.

You can even find hearty mountain staples such as biscuits and gravy!

You don’t have to empty your wallet to enjoy a trip to Montana.

Just find places like the Clark Fork River Market where breathing the air and seeing the dazzling rows of vendor stalls is an experience in itself.

40. Slippery Otter Pub

Adam Fagen / flickr

Montana is no stranger to pubs.

After long days of hiking through deserts and grappling around jagged, sun-burned rocks, a person works up a thirst!

The Slippery Otter Pub isn’t the only pub of its kind, but it’s one of the best.

It serves ice-cold regional beers as well as a variety of other drinks and cocktails to keep you buzzed.

Additionally, it’s known for its hearty, meat-based menu, the kind that you’ll only find in Montana.

Are you ready to try an elk burger?

Other nice things about the pub include its roomy hangout spaces with lots of entertainment options such as widescreen TVs and shuffleboard games.

All things considered, if you want a drink while you’re in the Yellowstone area, there are worse places to get it than the Slippery Otter Pub.

Shake off the dirt from the mountains and kick up your boots in a pub that’s worth visiting.

Address: 139 N Canyon St, West Yellowstone, MT 59758, United States

41. McGinnis Meadows Ranch

McGinnis Meadows Ranch

While there are lots of places to see horses in Montana, the McGinnis Meadows Ranch stands out as one of the best.

For starters, it’s a working cattle ranch with many barnyard animals in addition to the horses, so it presents a rustic yet authentic atmosphere.

It also offers unique opportunities for you to roll up your sleeves and experience real cattle and equestrian work through the horsemanship clinic!

You can even sign up for 10- to 30-day stays where you wander the ranch at will, learning new things and trying your hand at the various everyday tasks of running a ranch.

Food and lodgings are included with overnight trips.

If you don’t want to work, you can also kick back and relax by fishing from a private deck or enjoying hearty, home-cooked meals with the staff.

The horses are always available as well, so feel free to hop in the saddle and go strolling or galloping through the countryside.

The McGinnis Meadows Ranch is one of the most interesting places in Montana.

It’s much more than a tourist attraction; it’s an entire tourist experience.

If you have a few days to spare, there’s nothing else quite like it.

Address: 6220 Mc Ginnis Meadows Rd, Libby, MT 59923, United States

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23 top things to do in montana.

From museums to national parks, Montana has something for everyone.

Top Things to Do in Montana

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Montana is the fourth-largest state in the U.S. by landmass, measuring more than 147,000 square miles. The Treasure State is also home to some of the most beautiful natural wonders in the world, including Glacier National Park , Yellowstone , Flathead Lake – the largest natural freshwater lake west of the Mississippi – and 300 mountain peaks standing more than 9,600 feet tall.

If you love the outdoors, Montana has so much to offer, from hiking and camping to skiing and fishing. It's also an excellent place to go on a dinosaur dig, learn about the history of its inhabitants (particularly the Native American tribes), or view the wildlife roaming the region. Read on to learn some of the best things to do in Montana on your next visit.

Glacier National Park

Established in 1910, Glacier National Park is sometimes referred to as the Crown Jewel of the Continent. Here, you'll find an abundance of glaciers, lakes and streams, as well as hundreds of species of animals and thousands of plant species. The national park also includes more than 700 miles of hiking trails, making it a paradise for avid hikers. Some of the more iconic routes include the Trail of the Cedars to Avalanche Lake, the Grinnell Glacier Trail and the Highline Trail . Just be sure to look up trail conditions and difficulties before you set out. The best time to visit is July or August when trails and roads are cleared of snow.

While you're visiting, you'll also want to add Going-to-the-Sun Road to your itinerary. The 50-mile road that crosses the Continental Divide is an engineering marvel, passing glaciers, valleys, waterfalls, alpine meadows covered in wildflowers and more. Keep in mind that the upper portion of the road past Lake McDonald Lodge closes during the winter months. If you begin your visit to the park at the East Glacier entrance, Sun Tours offers interpretive tours led by Blackfeet Indian Reservation residents. The guides focus on the natural history of the park and its significance to the tribal culture and lifestyle.

Visitors hail the park as one of the most beautiful places they've been to, citing stunning views and clear blue glacial water that's almost unreal. Get out on the water in a canoe, kayak, paddleboard or raft – and consider a half-day or full-day whitewater rafting tour . Depending on what kind of experience you seek, set up camp at one of the park's many campgrounds, or book a stay at a lodge, hotel or nearby bed-and-breakfast. If you're considering more formal accommodations, the Lake McDonald Lodge and Belton Chalet should be on your list of options.

Let Going-to-the-Sun Road take your breath away on a bicycle

Courtesy of Visit Montana

Driving Going-to-the-Sun Road is a must-do in northwest Montana, but did you know you can enjoy the views on a bicycle? While you can cycle up Going-to-the-Sun all summer long, it's possible (and a lot more fun) to do it without worrying about vehicle traffic. There's a short window – typically from mid-May to mid- or late June – when the road is only open to hikers and cyclists as plow crews finish preparing the road for the peak season. The dates that this scenic road opens to cyclists change every year depending on snow conditions and the snowplows' progress, so you'll need to be flexible and keep an eye on the National Park Service's road report.

When the road does open for this seasonal opportunity, cyclists and hikers can park at the Avalanche Campground and Picnic Area before enjoying the views as far as the snowplows will allow. This ride is sure to take your breath away in more ways than one. It's an uphill climb, but for those worried about their physical fitness, most outfitters have electric bikes available to rent.

Yellowstone National Park

Only 3% of Yellowstone National Park resides in Montana, but the state is home to three of the park's five entrances. Near the north entrance of the park, you'll find Mammoth Hot Springs , which has been said to look like a cave turned inside out. The large terraces are formed by limestone that is dissolved by the hot, acidic water rising from the chambers below, then reforms after it's above ground. If you decide to enter through the west entrance, located just across the Wyoming and Idaho borders in West Yellowstone, you'll be a quick drive away from several hydrothermal wonders, including geysers and hot springs.

Some of the more popular attractions in this area include Old Faithful , Grand Prismatic Spring , Fountain Paint Pot and more. Finally, the northeast entrance, which is closed during the winter months, gives you the best access to the park's famous Lamar Valley , where you can observe wildlife like grizzly bears, black bears, bison and wolves. Visitors to Yellowstone National Park have called it a piece of heaven on Earth, a breathtaking experience and nature at its best.

Book a private Yellowstone tour for a guided experience in the park. You can also get a unique perspective out on the water by fly-fishing, kayaking and boating on Yellowstone Lake – or by taking a half-day or full-day whitewater rafting tour . A night photography tour with one of Yellowstone Wildlife Profiles' expert guides is another excellent way to explore the park and photograph star formations from prime vantage points.

Depending on where you're coming from, there are plenty of lodging options for each entrance. In West Yellowstone, the 1872 Inn and the Golden Stone Inn are top-rated. If you're coming from the north entrance in Gardiner, Montana, Park Hotel Yellowstone and Yellowstone Gateway Inn have great reviews. And if you're coming from the northeast, consider the Skyline Guest Ranch or Alpine Motel in Cooke City.

Soak in one of the state's many hot springs

Courtesy of Noah Couser Photography

The Treasure State is home to dozens of hot springs perfect for a relaxing soak. One of the top options is Quinn's Hot Springs Resort in Paradise, Montana, which is about 70 miles northeast of Missoula. At this resort, you can take a dip in five natural hot spring pools and stay overnight in one of the cabins or lodges. Past guests called the resort a relaxing experience, with some making repeat visits.

If you enjoy a hot dip but also appreciate a cold plunge, pay a visit to Yellowstone Hot Springs, which you'll find near Gardiner, less than 10 miles from Yellowstone National Park's north entrance. Here, you'll enjoy the best of both worlds. These springs are considered "flow through," meaning the water is constantly flowing from the earth. No matter what time of day you visit, you'll know you're soaking in the freshest mineral water.

You can bed down at the Park Hotel Yellowstone or glamp at the Dreamcatcher Tipi Hotel just north of Gardiner. Other favorite hot springs to visit in the state include the Chico Hot Springs, Bozeman Hot Springs and Norris Hot Springs.

Museum of the Rockies: Bozeman

Courtesy of Museum of the Rockies

The Smithsonian affiliate museum offers an incredible array of exhibits. For starters, it has one of the world's largest collections of North American dinosaur fossils, including T-Rex, one of very few mounted Tyrannosaurus rex skeletons on display in the U.S. The Museum of the Rockies also displays exhibits about the history of Yellowstone National Park and the Indigenous peoples who lived on the Northern Plains and near the Rocky Mountains, among other topics. Several programs are dedicated to introducing children of all ages to science, history and art.

Every year, the museum showcases new temporary exhibitions, so there is always something new to see. You'll also find a planetarium, where you can watch shows about the cosmos. Past visitors call out the dinosaur fossil collection, in particular, as a major draw. If you're looking for accommodations in Bozeman, consider staying at the RSVP Hotel or the SpringHill Suites Bozeman .

Address: 600 W. Kagy Blvd., Bozeman, MT 59717

Dig for dinosaurs and more on the Dinosaur Trail

Consisting of 14 different sites, the Montana Dinosaur Trail gives visitors a chance to step back into prehistoric times. The state is home to some key paleontological finds, and the stops along the trail include destinations with activities, programs and extensive exhibits of fossils, dinosaur skeletons or paleontology displays. You'll also find dig sites where visitors can dig for dinosaurs alongside paleontologists. You never know what might be unearthed, as paleontologists recently discovered the Lokiceratops – a new species of horned dinosaur – in northern Montana.

If you're planning to visit all 14 sites, the Montana Dinosaur Trail Prehistoric Passport lets you get a stamp at each stop. It has space for field notes and provides more information about each of the places to go.

World Museum of Mining: Butte

Josie Trudgeon | Courtesy of World Museum of Mining

This is one of the few mining museums in the world located on an actual mine yard, called the Orphan Girl Mine. It's home to 50 exhibit buildings and 66 primary exhibits in the mine yard itself. With a visit here, you'll learn about the history of hard-rock mining in Butte, which was home to one of the most productive copper mines ever. Take an underground mine tour of Orphan Girl, which includes a 100-foot descent to the mine's original shaft station. You'll be able to touch the rock and hear stories about the people who worked there.

Past visitors highly recommend the mine tour and praise the tour guides' knowledge and presentation. Reviewers also say you'll want to bring a jacket, because the museum is primarily outdoors and the mine is chilly year-round. When it's time to bed down, some of the best-ranked accommodations in Butte include the Copper King Convention Center, Ascend Hotel Collection and the Hampton Inn Butte.

Address: 155 Museum Way, Butte, MT 59701

Visit the Bison Range

Set on more than 18,700 acres of wildlife conservation land on the Flathead Indian Reservation, the Bison Range was restored to be managed by the Confederated Salish and Kootenai Tribes in 2022. It's home to roughly 350 bison as well as around 200 species of birds; you can also see bears, bighorn sheep, deer, elk, mountain lions, pronghorn and more. Explore this day park by walking its nature trails or venturing on one of its two drives. Parkgoers must purchase a day pass at the visitor center and keep a safe distance from wildlife at all times (bear spray is recommended).

Address: 58355 Bison Range Road, Charlo, MT 59824

Lewis and Clark Interpretive Center: Great Falls

The Lewis and Clark Interpretive Center offers a look into the history of the famous 19th-century expedition, with a focus on the Corp of Discovery: President Jefferson's special team of explorers led by Captain Meriwether Lewis and Second Lieutenant William Clark, during their time in Montana. The museum – created in collaboration with the U.S. Forest Service – features exhibits with hundreds of artifacts and art collections that collectively tell the story of the explorers' journey and the Native Americans they met along the way.

Past visitors say that even for travelers who know the basics of the story of the Lewis and Clark expedition, there's a lot more to learn. Others highlight that it's a family-friendly activity. If you're planning to stay in Great Falls, consider a stay at the Historic Hotel Arvon or the Best Western Plus Riverfront Hotel and Suites.

Address: 4201 Giant Springs Road, Great Falls, MT 59405

Learn about the cattle industry at Grant-Kohrs Ranch

Originally established in 1862 by Canadian fur trader John Grant, then expanded by cattle baron Conrad Kohrs, this ranch was once the headquarters of a 10 million-acre cattle empire. Now a historic site, the ranch serves as a commemoration of the Western cattle industry from the mid-1800s through recent times. It's also still a working cattle ranch, so travelers can witness some live demonstrations. Walk through dozens of historic buildings, hike nearly 10 miles of ranch roads and trails, and take a tour of the ranch house.

Grant-Kohrs Ranch National Historic Site is located in Deer Lodge, which sits 40 miles northwest of Butte. Many travelers say they stopped by the ranch on their way to somewhere else and describe the historic site as a worthy detour.

Address: 266 Warren Lane, Deer Lodge, MT 59722

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Enjoy a luxury all-inclusive dude ranch experience

Courtesy of The Resort at Paws Up

Montana is home to a number of all-inclusive dude ranches , where travelers can experience Western culture (think: horseback rides, nightly campfires and fly-fishing) in a luxurious setting. The Resort at Paws Up , located about 30 miles northeast of Missoula in Greenough, is home to 28 luxury vacation homes and dozens of glamping tents and cabins. The resort offers more than 70 activities for travelers to enjoy on its 37,000-acre cattle ranch, including backcountry tours, canoeing, dog-sledding, fly-fishing, geocaching, snowshoeing, horse-drawn carriage rides and more.

The rate includes all meals and more than a dozen activities that can be enjoyed solo. There are also 50-plus guided activities for an additional charge. Travelers describe the resort as beautiful and intimate and say staying here is a once-in-a-lifetime experience. Other top-rated all-inclusive dude ranches in Montana include the Ranch at Rock Creek , Blacktail Ranch, the Hawley Mountain Guest Ranch and Elkhorn Ranch.

Address: 40060 Paws Up Road, Greenough, MT 59823

Explore Montana's state parks

While the state is known for its national parks, Montana's state parks offer much to be explored along with less crowds. Makoshika State Park is the largest state park in Montana, with plenty of fossil remains and badland formations to explore. Take in the natural beauty on a drive or hike the park's many trails – and be sure to stop by the visitor center to see triceratops and Tyrannosaurus rex fossils.

Geological wonders await at Lewis & Clark Caverns State Park, where visitors can hike, camp and take a tour of the limestone caves. At Bannack State Park, step back in time and explore the state's best preserved ghost town. There are more than 50 buildings along the Main Street, and tours are held from Memorial Day to Labor Day. For a unique camping experience, rent the park's conical tent along Grasshopper Creek.

Little Bighorn Battlefield National Monument

Located in south-central Montana, Little Bighorn Battlefield National Monument memorializes the Battle of Little Bighorn, which is also known as Custer's Last Stand. The battle was between the U.S. Army and the Lakota Sioux, Northern Cheyenne and Arapaho tribes. The monument includes a visitor center, a museum, a bookstore, the Indian Memorial and Fort Custer National Cemetery, where you can view artifacts and learn about the battle and some of the prominent people who fought there. You'll also discover what life was like for Native Americans on the plains.

Take a 4.5-mile self-guided tour between two battlefields, the Custer Battlefield and the Reno-Benteen Battlefield, with parking lots at each site. Travelers describe visiting the monument as a solemn experience, but also an important one to learn the real history of the events that took place here. The nearest major city to the national monument is Billings, which is around 60 miles northwest.

Address: 756 Battlefield Tour Road, Crow Agency, MT 59022

Relax in the Garden of One Thousand Buddhas

It's not where you'd expect to find a shrine to the Buddha, but the Flathead Indian Reservation just north of Arlee, Montana, is home to the Garden of One Thousand Buddhas. This botanical garden and public park features 1,000 hand-cast Buddha statues, all arranged around the central figure of the Great Mother, or Yum Chenmo, who is the manifestation of the perfection of wisdom. The builders of the shrine hoped those who visit would feel an atmosphere of serenity and compassion.

The garden, filled with native trees and flowers, only adds to the ambience. That's exactly what past travelers say they experienced here. Located in western Montana, Arlee sits just about 25 miles north of Missoula.

Address: 34756 White Coyote Road, Arlee, MT 59821

Ski at Big Sky Resort

Courtesy of Big Sky Resort

Considered one of the top ski vacations in the U.S. , Big Sky Resort is home to 5,850 skiable acres and 39 chairlifts. There are runs for skiers of all experience levels, including a 2,142-foot vertical ride up to Lone Peak, giving seasoned skiers an experience similar to heli-skiing. After you're done skiing for the day, hit the spa or one of the many restaurants for après-ski or dinner. There are also a handful of retailers if you want to upgrade your ski uniform. Other winter activities include cross-country skiing, zip lining, snowshoeing, dog-sledding, sleigh riding and more.

During the summer months, the resort remains open with a variety of outdoor activities, such as golfing, zip lining, hiking, disc golf, whitewater rafting and more. Vacationers talk up the resort's beautiful setting, both in the winter and the summer. If you're staying at the resort, there are four hotels and a variety of vacation rentals to choose from. There's also the family- and pet-friendly Whitewater Inn, which is a short drive from the resort.

Address: 50 Big Sky Resort Road, Big Sky, MT 59716

Admire rock paintings at Pictograph Cave State Park

Andy Austin | Courtesy of Pictograph Cave State Park

Within Billings city limits, Pictograph Cave State Park is an area with three caves where generations of prehistoric hunters made their mark. They left behind artifacts and more than 100 rock paintings, or pictographs. The oldest painting dates back more than 2,000 years, while the most recent are from 200 to 500 years ago. To reach the caves, there's a loop trail of less than a mile with displays providing more information about the pictographs, as well as the vegetation and natural features of the area.

Check out the visitor center to see some of the artifacts collected from the caves. The deepest of the three caves, Pictograph Cave, is roughly 160 feet wide and 45 feet deep. Some visitors describe the pictographs as a bit too faded to see clearly, but bringing a pair of binoculars may help with that concern. Others warn that there's a steep climb to Pictograph Cave that may not be suitable for small children and casual hikers.

Address: 3401 Coburn Road, Billing, MT 59101

Discover Montana mining history in a ghost town

Ever wonder why Montana is called the Treasure State? Gold mining was what drew people to permanently settle in Montana about 50 years after the Lewis and Clark expedition. Following a big gold discovery in 1858, miners flocked to Montana. Today the state is rich with historical sites that offer a glimpse into this vibrant past. Garnet Ghost Town, located about 30 miles east of Missoula, is one of Montana's best-preserved ghost towns. Visitors can explore more than 30 buildings, including a saloon, a hotel and various homes, all offering a window into the gold rush era of the late 19th century.

Similarly, Virginia City Ghost Town, situated in the southwestern part of the state about 75 miles south of Butte, transports visitors back to the 1800s. With 100 original buildings, an opportunity to pan for gold and a cast of living history interpreters, Virginia City offers a lively and immersive experience. Both Garnet and Virginia City Ghost Towns (among several others) provide unique opportunities to step back in time and experience Montana's rich mining heritage. Garnet Ghost Town is open year-round, while Virginia City Ghost Town is open between Memorial Day and Labor Day. Check each individual ghost town's website for their hours of operation.

See 'Yellowstone' TV series filming locations

If watching the Duttons (and those gorgeous panoramic backdrops) on the TV show "Yellowstone" has you yearning for Montana, head to western part of the state. Despite the show's name, it's not filmed in or near the national park, but rather in the scenic Bitterroot Valley. This area is home to authentic cowboy culture and charming small towns like Darby, where you can walk along the wooden sidewalks to a local brewery, an old-fashioned candy store or even a custom cowboy hat shop.

Fans of the show's prequel "1883" will want to stop at the Darby Pioneer Memorial Museum. Take a drive a few miles south of Darby along U.S. Route 93 past the Dutton Ranch (which, in real life, is called the Chief Joseph Ranch and is located on private property), and see the show's "Train Station" located at a highway turnout – Sula Peak Road 5727. From there, check out the Montana Livestock Association in downtown Hamilton, and order the "Yellowstone" Salisbury steak special at Glen's Cafe in Florence. Or, if you want to see where the famous shootout scene took place, stop by Ruby's Cafe for a burger and fries.

In Missoula, you can see the Garlington Building, the filming site of Beth's Market Equities office and Jamie's attorney general's office, and head across the street for a self-guided tour of the Missoula County Courthouse, where the trial was filmed. For accommodations after seeing all these sights, the Bitterroot River Ranch in Darby is an all-season B&B set within a log home. Located around 5 miles from the Dutton Ranch filming site, this ranch is an ideal setting for "Yellowstone" fans.

Marvel at the Ringing Rocks in Whitehall

David Abrams | Courtesy of Western Montana BLM

Less than 20 miles east of Butte is a unique geological area where the rocks actually chime with the light tap of a hammer. Experts believe that this phenomenon was caused by a combination of the rocks' composition and the joining patterns that have developed during the natural course of erosion – if one of the boulders is removed from the pile, it no longer rings.

Some visitors note that the road leading to the rocks can be tough on smaller vehicles without four-wheel drive. There may also be a hike, depending on where you stop your car. Reviewers say that there are hammers near the entrance, so you don't have to worry about buying one at the local hardware store before you go. Aside from Montana, you'll find a similar experience at Ringing Rocks Park in Pennsylvania, one of the state's most unique attractions .

C.M. Russell Museum: Great Falls

Courtesy of C.M. Russell Museum

Charles Marion Russell was an American artist whose works centered on the Old West. His artwork, which includes paintings, sculptures and drawings, portrays the daily life of cowboys and Native Americans, as well as the landscapes of Big Sky Country, through the lens of his personal experiences. Russell's home, which was built in 1900 – along with his log studio, built three years later – reopened in 2019 with new interactive exhibits that give visitors a deeper understanding into the artist and his life at home.

The C.M. Russell Museum contains more than 3,000 works of Western art across 16 galleries, an outdoor sculpture garden and a research center. Many visitors are impressed with the sheer volume of work showcased here, saying it gives you the feeling of stepping back in time to the artist's life.

Address: 400 13th St. N., Great Falls, MT 59401

Discover the destructive power of nature at Quake Lake

Roughly 25 miles northwest of West Yellowstone is Earthquake Lake, called Quake Lake for short. The lake was formed in 1959 when an earthquake rocked an area near the Madison River. The seismic activity created a landslide of roughly 80 million tons of rock, halting the water flow in the Madison River Canyon gorge. Tragically, 28 people were killed as a result of the landslide. The 7.2 magnitude earthquake was so devastating that it altered the geyser patterns in Yellowstone National Park and was felt as far away as Salt Lake City , which is 330 miles away.

Today, Quake Lake is a popular fishing spot, with authorities stocking it each year with brown and cutthroat trout. Just watch out for the timbers below the surface that were brought down in the landslide.

Grizzly & Wolf Discovery Center: West Yellowstone

Located in West Yellowstone, the Grizzly & Wolf Discovery Center opened in 1993 with the mission to give visitors a better understanding and appreciation of grizzly bears. The center acts as a sanctuary for bears, wolves, otters, birds of prey and ground squirrels that are unable to live in the wild for one reason or another. Visitors will not only get the chance to see some of the wildlife housed at the center, but you'll also be able to learn about the animals through interactive exhibits, films, displays and demonstrations.

The Grizzly & Wolf Discovery Center is a good stop to begin or end a trip to Yellowstone National Park. The center is highly recommended by travelers, with some saying it's worth a visit even if you only have a little time to spare. Others say that it can be a great way to get close to the wildlife if you didn't get that opportunity in the national park.

Address: 201 S. Canyon St., West Yellowstone, MT 59758

Enjoy a craft brew with a view

Courtesy of Flathead Lake Brewing Company

Montana has plenty to be proud of when it comes to its craft beer scene. The views of lakes, rivers and mountain ranges complement the hops to create the perfect pairings. With nearly 100 craft breweries, Montana is ranked No. 3 in the U.S. for breweries per capita. At Flathead Lake Brewing Company in Bigfork, choose from 16 beers on tap and enjoy them on the outdoor patio overlooking the nearly 28-mile-long lake of the same name. MAP Brewing Company in Bozeman takes ambience to a whole new level, often offering live music along with its brews and views. Its location on the shore of Glen Lake in the foothills of the Bridger Mountains makes it the perfect place to unwind after a day of outdoor adventure.

If you enjoy the sound of a babbling brook, you'll want to check out Tamarack Brewing Co. in Lakeside. And if a cider is more your speed, Western Cider's patio on the banks of the Clark Fork River won't disappoint. Wherever you go, there are a few things all visitors should know about Montana's taproom laws. Breweries are only to stay open until 9 p.m., with the last call at 8 p.m. When the bartender cuts you off after three pints, don't take it personally: They're only allowed to serve 48 ounces per person per day. They'll be happy to serve you again tomorrow.

Why Trust U.S. News Travel

Kelsey J. Lawrence is a freelance writer and award-winning journalist with a passion for outdoor adventure and family travel. She splits her time between Tennessee and Montana, finding her greatest joy in the mountains. She enjoys hiking, biking and camping – all with her toddler in tow. She is the author behind Adventure Baby, a blog designed to encourage first-time parents to keep traveling and exploring the great outdoors with their new sidekicks.

You might also be interested in:

• Amazing Montana Vacations
• The Top Ski Resorts in Montana
• The Best U.S. National Parks
• The Best Places to Hike in the U.S.
• The Best Places for National Park Camping

Tags: Travel , Montana Vacations , U.S. West Vacations

World's Best Places To Visit

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• # 4 Bora Bora

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29 Best Things to Do in Montana You Shouldn’t Miss

Montana, famously known as “Big Sky Country,” is an all-encompassing destination rich in diverse experiences, from cultural and historical value to pulse-quickening adventures, making it a travel enthusiast’s haven.

If you fancy the idea of frolicking through beautiful gardens, witnessing natural wonders, and observing wildlife in their natural habitat, Montana has much to delight you. The state beckons to both change chasers and tranquility seekers alike, with an extensive array of must-do activities that guarantee a vacation to remember.

Across our comprehensive journey in this article, we’ll unravel the top 29 things to do in Montana that you cannot afford to miss. From exploring the iconic national parks of Glacier and Yellowstone, biking the spectacular Going-to-the-Sun Road, to experiencing the local culture in towns like Bozeman, our route promises to be exciting, educational, and serene.

• Discover the Wonders of Montana

So, if you’re eager to truly understand why they call this place “The Last Best Place,” join us as we uncover the off-the-beaten-path delights and well-known attractions in Montana . The Big Sky state stands ready to compel us with all its awe with its evergreen allure and myriad of adventures.

7 Key Takeaways on Best Things to Do in Montana

• From river rafting to cattle driving, Montana offers a medley of experiences to captivate every traveler, blending nature, adrenaline, and relaxation. 
• Explore Glacier National Park’s natural beauty, with its varied landscapes and visitor centers offer a rich and educational experience for all.
• Yellowstone National Park, the first national park in the world, is a diverse landscape offering activities for nature enthusiasts, thrill-seekers, and leisure travelers. 
• Cycling through Going-to-the-Sun Road at Glacier National Park is a picturesque and sometimes challenging experience, offering gorgeous views and the chance to immerse in natural beauty.
• Paddle over the tranquil waters of Lake McDonald, Montana’s largest lake located in Glacier National Park. 
• Flathead Lake, the largest natural freshwater lake in the western U.S., offers a variety of water-based and outdoor activities, such as camping, sailing, and even fresh fruit sampling in the summer.
• Montana’s seemingly infinite possibilities, from wildlife encounters in its picturesque national parks to serene sunset views at Lake McDonald, create a tapestry of adventures. 

Must-Do Activities in Montana for a Memorable Vacation

Montana, with its expansive wilderness, craggy mountains, and postcard-perfect rustic towns, is more than just a place to visit; it’s a destination to experience. It’s a place that never tires of surprising you; and as you stumble upon hidden gem after hidden gem, you’ll find yourself falling in love with it over and over.

The state has a charm and allure that’s tough to put into words, so it’s better to experience it firsthand. So, strap in for new experiences, become acquainted with old favorites, and maybe even add a touch of wanderlust to your life, all in the land of seemingly infinite possibilities.

1. Visit Glacier National Park

One of my all-time favorite places to wield a camera and embrace Mother Nature’s finest hour, Glacier National Park is a captivating blend of alpine wonderland and rich cultural history. It’s a hub of outdoor attractions and activities for travelers, including but not limited to hiking, camping, fishing, and boating.

Glacier National Park is also home to 3 visitor centers, each offering an array of exhibits and information for visitors, including:

• St. Mary Visitor Center – The St. Mary Visitor Center on the east side beautifully intertwines culture with nature, delving into the American Indian tribes’ connection with the landscape.
• Apgar Visitor Center – The Apgar Visitor Center on the west side of the park is staffed with volunteers and park personnel who can answer questions and help with trip planning.
• Logan Pass Visitor Center – Atop the Going-to-the-Sun Road sits the Logan Pass Visitor Center, featuring exhibits on alpine zone plants and animals.

Glacier National Park is a popular attraction not just for its spectacular beauty but also for the array of exhibits — both natural and human-made. Every trail feels like a step into a beautifully illustrated natural history book.

The park offers everything from contemplative fishing to heart-racing boating tours. If you’re the one who’s always gushing over the next perfect Instagram shot, here’s your eternal muse.

2. Explore Yellowstone National Park

What’s Montana without a visit to its show-stopping neighbor, Yellowstone Park? It’s like crossing over from the tranquility of rural life into an orchestra of nature’s best.

Some of the popular attractions in Yellowstone National Park include:

• Old Faithful Geyser – It’s the marquee superstar, renowned for its punctual, jaw-dropping eruptions that’ll have you setting your watch by it.
• Grand Canyon of the Yellowstone River – If the Colorado River garners a standing ovation, then this is its equally astonishing relative.
• Lamar Valley – Decked with wildlife, it’s like walking into a live-action wildlife documentary — seriously, no binoculars required.

You can’t discuss Yellowstone without mentioning it was the trailblazer, a genuine groundbreaker if you will, becoming the very first national park in 1872 . It’s like the cherry on top of the natural marvel sundae — as it’s officially the place where anyone is invited to come and behold unique geologic features.

But don’t let the museum vibe fool you; Yellowstone is as excitingly varied as it is historic. From wildlife spotting to hiking, and from horseback riding to snow coach tours, you’ve got yourself a buffet of outdoor adventures served with a side of breathtaking landscapes.

In a city, variety can be the spice of life. In Yellowstone Park, it’s the entire banquet. The park’s diverse set of landscapes — from roaring waterfalls and towering peaks to whispering meadows — will have you writing exaggerated postcards to your friends, promising the sights are practically unreal. 

3. Bike the Going-to-the-Sun Road

Pedaling your way through Going-to-the-Sun Road is like immersing yourself in a National Geographic cover. Seriously, you won’t believe how pristine and dramatic Glacier National Park looks from a bike saddle.

So, here’s the lowdown — Going-to-the-Sun Road is a 50-mile (around 80 km) road masterpiece. Roll-flowing across alpine peaks, alongside glacial lakes, and through deep valleys, you’re effectively journeying on a path perfected by time and glaciers.

In terms of skill level, you should consider this popular route as suitable only if you’re already used to heavy vehicle traffic in both directions. Oh, and endurance. This isn’t a casual bike ride down the boardwalk.

Thinking about embarking on this one-of-a-kind journey? Always follow these biking principles: Wear a helmet (it’s non-negotiable), use hand signals as if you’re speaking to the cars passing you, and don’t even think about starting without bear spray, just in case your pedal path unexpectedly merges with a grizzly’s stroll. Speaking of grizzlies, this animal is one of the iconic symbols for Montana and a breathtaking creature to behold. Nonetheless, you never want to be caught off guard when these magnificent beasts are on the prowl.

The awe-inspiring views, the challenging yet rewarding terrain, and the possibility of animal encounters — biking Going-to-the-Sun Road is every bit as unforgettable as you’d expect. Just make sure to be prepared, focused, and open to what Mother Nature might throw your way.

4. Kayak on Lake McDonald

Kayaking on Lake McDonald, the largest lake in Glacier National Park, isn’t just another item to tick off your adventure list; it’s a chance to immerse yourself in Montana’s pristine natural scenery.

As you paddle over the tranquil crystal-clear waters in Lake McDonald, the glorious backdrop of the glacier-carved basin and towering mountains is nothing short of breathtaking. And you don’t need to worry about lugging a kayak across the country; there are plenty of rental options available.

But it’s not just the visual feast that makes this experience a must. Lake McDonald is surrounded by mountains that act as a rain block, giving you calm water conditions perfect for a leisurely kayaking trip.

If you’re lucky, your eyes may feast on a wildlife scene, not just the stunning views. Imagine the thrill of catching glimpses of bighorn sheep, mountain goats, or even a black bear from the safety of your kayak.

After kayaking, a popular choice for a home base is the Lake McDonald Lodge. While it’s not the only place to stay, it’s convenient for quick access to the lake.

This isn’t just another kayaking spot; it’s an opportunity to experience Montana’s natural beauty at its grandest. And who knows, if you’re lucky, the incredible scenery might just be accompanied by a spectacular wildlife show, making your paddling adventure on Lake McDonald truly unforgettable.

5. Enjoy Outdoor Activities on Flathead Lake

One of the crown jewels of Montana’s landscape, Flathead Lake, isn’t just a picturesque spot for your Insta-feed. It’s the epicenter for outdoor enthusiasts and anyone looking to seriously unwind in nature’s embrace.

With 5 state park units encircling Flathead Lake’s stunning 191 square miles (307 square km) and 160 miles (257 km) of shoreline, camping, hiking, and swimming become intimate experiences among mature forests and Instagram-worthy views of the Swan Range and Mission Mountains. 

“You can pick the vibe that suits you best,” says Jim, a local who’s practically part fish, spending every summer at Flathead. Here’s what you could get up to at Flathead Lake State Park:

• Camping – You can rough it out like an early pioneer or opt for more modern RV amenities.
• Sailing and Power Boating – Bring out your inner sailor or let your hair down with a powerboat — the cool breeze and placid waters are equally inviting.
• Roadside Temptations – In summer, the east shore of the lake is a fruity delight. You can munch on locally grown cherries, apples, and plums — think of it as sampling the best Montana has to offer. 

In addition, you can also enjoy fishing, water skiing, or simply practicing the fine art of doing nothing while floating on gentle ripples. “Here, you’re not just on vacation; you’re part of a narrative that dates back centuries,” says Jim, and it’s easy to see why. 

6. Experience the Grizzly and Wolf Discovery Center

At the Grizzly and Wolf Discovery Center in West Yellowstone, you’re in for a real wildlife treat. It’s like hitting ‘play’ on a National Geographic documentary, only this time you’re the director.

With naturalistic settings that allow these animals to exhibit their natural behaviors, the Grizzly and Wolf Discovery Center provides a safe space for animals that can’t fend for themselves in the wild. You won’t just see them—you’ll appreciate the grizzly bears and applaud the wolves.

From playful pond splashes and joyful overland runs to observant scavenging and interactive feeding, it’s a live reel of nature you won’t soon forget. At the right times, usually early mornings or evenings, you might even catch the vibrant sound of active wolf packs howling into the crisp Montana sky.

The Grizzly and Wolf Discovery Center houses not only grizzlies and wolves, but also otters, ground squirrels, and birds of prey — there’s a whole cast of wild characters calling this place home. It’s less like a zoo and more like a wildlife sanctuary gone prime time.

Just be prepared, you might find yourself lingering a lot longer than you planned — it’s easy to get caught up in the magic of this place. 

7. Hike to Avalanche Lake

This is no ordinary hike. It’s a journey that unfurls like a storybook, taking you through towering cedars, past crystal-clear waterfalls, and finally depositing you at the iconic Avalanche Lake.

“Alright, lacing up for Avalanche Lake is like preparing for an expedition,” I kidded when I first made my way through it. But in all earnest, it’s a hiker’s dream, especially for travelers who enjoy a touch of moderate challenge.

What’s in store for you on the trail to Avalanche Lake:

• Trail Length – 5.9 miles (9.5 km) round trip
• Starting Point – The Trail of the Cedars, a short 1 mile (1.6 km) trail
• Duration of Hike  – About 2 hours and 28 minutes
• Most Scenic Months  – June through October
• Key Points to Savor – Lush cedar forest, gushing waterfalls, and the lake itself, hemmed in by towering peaks

It’s a trail that offers a symphony of natural delights, from the rustle of leaves in the cedar forests to the roaring crescendo of the waterfalls. My first glimpse of the cerulean waters of Avalanche Lake felt just as breathtaking as a well-timed plot twist in a thriller novel.

The Avalanche Lake hike is an essential entry on the bucket list of any adventurous traveler. With its perfect blend of challenge, scenery, and not to mention, the bragging rights that come with it, why would you skip this gem in Glacier National Park?

8. Enjoy Swiftcurrent Lake

Get ready for a slice of heaven right here on Earth. Swiftcurrent Lake, nestled in the heart of Many Glacier Valley, is the kind of place Instagram dreams are made of.

The combination of the clear blue waters mirroring towering peaks, the chance to paddle under a wide Montana sky, and the hushed anticipation of bumping into the local fauna makes it a destination to remember.

The Swiftcurrent Lake area is part of Glacier National Park, which is a forever-trending hotspot that’s a must for any traveler, Montana or not. In this corner alone, you’re treated to Many Glacier Hotel, a splendid architectural marvel that adds to the lake’s allure. 

Scenic boat rides are big here too, taking you not just around Swiftcurrent Lake, but across to the enchanting Lake Josephine as well. For the power voyagers among us, canoes, kayaks, and rowboats are at your disposal, allowing you to call the shots on how slow or fast you’d like to take in the scenery. 

So, in a nutshell, Swiftcurrent Lake has more stories to tell than just the beautiful stills you will click. The variety of activities — be it hiking, an afternoon of bird-watching, rowing, relaxing on a boat, or simply taking a stroll around the lake — guarantee memorable experiences.

9. Explore Pictograph Cave State Park

The evocative Pictograph Cave State Park is like an open-air museum, and I guarantee this — your inner history buff will thank you.

A gentle three-quarter-mile (1.2 km) loop spirals around Pictograph Cave State Park, leading you through a living timeline of Montana’s prehistoric past. Following it is an expedition through the stories and daily lives of those who came before us, complete with artifacts and over 100 rock paintings.

Stepping into the visitor center is your ticket to time travel. It’s as if the artifacts and displays, curated over years of exploration, whisper tales of a Montana we never knew. They’ll also direct you to prime vantage points, where with the help of good binoculars, these faded pieces of art come to life.

These aren’t just cave paintings; they’re remnants of the daily lives of prehistoric hunters, etched in stone like an ancient Instagram feed. The park lets you be not just a spectator but a participant in this journey through time. 

If there’s one thing I’d prioritize, it’s the rock paintings. The oldest is older than your great-to-the-n-th-grandma and dates back over 2,000 years, while the most ‘recent’ additions were made just 200 to 500 years ago. That’s older than most historical sites in the United States.

Pictograph Cave State Park honors the traditions of our ancestors. Each painting – be it a bison or a ritual scene – is a piece of the story of Montana. If you have an extra day in Billings, don’t skip this walk among civilizations long gone. It’s a haunting glimpse into a Montana that’s much more than just our present.

10. Discover Big Sky Resort

Sitting majestically in the heart of Montana, surrounded by the stunning Greater Yellowstone Region, Big Sky Resort beautifully blends the charm of vast open spaces with the commanding presence of dramatic peaks.

Get the chance to experience being on top of Lone Peak, at 11,166 feet (around 3,403 m) elevation, with panoramic views that stretch out to eternity. In the winter months, it’s a paradise for lovers of snow — Big Sky is decorated with over 400 inches of snow annually, perfect for exhilarating ski slopes and exciting winter activities like cross-country skiing, alpine skiing, sleigh rides, ice skating, and even dog sledding.

But let’s not forget the warmer seasons. The resort boasts a plethora of summer activities, from zip lines that send you flying over the mountains to scenic lift rides that offer a serene view.

The fun doesn’t stop there, as Big Sky is a destination for families too. Half of the ski terrain is perfect for beginners and intermediates, ensuring that everyone, young and old, can find their groove. For the more experienced thrill-seekers, the advanced ski terrain guarantees a challenge like no other.

Whether you’re speeding across the landscape on a thrilling sled dog ride or just relaxing with a comforting cup of hot chocolate between runs, there’s a warm invitation for everyone.

So for those seeking winter thrills or relaxing beneath the summer sun, Big Sky Resort is the ideal showcase of Montana’s year-round hospitality. Without a doubt, a visit to Big Sky Resort will be one for the books — or rather, the family photo album.

11. Tour the Lewis & Clark Caverns State Park

Lewis & Clark Caverns State Park is not only Montana’s oldest state park but also its best-known. Get ready to go subterranean because this park boasts the largest limestone caves in the Northwest, perfect for spelunking adventures through landscapes millions of years in the making.

While the big draw is, of course, the caves — which you can only explore through a guided tour, strap on those comfortable shoes because there’s more fun to be had.

Winding hiking and biking trails, a top-notch visitor center with interactive displays that shed light on the cave network, and even a gift shop. In the summer, the amphitheater comes alive with special interpretive events, giving you a glimpse into the rich geological and cultural history of the area.

If you’re someone who likes to pair adventure with a little history, you’re in the right place. Lewis & Clark Caverns State Park isn’t just an outdoor playground. The caverns were once roamed by native tribes and hold a fascinating historical significance.

For die-hard explorers, the cave tours are available year-round, each season offering something unique. If you’re looking to pair your underground explorations with some above-ground fun, come in the summer when the interpretive events and special tours are in full swing.

Remember, it’s not just about the caves; it’s a giant park filled with hiking and biking trails, a state-of-the-art visitor center, and a whole lot of surprises. So, are you ready to delve deep into Montana’s subterranean wonders? I sure hope so!

12. Ski at Whitefish Mountain Resort

When the snow falls, Montana’s Whitefish Mountain Resort is the place to be, offering a buffet of snowy delights. Spread over 3,000 skiable acres, it’s no surprise that this is one of the largest ski resorts you’ll find in both the US and Canada.

Come one, come all, whether you’re a seasoned pro or a total newbie, Whitefish Mountain Resort promises a downhill experience that is both exhilarating and inviting. And if skiing and snowboarding don’t quite hit the spot for you, how about exploring the pristine winter landscapes on snowshoes, or revving it up with guided snowmobile rentals?

Not exclusive to just winter sports, as the snow thaws and spring dances closer, Whitefish Mountain Resort morphs into an adventure park fit for the sun. Get ready for thrill rides of an entirely different kind.

Montana’s only Alpine Slide offers hair-raising fun at your own pace, while lift-accessed downhill mountain biking lets you conquer the slopes on two wheels. If you’re seeking a more relaxed experience, the Aerial Adventure Park, scenic lift rides, and the unique Walk in the Treetops are perfect for creating those priceless family memories.

The summer months at Whitefish Mountain Resort are as fantastic as the winter ones. As the saying goes, variety is the spice of life, and that’s exactly what Whitefish Mountain Resort offers — a delightful array of winter and summer sports. 

13. Relax by Whitefish Lake

One of my favorite ways to recharge in Montana is by spending a serene day at Whitefish Lake. This pristine lake, set against an incredible backdrop of mountainous views, offers a tranquil atmosphere that’s perfect for outdoor enthusiasts and leisure seekers.

Adding to the allure of Whitefish Lake is its thriving fishing scene. The lake boasts populations of lake trout that rival those of nearby Flathead Lake, with catches often exceeding 20 pounds (around 9.1 kilos). Anglers can also pursue brown trout, and rainbow trout, making it a diverse and exciting destination for fishing enthusiasts.

Whether you’re into fishing, boating, taking a casual swim, or trying your hand at water skiing, the options in Whitefish Lake are as diverse as they are refreshing. The water is crystal clear, making it an ideal spot to cool off in summer.

For those who appreciate a more laid-back approach, Whitefish Lake State Park is a must-visit. Here, a mature woodland envelops the beautiful and secluded campground and beach, providing a natural setting for retreat and relaxation. With 25 campsites offering tent-only and RV camping, you can sleep under the stars with the gentle lull of the lake as your soundtrack.

Whitefish Lake is more than just a body of water; it’s a source of calmness and exploration that defines Montana’s love for the great outdoors. So if you’re planning a trip to Montana , this destination checks all the boxes for a blissful escape.

14. Expand Your Knowledge at Little Bighorn Battlefield National Monument

Little Bighorn Battlefield National Monument is like a living history lesson etched into the very land it stands upon. For all you history buffs out there, this is more than a “been there, done that” spot; it’s a journey to the very heart of an extraordinary moment in American history.

The Battle of Little Bighorn, also known as Custer’s Last Stand, was a pivotal moment in both U.S. Army and Native American history. Little Bighorn Battlefield National Monument is where the legendary Native American leaders orchestrated a stunning victory over the U.S. 7th Cavalry.

Walking the very grounds where these events unfolded is an undeniably sobering experience. The visitor center and museum offer a deeper dive into the strategies and roles of the different factions, making the historical narrative come alive.

Lesser known but equally moving are the Custer National Cemetery and the Indian Memorial, each telling a different side of the same story. The Indian Memorial, in particular, gives voice to the Native American warriors who fought and died here, providing a much-needed balance to the historical narrative. You can take also take a 4.5-mile (7.2 km) self-guided tour between two battlefields, the Custer Battlefield and the Reno-Benteen Battlefield.

But hold on — the surprises don’t stop there. Montana’s rich biodiversity leaves its mark even on this historic site. The monument is also home to a rich and diverse ecosystem, encompassing various species of birds, mammals, reptiles, and amphibians native to this part of Montana.

So, in a single trip, you get to walk through the annals of American history, contemplate pivotal moments, and appreciate the intricacies of Montana’s natural world — that is simply mind-blowing to me.

15. Cattle Drive at a Montana Ranch

Ever dreamt of experiencing a day in the life of cowboys, herding cattle across open ranges and down dusty trails, just like in the old Wild West movies? Montana makes this dream an authentic reality, with ranches offering exhilarating cattle drive experiences amid the iconic backdrop of Big Sky Country.

Here are some of the best ranches in Montana where you can experience cattle drives:

• Dryhead Ranch – For an authentic old-west adventure, try their 50-mile (80 km) cattle drive along the old Sioux Trail.
• The Bar W Guest Ranch – Offers a Western Cattle Drive exclusively on their expansive 5,300-acre ranch.
• The Resort at Paws Up – Uncover the history of cattle driving and master essential rodeo skills.
• Bear Creek Guest Ranch – Delivers an authentic week-long experience moving cattle towards the Rockies.

The cattle drive itself is far from just a leisurely ride. Not only do you inherit the vast blue skies and the rugged panoramas, but you also pick up a bit of Montana’s rich history in cattle ranching.

If the idea of churning up dust tracks through vast plains, and herding majestic creatures under Montana skies stirs feelings of absolute joy, I’d say this experience is not to be missed!

16. Stroll Through Downtown Bozeman

Downtown Bozeman is like a time machine that swings you back to the Old West while adding a touch of modern flavor. As you amble down the streets, the blend of historic architecture and modern storefronts will keep your camera busy and your Instagram followers happy.

I often tell fellow travelers, you’ve not truly soaked in Bozeman’s local vibe until you’ve spent time strolling through Downtown Main Street. Immersed in an array of historic buildings, local shops, and tempting dining spots, it’s a vibrant hotspot brimming with history and culture.

Everything in Downtown Bozeman is walkable. If you’re the type that likes to take your time, your day can easily be spent wandering through local stores. And when hunger strikes, don’t miss out on the culinary diversity, offering everything from gourmet ice cream parlors to farm-to-table dining experiences.

And if, after your explorations, you need a bit of relaxation, head over to Bozeman Hot Springs located in the scenic Gallatin Valley, and immerse yourself in the state’s natural hot spring — a must-do experience in Montana.

My biggest advice? Keep your itinerary open. Bozeman’s downtown area has a way of pulling you deeper into its charm. The historic, the modern, the local, the new — they all intertwine to create an eclectic tapestry that’s distinctly Bozeman.

17. Drive the Beartooth Highway

Montana’s Beartooth Highway, a 68-mile (109.4 km) stretch of sensory overload, is like a rock-star road trip — high, glamorous, and abundantly scenic. This fantastic two-to-three-hour scenic drive, officially known as U.S. Highway 212, spans from Red Lodge to Cooke City and passes the Beartooth Mountain range.

Just to put a cherry on top, Beartooth Highway, dubbed as an “All-American Road” is the only road that touches the northeastern entrance of Yellowstone National Park. Cranking up nearly 5,000 feet (around 1,524 m) through lodgepole pine forests, the road serves as a VIP ticket to an enchanting alpine world. 

In a world of ever-evolving beauty norms, Beartooth Highway isn’t a pageant contestant but a timeless classic. The scenery is equally staggering and offers unmatched photo opportunities with alpine lakes, peaks towering over 12,000 feet (around 3,658 m), glacially-carved cirques (those are like nature’s amphitheaters), and a riot of wildflowers.

When visiting this amazing road, be sure to remember that the best time to experience its utmost grandeur is generally between 10 am and 5 pm for that “natural filter” of alpine light. And just like the beats in your favorite song, dates for Beartooth’s opening and closing vary every year.

The best advice? Before you pack your camera and sandwiches, stop for a minute and check the official highway status. A bit of prep can save you from an unnecessary “road trip sunset”.

18. Tour the World Museum of Mining

The appeal of Montana’s World Museum of Mining isn’t just in the exhibits; it’s in the setting. Founded in the twilight years of Butte’s mining heyday in 1963, the museum is nestled within the Orphan Girl Mine’s actual mine yard, a place where nearly a century of hard-rock mining was carried out.

The World Museum of Mining proudly displays over 60 exhibits, including authentic artifacts and a sprawling recreation of a mining town from the 1890s. Aside from that, the guided tours allow you to delve beneath the museum and into the Orphan Girl Mine.

Let the prospect of going 100 feet underground not daunt you; this is a thrill worth experiencing. As we made our way through dimly lit tunnels and chambers, it was more than just a history lesson; it was an immersion into the challenges faced by the hardworking miners.

If you have even a passing interest in history, industry, or just understanding the culture and spirit that helped build this great state, the World Museum of Mining should be at the top of your Montana bucket list. 

19. Check Out The Resort at Paws Up

Welcome to The Resort at Paws Up. Not just a resort, but a portal to nature’s grandest theater with 37,000 acres of sprawling property, an intricate network of 100 miles of trails or 161 kilometers, and the Blackfoot River stretching 10 scenic miles or 16 kilometers.

The Resort at Paws Up is all about family-friendly outdoor recreation, just a stone’s throw away from the Bob Marshall Wilderness Area; a staggering 1.5 million acres (around 6,070 sq km), mind you. Paws Up doesn’t just offer nature in bite-sized pieces; it serves up super-sized helpings right at your doorstep.

Year-round, the resort isn’t only a destination but a lifestyle. Its incredible selection of 28 vacation homes, each nestled within a forest of tall timbers and scenic landscapes, is like a ticket to Montana’s private show.

Paws Up is like a nature enthusiast’s dream come true. Ever considered an all-terrain vehicle (ATV) tour across this expansive Montana property? Or perhaps something more traditional like horseback riding? The activities here are as varied as the landscape.

And if you like your adventure with a dose of luxury, why not try glamping? The Resort at Paws Up is North America’s premier Montana glamping resort, offering 6 camps with safari-style luxury tents.

What’s even cooler is that these glamping sites are designed for everyone. Whether you’re a family wanting to reconnect, a couple looking for a romantic rendezvous, or a large group itching to spend quality time together, there’s a perfect spot awaiting your arrival.

20. Admire the Ringing Rocks

Nestled 18 miles (around 29 km) east of Butte and just north of I-90 lies a geological oddity that’ll have your auditory senses piqued — the Ringing Rocks. A boulder field that, when tapped delicately with a hammer, produces harmonious tones that resonate through the air. It’s like Mother Nature’s very own xylophone.

This unconventional concert of nature offers a wonderfully interactive experience. “When I visited,” shares avid traveler Lucy, “I was giddy like a kid, trying out different-sized hammers on the rocks and listening as the tones changed. It’s like a musical scavenger hunt!”

If you’re planning a visit to the Ringing Rocks, here are things you must know:

• Expect an off-the-beaten-path adventure, perfect for a day trip from Butte.
• Not every rock serenades, but there’s a robust 1-in-3 chance of finding a melodious one.
• Feel free to explore the entire boulder field and engage in a little ‘rock concert’ of your own.
• A rack of hammers awaits you, so channel your inner rock star and try as many as you fancy.

The Ringing Rocks is a symphony of geology and acoustics, sure to strike a chord with nature enthusiasts and music lovers alike. So why not add this unique stop to your Montana bucket list? This isn’t your typical ‘rocky’ experience — both literally and figuratively.

21. See Wildlife at the National Bison Range

The National Bison Range isn’t just a place to glance at bison and check it off your “Montana Bucket List.” It’s a fascinating conservation area where you can get up close and personal with Montana’s native species.

The National Bison Range, home to around 350 bison, stands as a historical treasure. This sanctuary not only shelters a diverse array of Montana’s native species, such as birds, deer, elk, pronghorns, and bears but also offers an immersive experience through two scenic self-directed driving tours.

The primary Red Sleep Drive treats you to amazing views of the valley, and if you’re lucky, a bear or two. The Prairie Drive, on the other hand, gives you the best chance at bison spotting — think of it as a real-life National Geographic experience.

A helpful suggestion is to start your visit early. Animals are creatures of habit, and the early bird does catch the worm, or in this case, the bison.

As you leave the range, know that you’re carrying a bit of Montana’s heart with you. Wildlife sightings aren’t just Instagrammable memories; they’re a reminder of the delicate balance we must preserve between nature and humanity.

22. Appreciate Cowboy Art at C.M. Russell Museum

You might think your appreciation of cowboys and the splendor of big sky vistas is confined to watching old Western movies on repeat. But let me introduce you to an experience that’ll enrich your understanding and appeal to your visual sense at the same time — The C.M. Russell Museum in Great Falls, Montana.

I have to say, this is one museum you don’t want to overlook. As you step into C.M. Russell’s world, you’re diving deep into the imagery of the Wild West. Russell depicts cowboys, Plains Indians, and rugged natural landscapes like nobody else. 

Stepping into the museum’s permanent collection, you’re virtually time-traveling through Russell’s life. You’ll see depictions of the daily lives of cowboys, scenes from Native American life, and his epic take on Montana’s landscapes. Russell’s art is a visual testament to the closing days of the Western frontier.

And it’s not just a static experience. The museum keeps things fresh with its rotating exhibits, often hosting works by contemporary artists who share Russell’s passion for the American West. 

So go ahead, indulge your inner cowboy or cowgirl in more than just an Instagram selfie with cowboy boots and a fishing rod. Instead, come face-to-face with the revolutionary art of C.M. Russell. You might just find yourself looking at Montana in a whole new light — one that Russell himself would’ve been proud of. 

23. Find Your Peace at the Garden of One Thousand Buddhas

Encased in the gentle cradle of Montana’s scenic vistas, lays a gem of tranquil spirituality — the Garden of One Thousand Buddhas. This public park and Buddhist center, following the Nyingma School of Tibetan Buddhism, is not just for the devout, but for anyone seeking spiritual solace or a peaceful disconnect from life’s noisy hustle. 

As you stroll through the garden surrounded by indigenous trees and flowers, you’ll be greeted by 1,000 hand-cast Buddha statues, each unique in posture, expression, and story. There’s a magnetic draw towards the central figure of the Garden, the Great Mother.

The transformative aura of the Garden of One Thousand Buddhas extends beyond its statues and foliage. Both a contemplative sanctuary and an outdoor museum, every step holds an opportunity for personal reflection.

It’s as if every pebble, every whispering tree, and every gaze from a Buddha statue conspire to prompt a closer introspection of your inner garden. Emphasis is not just on the garden’s aesthetic appeal, but rather on how it serves as a place of refuge and restoration for many.

The calmness of the garden seeps into your soul, making it a go-to place for those needing to hit the pause button on life or those actively searching for a spiritual connection. This isn’t a mundane stroll; it’s a chance to reconnect with yourself and your purpose.

24. Cruise the Gates of the Mountains

Midway between the iconic Yellowstone and Glacier National Parks, there’s a lesser-known Montana gem that just demands to be explored. Cruising the Gates of the Mountains is like flipping through the pages of a living history book, narrated by Mother Nature herself.

Set in the heart of the Helena-Lewis and Clark National Forest, imagine an epic two-hour boat ride, where every bend in the placid Missouri River reveals a new and breathtaking vista. This spectacular journey doesn’t just prompt your jaw to drop; it also invites you to step into the shoes of the famed explorer Meriwether Lewis.

As the story goes, he named this awe-inspiring spot while navigating the river in 1805, marveling at how the towering limestone cliffs seemed to open like gates before him — a scene that’s just as arresting over 200 years later.

Don’t forget your binoculars, because alongside the historical magic, you’re in for a wildlife lover’s dream. From elk and deer grazing lazily in the forests to the more elusive mountain lions and bears who occasionally patrol the cliffs, every sighting feels like an exclusive backstage pass to Montana’s unspoiled beauty. And keep an eagle eye out for golden eagles, the monarchs of these Montana skies.

Gates of the Mountains, with its wooded slopes, craggy rock formations, and serene river, is a place where time slows down, allowing you to bond with nature. So if you’re intrigued by the untold stories etched into Montana’s landscapes or simply seeking a scenic reprieve, this historic landing is your intriguing mid-Montana interlude.

25. Encounter Dinosaur Fossils at the Museum of the Rockies

If you’re ready for a dash of prehistoric wonder, look no further than the Museum of the Rockies, acclaimed as one of the world’s top research and history museums. Nestled in Bozeman, this expansive cultural gem offers a window into Montana’s ancient past that’s impossible to ignore.

Home to one of the most extensive dinosaur displays on the planet, get set to step back in time in the Museum of the Rockies with their fully-mounted Montana’s T. rex skeleton, conducting a silent symphony from its prehistoric perch. And that’s just the tip of the fossilized iceberg — you’ll also marvel at the “Big Al” Allosaurus, a brother-from-another-era to the Tyrannosaurus rex.

Looking for a deeper dive? The museum doesn’t stop with its dinosaur wonders; it expertly weaves in Montana’s human history. Offering something for every type of history aficionado, the Museum of the Rockies delights visitors with:

• Displays of the native people of Yellowstone Country
• A pioneer log home from the late 1800s
• Changing exhibits from around the world including Western art
• Regional and natural history showcases
• Planetarium shows that are out of this world
• Educational programs for all ages
• Insightful lectures that open up new perspectives
• Benefit events for those who want to give back
• A museum store for souvenirs to spark their memories

It’s not just the Museum of the Rockies’ largest collection that’s a must-see; make sure to keep an eye on their rotating special exhibits. You never know if you might stumble upon the next great discovery — a sort of 21st-century dinosaur hunt if you will.

26. Visit Garnet Ghost Town

Located in west-central Montana, Garnet Ghost Town is a fascinating, well-preserved relic of Montana’s rich mining history. With over 30 structures left standing, you’ll feel like you’ve stepped back in time to the town’s founding in 1895.

Garnet was more than a quiet place — it was a thriving hub with 7 bustling saloons, 3 hotels, and a daily stage between Bearmouth and Coloma. Imagine the hustle and bustle as you walk down its streets!

The town was named after the garnet rocks found in the area, which were prized as abrasives and semi-precious stones. And that’s not all – around Garnet, 50 active mines were sustaining the town’s prosperity.

Feeling intrigued? I know I was. When you visit Garnet Ghost Town, expect a well-organized experience. The Visitor Center is a great starting point, offering information on the town’s history and the people who once lived there.

For those who prefer a more interactive experience, there are interpretive signs as well as self-guided trails, letting you explore at your own pace. You can pick up books, cards, and other memorabilia to learn more about the past in this Montana time capsule.

27. Observe Wildlife at ZooMontana

At the junction of zoological wonder and botanical extravaganza, we’ve got ZooMontana, a wildlife sanctuary that doubles as a botanical garden. Feel the pulse of Montana’s diverse species across grasslands and appreciate their naturalistic habitats, all in Billings.

From the awe-inspiring Amur Tigers to the wily River Otters, ZooMontana houses over 100 animals of 56 species. These aren’t just your run-of-the-mill creatures; we’re talking about Grizzly Bears, Wolverines, and Canada Lynx. Many of these animals are rescued, nursed back to health, and now thriving under the loving care of the zoo’s team.

Not just that, at ZooMontana, you’ll live the experience, as they offer hands-on, educational programs on Yellowstone’s ecosystem. Imagine, instead of a textbook, all the interpretive display becomes a real-life adventure.

So, for all zoology enthusiasts, or just an appreciator of natural beauty, ZooMontana is a must. Get ready to observe, learn, and walk away with a deeper connection to the rich wildlife of Montana.

28. Watch a Skijoring Competition at Big Sky

If you’re a snow lover and an adrenaline junkie, watching a skijoring competition in Big Sky is an experience you shouldn’t miss. It’s a winter sport where skiers are towed behind galloping horses, maneuvering through jumps and turns, all while racing against the clock.

Say goodbye to your usual winter plans and dive into this exhilarating spectacle. Skijoring not only takes your skiing skills to the next level, but it’s also a fantastic way to appreciate the harmonious blend of tradition and thrill.

Big Sky Skijoring hosts the Best in the West Showdown, attracting legendary locals and top skijoring teams from across North America. The event typically takes place in late January or early February. Clear your calendar and prepare to witness gravity-defying stunts and fierce competition in Montana’s winter wonderland.

In a sea of traditional winter activities, skijoring stands out as a captivating blend of speed, skill, and the unpredictable nature of these four-legged athletes. So what are you waiting for? Swap your ski poles for reins and let the thrill of skijoring show you a brand new side of Montana’s winter beauty.

Check out this fun video of skijoring in Montana!

29. Try Rock and Ice Climbing With Montana Alpine Guides

One of the experiences you can’t afford to miss in Montana, especially if you’re an adrenaline junkie like myself, is the heart-thumping adventure of rock and ice climbing. I dipped my toes into this icy world with the experts at Montana Alpine Guides, and let me tell you, no amusement park ride can come close to this natural high.

Based in Bozeman, Montana Alpine Guides is the golden ticket to Montana’s epic rock and ice climbing experiences. They’re so legit that they’re the leading guide service, offering a variety of courses and trips suitable for every level of expertise, including:

• Rock Climbing – Ascend Montana’s legendary granite walls are suitable for beginners and experts.
• Ice Climbing – Embrace the chill as you conquer frozen waterfalls and cliffs.
• Backcountry Skiing – Find your path off the beaten track in the stunning Rocky Mountains.
• Mountaineering – Seek new heights with guided ascents of Montana’s most iconic peaks.

Montana Alpine Guides doesn’t just help you climb; they cultivate a passion for Montana’s landscapes that you’ll carry with you long after you’ve left the mountain. So, if you’re prepared to kick your boundaries to the curb and rock and ice climb your way to uncharted territories, Montana Alpine Guides is your go-to. 

Best Things to Do in Montana Final Thoughts

Montana, the treasure trove of outdoor adventures and cultural explorations, offers visitors a palette of experiences that stretches across its expansive vistas and quaint towns. Whether you’re exploring the architectural richness of Missoula or navigating the awe-inspiring Going-to-the-Sun Road in the ethereal Glacier National Park, there are unending delights at every turn.

By covering a wide spectrum of activities, Montana’s dynamic nature carves out a vibrant itinerary for every traveler. As you traverse this Treasure State, expect real connections with nature, unforgettable adrenaline rushes, and the enrichment of cultural insights.

Montana doesn’t just tickle your sense of adventure; it offers a symphony of experiences that linger in your memory long after you’ve left. So go ahead, and dive into this wonderland of seemingly endless opportunities, enriched with both grandeur and simplicity. There, your next great adventure waits.

Things to Do in Montana FAQs

1. what is montana best known for.

Montana is best known for its stunning natural landscapes, including the majestic Rocky Mountains, Glacier National Park, and Yellowstone National Park, as well as its rich outdoor recreational opportunities such as hiking, fishing, and skiing.

2. Is Montana Worth Seeing?

Montana is worth seeing for its breathtaking scenery, diverse wildlife, and outdoor activities, offering a unique and memorable experience for nature enthusiasts and adventure seekers alike.

3. Why Do Tourists Go to Montana?

People travel to Montana to enjoy its stunning natural beauty, which includes famous landmarks such as Glacier National Park and Yellowstone National Park.

They also come to participate in outdoor activities, like hiking, spotting wildlife, and exploring the diverse landscapes that make it a paradise for nature lovers and adventure enthusiasts alike.

4. Where Should I Go for My First Time in Montana?

If you’re traveling to Montana for the first time, you should check out Glacier National Park. It’s famous for its breathtaking scenery, crystal-clear lakes, and diverse wildlife. This park is a perfect introduction to the natural beauty of Montana and offers plenty of opportunities for outdoor adventures.

5. What Are 5 Interesting Facts About Montana?

• Montana got its name from the Spanish word montaña, which in turn comes from the Latin word Montanea, meaning “mountain” or more broadly “mountainous country”.
• Montana has the largest grizzly bear population in the lower 48 states.
• There are over 10,000 miles (16,093 km) of underground tunnels beneath the city of Butte.
• There are more cattle in Montana than there are people.
• Montana was the first state to elect a woman to Congress in 1916.

Unlock new insights about Montana in the articles below:

• Gemstones in Montana
• Montana Economy at a Glance
• Montana’s Origins
• Montana Law Essentials
• Insights Into Montana Life
• Montana Size Facts
• https://www.nps.gov/glac/index.htm
• https://www.nps.gov/yell/index.htm
• https://www.nps.gov/glac/planyourvisit/goingtothesunroad.htm
• https://fwp.mt.gov/stateparks/flathead-lake
• https://www.nps.gov/glac/planyourvisit/lakemcdonald.htm
• https://fwp.mt.gov/stateparks/pictograph-cave/
• https://fwp.mt.gov/stateparks/lewis-and-clark-caverns
• https://fwp.mt.gov/whitefish-lake
• https://www.nps.gov/libi/index.htm
• https://www.flickr.com/photos/glaciernps/19371842885/
• https://www.flickr.com/photos/glaciernps/50048208467
• https://www.flickr.com/photos/josephnv/35990036982
• https://www.flickr.com/photos/jonathanw100/7922152650
• https://www.flickr.com/photos/ryan_mckee/14860195422
• https://www.flickr.com/photos/tjflex/9402978998
• https://www.flickr.com/photos/mypubliclands/20577370109
• https://www.flickr.com/photos/usfwshq/5447888883
• https://www.flickr.com/photos/mytravelphotos/2148329490
• https://www.flickr.com/photos/high_trails/27444774555
• https://commons.wikimedia.org/wiki/File:Gates_of_the_Mountains_opening_02.jpg
• https://www.flickr.com/photos/timevanson/9336675750
• https://www.flickr.com/photos/mjrehm/5841014819/
• https://www.flickr.com/photos/number7cloud/49604600247

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Pocket Montana 1716 W Babcock St Bozeman, Montana

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20 Best Places to Visit in Montana

Are you interested in finding the truly best places to visit in Montana ? Perhaps you’ve heard of Glacier National Park or Yellowstone National Park. Both are otherworldly and are top Montana vacation spots for a reason. But did you know that there are many more lesser-known Montana vacation spots that are equally as wonderful as the big ones?

For example, have you ever heard of the Lewis and Clark Caverns? They are as incredible as they sound. It’s time to explore the best places to visit in Montana , from the vast Glacier National Park to the sleepy ghost towns of the prairies.

Here is our list of top Montana vacation spots that you can spend either one afternoon or a whole week exploring. Here’s a deep dive into the best places to see in Montana.

20 Best Places to Visit in Montana – Montana vacation spots

Where are the best places to visit in Montana? If you want to know where to vacation in Montana in summer and winter, then we’ve got you covered:

• Yellowstone National Park
• Lake McDonald
• Glacier National Park
• Lewis and Clark Caverns
• Pryor Mountains
• Garden of One Thousand Buddhas
• Beartooth Mountains
• East Rosebud
• Great Falls
• Chico Hot Springs

Let’s discuss each one in detail.

1. Best Places to Visit in Montana – Yellowstone National Park

Yellowstone National Park is one of the best places to visit in Montana and is also one of the most popular. And well, it’s one of the most popular for a reason. It’s beauty and awe are unmatched by any other place in the state. This is why we’ve put it at the top of our list, despite not being a hidden gem of top Montana vacation spots. 

If you’ve ever seen a photo of Yellowstone National Park then you may already know why. Underneath the whole area of Yellowstone National Park is a caldera, sometimes called the Yellowstone Supervolcano. 

The result of this deep and diverse caldera underneath this whole land mass is an otherworldly landscape of geysers, hot springs, colorful pools, steaming lakes and boiling rivers. 

Top Montana Vacation Spots – Pools of bright orange and electric blue

Pools of bright orange and deep blue with white steam climbing to the skies are common in Yellowstone. In many of these areas you’re able to park, get out of your car and walk a boardwalk around the pools so you can get an up close look at the natural phenomenon. 

Just be aware of your step and be sure you always remain on the designated walkways. These pools can reach over 400 degrees fahrenheit. The Grand Prismatic Spring in Yellowstone is the largest hot spring in the United States and the third largest in the world. 

Other, less hot streams and pools of water exist that you can even swim in. Some of these are pools and other places in the park there are rivers with hot water flowing from geysers into the river, making for a very pleasant water temperature for swimming. 

Of course, only jump in if you are a confident swimmer, because these are wild pools of water and, of course, there are no lifeguards on duty. Some of the calmer pools of water are generally safe for everyone and are a delight to sit and relax in stress free. I highly recommend them.

Top Montana Vacation Spot – Old Faithful Geyser

Any Montana trip to Yellowstone National Park should include a visit to the Old Faithful Geyser. Old Faithful is one of the most famous geysers of Yellowstone and this is for good reason.

Each time Old Faithful erupts it releases 3,700 to 8,400 gallons (14,000 to 32,000 l) of boiling hot water straight up into the sky. There aren’t too many places on earth where you can watch such a beautiful spectacle occur in the wild without any human engineering behind it. 

The water column reaches a height of 100 to 200 ft (30–55 m) and has an average temperature of 169.7°F (76.5°C).

After some time in the otherworldly environment of Yellowstone National Park, you may even forget that you’re in Montana.

See it on the map .

2. Best Places to Visit in Montana – Lake McDonald

(Lake McDonald, Glacier National Park)

Lake McDonald is one of the best places to visit in Montana because of its mystic natural beauty nestled in between dramatic mountain ranges. Perhaps you’ve heard of Glacier National Park. I will talk more about the park below. But first, Lake McDonald deserves some attention of its own. 

Lake McDonald is one of the reasons Glacier National Park is so admired by Montanans and out-of-state visitors and is one of the best places to visit in Montana. It’s one of the reasons Glacier National Park has the reputation it does.

This natural spectacle is 10 miles long and 470 ft deep. Many visitors say it reminds them of a Norwegian fjord. It is the largest lake in Glacier National Park. 

Going-to-the-Sun Road – Best places to visit in Montana

If you’re ever here, one popular driving route is on the nationally-renowned and scenic Going-to-the-Sun road, which eventually runs right up and along the southern shore of Lake McDonald. 

Lake McDonald is a popular Montana vacation spot not only for its natural beauty but because of its historical significance. The lake sits in an ancient basin that was carved out of the ground by glaciers during the Ice Age.

People looking for the best place to visit in Montana for hiking and walking in nature will be delighted by Lake McDonald. 

The lake is one of the best places to visit in Montana for: 

• Wildlife viewing
• Sightseeing

Aside from the lake, this area abounds with wildlife. Keep an eye out for:

• Black bears
• Mountain goats
• Bighorn sheep

And much more. As with almost every natural area in Montana, it’s always advised to be prepared for bears. A bottle of bear spray is a good method of defense. 

(Importance of Bear Spray in Montana)

Wherever you purchase your bear spray from, ask one of the specialists from the shop to explain how to use it. Basically, a canister of bear spray shoots a strong stream of highly potent, stinging liquid several yards. 

When it comes in contact with the bear’s eyes, it immobilizes it and gives you a chance to get away.

Important note: If you decide to test your canister of bear spray at any time, make sure you’re in an open space outdoors, that no one’s nearby, and never spray it upwind. 

Even if the slightest remnant floating through the air in your direction comes into contact, it can be a very painful experience and take hours before you start to feel normal again.

Unfortunately, it’s a necessary topic to cover when we’re talking about Montana travel and vacation spots. Montana’s wild and stunning natural environment is what continuously draws visitors to the state. However, there are aspects of wild nature that we need to be prepared for. 

A little foresight and preparedness goes a long way. It can ensure you avoid any serious problems and make sure your vacation in Montana is a pleasant one!

Back to Lake McDonald

On the other hand, the natural wildlife underwater in Lake Powel is absolutely stunning and doesn’t pose a threat! Many natural inhabitants call Lake McDonald home, which is another reason it’s considered one of the best places to visit in Montana:

• Native trout

And much more. 

There are many places to see in Montana which can make it hard to decide which is the best place to visit in Montana for you. However, if your time is limited and you’re going to visit some of the top spots, like Glacier National Park, we highly recommend stopping by Lake McDonald. 

See it on the map . 

3. Best Places to Visit in Montana – Glacier National Park

Besides the beauty of Lake McDonald, there is much more to see in Glacier National Park. It’s also one of the most popular Montana vacation spots. We’ve included it in this list of the best places to visit in Montana because it just never disappoints. If you’re in Montana, I can’t recommend enough that you visit Glacier. 

Glacier National Park is an expansive area of majestic beauty sitting on the US-Canada border, where sites like Lake McDonald abound. The park covers an area of 1 million acres and includes two mountain ranges, more than 100 lakes and thousands of animal and plant life.

It’s a natural oasis sitting in the middle of what many scientists refer to as the Crown of the Continent Biosphere Reserve. 

One of the reasons Glacier is one of the top Montana vacation spots is that here, you can do many outdoor activities:

• Mountain climbing
• Wildlife watching 

There are more than 650 miles of trails that twist and roll through the forests and meadows, past the mountains and lakes. If you prefer exploring Glacier by car, you’re in for a treat. The Going-to-the-Sun road is a famous scenic 50-mile road that is also a marvel of modern engineering.

Other Sites in the Park – Best Montana vacation spots 

Inside the park you can also visit Two Medicine, the Goat Haunt and Many Glacier where you can learn about Native American history, see some former homesteading sites and further immerse yourself in the history and nature of the park.

The views and the atmosphere that Glacier has to offer are what many visitors to Montana came here hoping to see. 

This makes it one of the best places to visit in Montana.

Glacier National Park is one of the most famous Montana tourist attractions. Be sure to add it to your list of Montana destinations . I think the best time to visit Glacier National Park is during the summer. Though if you love the sparkle and charm of a dramatic natural setting blanketed in snow, visiting Glacier National Park in the winter also won’t disappoint. 

4. Best Places to Visit in Montana – Columbus

Columbus, the town, is very small and doesn’t offer much beyond some historic antique shopping, a large gas station right off I-90 which is great for refueling on a long road trip to Montana, some restaurants serving local cuisine and the Yellowstone river flowing through. 

However, it’s on this list of the best places to visit in Montana because the town itself is quiet and pleasant to stop through and just outside of Columbus is some of the nicest nature Montana has to offer. 

Follow the road through Columbus, cross the tracks over the Yellowstone bridge and veer right up towards the Stillwater River. Take this road as far as you like. The drive itself is beautiful. 

Drive Along the River – Best Montana vacation spots

Stop at any of the many public accesses to the river and take it all in. The Stillwater is one of the most pristine and beautiful rivers in Montana. It’s not a far drive from Billings – about an hour. This makes it one of the best places to visit in Montana if you’re in or nearby Billings. 

The further you follow the highway up the valley along the Stillwater River, the scenery changes and reveals itself in a new way, opening up to new hillsides and mountains where the river narrows and widens. 

This Montana vacation spot is suited for those who are looking to get a taste of Montana nature with the opportunity to eat at a small restaurant on the way without being in the city.  

If you’re not interested in small towns off the beaten path, then I can’t recommend this as one the best places to visit in Montana. You may prefer Livingston or Bozeman better.

Absarokee – Best places to visit in Montana

It can make you feel as if you’re driving through the setting of a Hollywood film. Take the road all the way to Absarokee (pr. abzorkee ), a small town that is well prepared to cater to the many local and foreign tourists that make their way up there. 

Despite how small Absarokee is, there are several nice restaurants serving local food.

After lunch continue on up road 420 to continue following the Stillwater. The scenery remains as beautiful as ever and there are several public accesses along the road with bathrooms and places to picnic.

Again, cell service can be intermittent when you’re this far up in hills, so be sure to take note of how you got to where you are so that if it’s already dark when you decide to go back, you know how to get there. 

At the very least, you can simply remember to follow the 420 back to Absarokee. From there, you just follow highway 78 back to Columbus, where you can get back on I-90 and head back to Billings or continue West to Livingston or Bozeman. 

5. Best Places to Visit in Montana – Livingston 

Livingston is a well-kept, medium-sized historic Montana town, with a main street that could have been taken straight from a film set. This makes it one of the best places to visit in Montana.

Livingston is set in a picturesque location and offers almost everything you could desire if you are looking for the modern version of an old western town. This includes antique shops filled with mysteries, historic souvenirs, stylish furniture and more.

The restaurants in Livingston are equally impressive, which makes the town one of the best places to visit for those looking to experience local Montana cuisine. 

Paradise Valley – Top Montana vacation spots

A short 30 minute drive from Livingston, in the opposite direction of I-90, is another stunning area, called Paradise Valley, that is worth taking a drive through if you’re Livingston. 

The name speaks for itself. Paradise Valley is another example of a beautiful place that is a short drive from a city. Once you leave Livingstone and enter Paradise Valley, it feels like you’ve entered another world and are miles from the nearest town. 

The sweeping meadows lined by jagged mountains are about as dramatic and beautiful as it gets in Montana. You can expect winding rivers that glide through open fields and forests set below dramatic rising mountains. Just driving through is enough to feel the atmosphere. 

Paradise Valley is a top Montana vacation spot, which means slowly and surely, homes and cabins continue popping up here and there, but it’s mostly open nature with a very special atmosphere, especially in the summer. 

6. Best Places to Visit in Montana – Bozeman

(Hyalite Canyon, 5 minute drive from Bozeman)

Bozeman is one of the most unique places to visit in Montana. Because it’s one of the larger towns in Montana, with a University and a relatively diverse population, it has become one of the top Montana vacation spots in the past several decades and one of the best cities to visit in Montana. 

Bozeman is a small town of about 50,000 residents with one of the most popular Universities in the state. It’s also one of the most popular places in Montana that people from out of state and even out of the country choose to move to.

At the same time, Bozeman was originally a small, farming town, without much outside influence. The current mix of residents makes for a very diverse and stimulating atmosphere. 

This is one of the main reasons many people consider it one of the best places to visit in montana.

Shopping Bozeman – Best places to visit in Montana

If you’re interested in Montana shopping, Bozeman will be a top Montana vacation spot for you. Main street is a typical western American main street, lined with record stores, chic boutiques, coffee shops, book stores, ski and snowboard shops, restaurants, historic hotels and much much more. Historic hotels are some of the best places to stay in Montana.

Once you’ve strolled main street, step one block north or south and stroll up and down one of the side streets parallel to main street. There’re more small restaurants and shops to be discovered. 

Skiing Bozeman – Best Montana vacation spots

Bozeman doesn’t only have an energetic city-life to offer. Bozeman is located one hours’ drive from Big Sky Mountain Resort and about 45 minutes’ drive from Bridger Bowl Ski Area. These are two of the most popular Montana vacation spots in the whole state. 

Big Sky is known for being wide and open, offering almost every type of terrain imaginable. Bridger Bowl is a ski resort spread across a large ridge, with different runs peeling off from different points cutting through forests and glades. 

Back in Bozeman you can find many restaurants on Main street and plenty of hotels throughout the town. It’s one of the more expensive cities in Montana, but still relatively affordable relative to the rest of the country. Except for its real estate. Bozeman real estate is exceptionally expensive. But this is because it’s such a popular place to live.

7. Best Places to Visit in Montana – Lewis and Clark Caverns

The Lewis and Clark Caverns State Park is as incredible as the name suggests, which is why it is one of the best places to visit in Montana. It is one of the most popular Montana vacation spots. 

The caverns are one of the biggest and most elaborate limestone cave complexes of the Northwestern United States. 

The park is the first and one of the best known national parks of Montana. It’s been a popular Montana vacation spot for a long time. The park covers 3,000 acres of land and sits at around 5,000 ft above sea level. 

Underground – Top Montana vacation spots

Once you descend into the caverns you’ll notice it’s naturally air conditioned, which is a delight if you decide to visit this Montana vacation spot on one the hottest June or July days. 

Stalagmites, stalactites, helictites and columns are stacked all around you, coming from the ceiling of the caves and shooting up from the ground. 

The caverns and their stalactites and columns are electrically lit, making for a very dramatic environment. The lights also ensure it is safe and easy to see as you walk the pathway and its stairs.

Above the caverns are 10 miles of trails above ground, which give you a great opportunity to explore the surrounding beautiful nature. 

For those that want to stick around for more than just a couple hours, there is a campground nearby the park, fully equipped with:

• camping cabins: max 6 people; disabled access; no plumbing, kitchen facilities or bedding provided. Equipped with electric lights 
• Picnic area
• Toilets (flush and vault)
• RV dump station
• Grill and fire rings
• Garbage cans
• Food, beverage concession

Your pets are welcome on the campgrounds if they are on a leash.

The Lewis and Clark cabins are such a sought after Montana vacation spot that they’re open year round. This makes them one of the best places to visit in Montana, no matter which time of the year you come. 

However, guided tours are available only from May 1 to September 30. Also, the event program in the summer makes this one of the best places to visit in Montana in the summer. 

Nearby are the towns of Three Forks and Whitehall where you’ll find access to all the amenities you missed while camping out, including a golf course and museums.

8. Best Places to Visit in Montana – Billings

(Zimmerman Park)

Billings is the largest city in Montana. This means it can be one of the most interesting Montana destinations. It’s population is about 100,000 people. This fact, alone, is good enough reason to at least see it once. The large population makes it one of the best cities to visit in Montana. If you’re flying to Montana, there’s a good chance you’ll fly into Billings. 

It’s worth it to stay a couple nights if you have the time, because it truly is one of the best places to visit in Montana if you’re interested in Montana’s cities.  

Largest City in Montana – Best places to visit in Montana

Because Billings is the largest city in the state, it has more to offer than other cities in terms of services, restaurants, neighborhoods and city activities. Billings’ historic downtown is a great place for a walk. 

Despite being the largest city in the state, the population is only 100,000, which means downtown is almost never overcrowded. 

Downtown has a wide range of western boutiques, book shops, restaurants and more. You can get a lot of your Montana souvenir shopping done if you are in billings. There are also several shops selling Native American items and souvenirs.

Outside of downtown are a number of pleasant neighborhoods to drive through. One neighborhood, referred to by residents as ‘the avenues’ is a historic neighborhood with a historic feel. 

Leaving downtown past the hospital heading northwest, you can turn off Poly Dr. and cruise through the avenues. If you turn back onto Rimrock road and go west, you’ll drive past many houses and the local private college called Rocky Mountain College.

Zimmerman Park – Best places to visit in Montana

Continue heading west on Rimrock for about 10 minutes until you reach Zimmerman trail. Turn right on Zimmerman trail to wind your way and around the sandstone cliff that borders the whole northern side of the central part of Billings. 

You’ll wind your way up to the top of the cliffside to the open prairie and farmland up top. At the roundabout at the top, take the third exit and drive west. 

Several hundred yards ahead of you you’ll see a small gravel parking lot on the left. This is Zimmerman Park. Here you can park your car and walk the trails all across the top of the sandstone cliff. 

There are several levels that cascade down to the cliff’s edge. Before the edge are various trails to stroll on, past boulders, drops, caves and open areas all overlooking the city below. If you like views, Zimmerman Park is one of the best places for views in Billings, especially if you want to experience pristine nature at the same time.

Looking out over the city, you’ll see the green trees, the farm land out west and further south on a clear day you can see the Pryor Mountains, one of the best places to visit in Montana, which is just a short drive from Billings.

Lake Elmo – Best places to visit in Montana

If you leave Zimmerman Park and drive back East towards the roundabout and continue straight past Zimmerman trail you’ll reach the airport. Past the airport lies Billings Heights. 

A vacation in Montana is always special. If you’re in the heights on a summer day, I recommend stopping by Lake Elmo, a small state park in the heights with a small man made lake. It’s a nice place to unwind and have a picnic by the water. 

Billings is a relatively large town, so I recommend driving around and exploring each neighborhood as you come across it. There’s lots to see. 

9. Best Places to Visit in Montana – Pryor Mountains

The Pryor Mountains are a unique mountain range that don’t get much recognition outside of the state of Montana. Those who visit the Pryors are often locals, from Billings or one of the other nearby towns. 

They are near the top of our list for a reason. They feature an extra degree of that dry, otherworldly desert landscape that is so often found in Montana and North & South Dakota. There are forests in the Pryor Mountains as well, which balance out the dry, winding coulees, red rocks and low lying desert vegetation. 

Wild Horses – Montana vacation spots

Amidst it all, if you’re out driving through the Pryors or riding your mountain bike, you’re likely to be met with a herd of wild mustangs (horses) led by a couple wild stallions darting through the forest or cutting across the fields. 

These aren’t horses from a nearby farm. They are the live wild mustangs of the Pryor Mountains. While wild horses aren’t aggressive in nature, they are still wild animals, so if you come across a herd while exploring this top Montana vacation spot, it’s a good idea to give them their space if you want to capture some photos. 

As I mentioned, the Pryor mountains feature a dry arid landscape that is reminiscent of the southwestern US with desert vegetation, multiple shades of red and beige colored hill and cliff sides. 

Hiking and Biking – Best places to visit in Montana

Many visitors come by car and cruise slowly around the dirt roads in the region, but if you have the energy and the desire to see more of this mountain range, a hike or a mountain bike through the trails and dirt roads is a great way to explore where the roads don’t lead. 

It can be extremely hot in the Pryor Mountains in the summer, so be sure to remember to pack lots of water. 

Cell service is spotty in the Pryor Mountains, so also be sure to tell someone where you’re going and for how long, to be sure that help will be on the way if you run into trouble.

Billings, the biggest city in the state, is just about an hours’ drive from the Pryors, making it a perfect day trip if you are in Billings for a couple days.

10. Top Montana Vacation Spots – Garden of One Thousand Buddhas

The Garden of One Thousand Buddhas is a unique Montana destination. It sits just outside of the small town of Arlee in the Jocko Valley. This is a calm and natural area of the state that isn’t visited as often as Glacier or Yellowstone National Park. 

It is an International Peace Center with the goal of helping the human race cultivate inner peace via preserving the ancient culture of Tibet. 

A Thousand Stupas – Best places to visit in Montana

The central statue of the grounds is a 24-foot tall figure of the Great Mother of Transcendent Wisdom, Yum Chenmo. 

Surrounding the whole garden complex are one thousand stupas, which are one one of the human race’s oldest forms of architecture. They honor past great warriors and kings.

The Garden was established by Tulku San-ngag Rinpoche and is situated on the land of Ewam Sang-ngag Ling. The Garden is a piece of Bhuddist culture in Montana that aims to bring about awakening of the human qualities of compassion, joy and wisdom.

The garden is open from dawn to dusk to people of any religion. Visitors to the garden enjoy walking around and absorbing the atmosphere while admiring various Bhuddhist statues, images, symbols and structures. 

The unique atmosphere makes this garden one of the best places to visit in Montana. It’s especially popular because visitors of Montana can spend an afternoon connecting with another culture. 

It is one of the top Montana vacation spots for those interested in making an afternoon trip or stopping for a few hours to see an interesting site on their way to their final destination.

11. Best Places to Visit in Montana – Beartooth Mountains

The Beartooth Mountains are devastatingly beautiful and dramatic. If you’ve ever seen a picture of the Beartooth Mountains then you already understand their beauty and why many consider them to be one of the best places to visit in Montana. 

The Beartooth Pass, which is the road leading up and over the Beartooth Mountains, begins right in the nearby town of Red Lodge. From Red Lodge, you can follow main street out of the town and continue on until the road starts climbing upward. 

From here, the road winds back and forth up a steep mountain side all the way to the top. As you climb higher and higher, the view from the road becomes greater and greater. There are several pull-outs on the way up where you can park your car and gaze out across the landscape below. 

The sheer elevation of the pass can make major mountains down below seem small. Once you’ve reached the top, you’ll continue driving across flatlands and tundra with very unique vegetation. At this point, you are far above the treeline and the surrounding vegetation reminds you of this fact. 

Short vegetation that clings to the ground are likely a result of the high winds that come across this area. It’s absolutely beautiful. 

The Bear’s Tooth

A famous mountain that can be seen from certain points along the road is the Bear’s Tooth. This is a jagged peak that is so narrow and pointed that the top of it resembles a tooth of a wild animal. 

In the spring, when the road is finally cleared by snow plows and the pass opens up to the public, visitors come from all over to drive the pass and enjoy the views. Some people come to ski the glaciers up top. 

To explore the Beartooth Mountains more deeply, you can park your car at a trailhead and hike one of the many trails that lead across the tundra, through the forests, past lakes and deep into the mountain range. 

12. Best Places to Visit in Montana – Red Lodge

If you’re thinking about visiting the Beartooth Pass, then you’ll likely go through Red Lodge, unless you start the drive from the other side of the pass. Red Lodge is easily one of the best places to visit in Montana. It is an incredibly charming town with an atmosphere of an old western town with lots of dense forest in the surrounding nature.

From Billings, Red Lodge is a scenic one hour drive through small towns and open fields and hills. The highway to Red Lodge becomes Main Street once it reaches there. Upon driving up Main Street you’ll notice new and old restaurants, cafes, diners, antique shops, boutiques, toy stores, historic hotels and more. As I mentioned above, historic hotels are some of the best places to stay in Montana 

Red Lodge is a small town tucked away in the hills of Montana. The population is about 2,000 people, so it’s surely a place where you can experience the way people in Montana live. 

Skiing and Snowboarding – Top things to do in Montana

One of the best places to visit in Montana in the winter is one of the many ski resorts. Red Lodge Mountain is a ski area a few minutes’ drive from the town. 

Red Lodge is one of the best places to visit in Montana in summer. If you visit during the summer, there’s plenty to enjoy, including the drive there, the many restaurants and any of the hiking trails and creeks nearby. The Rock Creek runs through the town, making for some pleasant spots for a picnic. 

Red Lodge’s residents are a diverse group of people with different heritages. They are known for preserving their history and culture and celebrate it each year at the local Festival of Nations in Lion’s Park. If you’re in Red Lodge at the end of July, it may be of interest to you. It’s free. 

 See it on the map .

13. Best Places to Visit in Montana – Missoula

Missoula isn’t known as a tourist destination in Montana, but it’s definitely one of the best places to visit in Montana. It’s in an absolutely beautiful region of the state, with the Clark Fork River running straight through town. Missoula sits at the convergence of five mountain ranges: Bitterroot Mountains, Sapphire Range, Garnet Range, Rattlesnake Mountains and the Reservation Divide. 

But most locals and visitors, if they’ve heard of Missoula, know the town as one of the major cities of Montana, with a lot of university students and a lively, liberal environment. It’s large population of young university students tends to continuously attract more young people from around the state, especially those getting ready to attend university. 

Missoula really is a quaint, comfortable town in Montana, making it one of the top Montana vacation spots, if you’re interested in checking out one of the most interesting and pleasant towns in Montana. 

Access to Nature – Best places to visit in Montana

As with most cities in Montana, Missoula is surrounded by beautiful nature that is quickly and easily accessible. If you’re into outdoor activities like skiing, biking, rafting, paddleboarding, kayaking and more, Missoula is a great place for you. 

Endless hiking trails cut through the surrounding forests. You can see the remnants of an ancient lake and discover the signs of the former Indian tribe that used to occupy this area – the Salish American Indian Tribe.

From Missoula you can also visit one of the nearby ghost towns. Missoula almost has it all and is easily one of the best places to visit in Montana. 

14. Best Places to Visit in Montana – Whitefish

Whitefish is a great town in the northwestern part of the state. If you fly into Billings, it’s about a seven hour drive to Whitefish. But once you’re up in this part of the state, it’s easy to see why it’s considered one of the best places to visit in Montana.

Whitefish Lake – Best places to visit in Montana

Right in town is Whitefish Lake. Visitors to Whitefish in the summer can enjoy the convenience of having a pristine lake right on the edge of town. Not only is the water fresh, the landscape of mountains and forests surrounding the lake and town add to the atmosphere. It’s one of the many wonderful lakes of Montana in the summer.

Whitefish is also home to Whitefish ski resort. If you visit this town in the winter, it’s likely because you’re interested in Montana skiing and you’ve heard of Whitefish Mountain Resort. 

Just south of Whitefish is the town of Kalispell, an equally beautiful town that is almost synonymous with Whitefish. When Montanans refer to Whitefish, they often refer to Kalispell as well, since it’s considered the Whitefish/Kalispell region among Montana residents. 

Flathead Lake – Best places to visit in Montana

Drive 10 minutes south of Kalispell and you’ll reach one of the most beautiful lakes in Montana – Flathead Lake. Flathead is a popular lake among Montana residents and visitors from out of state. The lake is enormous and its waters are crystal clear. 

Glacier National Park – Best places to visit in Montana

And, of course, not far from Whitefish and Kalispell is Glacier National Park. There is a lot to see in the top Montana vacation spot. It’s clear to see why this area is considered one of the best places to visit in Montana.

15. Best Places to Visit in Montana – Butte

If you’re driving from Bozeman to Missoula, Butte is a highlight of the journey. It’s one of the best cities to visit in montana. I highly recommend stopping and staying for a day or two if you have the time. Butte is one of the best places to visit in Montana because of its history and its unique atmosphere. 

It’s best known for its history as a major mining town of Montana. Today, visitors to the mine walk out on a viewing platform and look down into the Berkeley Pit, a former open pit copper mine. 

At one point in time, Butte was the largest city in the Rocky Mountains. Even back then, it was one of the best places to visit in Montana. The World Museum of Mining preserves the history and culture of Butte. 

After visiting the museum, I suggest having a stroll through town and stopping in one of the many restaurants or cafes. There is a strong Irish population in Butte who are proud of their heritage, so you’ll likely see signs of Irish heritage in some places in the city. 

Irish Heritage – Top Montana vacation spots

Butte is a storied city that has changed greatly over the past 100 years. This is another reason why it’s one of the best places to visit in Montana. Its booming years were around 1917. Some people estimate that the city had around 100,000 inhabitants back then. It now has around 34,000 inhabitants. 

After exploring the history and culture of Butte, you may very well understand why so many people consider Butte as one of the best places to visit in Montana. 

16. Best Places to Visit in Montana – East Rosebud

(East Rosebud road)

East Rosebud is, yet again, another one of the pristine natural areas that people in Montana cherish. It’s one of the best places to visit in Montana if you want to explore the nature of the Southwestern part of the state. 

If you decide to drive through Columbus and up to Absarokee, as I described above in this article, you may want to consider visiting East Rosebud. From Absarokee, you’ll take highway 78 to Roscoe. And from Roscoe, there’s a road that leads directly to East Rosebud. 

When you reach East Rosebud, you’ll see an incredible, crystal clear lake with a small grouping of cabins, all surrounded by the walls of incredible mountains shooting to the sky on either side of the lake.

It’s an incredible sight. 

At the East Rosebud Lake there is also a trailhead for hiking. There is a campground there if you’d like to stay the night. The water is cold year round. The peacefulness and beauty of the East Rosebud lake is worth seeing at least once, especially if you’re already nearby. It’s easily one of the best places to visit in Montana.

17. Top Montana Vacation Spots – Helena

(Montana State Capitol)

Helena is the capital of Montana. It’s located right in between Yellowstone National Park and Glacier National Park. If you’re driving from Billings, Bozeman, Yellowstone National Park or anywhere in the southern part of the state to Glacier, you may want to stop in Helena at least for the afternoon. If you can stay for a day or two, that’s better.

Helena is one of the best places to visit in Montana also because of its history and its access to nature. All throughout the town are areas of historical significance including the State Capitol Building, the Mansion District and Carroll college. 

There are also 75 miles of nearby trails for hikers and bikers to access straight from town.

Helena is a very quaint, pleasant Montana town with a wide range of restaurants and comfortable small town feel. Many visitors love to stay at least a night in Helena to explore the capitol, learn about the history of the town, stroll the sidewalks of the different districts and neighborhoods and get out for a walk on one of the local trails. 

After a rest in Helena, you’ll be fully energized to continue on to Glacier or Yellowstone.

18. Best Places to Visit in Montana – Great Falls

Great Falls is a small, but spectacular town. It’s surroundings make it one of the best Montana destinations. Any direction you look in, you’ll see either the rolling Missouri River, snow-capped mountains, soaring buttes or rolling endless plains. 

The city is also in the center point between five waterfalls. Visitors of Great Falls immediately see why this is considered one of the best places to visit in Montana. 

Great Falls is one of the largest cities in Montana and has some interesting cultural events and sites for visitors. These include the C.M. Russell Museum, the Mansfield Center for Performing Arts, the Paris Gibson Square Museum and more.  

If you’re interested in learning about a unique part of Montana’s history, I can recommend the Lewis and Clark National Historic Trail Interpretive Center. This is situated above the Missouri river on the bluff. 

The views from the center are spectacular. Visitors can gaze out across the terrain that Lewis and Clark crossed in 1805, strategically finding their way around the region’s waterfalls and rivers.

Other historic and natural points of interest include: 

• First Peoples Buffalo Jump State Park
• University of Great Falls
• 40 miles of River’s Edge Trail
• The Electric City Water Park

The outdoors is a major aspect of this town’s beauty and is what makes it one of the best places to visit in Montana for an afternoon. It’s a short drive northeast of Helena.

19. Top Montana Vacation Spots – Chico Hot Springs

Chico Hot Springs is a resort and day spa about a 30 minutes’ drive south from Livingston. It is one of the best places to stay in Montana. 

If you happen to be in Livingston, you may want to consider driving up to Chico and spending the night. It’s one of the best places to visit in Montana because the man made pools are sourced by chemical-free, geothermally heated mineral water from the ground. 

There are several pools, varying in temperature. Find the one that’s right for you and sit back, relax and gaze over the absaroka mountains. The pools are open earlier and later for guests staying in the hotel. Admission to the pools is included in the lodging cost. 

Montana History – Top Montana vacation spots

The best places to visit in Montana always have a storied history. The first records of people using the springs in this region were of gold miners working in the nearby Emigrant Gulch. By the 1890s, the people in the region had constructed a little wooden building where the source of the springs was located. The springs then flowed into two wooden tubs, about 4 ft deep. 

Before the miners, the hot springs were used by the local Native American tribes for cooking, bathing and preparing hides.

Many Montanans see Chico Hot Springs as a top Montana vacation spot. This is one of the best places to visit in Montana for a reason. It’s a place to get away from the city, get in touch with the history of Montana and experience ultimate relaxation that penetrates deep into your soul.

20. Best Places to Visit in Montana – Big Timber

If you’re wondering where to visit in Montana besides majestic parks and major towns, I suggest exploring a small town.

If you drive from Billings to Bozeman, you’ll pass Big Timber on I-90. I recommend stopping in this small community for at least a day. It’s small population of 1,639 people make it one of the best vacation spots in Montana for relaxation and calm.

The territory between Billings and Bozeman, especially where Big Timber sits below the Crazy Mountains, is especially serene, which put it on the list of best places to visit in Montana. 

Here, you can hike, float the river, golf, souvenir shop or have a picnic and watch the sun set over the Crazies. 

To take a dive into the history of this special part of Montana, stop in the Crazy Mountain Museum. Inside you’ll see a miniature model of Big Timber as it stood back in 1907, called the “Cobblestone City”.

You’ll also find an example of a Norwegian Stabbur, a house made of stone. This is to display the Norwegian heritage of Big Timber. The cultural heritage of Big Timber is another reason we think it’s one of the best places to visit in Montana. You’ll also find a small, one-room school with images of Presidents and blackboards and chalk.

Yellowstone River – Top Montana vacation spot

The mighty Yellowstone River flows through Big Timber. This is one of the largest rivers in Montana and flows through many of the towns along I-90. I can recommend stopping in any town along I-90 between Billings and Bozeman for a small break or picnic. 

That whole drive is one spectacular scene unfolding after the next. They aren’t the most popular places to visit in Montana but they are truly Montanan. I can say they are some of the best places to visit in Montana. 

They offer a unique experience, especially if you decide to stay the night and spend some time strolling the sidewalks and along the waterways, enjoying the silence and atmosphere of small town Montana life.

20 Best Places to Visit in Montana – Final verdict

The best place to visit in Montana is the one that suits your preferences. Enjoy picking out your next Montana vacation spot !

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14 Top-Rated Places to Visit in Montana

Written by Brad Lane Updated May 11, 2023

Author Brad Lane lived in Montana between 2018 and 2021.

Whether you're visiting Montana for the first time or you're a long-term resident of the state, Big Sky Country offers unique landscapes found in few other places in North America.

From glaciated lakes to towering headframes still seen in mining towns, Montana has a distinct flavor that is only experienced by visiting. But visitors beware — once a taste of the wild adventure and wide-open spaces of Montana hits, it's hard to live anywhere else.

Mountainous backdrops define much of Montana, especially the western half, where the Continental Divide protrudes with Rocky Mountain grandeur. This rugged region has several desirable places to visit, including the world-renowned Glacier National Park, also known as the Crown of the Continent.

But Glacier is just the tip of Montana's adventures. The state is also home to some of the most extensive wilderness tracts in the country and millions of acres of national forest. And among these big wide-open spaces, several notable Western cities, like Missoula and Bozeman, entice with other cultural offerings.

Plan your visit to Big Sky Country with our list of the top places to visit in Montana.

1. Glacier National Park

3. missoula, 4. whitefish, 5. yellowstone national park, 8. flathead lake, 9. great falls, 10. philipsburg and anaconda, 11. livingston, 12. virginia city, 13. little bighorn national monument, 14. billings, map of places to visit in montana, best time to visit montana.

Highlights : Crown jewel of Montana with stunning mountain peaks, lakes, and campgrounds

Glacier National Park , in Northwest Montana, is accurately nicknamed The Crown of the Continent . It shares this title with Waterton Lakes National Park of Canada, connected at the border.

Spanning the Continental Divide, the park contains headwaters for three major North American watersheds. It also tops the list as one of Montana's best state and national parks .

A combination of massive snowfalls and millennia-old glaciers carved this Rocky Mountain region into a surreal alpine landscape of U-shaped valleys, ice-cold lakes, and scenic mountain peaks. The main thoroughfare transporting visitors through Glacier is the Going-to-the-Sun Road, spanning 50 miles and connecting many of the park's best places to see.

When considering where to go in Glacier National Park, a few suggestions include Lake McDonald, Logan Pass, and St. Mary —the western terminus, middle, and eastern terminus of the Going-to-the-Sun Road . These areas are all prominent stops on the park's free shuttle system . Several trailheads and campgrounds line the route, as well as a few historic chalets.

Hiking , backpacking, fishing, boating, camping , and simply enjoying the views define much of the summer fun at Glacier, and more solitary opportunities for cross-country skiing and snowshoeing occur in winter. The peak season at Glacier is between Memorial Day and Labor Day, with an estimated three million visitors this time of year.

Read More: Top-Rated Things to Do in Glacier National Park

Highlights : University town with museums, restaurants, and easy access to the vast outdoors

Bozeman, in southwest Montana, is a university city with great access to the outdoors. Places like Bridger Bowl Ski Area and Custer Gallatin National Forest backdrop this charming western town, offering quintessential Montana adventures throughout the year. This ease of access to wild environments makes Bozeman a hot spot for hiking , fishing, and skiing.

Bozeman also has a distinct academic appeal as the home to Montana State University. This adds a scholarly touch to the historic Main Street running through downtown and a constant flow of young people, especially on the weekends.

Among the other educational opportunities, the city is also home to the widely recognized Museum of the Rockies, with one of the largest dinosaur fossil collections in the country. And the American Museum of Robotics is a few blocks away, offering a visible timeline of technology.

• Read More: Top-Rated Attractions & Things to Do in Bozeman

Highlights : Excellent basecamp and lively city for exploring Montana and its outdoor spaces

The university city of Missoula is well worth the visit or long-term stay. The Clark Fork River runs right through the center of town, connected to a historic downtown district and railroad depot. With a healthy college population and local community, the city offers several outlets for culture and entertainment.

Alongside the University of Montana campus, other fun city attractions include the Missoula Art Museum , a lively music scene, and A Hip Strip of local storefronts. Adjacent to the river, the Clark Fork River Trail is the main pedestrian corridor that connects several attractions and things to do.

Adjacent to the city, places like the Rattlesnake National Recreation Area and Montana Snowbowl offer hiking trails and ski slopes. And several national forests surround the city, offering deeper dives into iconic Montana landscapes. The summer and shoulder seasons offer the best weather to enjoy Missoula, but winter offers its own kind of frosty enjoyment.

Read More: Best Campgrounds in Missoula

Highlights : Gateway to Whitefish Ski Resort, Glacier National Park, and Flathead Lake

Whitefish is a prominent stop on the Empire Builder Amtrak line in far Northwest Montana. It's a resort community thanks to the adjacent Whitefish Mountain Resort , also known as Big Mountain. It's also a jumping-off point for adventures in Glacier National Park, with the western Apgar Entrance approximately 30 minutes away.

The downtown district of Whitefish is filled with local shops, restaurants, and art galleries. It features lively entertainment throughout the year, including the winter, when skiers and snowboarders at Whitefish Mountain Resort fill the streets. And several other attractions , like Whitefish Lake and the surrounding Flathead National Forest , also draw interest to this mountain town.

Whitefish is also an excellent home base for other scenic places to visit. Alongside Glacier to the north, the city is also within a quick driving distance of Kalispell and Flathead Lake to the south. Similar to Whitefish, Kalispell offers a small-town charm and western appeal.

Highlights : The nation's first National Park, encompassing over two million acres of geothermal attractions

The northern tip of Yellowstone National Park is accessible via Gardiner, Montana, at the southern end of the aptly named Paradise Valley in the southwest part of the state. Visitors to this park entrance immediately encounter the Boiling River and the colorful travertine terraces of Mammoth Hot Springs . Also on-site are the Albright Visitor Center and the historic Fort Yellowstone.

Mammoth Hot Springs is well worth the visit alone. This steamy part of the park offers campgrounds, dining, and several boardwalk trails. And the near 3,500 square miles of Yellowstone invite further exploration from this unique and aromatic side of the park. This includes a multitude of geothermal features and places to see.

A few more notable places to visit within Yellowstone National Park include Yellowstone Lake, Grand Prismatic Spring , and the Upper Geyser Basin, including Old Faithful. Wildlife such as the park's native bison are commonly spotted from vehicles, as are other large animals, including black and grizzly bears, grey wolves, and elk.

Campground and lodge reservations often fill up fast during the summer season, and colder months attract winter enthusiasts from around the world.

• Best Campgrounds in Yellowstone National Park
• Best Hiking Trails in Yellowstone National Park

Highlights : Historic mining town with museums, guided tours, and a lively downtown district

In western Montana, near the junction of Interstate 90 and Interstate 15, Butte is a good place to visit for an authentic Montana experience. Once regarded as the "Richest Hill on Earth," Butte has a long history in the mining industry still apparent on the streets today.

The Berkeley Pit bordering the city provides a colorful testament to this past, as does the World Museum of Mining , set atop the retired Orphan Girl Mine. One of the best ways to experience Butte's history is by hopping on one of several guided tours throughout the town. Old Butte Historical Adventures provides some of the most popular narrated excursions, including a classic Underground City Tour.

The surrounding Rocky Mountain landscape provides adventure opportunities throughout the year, including access to the Continental Divide Trail. The adjacent town of Anaconda also provides outlets of enjoyment from Butte.

Read More: Top Things to Do in Butte, Montana

Highlights : Montana's state capital backdropped by Mount Helena and Lewis and Clark National Forest

Once known as Last Chance Gulch and the state capital since Montana's statehood in 1889, Helena has a long history steeped in the Montana Gold Rush. Much of that gold-panning past can be experienced in Helena today, particularly within Reeder's Alley near downtown, complete with a preserved Pioneer's cabin.

For more history on a Helena vacation , the ornate State Capitol building is lined with interpretive information and historical paintings. Free self-guided tours are available anytime the capital building is open, which offers the perfect chance to enjoy the massive murals inside at leisure. Next door, the Montana Historical Society also displays a collection of state-inspired art and interpretive information.

Mount Helena is the defining backdrop of the city, and the city park of the same name provides great hiking trails and excellent vistas close to downtown.

For families looking for where to go in Helena, the ExplorationWorks Plaza hosts an engaging science museum and the adjacent Great Northern Carousel. A piece of architecture easy to appreciate in Helena, the century-old Cathedral of St. Helena towers impressively near the city center.

Highlights : Massive freshwater lake popular for its boating, fishing, and camping near the shore

Flathead Lake is an incredible expanse of water in Northwest Montana. As one of the largest lakes in the American West outside of Alaska, it encompasses over 180 miles of shoreline. Just driving the length of the lake takes at least 45 minutes, and that's without stopping at the seasonal roadside cherry stands.

Boating and accessing the water are among the most popular things to do at Flathead Lake . The water is notorious for its flat surface and good fishing conditions. Several boat ramps and public access points line the shores, including different Flathead Lake State Park units.

One of the most adventurous units of Flathead Lake State Park is the aptly named Wild Horse Island. Feral horses still roam this largest island in the lake, which is only accessible to visitors via boat. Communities on the west side of the lake near Wild Horse Island offer ferries, kayak rentals, and powerboat rentals.

Highlights : Vacation destination with significant Montana history and access to the outdoors

Great Falls is home to a growing collection of world-class museums, restaurants, and genuine Montana experiences. It's also the site of significant history, spanning back to Cowboy Artists, the Corps of Discovery, and indigenous populations roaming the region. And today, it offers several things to do and great places to visit.

The C.M. Russell Museum and the Paris Gibson Square Museum of Art and highlight some iconic work in modern and Western art. And the Lewis & Clark Interpretive Center provides further insight on the city's storied past.

The River's Edge Trail is the main pedestrian corridor spanning the city on both sides of the Missouri River. It connects several stunning outdoor attractions, including Giant Springs State Park , home to one of the large natural freshwater springs in the country. For more outdoor appeal, just west of Great Falls is First People's Buffalo Jump State Park and the site of ancient buffalo hunting grounds.

Read More: Top Things to Do in Great Falls, Montana

Highlights : Charming small towns on a scenic highway between Butte and Missoula

Philipsburg and Anaconda are two historic towns turned tourist destinations in Southwest Montana. The 64-mile Pintler Veterans Memorial Scenic Highway connects the two towns, also known as the Anaconda-Pintler Scenic Highway. And the stunning Beaverhead Deerlodge National Forest spans much of the drive.

Approximately an hour east of Missoula, Philipsburg is a charming 19th-century mining town with a lively main street that's fun to wander.

Just a few Philipsburg attractions lining the street include art galleries; old-fashioned soda shops; and one of the best candy stores in the country, aptly named The Sweet Palace. The downtown area also features opportunities to mine for Montana sapphires and other Western gems.

Anaconda is on the other end of the byway, just 20 minutes from Butte, and with a history tied to the neighboring "Richest Hill on Earth." This history is most visible from the towering Anaconda Smelter Stack rising above the city. Other Anaconda attractions include a historic theater; a hot spring resort; and the Old Works Golf Club , complete with black slag bunkers.

Highlights : Artsy Montana town at the end of Paradise Valley, opposite Yellowstone National Park

Livingston is on the Yellowstone River in southwestern Montana. Its Old West mixes well with the resident artists who now call this Western town home. The city is an hour's drive from Yellowstone National Park, but you don't have to leave Main Street to enjoy the impressive sights of this Rocky Mountain region — the towering Livingston Peak provides postcard views from the sidewalk.

Restaurants, art galleries, and a vibrant cultural scene now define this Old West town, as well as abundant access to fly fishing, hiking, and hot springs. It's a common stopover on Yellowstone vacations and a fun weekend trip from Bozeman, located 25 miles west. The town is also home, or second home, to a growing number of past and present celebrities.

Highlights: Preserved ghost town available for self-guided tours

Virginia City was once the most vibrant Gold Rush locale in the state, but today, few precious minerals remain in this now ghost town just west of Yellowstone National Park . What has endured over the years is the unmistakable air of an Old West gold-mining town.

As one of the best-preserved ghost towns in the state, Virginia City attracts tourists and families to take a fun step back in time. Live performances at the Virginia City Opera House are great for historical interest, as are the various guided tours and costumed characters roaming the streets.

Highlights: Historic monument and battlefield commemorating the Battle of Little Bighorn

This national monument is the site of "Custer's Last Stand" and commemorates the Battle of Little Bighorn and the many men who lost their lives fighting in 1876. Visitors to the Little Bighorn National Monument today learn more about the events on the battlefield and the cultural elements that culminated in warfare.

Some of the unique places to visit at the monument include the Custer National Cemetery and Deep Ravine Trail, and the 7th Cavalry and Indian Memorial. Guided and self-guided tours are available.

Address: I-90 Frontage Road, Crow Agency, Montana

Highlights: Montana's most populated city with stunning sandstone cliffs carving through town

Billings, in the south-central part of the state, is the largest city in Montana. With a population topping over 100,000 residents, the town sits on the Yellowstone River and invites several outlets for exploration. Magnificent sandstone cliffs known as the Rimrocks divide the city and offer a preview of its rugged Western landscapes.

The Great Outdoors is a major attraction of Billings, and the city is sometimes better known as Montana's Trailhead. The Yellowstone River offers major in-town outdoor attractions, as do Lake Elmo and Pictograph Caves State Parks. And heading south from Billings, the world-renowned Beartooth Highway navigates alpine terrain for 68 miles to reach Yellowstone National Park.

And it's the Billings culture, too, that warrants a visit. Museums, restaurants, and historic mansions line the downtown district, and the city's larger population keeps the pavement busy. Other Billings attractions include seasonal gardens and a wildlife zoo.

The best time to visit Montana is during the summer months, including June, July, and August. These months offer the warmest temperatures and longest days, aiding in exploring everything the state has to offer, especially its outdoors. Over 16 hours of sunlight shine throughout the day by late June, heading into July. The summer is the busiest time on Montana's roadways and at major points of interest.

Summer extends into September in Montana, and the following shoulder season also offers a nice time to visit. September is almost guaranteed nice weather, and October is commonly pleasant until near the end of the month. Plan a trip during the autumn season and expect less-crowded conditions alongside chilly overnight temperatures.

The spring is also a good time to visit Montana. Nicer weather emerges in March, although the ski season continues throughout the month. Visit in April or May for a comfortable visit with a good chance of sunny weather and only the occasional rain cloud.

More Related Articles on PlanetWare.com

More to Explore in Montana: The top-rated tourist attractions in Montana offer even more places to see in the state, including Lewis and Clark Caverns State Park and The Grizzly and Wolf Discovery Center. For winter fun in the state, Montana's best ski resorts deliver on glades, groomers, and chutes. Easily accommodating extra special visits, the top-rated resorts in Montana all come with excellent views.

More on Montana

Insider’s Guide: Best Things to Do in Montana

Montana activities for every season and every interest.

Montana is full of so many incredible things to do. Whether you’re looking for outdoor activities, museums, foodie adventures, breweries, road trips, or other activities, you’re bound to find something to entertain you during a trip to MT.

Of course, with so many things to do, it can be overwhelming trying to plan a vacation to Montana and figuring out what all there is to do and how to fit it all in!

Here at Travel Montana Now we strive to make it easier to narrow down exactly what it is you want to see and do in Montana.

We do that through our “Best of Montana lists” if you’re completely new to Montana and need a good place to start your Montana trip dreaming. We also have more detailed guides for specific activities, such as skiing or hiking.

Click one of the images below that it is most in line with what you want to do next! Still not sure, read on for more details of what you’ll find in each category.

Best of Montana: Our Best of Montana lists cover hidden gems, scenic drives, dude ranches, girls getaways, romantic things to do, family friendly activities, and more.

National and State Parks: Find out the best things to do in the parks of Montana., including national historic sites and monuments.

Lake Activities: Montana is home to some epic lakes. Find out the best lakes and the top activities to do while visiting them.

River Activities: Here’s where you’ll find more info on river activities like white water rafting, kayaking, and fly fishing.

Road Trips: Whether you’re looking for day trip ideas or itinerary inspiration for multi-day or week vacations, this is the travel guide section for you.

Food & Drink: Where and what to eat and drink in Montana.

Fall Things to Do: Learn more about the best spots for fall foliage and scenic autumn drives in Montana, plus the best things to do in the fall.

Winter Things to Do: Here’s where you’ll find info on skiing, snowboarding, snowmobiling, snowshoeing, cross-country skiing, sleigh rides, Christmas festivals, and more winter fun.

More Inspiration for Things to Do in Montana

Still don’t see what you’re looking for? Check out our Montana Cities and Towns page:

We have articles on the top things to do for over 20 destinations in Montana, and adding more guides all the time!

These things to do include museums, hiking, historic walks, beautiful architecture, and more of our favorite things in each place. So find the things to do guide for the city or town where you’re headed and start putting together a list of the activities that sound best to you.

Ready to Plan Your Trip?

Let  us do the work for you! 

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10 Best Places to Visit in Montana

By Vanessa Holmes · Last updated on June 26, 2024

Known as Big Sky Country, Montana is an amazing destination for all those who appreciate the beauty of the great outdoors. Primarily rural, Montana is home to national parks, miles of open country, an abundance of wildlife and spectacular scenery.

However, there are also a number of vibrant cities with a flair for cowboy culture. As you plan your upcoming getaway to this state, don’t miss out on any of these unforgettable places to visit in Montana.

10. Great Falls

In the very center of Montana is Great Falls, a destination that is also known as the Electric City. Great Falls is often considered a stopping point when diving across Montana or when exploring nearby national parks, but the city also offers a lot in its own right. You could, for example, spend a day visiting the Ryan Dam, which boasts miles of surrounding hiking trails and is where the Electric City got its nickname.

You might also want to walk along the banks of the Missouri River, feed the trout and get to know more about American history at the Giant Springs State Park and the nearby Lewis and Clark National Interpretive Center.

9. Missoula

The second largest of Montana’s cities is Missoula, the home to the sprawling campus of the University of Montana. Missoula used to be a hub for rail travel, and you can still see the historic and preserved railroad stations around town. History lovers might also want to check out the iconic Caras Park Carousel, the Missoula Art Museum and the iconic Roxy Theater.

The Clark Fork River flows through the center of Missoula and is a hub for recreation, so you could also try rafting down the river or strolling along the waterfront Kim Williams Trail. Head Downtown for a number of local breweries, excellent independent restaurants and boutique shops perfect for snagging unique souvenirs.

8. Lewis and Clark Caverns State Park

The oldest and perhaps most impressive state park in Montana is the Lewis and Clark Caverns State Park, located just outside of Three Forks. The caverns are made from limestone, and they boast interesting columns, stalactites and stalagmites.

Guided tours of the caverns themselves cover a substantial amount of ground, and they take you down 600 steps until the air becomes noticeably cooler. Aside from the caverns themselves, which are open throughout the summer, the state park offers the opportunity to hike, enjoy a scenic picnic, go canoeing or spot wildlife in their natural habitats.

7. Little Bighorn Battlefield National Monument

Arguably one of the most famous military battles in American history took place at the Little Bighorn Battlefield. This is where Custer’s Last Stand took place in 1876 between the United States and Native American tribes like the Dakota, the Lakota, the Northern Cheyenne and the Arapaho.

To this day, a big draw to the area is the reenactments that typically happen on an annual basis. You can tour the Little Bighorn Battlefield National Monument, and you can also head into the nearest town, Crow Agency, for dining, shopping and water sports.

Many people begin their Montana adventures in the city of Helena, which is the state’s capital as well as a hub in the heart of Gold West Country. The main attraction in the city is the Montana State Capitol Building, which is available for guided tours throughout the week.

You’ll also want to check out the Gates of the Mountains of the Missouri River, a collection of cliffs that open up to the river and were famously named by the explorers Lewis and Clark. Helena is also home to the historic mining district known as Reeder’s Alley, the beautifully hand-carved Great Northern Carousel and the 19th century Old Fire Tower.

5. Whitefish

Just north of Kalispell, a city known for being the gateway to the Glacier National Park, is the charming resort destination of Whitefish. Located in Flathead Valley, Whitefish was created by glacier activity, and there is an abundance of freshwater in the surrounding area, dotting the landscape with pristine lakes and stunning streams.

Most of the attractions in Whitefish are natural, and opportunities for outdoor activity abound. You may want to fish from Whitefish Lake, ski at the Whitefish Mountain Resort, kayak along the Flathead River or tee off at one of the great local golf courses in the area.

4. Flathead Lake

Just 15 minutes south of the city Kalispell is Flathead Lake, which is officially the largest natural freshwater lake west of the Mississippi River. Formed by glaciers, Flathead Lake is a connection to the past for Montana, but it also serves as a hub for sightseeing and recreation in the 21st century. Just north of the lake, you can try hiking or even horseback riding.

During the summer, fresh cherries are readily available at farmer’s markets around Flathead Lake. Sailing is also growing in popularity, and rentals as well as lessons are available from several spots along the perimeter of Flathead Lake in Montana.

3. West Yellowstone

Much of the famed Yellowstone National Park is located within the bordering state of Wyoming , but some of the entrances are actually located in Montana. One of the most commonly used is known as West Yellowstone. As the name suggests, this is the western entrance to the Yellowstone National Park.

In addition to serving as the entry point to one of the world’s most incredible national parks, which is home to attractions like Old Faithful , West Yellowstone boasts the extensive collections of the Yellowstone Museum. You can also snag interesting souvenirs from the shops located along Yellowstone Ave or head to Faithful Street for some affordable local cuisine.

Bozeman is one of the most popular cities in Montana for travelers, because it serves both as the home of Montana State University and as the gateway to the Yellowstone National Park.

Although natural scenery is a big draw to Bozeman, there is also a large emphasis on culture, history and art. Start your visit to the city by checking out attractions such as the Pioneer Museum, the Museum of the Rockies, the Emerson Center for Arts and Culture and the unexpected but impressive American Computer Museum.

The Gallatin River runs near Bozeman and provides opportunities for swimming, fishing and even kayaking, or you could get active by walking between the many bars and breweries Downtown in what is known as the Barmuda Triangle of Bozeman.

1. Glacier National Park

For those in search of dramatic landscapes and breathtaking scenery, there are few destinations more appealing than Glacier National Park . On the border with Canada, and connected to the Canadian Waterton Lakes National Park, Glacier National Park is an incredible place to visit in Montana to see unparalleled flora and fauna.

Shuttles and guided tours are readily available, but the best way to see the beauty of the park is on your own two feet.

More than 700 miles of hiking trails are available, with some of the most popular paths being the Trail of the Cedars and the Huckleberry Mountain Trail. Within the park, you can also go fishing, mountain biking or horseback riding, and there are opportunities for boating on Waterton Lake as well as Lake McDonald.

Map of Montana

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15 Best Places to Visit in Montana — Fun & Unique Places to Go!

By: Author Andrew Carter

Posted on Published: June 15, 2021  - Last updated: September 29, 2023

Nestled in the heart of the Rocky Mountains, Montana is a treasure trove of breathtaking natural wonders and outdoor adventures.

If you’re planning a trip there, deciding on the best places to visit can be overwhelming, given the state’s vast size and varied topography.

But don’t worry. 

I’m here to help you plan your Montana adventure.

I’ve explored Montana extensively and spoken to locals and travelers to provide a comprehensive guide to the best vacation spots in Montana.

This guide covers everything from famous national parks to lesser-known but equally stunning destinations.

To make this review more accurate, these activities are rated based on family-friendliness, affordability, educational value, entertainment variety, and accessibility. 

You won’t want to miss the stunning views of snow-capped peaks, crystal-clear lakes, and pristine forests.

So pack your bags, grab your camera, and prepare for a lifetime adventure in Montana.

Let’s explore the best places to visit in Montana together.

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Best Places To Visit In Montana Compared

Montana’s rugged landscapes offer a stunning backdrop for outdoor enthusiasts and nature lovers alike. 

Here’s a handy list of the top places to visit in Montana.

Editor’s Choice

Flathead Lake State Park — Big Arm

Flathead Lake State Park, established in 1966, spans roughly 217 acres.

• Family-friendliness: 5/5
• Affordability: 4/5 
• Educational Value: 3/5
• Entertainment Variety: 4/5
• Accessibility: 5/5

#2nd Best Choice

West Yellowstone

West Yellowstone serves as the gateway to Yellowstone National Park.

• Family-friendliness: 4/5
• Affordability: 3/5
• Educational Value: 5/5
• Entertainment Variety: 4/5 

#3rd Best Choice

Glacier National Park Scenic Float

This float, operated by Great Northern Whitewater Rafting, tours you around the Flathead River.

• Entertainment Variety: 3/5
• Accessibility: 4/5

Here are the top 15 places to visit in Montana.

1. Flathead Lake State Park — Big Arm (Editor’s Choice)

28031 Big Arm State Park Rd Big Arm, MT 59910 (406) 837-3041 Visit Website Social Media Open in Google Maps

It rests on the shores of the largest freshwater lake in the western area of the country.

Ratings Criteria

• Stunning views 
• Has various outdoor recreational activities
• It can get crowded

Why You Should Visit This Place

Are you looking for places to go in Montana for an amazing vacation that your family or friends will never forget?

If you are, grab your things and head on over to this eye-catching state park.

It features a postcard-perfect landscape with mountain backdrops and towering ponderosa pines.

There are tons of activities you can enjoy here, like hiking, swimming, camping, biking, sunbathing, fishing, boating, water skiing, scuba diving, board sailing, and so on.

It also features countless amenities, such as well-maintained restrooms, campsites, spaces for you to park your RV, coin-operated showers, picnic shelters, and tons more.

An Expert Tip Before You Go

If you want to enjoy your day trip to the fullest without having to worry about your personal items, you can rent storage lockers for a fee at this state park.

Recommended Hotel Nearby: Red Lion Ridgewater Inn & Suites Polson

2. West Yellowstone

West Yellowstone, MT 59758 (406) 646-7715 Visit Website Social Media Open in Google Maps

It is home to numerous gift shops, lodging facilities, and nature-related attractions.

• Has a range of lodging
• Various dining options
• It can be expensive

Enjoy the best of Montana with your friends or a special someone at West Yellowstone.

It offers many stores where you can buy an assortment of souvenir items to take to your family back home and countless activities to enjoy a terrific time outdoors.

For example, river rafting, hiking, mountain biking, fly fishing, wildlife viewing, cross-country skiing, snowmobiling, snowshoeing, and so much more.

Before leaving West Yellowstone, pay a visit to the Grizzly & Wolf Discovery Center.

It is a superb wildlife park where you can get the chance to see grizzly bears and wolf packs up close.

Recommended Hotel Nearby: Kelly Inn West Yellowstone

Related: Best Places to Eat in Missoula

Related: Best Things to Do in Montana

3. Glacier National Park Scenic Float

12127 U.S. Rte 2 suite a West Glacier, MT 59936 (406) 888-8754 Visit Website Social Media Open in Google Maps

• Offers a unique and peaceful experience 
• Wildlife spotting opportunities
• Weather dependent

Glacier National Park is full of natural wonders, and one of the best ways to explore this place is through this activity. 

Picture yourself gently gliding along waters, surrounded by mountains, lush forests, and the occasional glimpse of wildlife. 

It’s an awe-inspiring adventure that will captivate both kids and adults alike.

To make the most of your experience, remember to dress in layers and bring a waterproof jacket. 

The weather can change quickly in the mountains, and being prepared will ensure your comfort throughout the trip. 

Additionally, don’t forget your camera.

You’ll encounter breathtaking sights along the way, and capture those moments.

Recommended Hotel Nearby: The Sacajawea Hotel

4. Ziplining across Gallatin River

63960 Gallatin Rd Gallatin Gateway, MT 59730 (702) 648-5873 Visit Website Social Media Open in Google Maps

Experience the thrill of ziplining across the scenic Gallatin River in Montana. Soar through the air with breathtaking views of the river and surrounding mountains.

It is a great alternative for West Yellowstone and Glacier National Park Scenic Float.

Ziplining across the Gallatin River is an exhilarating experience that should not be missed.

It offers a thrilling adventure and breathtaking views of the surrounding natural beauty.

Soaring through the air on a zipline provides an adrenaline rush and a unique perspective of the Gallatin River and its scenic surroundings.

It’s an unforgettable activity that combines excitement and awe-inspiring landscapes.

To enhance your ziplining experience across the Gallatin River, wear comfortable and sturdy closed-toe shoes.

Dress in layers to accommodate changing weather conditions.

Secure loose items and valuables.

Follow the safety instructions provided by the guides and pay attention during the orientation.

Embrace the thrill, keep a relaxed posture, and enjoy the exhilarating ride while taking in the stunning scenery below.

Recommended Hotel Nearby: Grouse Mountain Lodge

Related: Best Places to Eat in Whitefish

Helena, MT (406) 449-2107 Visit Website Social Media Open in Google Maps

Helena, nicknamed the Queen City of the Rockies, is the capital city of the state.

It was a gold camp in the Montana gold rush, making it one of the wealthiest cities in the late 19th century.

Helena is a lovely city featuring a fun and laid-back environment for you to explore on your own or with your companions.

Popular sites you can tour here are the Montana State Capitol offering guided tours of its facility, ExplorationWorks, a science museum with interactive exhibits, and Spring Meadow Lake State Park, where you go scuba diving, kayaking, swimming, and the like.

End the day by having a delicious dinner at one of its best eateries , Lucca’s.

It is a fine-dining, Italian restaurant where you can try various dishes, like savory steaks and pasta, with a tall glass of fine wine.

Recommended Hotel Nearby: Baymont by Wyndham Helena

6. Great Falls

Great Falls, MT (406) 771-1180 Visit Website Social Media Open in Google Maps

Great Falls, incorporated in 1888, is a charming city with the Missouri River running through it.

It has two nicknames, the Western Art Capital of the World and the River City.

If you are looking for what to do in Montana to jump start the vacation of a lifetime, make your way to Great Falls.

Here, you can enjoy a myriad of activities, like going on an adventure on the Missouri River, golfing, exploring its many museums, cooling off from the heat at a water park, taking in the fresh air at an urban park, and so much more.

The Lewis and Clark Interpretive Center is one of the top attractions in this city that you must visit.

It allows you to learn about local history and enjoy many guided activities in nature.

Recommended Hotel Nearby: La Quinta by Wyndham Butte

Related: Best Weekend Getaways in Montana

Bozeman, MT (406)582-2300 Visit Website Social Media Open in Google Maps

Bozeman , found in the southwestern region of Montana, is a beautiful city offering a boat-load of recreational possibilities.

If you are on a budget and looking for affordable Montana tourist attractions to visit, consider Bozeman.

This city has many places you can explore for free or at a cheap price that won’t break the bank.

Like, the American Computer & Robotics Museum, where you can discover the wonder of technology, the Gallatin History Museum, a renovated jail building with galleries on local history, and the Montana Grizzly Encounter, a haven for bears.

One of the top places to see in Montana is the vibrant downtown district of Bozeman, where you can watch its annual summer concert series, Music on Main.

Recommended Hotel Nearby: Best Western Plus GranTree Inn

Related: Best Places to Eat in Bozeman

8. Glacier National Park — West Glacier

West Glacier, MT 59936 (406) 888-7800 Visit Website Social Media Open in Google Maps

Glacier National Park, nicknamed the Crown of the Continent, is a mecca for outdoor enthusiasts.

It encompasses more than 1 million acres and beckons visitors from all over the country.

When searching for beautiful places to visit near you to enjoy an epic excursion in the heart of mother nature, there is no better option than Glacier National Park.

It has an awe-inspiring scenery featuring lush greenery, over 1,000 plant species, majestic mountain ranges, and towering trees.

Pack your necessities as you prepare to do activities like hiking through trails of varying lengths and difficulties, back-country camping, rock climbing, observing passing wildlife, such as bighorn sheep, practicing nature photography, and plenty of other options.

The best time to visit this national park is in July and August.

During these months, the weather condition is at its most ideal.

Recommended Hotel Nearby: Best Western Plus Riverfront Hotel and Suites

9. Missoula

Missoula, MT (406) 552-6000 Visit Website Social Media Open in Google Maps

You can find Missoula in the western region of Montana.

It is a natural beauty featuring sparkling rivers, jaw-dropping mountain views, and seven wilderness areas surrounding it.

One of the top places to visit in Montana with your companions is this gorgeous city.

Whether you want to enjoy activities in the great outdoors or spend time indoors, Missoula is the place for you.

Some destinations for you to explore here are the Historic Wilma Theater, where you can watch an independent film or a live show, the Missoula Art Museum, featuring an impressive collection of Native American artwork, and numerous other options.

Other things you can enjoy in nature are hiking, horseback riding, rafting, fishing, kayaking, and the like.

Do not leave the city without visiting the top-rated Historical Museum at Fort Missoula.

Here, you can learn about the rich history of western Montana and discover the significance of the fort in the late 19th century.

Recommended Hotel Nearby: Big Sky Motel

Related: Best Places to Eat in West Yellowstone

10. Philipsburg

Philipsburg, MT (406) 859-6726 Visit Website Open in Google Maps

Philipsburg was once a prominent mining town in the late 1800s.

It is a must-visit for history buffs, featuring a boat-load of historical sites for you to explore.

Bond with your companions as you spend quality time together exploring the many fascinating tourist hotspots in Philipsburg.

Like the Gem Mountain Sapphire Mine, the oldest sapphire mine in Montana, the Opera House Theatre, where you can watch an enthralling live show in a historic theater, and the Granite Ghost Town State Park, a once lively town in the 1890s.

If you want to enjoy a couple of beers with your friends, the Philipsburg Brewing Company is your best choice.

It offers some of the tastiest craft beer in Montana.

Butte, MT (406) 497-6200 Visit Website Social Media Open in Google Maps

Butte, settled in 1864, is the fifth-largest city in Montana.

Many movies and television series featured Butte, like Evel Knievel and Dead 7.

Butte is one of the best cities to visit in Montana, offering you and your partner, friends, or family the perfect place to spend quality time together.

Here, you can enjoy a multitude of fun-filled activities to guarantee an entertaining visit.

Such as learning about its rich mining history, touring a distillery, strolling through beautiful gardens, taking your kids to a charming park, going down slides at a waterpark, and lots more.

Replenish your energy by dining at the Uptown Cafe, arguably one of the best restaurants in Montana, serving mouth-watering dishes, like pork stir fry and various cakes.

Recommended Hotel Nearby: Best Western Plus Butte Plaza Inn

12. Fort Benton

Fort Benton, MT (406) 622-5494 Visit Website Social Media Open in Google Maps

Fort Benton, nicknamed the Birthplace of Montana, is the oldest settlement in the state.

A destination you should not miss out on visiting on your Montana escapade with your travel buddies is Fort Benton.

It features numerous superb eateries, awe-striking art galleries, and countless historic attractions.

Some places of interest for you to explore are the Museum of the Northern Great Plains, where you can learn stories of local farmers from the 1900s, Fort Benton Bridge, a stunning bridge constructed in 1888, and tons more.

Don’t leave without going on a tour of Old Fort Benton, a National Landmark.

This fort, abandoned in 1881, is now a history museum where you can learn all about the city’s past from a knowledgeable guide.

13. Virginia City

Virginia City, MT (406) 843-5247 Visit Website Social Media Open in Google Maps

Virginia City is a historic town in Montana founded in the 1860s, and it is known for its well-preserved architecture and mining history.

Travel back in time to the Wild West with a visit to Virginia City, Montana.

This historic town, founded during the gold rush of the 1860s, boasts well-preserved architecture, saloons, and shops that offer a glimpse into the past.

Take a stagecoach ride for an even more immersive experience—a must-visit for any history lover or adventure seeker.

Wear comfortable shoes and clothing as you walk on uneven terrain and up and down hills while exploring the historic town of Virginia City.

14. Quinn’s Hot Springs Resort — Plains

195 Quinn’s Canyon Road Route 135 Plains, MT 59859 (406) 826-3150 Visit Website Social Media Open in Google Maps

Quinn’s Hot Springs Resort is a renowned facility offering natural hot spring pools, an onsite eatery, and lodging facilities.

Do you need to go on a relaxing getaway, far from the worries and tiring cycle of your day-to-day life?

If you do, prepare to unwind and enjoy a much-desired day of pampering at Quinn’s Hot Springs Resort.

It is the perfect place to soak in the warm waters of a crystalline hot spring pool.

After relaxing at the hot spring, you can visit its onsite tavern for a chill time with your companions as you play a game of pool, listen to the performance of a live band, and sip exquisite-tasting cocktails.

Time your visit during the annual Montana Baroque Music Festival, held at this world-class hot springs resort.

It usually takes place in August and includes talented artists performing classical music at a magnificent outdoor pavilion.

Related: Montana Itinerary

15. Museum of the Rockies — Bozeman

600 W Kagy Blvd Bozeman, MT 59717 (406) 994-2251 Visit Website Social Media Open in Google Maps

Museum of the Rockies, founded in 1957, is home to the largest collection of dinosaur remains in the country.

It is one of the best places to visit in Montana and features exhibits dating as far as 500 million years into the past.

If you are searching for where to go in Montana to enjoy an unforgettable vacation, the Museum of the Rockies is a brilliant choice.

It features countless exhibits for you to discover, a high-tech planetarium, a state-of-the-art theater, and a gift shop selling a wide range of items.

Go on a fun and educational experience with your family or friends as you tour this museum.

Here, you can view displays about dinosaurs, Vikings, Native American tribes, local wildlife, sea creatures that existed millions of years ago, and so much more.

At its planetarium, you can watch captivating shows that will take you to the farthest reaches of the galaxy, a journey through the stars, and the like.

Check their website ahead of time because they often hold promotions and engaging events that may interest you.

Depending on what they have lined up, you can enjoy live music shows, dancing, an auction, and interactive games.

Recommended Hotel Nearby: The LARK

Traveler’s Guide 

Comparing destinations: which one is right for you.

Choosing a destination in Montana for an outdoor adventure doesn’t have to be complicated.

Each location has its own unique offerings, pros, and cons.

To secure a memorable trip, always widen your options and compare the benefits and drawbacks of every destination.

Flathead Lake State Park – Big Arm is an excellent destination for families seeking a relaxing lakeside retreat.

However, it may not offer as much in terms of adventure activities compared to the other locations.

West Yellowstone is perfect for those who want to explore Yellowstone National Park, but it can be crowded during peak season.

Furthermore, Glacier National Park Scenic Float is ideal for nature lovers who want to experience the park’s stunning scenery from a unique perspective.

However, those who are prone to motion sickness may find it challenging.

Ziplining across the Gallatin River is perfect for adventure seekers who want an exhilarating experience.

However, it may not be suitable for those who are afraid of heights.

Consider what activities you want to do, the budget, and other factors when choosing a destination.

Regardless of which location you choose, Montana’s natural beauty and outdoor activities will leave you with unforgettable memories.

How I Picked The Destinations 

As a seasoned traveler, I have explored Montana’s popular destinations and activities.

With my knowledge and expertise, I aim to help you make the most out of your visit to Montana.

Through my personal experiences, research, and talking with locals, I’ve gathered valuable insights to help you plan a memorable trip.

For those activities and locations that I haven’t personally visited, I’ve relied on trusted sources to provide you with reliable and accurate information.

Our Rating Method 

I rate these attractions based on the following criteria. 

• Family-friendliness: I use this to rate the family-friendly appeal of an attraction. Are the activities appropriate for everyone in the family? Is it fun and safe for the little ones? Does it have convenient amenities? I ask myself these questions to assess family friendliness. 
• Affordability: This criterion evaluates how budget-friendly the activity is. Is there an admission fee? Is the price reasonable? Does it have special packages or discounts? These questions are essential when evaluating affordability.
• Educational Value: This is used to evaluate the educational benefits of the activity. Is it an enriching and educational experience? Will it teach visitors lessons in nature, history, culture, or science? Does it encourage physical and mental development? These are the questions I ask myself when rating educational value.
• Entertainment Variety: I use this to rate the variety and quality of entertainment in every location. Is the place fun, engaging and enjoyable? Does it offer activities for different age groups? I ask myself these questions to assess entertainment variety.
• Accessibility: This is used to evaluate how accessible the activity is. Is there ample parking space? Is the location easily accessible by public transportation? Can people with young children or mobility problems easily navigate the site? I use these questions when evaluating accessibility.

Frequently Asked Questions 

What are the top montana destinations for families.

The top Montana destinations for families include West Yellowstone and Flathead Lake State Park — Big Arm.

When Is The Best Time To Visit Montana?

The best time to visit Montana is during the summer months of June to August, when the weather is warm.

When it comes to the best places to visit in Montana, there are a few destinations that stand out for their unique offerings and unforgettable experiences.

My family and I enjoyed our visit to West Yellowstone.

It is a gateway to the iconic Yellowstone National Park, known for its abundant wildlife, geothermal features, and breathtaking landscapes.

This charming town is also home to various lodging options, dining spots, and souvenir shops.

Glacier National Park Scenic Float is an excellent way to experience Montana’s stunning scenery from a different perspective.

The float offers a relaxed and scenic journey through the Bob Marshall Wilderness, and it’s ideal for nature lovers and adventure seekers alike.

For those looking for a more immersive and adventurous experience, Glacier National Park Scenic Float is a thrilling way to explore the natural beauty of Montana.

The park’s abundant wildlife and breathtaking scenery provide an unforgettable backdrop for a relaxing float down the river.

For a heart-pumping adventure, ziplining across the Gallatin River is an absolute must.

I enjoyed the thrilling way to take in the stunning views of the surrounding landscape while soaring through the air.

Finally, Flathead Lake State Park – Big Arm is a perfect destination for those looking for a family-friendly and budget-friendly vacation.

With its sandy beaches, crystal-clear waters, and a plethora of outdoor activities, it offers something for everyone.

To me, it’s the best of the bunch. 

Each of these destinations has its own unique charm and attractions.

Whether you’re looking to immerse yourself in nature, have a heart-pumping adventure, or simply relax on the beach, Montana has something to offer.

22 Best Places to Visit in Montana

Written By: The Planet D

United States

Updated On: February 11, 2024

If you are looking for a memorable US getaway , visiting the state of Montana is the perfect plan. Montana is full of interesting places and has some of the country’s best art galleries and national parks. Montana uniquely balances cultural attractions for history buffs and culture lovers and outdoor activities for thrill-seekers. Immerse yourself in old traditional western flair or head out for a day of hiking trails and rock climbing.

But what are the best places to visit in Montana? Do you head to Eastern Montana or Western Montana? To Glacier National Park or to the town of Great Falls? This guide will break down the very best places to visit in Montana. Let’s get straight into it.

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Best towns and cities to visit in Montana

Some of the best places to visit in Montana are its towns and cities. You’ll find many tourist attractions, cultures, and communities in these places – perfect for getting a  real  feel of Montana living. These are our top eleven best towns and cities in Montana.

Helena is Montana’s capital city. If you want action, culture, and a lively but friendly atmosphere, Helena is where to visit in Montana. The city is packed with art galleries, museums, and historical architecture. You’ll spend a lot of time on your feet, be it walking Reeder’s Alley or through the exhibits at the Montana Historical Society.

Helena was originally a gold camp in the Montana gold rush. Its glitzy history is recognizable thanks to the city’s wealth today, and visitors can enjoy wandering the elegant historical buildings – especially in the downtown district.

Of course, you can’t visit a state capital without visiting the State Capitol Building either. Montana State Capitol is well worth visiting for its architectural and political history.

Have you heard of Big Sky Country? If not, Big Sky is a small ski town in the Rocky Mountain region of Southwest Montana. The town is most famous for Big Sky Resort and is one of the best places to visit in Montana for a winter getaway.

According to Forbes, the town is surrounded by ‘5,850 skiable acres. Whether you want to learn to ski or are already a pro, you’ll love the fierce winter sports culture. Visiting Big Sky in winter means a lot of snow, skiing, and après ski. For a winter wonderland experience, you really can’t do better. Plus, Big Sky is just an hour’s drive from the western entrance to Yellowstone National Park.

If you are visiting Big Sky in winter, make sure to grab your ski rentals here before you go. It makes things much more convenient.

3. Philipsburg

Philipsburg is small but mighty. First and foremost, it is a mining town. Philipsburg has kept an industrial, old west atmosphere that makes it a fantastic place to visit. The tiny town is no shy wallflower on Montana’s tourist scene either and has scored the title of the most beautiful small town in Montana. If you like immersive history and small towns, look no further.

Granite County Museum is a great place to discover Philipsburg’s old mining industry, while Granite Ghost Town State Park is another gem to visit. The abandoned town is the remnants of the region’s golden years during the mining boom of the late 19th century. Immerse yourself in Philipsburg and its surrounding area’s distinct characters.

4. Garryowen

Garryowen gets its name from an old Irish marching song. The town itself has strong military links, and it was formed as a cavalry station. One of the town’s best attractions, Custer National Cemetery, is a military graveyard marked by the Little Bighorn Battlefield National Monument. Visitors can walk to mass burial sites marked by white memorials and visit the visitor center and museum on-site.

Nowadays, Garryowen is located on Crow Indian Reservation. If you are interested in 19th-century American history or military history in general, Garryowen is a great place to visit. You can learn about the town’s history, pay respects to local Native American culture, or visit the Little Bighorn National Monument.

5. Great Falls

Great Falls is a stunning riverside city located in central Montana. Great Falls is known as somewhat of a cultural hub, and you’ll find museum after museum in the city. You can spend your days visiting the C.M. Russell Museum, Paris Gibson Square Museum of Art, or the Children’s Museum of Montana. There’s even the Lewis & Clark Interpretive Center, which follows the story of the Lewis & Clark western expedition with unique exhibits, films, and displays.

Great Falls is an excellent choice if you want an interesting cultural base in central Montana. It has a lively city atmosphere and is only a two-hour drive from Helena-Lewis and Clark National Forest and Giant Springs State Park – home to one of the largest natural hot springs in the US.

Want a pleasant stay in Montana? Bozeman is considered the most liveable place in the state, making it one of the best places to visit in Montana for a laidback getaway.

In the city center, there are more attractions than you can count. Bozeman itself is located just outside of the mountainous region around Big Sky, with plenty of small towns and areas of natural beauty to explore on a day trip. If you don’t mind a two-hour drive, there’s Yellowstone to your south and Helena-Lewis and Clark National Forest to your north.

Bozeman is also home to Montana State University, giving the city a sociable, friendly atmosphere. You can head to the trendiest eateries, soak in Bozeman Hot Springs, or make the most of the city’s fantastic location for day trips in nature. Bozeman is the perfect compromise between city living and access to natural wonders.

7. Whitefish

Like Big Sky, Whitefish is a little resort town that floods with skiers every winter. The town is one of the best places to visit for outdoor fun and adrenaline sports. Whitefish is scenically situated on the outskirts of Glacier National Park and has stunning alpine views – perfect for beautiful scenery while cross-country skiing. There’s also a vast freshwater lake, where you can enjoy a dip or spend some time fly fishing in summer.

Whitefish’s famous ski resort is Whitefish Mountain Resort. If you want a holiday full of outdoor activities and winter sports, Whitefish Mountain Resort is a fantastic place to stay with a ton of facilities, equipment rentals, and shuttles.

This is a great place to base yourself for a visit to Glacier National Park. This private full-day tour has something for everyone!

8. Missoula

Choteau might seem off the beaten track and unassuming. However, the town is one of the best paleontology sites in the world. Exciting, right? If you love everything fossils and geology, then a visit to Choteau should be on the cards. In fact, its nearby Egg Mountain was used as a breeding ground for dinosaurs millions of years ago. In nearby Bynum, you can participate in fossil digs at the Montana Dinosaur Center.

Old Trail Museum is the major attraction in Choteau itself. The museum covers everything from dinosaurs to teepees. Old Trail Museum is a perfect stop-off and place to spend an hour or two, especially if you like your museums eclectic.

Missoula has become known as a natural retreat, despite its city status. The city is divided into two by the Clark Fork River, famed for its Blue Trout (take note if you love fishing). Situated in Western Montana, Missoula is right next to the Idaho border and is within driving distance from Lolo and Flathead National Forests. Missoula is a beautiful place to visit if you want to base yourself in Western Montana.

Of course, the city also has a lot of its own attractions, including the Missoula Art Museum. While history lovers can learn more at Missoula Natural History Museum and the Historical Museum at Fort Missoula.

Butte was once a gold and silver mining camp. A couple of centuries later, Butte is now one of the best places to visit in Montana and one of the state’s most booming cities. Butte is somewhere to appreciate Montana’s past while enjoying the present moment. The city has great historical attractions and a fantastic entertainment scene.

You can discover the city’s humble beginnings at the World Museum of Mining. You can also peer into Berkeley Pit (an old copper mine) from a viewing stand within easy walking distance from the city center. Alternatively, have a flutter by visiting Richest Hill. Richest Hill is Butte’s casino and the center of its nightlife and partying scene – great if you want to let your hair down.

11. Virginia City

Virginia City is one of our absolute favorite places in Montana. The town is a complete time capsule, from log cabins to old western street signs. Get ready to be transported back to 19th-century Montana.

The town has a small museum called the Thomas-Hickman Museum. You can also catch a performance at the Virginia City Opera House. However, the main draw of Virginia City is to just walk the traditional town main street and soak up the old western architecture and atmosphere. Virginia City is easily the most authentic place to visit in Montana. You’ll love it, especially if you love immersive history.

Best natural places to visit in Montana

Now that we’ve covered the best towns and cities, let’s look at the best natural places to visit in Montana. From national parks to state parks, these are our top ten recommendations.

12. Yellowstone National Park

Yellowstone is a celebrity amongst US national parks. You’ll find the world’s largest collection of geysers, including Old Faithful. There are also more hot springs, mountains, and animals than you’ll be able to count. If you want a national park that will provide lifelong memories, Yellowstone National Park is the one.

Yellowstone actually straddles Wyoming, Idaho, and Montana. While the largest section of the park is in Wyoming, you can experience some parts in Montana – or just allow time to cross the borders and see as much as possible. Some attractions, like the Grizzly & Wolf Discovery Center (near the West Yellowstone entrance) and the Museum of Yellowstone, are in Montana. Others, like Old Faithful, are located in Wyoming, so you’ll need to allow extra travel time.

If you are interested in hiking don’t miss our recommendations for the Best Hikes in Yellowstone , complete with difficulty ratings and elevation.

In West Yellowstone, you’ll find the Grizzly & Wolf Discovery Center. The animal refuge center has resident grizzly bears, grey wolves, and birds of prey. It is an excellent place to visit if you want to support a local not-for-profit and don’t manage to spot animals in the wild.

Fancy an adrenaline rush? Go whitewater rafting down Yellowstone River. Yellowstone River snakes through the national park’s center with many exciting sections of rapids – perfect for an adventurous day out.

13. Flathead National Forest

How does 2.4 million acres of mountain forests sound? In winter, you can zip through Flathead National Forest on snowmobiles and skis. In spring and summer, you’ll have hiking trails galore and no shortage of space for camping and multi-day treks. Flathead National Forest is an excellent natural place to visit in Montana, regardless of the season.

The forest is home to many animals, including black bears and grizzlies. You’ll see bighorn sheep, elk, moose, and mules. And, if you keep your eyes on the skies, you may get lucky and catch sight of an eagle or owl. Flathead National Forest is one of the most rewarding natural places to visit in the state of Montana.

14. Gates of the Mountains Wilderness

Just outside of Helena, the Gates of the Mountains Wilderness is one of the most accessible places of natural beauty to visit in Montana. It is also one of the most exciting to explore since the best way involves hopping on a boat.

The nature preserve is situated along a section of the Missouri River that winds through a jaw-dropping mountain park. Sailing up the river, you can admire and be humbled by the scale of the mountain range surrounding you – definitely bring a camera.

You can take a guided tour or rent water sports equipment to appreciate the Gates independently. The Gates of the Mountains Wilderness is best visited in warm, dry weather, as sailing can get extremely cold with the strong breeze and exposure to the elements. We recommend visiting in late spring or summer for the best experience. Plus, the mountains will be covered in beautiful greenery during these months.

15. Giant Springs State Park

The name Giant Springs State Park speaks for itself. The park is home to one of the US’s largest freshwater springs, and the Giant Springs produces an incredible 156 million gallons of water daily. It is said that water takes approximately 26 years to reach the springs from its origin in the Little Belt mountains – a fascinating concept.

Aside from viewing this natural phenomenon though, visitors can make the most of river activities like fishing, swimming, and boating. There are also trails for mountain biking and horseback riding if you want to explore a little differently than on foot. The park was first discovered on the Lewis & Clark Expedition in 1805 and is an important location in the early mapping of Montana.

Giant Springs is the best place for you if you like natural attractions with a large network of trails and a historical backstory.

16. Lewis & Clark Caverns State Park

Lewis & Clark Caverns State Park is an excellent natural place to visit in Montana. The 3,000-acre park is best known for its limestone caverns, named the Clark Caverns. Visitors can take guided tours into the Clark Caverns for an ultimate caving experience. Allow just under two hours for a tour of the caverns, but a whole day to experience the best of the park.

The park is an exciting place to witness underground beauty and explore beautiful hikes in the sunshine above ground. It is undoubtedly one of the most unique places to visit in Montana if you want to experience natural beauty.

17. Flathead Lake State Park

Flathead Lake is split into six different park sections, so choose which area you want to visit wisely (our favorite is West Shore). The park is situated around Flathead Lake, making it ideal for fishing, swimming, and water sports activities. The park is the best place to spend a lake-side holiday and is dreamy in late spring and summer.

Flathead Lake is a good option if you are looking for great camping spots in Montana. The park has many well-established campgrounds with plenty of facilities, which is excellent if you want a relaxing, entry-level camping experience.

18. Spring Meadow Lake State Park

Spring Meadow Lake State Park is a cheeky addition to our list of natural beauty spots. The 61-acre park has an artificial lake – so technically, it is a manmade area of beauty. However, it is so stunning we just had to add it to the list.

The park is best for those who want clear trails and purpose-made walking paths. You can follow the paths, stop for a bite to eat on one of the picnic benches, or enjoy some water activities. Spring Meadow Lake State Park is a popular spot for kayaking and paddle boarding, and you can hire equipment on-site if you don’t have your own to bring along.

The best part about Spring Meadow Lake State Park is that it is located just outside of Helena. The park is less than a ten-minute drive from Helena’s center and a great way to get some time in the outdoors during a city break.

19. Bighorn Canyon National Recreation Area

Have you ever seen a wild horse? If not, Bighorn Canyon National Recreation Area is where you just might. With a bit of luck, you’ll spot herds of wild horses when exploring the area’s hiking trails. There are also plenty of ranches where you can saddle up to see the wild horses on horseback.

Located on the Montana-Wyoming border, the area is centered around Bighorn Canyon itself, which is definitely worth visiting. You can drive to scenic overlooks or hike to the most remote yet rewarding viewpoints – it is totally up to you. Bighorn Canyon National Recreation Area is full of surprises and exciting things to see.

20. Makoshika State Park

Meet the largest state park in Montana. Makoshika State Park is overflowing with fossils, and dinosaur lovers will be ecstatic at seeing the fossil remains of dinosaurs like Tyrannosaurus Rex and Triceratops. Families note this park down for your little ones. But adults don’t miss out on the fun either – Makoshika State Park impresses all ages.

Start your visit at the visitor center, where you can admire a series of interpretive exhibits and the best dinosaur fossils. Then you can hike the Montana Dinosaur Trail for the ultimate paleontology experience. Allow a whole day to visit as there is so much to see, and you don’t want to rush.

21. Upper Missouri River Breaks National Monument

Now the Missouri River is the longest river in the US, so, unless you want to sail the length of it (which would be an exciting adventure), you’ll have to choose a small section to visit. The river cuts through Montana east to west, passing multiple riverside towns and cities. However, our favorite place to enjoy the river is the Upper Missouri River Breaks National Monument.

Upper Missouri River Breaks National Monument is a 377,000-acre national park and the ideal spot for a riverside adventure. You can kayak, swim, or hike. To experience the Missouri River, the national park is the best and quietest place in Montana.

Of course, you can also indulge in a river rafting experience to pump your adrenaline or sit along the river banks for some relaxing fly fishing. North Montana is also full of different attractions like Bear Gulch Pictographs and the Phillips County Museum that you can combine with visiting the park.

22. Glacier National Park

Glacier National Park is beautiful. There’s no denying it. In particular, its hiking is renowned as some of the best in the US, and you can read our complete guide on the best hiking trails in Glacier National Park here . The park is sure to impress no matter the season and no matter your interests.

If you are in a rush, we recommend visiting Lake Mcdonald and Logan Pass. Lake Mcdonald is the park’s largest lake and is a picture-perfect alpine destination with still water and mountainous views. Logan Pass is a dramatic elevation pass on the Continental Divide, with gorgeous scenery and lots of mountain goats to spot. You can’t go wrong with a visit to Glacier National Park.

Final Thoughts

Montana is incredible. The state has a dreamy mix of natural wonders and historic towns and cities to explore. By visiting Montana, you’ll be visiting some of the  best places in the US  – get ready to start ticking off your bucket list.

If you have the chance, try to visit as many of these places as possible for the ultimate Montana experience. We hope you have a fantastic trip.

Plan Your Nest Trip to Montana With These Resources

• 46 Best Places to Visit in the US
• 9 of the Best Glacier National Park Hikes
• 21 Best Winter Vacations in the US For 2022

Travel Planning Resources

Looking to book your next trip? Why not use these resources that are tried and tested by yours truly.

Book Your Flights: Start planning your trip by finding the best flight deals on Skyscanner. We have used them for years and have found that they have the best flight deals.

Book your Hotel: Find the best prices on hotels with these two providers. If you are located in Europe use Booking.com and if you are anywhere else use TripAdvisor.

Find Apartment Rentals: You will find the cheapest prices on apartment rentals with VRBO . 

Travel Insurance: Don't leave home without it. Here is what we recommend:

• Safety Wing - Occasional Travelers.
• Medjet - Global air medical transport and travel security.

Book Your Activities: Looking for walking tours, skip-the-line tickets, private guides, and more? Then we recommend Get Your Guide.

Need more help planning your trip? Make sure to check out our Resources Page where we highlight all the great companies that we trust when we are traveling.

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About The Planet D

Dave Bouskill and Debra Corbeil are the owners and founders of The Planet D. After traveling to 115 countries, on all 7 continents over the past 13 years they have become one of the foremost experts in travel. Being recognized as top travel bloggers and influencers by the likes of Forbes Magazine , the Society of American Travel Writers and USA Today has allowed them to become leaders in their field.

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2 thoughts on “22 Best Places to Visit in Montana”

Would love to visit Yellowstone someday.

Very beautyfoul places i would live there

Best Places to Visit in Montana (2024 Vacation Fun)

Table of Contents

The Best Places to Visit in Montana with Kids & teens

Are you searching for the perfect family vacation destination? Look no further—Montana is the ideal spot, with endless outdoor activities and majestic mountain views. You and your family will find plenty of fun and excitement in this picturesque state. Enjoy these best places to visit in Montana with kids and teens.

From awe-inspiring hikes to thrilling whitewater rafting, Montana offers a vacation experience you won’t soon forget.

Planning a trip to Montana? Keep up on the COVID-19 information concerning travel to Montana here .

Things to do in Montana

Montana is a great destination for families with kids & teens, offering a perfect blend of outdoor adventures and educational experiences. Here are some of the best places to visit in Montana for family vacation fun.

Glacier National Park

This park is a must-visit attraction for families visiting Montana. Known for its stunning natural beauty, pristine lakes, and diverse wildlife, Glacier National Park offers ample opportunities for hiking, camping, and other outdoor activities. You can explore the park with your kids by taking the scenic drive along Going-to-the-Sun Road, going on ranger-led hikes, or going on a boat tour on one of the park’s lakes.

Yellowstone National Park

Yellowstone is another iconic national park that is perfect for family vacations. Here, you can witness the Old Faithful geyser, go on wildlife safaris to see bears, wolves, and bison, or hike through the park’s many trails. Yellowstone also has plenty of family-friendly accommodations and dining options available.

Great Falls

If you’re looking to learn more about Montana’s history, Great Falls is a great place to visit. The city has several museums, including the C.M. Russell Museum, which showcases the works of renowned Western artist Charles M. Russell. You can also visit the Ryan Dam, where you can learn about local hydropower and see the world’s shortest river, the Roe River.

Remember to plan your trip in advance, check weather forecasts, and pack accordingly. Montana is a vast state, so make sure you have plenty of time to explore each attraction fully. Don’t forget to take lots of pictures to capture the memories of your family vacation.

Montana with kids and teens is packed with exciting family fun. There is so much interesting history, art and culture to be found in this beautiful US State. Let the landscape, culture, and richness of Montana inspire you as you explore Montana with kids and teens.

Your family will be captivated by all of the history and exciting places to explore and learn about in Montana. These Montana family travel destinations are great places to add for an exciting family travel itinerary as you explore Montana. If you are wanting to road trip or learn virtually, keep reading because you can explore and have awesome adventures in Montana with kids and teens.

Why is Montana one of the best places to visit?

Montana is a must-visit destination for families with kids and teens, offering a plethora of activities and attractions to keep the entire family entertained. Two of the most iconic national parks, Yellowstone Park and Glacier National Park, host spectacular views of the Rocky Mountains, geysers, and wildlife. Where else can you see deer, bison, or even grizzly bears while hiking or camping with your family?

Montana is also home to two magnificent rivers, the Yellowstone River and the Missouri River, which are perfect for water-based activities like fishing, kayaking, and white-water rafting. Big Sky Country, as Montana is often called, has numerous outdoor recreation options for the adventurous family, including biking, hiking, and skiing. For a more relaxing setting, the crystal-clear waters of Flathead Lake are perfect for a picnic, swimming, or just soaking up the sun.

Montana’s rich history and heritage can also be explored at many places like the Little Bighorn Battlefield National Monument, Grant-Kohrs Ranch National Historic Site, and the Museum of the Rockies. Montana is undoubtedly one of the best places to visit for family vacation fun, with its natural beauty, endless opportunities for adventure, and educational value. Make unforgettable memories and bond with your loved ones in the treasure state- Montana!

Montana Family Vacations: Pro Tips

Travel montana’s publications program.

To help kids understand what Montana offers, Travel Montana’s Publications Program has put together a variety of brochures that provide basic facts about Montana—its geography, economy, state symbols, etc.—along with color photos and text on Montana’s numerous family-oriented attractions.

The possibilities are endless. Here’s a short list of popular kid-tested diversions:

• Mountain wildlife at Glacier National Park,
• Active dinosaur dig sites open to the public,
• Horses to ride across Montana’s landscape,
• Indian powwows where tribal members celebrate the old ways,
• Crystal-clear rivers, lakes, and streams offer water adventures.  The Whitehall area offers fabulous fishing…so many rivers and lakes, so little time.
• Winter snows create mountain playgrounds with x-country skiing and sleigh riding outside your door.
• The World Mining Museum is located at Montana Tech University in Butte, MT. This museum is incredible and is literally known worldwide in the mining industry.

A trip to Montana wouldn’t be complete without visiting Yellowstone and Glacier National Parks.

Sound like the same things that attract adults to Montana? Montana’s annual calendar is full of festivals, events, and celebrations for the whole family. 

Montana With Kids & Teens – Road Trip!

Montana is a great place to explore with kids and teens, and a road trip is a perfect way to experience all the wonders this state has to offer. The United States abounds with natural beauty, and Montana certainly holds its own with its pristine lakes, rugged mountains, and abundant wildlife. Here are some of the best places to visit in Montana for family vacation fun:

Going-to-the-Sun Road: This scenic drive is a must-see for anyone visiting Montana. The 50-mile road offers breathtaking views of the mountains, lakes, and valleys of Glacier National Park. Keep an eye out for bighorn sheep and other wildlife along the way.

Lake McDonald: Situated in Glacier National Park, Lake McDonald is a stunning lake that is perfect for swimming, boating, and fishing. There are also several hiking trails in the area that offer spectacular views of the lake and surrounding mountains.

Yellowstone National Park: Although the park spills over into Wyoming and Idaho, the Montana side of Yellowstone is well worth a visit. The geysers, hot springs, and wildlife are just some of the highlights of this iconic national park.

Don’t forget to pack your hiking boots and plenty of sunscreen, and be sure to check out the local restaurants and eateries for some delicious food and drinks on your road trip through Montana!

Are you ready to let your family experience everything Montana has to offer? If that’s the case, then a Montana with kids & teens road trip is the perfect way to use the world as your classroom. Road-tripping allows you to explore and experience a place just like the locals. That’s the great thing about road trips (and GPS); you can wander where ever you like. Road-tripping can be such an adventure and a great way to learn.

In our family, road-tripping is a series of car journeys from one destination to another to do a field trip. A 5-day road trip usually means at least three of those days will be filled with activities and attractions. But if you live locally or regionally, you may decide to take that road trip in smaller chunks and plan several field trips around the great state of Montana. Below are all the resources you need. Included are super fun ideas that will also super-size your child’s learning about US History, Geography, and famous people & places. So have fun using the world as your classroom with intentional family travel. Let’s explore the historical sites in Montana!

Montana– Historical Sites & Parks

Montana has an abundance of historical sites and parks that offer families a wide range of outdoor activities and experiences to enjoy. Here are some of the best places to visit in Montana for a family vacation full of fun and adventure:

Little Bighorn Battlefield National Monument: This historical site commemorates the Battle of the Little Bighorn and offers visitors the opportunity to learn about the conflict and its impact on American history.

Continental Divide: Montana is home to the Continental Divide, a geological wonder that separates the flow of water to the Pacific and Atlantic Oceans. Visitors can hike the Divide, take in stunning views, and even dip their toes in both oceans.

West Yellowstone: This town is the gateway to Yellowstone National Park and offers families a wide range of outdoor activities, including horseback riding, river rafting, and fishing.

Grizzly Bears: Montana is home to many grizzly bears, and visitors can see them in their natural habitat at parks like Glacier National Park and the Grizzly and Wolf Discovery Center.

Outdoor activities: Montana’s beautiful landscapes offer plenty of opportunities for outdoor activities such as hiking, camping, skiing, and snowboarding.

Before visiting any of these places, research weather conditions and pack accordingly. It’s essential to bring layers and waterproof gear, especially for outdoor activities.

• Glacier National Park : National park in northern Montana.
• Flathead Lake : Natural freshwater lake near Flathead National Forest in Montana.
• Going-to-the-Sun Road : Scenic mountain road in Glacier National Park in Montana.
• Lake McDonald : The largest lake in Glacier National Park, located in Flathead County, Montana.
• Beartooth Highway : 68-mile scenic road starting in Red Lodge, Montana, and extending into Wyoming.
• Little Bighorn Battlefield : National monument commemorating those who perished in the U.S.-Native Indian war in June 1876, located in southern Montana.
• Berkeley Pit : Former open-pit copper mine located in Butte, Montana.
• Grinnell Glacier : Glacier in the Glacier National Park in Montana.
• Logan Pass : Highest point of the Going-to-the-Sun Road, located in Glacier National Park in Montana.

Montana – Museums & Galleries

Montana is a treasure trove for families looking for a fun vacation filled with education and art. Start your journey with a visit to the Rocky Mountains, the iconic landscape of Montana. You can explore the mountains on foot, bike or horseback or take a scenic drive through them.

Next, head to one of Montana’s historic mining towns, such as Virginia City or Butte to experience the exciting mining history which dates back to the 1800s. The historic buildings in these towns take you back in time and make for great photo opportunities.

For a taste of American history, the Museum of the Rockies showcases the largest collection of dinosaur fossils in the country.

If you’re an art lover, then the Missoula Art Museum and the many art galleries scattered across the state will be right up your alley.

Finally, wrap up your trip with a visit to one of Montana’s many museums to learn more about the state’s fascinating history and rich culture. Montana offers a wide variety of options such as the Montana Historical Society Museum or the Museum of the Rockies.

Montana’s museums and galleries are guaranteed to provide educational and fun family entertainment. Don’t miss the opportunity to experience the best of Montana on your next family vacation!

• Museum of the Rockies : Museum in Bozeman, Montana.
• Moss Mansion : Museum in Billings, Montana.

Montana – Gardens, Zoos & Aquariums

Montana is home to beautiful gardens, zoos, and aquariums that are perfect for family vacations during the summer months. The state’s natural beauty is on full display, and there are plenty of opportunities to explore visitor centers and see dinosaur fossils up close. Here are some of the best places to visit in Montana for family vacation fun:

• Missoula Butterfly House and Gardens – boasts a collection of live butterflies and beautiful gardens.
• Tizer Botanic Gardens and Arboretum – features gorgeous flower beds, waterfalls, and sculptures.
• ZooMontana – home to a variety of animals, including wolves, grizzly bears, and otters.
• Montana Grizzly Encounter – offers a chance to see rescued grizzly bears up close and learn about their behavior.
• Montana Science Center – features hands-on exhibits and live animals, including fish and reptiles.
• The Montana Natural History Center – offers a chance to learn about Montana’s natural history, including dinosaur fossils and local wildlife.
• ZooMontana : Zoo in Billings, Montana.

Make sure to pack sunscreen, comfortable walking shoes, and snacks for your day of exploring Montana’s beautiful gardens, zoos, and aquariums. And don’t forget your camera to capture all the memories!

Montana –Add These To Your Itinerary

Montana is a treasure trove of natural beauty and cultural history. Here are some of the best places to visit in Montana for an unforgettable family vacation experience.

Lewis & Clark National Historic Trail

Commemorating the journey of the Corps of Discovery led by explorers Meriwether Lewis and William Clark in the early 19th century, the Lewis & Clark National Historic Trail offers a glimpse into the lives of the expedition members and the native tribes they encountered.

Native American Cultural Sites

Montana is home to numerous native tribes, and many of them offer cultural tours and educational experiences to visitors. Among them are the Blackfeet Nation, Crow Nation, and the Rocky Boy Reservation.

Caverns & National Historic Landmarks

For adventure-seekers and history buffs alike, Montana offers numerous opportunities for exploration. Visit the Lewis & Clark Caverns State Park for a guided tour of the spectacular limestone caves, or head to Bannack State Park to see a ghost town that was once a thriving mining community.

Rugged Mountains & Natural Habitats

Montana’s rugged and untouched mountain ranges provide an ideal setting for outdoor activities such as hiking, biking, and skiing. The Montana Rockies are home to diverse natural habitats and wildlife, making them an ideal destination for nature lovers.

Virginia City Opera House

Step back in time by visiting the Virginia City Opera House, a 19th-century entertainment venue that still hosts performances today. Take a guided tour to learn about the building’s history and see the original features that have been preserved over the years.

Exploring Montana is an adventure that will create lasting memories for you and your family. Don’t miss out on the unique opportunities to learn about the history, culture, and natural wonders of this incredible state.

• Big Sky Resort : Ski resort in Big Sky, Montana.
• Yellowstone Club : Ski resort and golf club in Big Sky, Montana.
• Whitefish Mountain Resort : Ski resort in White Fish, Montana.
• Glacier Park Lodge : Hotel just outside of the Glacier National Park, located in East Glacier Park, Montana.
• Red Lodge Mountain : Ski area in Red Lodge, Montana.
• Discovery Ski Area : Ski area in Anaconda, Montana.
• Montana Snowbowl : Ski area in Missoula, Montana.

Montana offers so many exciting things to do! Museums, outdoor activities, and exciting adventures throughout the state. Are you finding it hard to fit it all in or afford to do it all while you are visiting? Luckily, there are great online resources at many of the museums and parks so you can keep learning about Montana.

Montana Places To Visit For Virtual Travel & Learning

Make the most of learning about Montana by taking a few virtual field trips and incorporating the  Montana State Study  pack into your pre-and post-visit activities. Your kids will enjoy hands-on activities and museums more when they have a little understanding of the people and places they will be visiting. Add in a good book, some digital activities to learn history and geography, and some super art for easy ways to inspire and educate. It’s all in these US State Study resources.

Montana – Use The World As Your Classroom

The  Montana State Study  pack makes it easy for your family to have fun learning about Montana at home (virtually) or on the road.

Learn About Montana’s Famous People

• Robert Craig Knievel – Stuntman
• Frank James “Gary” Cooper – Actor
• Marcus Daly – Businessman

Learn About Montana’s Famous Landmarks:

• Big Hole National Battlefield
• Bighorn Canyon National Recreation Area 
• Glacier National Park 

You will also find resources for science, art, and geography to round out a packed week (or longer) of learning resources for kids aged 4th grade to 12th grade.

The  Montana State Study  has all the resources in a PDF. You and your kids can pick and choose which ones you want to complete. It is a carefully curated course for middle/high schoolers. There are exciting videos and selected lessons so your family can easily learn online.

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Frequently Asked Questions

Montana has many attractions that are worth visiting for a fun-filled family vacation. Some of the best places to consider are Glacier National Park, Yellowstone National Park, Flathead Lake, Big Sky Ski Resort, and Montana Grizzly Encounter.

Yes, Montana is a safe place to visit for a family vacation. However, like all destinations, it’s always important to be prepared, stay alert, and take necessary precautions to avoid accidents or emergency situations.

Montana is known for its outdoor activities, and there are many options for families to enjoy. Some of the best outdoor activities to do in Montana include hiking, fishing, rafting, skiing, and wildlife watching.

The best time to visit Montana for a family vacation depends on what activities you want to do. For summer activities, the months of June through August are the most popular. Winter activities are best between December and February.

Yes, families can travel to Montana with young children. However, parents should consider the type of activities they want to do and if they are suitable for their children. Montana is a great destination for families with children of all ages.

Yes, there are many family-friendly accommodations in Montana. From lodges, hotels, camping, and cabins, there is a wide selection of accommodations that can cater to families of all sizes and budget levels.

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North Dakota, South Dakota & Wyoming  are exciting stops for families that love to use the world as their textbook. These posts will help you homeschool, travel, and learn together. Have fun! Below are a few more resources to help you use the world as your classroom.

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• 9 Must-Visit Small Towns in Montana

The Treasure State boasts some of the world's most picturesque natural wonders, from Yellowstone to Glacier National Park and Flathead Lake. Montana's unmatched outdoor landscapes, featuring over 200 jagged mountain peaks, rolling grasslands, and numerous lakes and rivers, captivate travelers with their unspoiled natural beauty. Scattered across these iconic landscapes are charming small towns, each offering its own brand of Western hospitality and charm.

If you plan to tour the Western United States soon, often-overlooked small towns in Montana offer a glimpse into authentic frontier living amidst stunning scenery. Their bustling mix of attractions delivers an unforgettable vacation experience for outdoor enthusiasts, thrill seekers, history buffs, culture connoisseurs, and food lovers. Consider focusing your itinerary around these lovely destinations.

This year-round destination in the Rocky Mountains is a gateway to the dramatic peaks and sparkly lakes of Glacier National Park . Whitefish receives steady tourist traffic across the four seasons, with cold-weather travelers coming to experience the world-class slopes of Whitefish Mountain Resort. Summertime is perfect for exploring the aesthetic wilderness of Whitefish Lake State Park. This recreational hub provides various aquatic recreation, from fishing and boating to swimming. It also has an RV campground for those who ascribe to the complete outdoor lifestyle.

Downtown Whitefish charms with a family-friendly mix of exciting sites. The Whitefish Theater Company entertains audiences with riveting live performances constantly. Meanwhile, shopping at the weekly Whitefish Farmers' Market is an excellent way to meet and interact with the locals in a bubbly atmosphere.

This small community in southwestern Montana is a prime fly fishing hub, with anglers taking advantage of the Madison River cutting through town. Conveniently, several outdoor outfitters, such as Madison River Fishing Company, schedule exciting fishing excursions for tourists. Ennis hosts delightful outdoor scenery that invites adventures to get lost in the open spaces. Those who like relaxed pursuit can opt for a low-key session of golf at Madison Meadows Golf Course. The relatively easy course is accessible to all skill levels and provides luscious vistas of the surroundings.

Historically inclined travelers will find the perfect pastime inside the Madison Valley History Museum. This quaint facility, although small, houses an exciting artifact collection that chronologically documents the region's rich past.

Red Lodge's claim to fame is the gateway to the scenic Beartooth Mountains. This town’s surrounding landscapes are punctuated by jagged peaks and a dense wilderness, inviting outdoor exploration. Winter enthusiasts come to the town for the wild downhill adventure offered by the slopes of Red Lodge Mountain. Meanwhile, booking an adrenaline-inducing ATV tour with Red Lodge Powersports thrusts visitors into the heart of the vast wilderness surrounding Red Lodge.

If you are not immersed in the great outdoors, you can delve into local history at Carbon County Historical Society & Nature Center. Housed inside an early 1900s building, this lovely facility exhibits diverse artifacts preserving the region's colorful history.

Set amongst Victorian structures and surrounded by the stunning views of the Beavertail Hills, Dillon is a charming community with something for everyone. This town’s historic downtown district presents a surreal journey back in time, hosting a cluster of age-old buildings. Notable attractions in the neighborhood include Tendoy Fine Art, which invites art enthusiasts to explore its fine collection of creative works. With this, the area has the Beaverhead County Museum for those interested in Dillon's past. Housed inside is a rare collection of Native American fossils, pioneer artifacts, and fossils showcasing the history.

Meanwhile, Clark's Lookout State Park provides an exciting escape to open spaces. Adventurers gather at this pleasant natural space to indulge in recreational activities like picnicking, fishing, sightseeing, and trail hiking.

Phillipsburg

Home to less than 1,000 residents, this tiny village of Granite County is steeped in mining heritage. Phillipsburg was named after a well-known mining engineer and hosts a rustic downtown district with well-preserved structures from its mining heyday. Tourists curious about Phillipsburg's past can visit the Granite County Museum to explore a rich exhibition of mining, cultural, and historical artifacts. You can also explore the area's history from the unique perspective of men in uniform at the Montana Law Enforcement Museum.

Phillipsburg has amassed a rich cultural identity through the years, manifesting through art and culture centers like the Philipsburg Theater. Catching live performances at this historic venue alongside upbeat locals is an excellent way to experience their heritage.

For a small town, Eureka overwhelms newcomers with its varied mix of touristy delights. The town’s tiny yet loaded downtown harbors everything from museums and galleries to antique shops and boutiques. The Historical Village is a popular stop for history enthusiasts, which hints at Eureka's history through a quirky display. The local community embraces a rich craft brewery and distillery culture, inviting visitors to sample great-tasting craft beers and spirits at establishments like Koocanusa Brewery and Branding Iron Brewing Company.

Thanks to the Majestic Theater, Silver Screen fans and enthusiasts have something to look forward to in Eureka. This family-friendly movie venue delivers a quaint experience, showcasing new and classic films in a laid-back atmosphere.

Set amidst jagged mountain peak vistas, Hamilton is easily one of the most picturesque towns in Montana. While there is no doubt about the town’s scenic natural surroundings, the community delights visitors with multiple hidden gems throughout its bustling downtown area. Exploring the place exposes visitors to the Ravalli County Museum & Historical Society, where an excellent collection of relics provides an account of the bygone eras. You will also come across the gorgeous Daly Mansion, which transports guests back to the 1800s through its period furnishings and artifacts.

While soaking in the diverse history, visitors can unwind by watching a live performance at Hamilton Players. This recognized local culture hub stages various shows, including musicals and plays by local artists.

Stevensville

Rooted in history, Stevensville is Montana's first pioneer settlement and came about with the establishment of Historic St. Mary's Mission. Tourists are always intrigued by this iconic landmark, its resilience through the years, and the town’s beautiful facade and old-world architecture. Visiting Stevensville opens the door to tasting its famed craft brewery scene. With multiple establishments across its downtown, tourists have generous opportunities to sample its refreshing crafts at Blacksmith Brewing Company or Wildwood Brewery.

Countless opportunities await adventurers at the sprawling Lee Metcalf National Wildlife Refuge. Vacationers should carry binoculars when venturing into the pleasant wilderness for better prospects of spotting the diverse bird species it houses, from hummingbirds and sandhill cranes to ducks and pelicans.

Virginia City

Discover the original Old West in this small community of Madison County. Virginia City is steeped in rich history, and its site-rich historic district has been designated a National Historic Landmark. This means visitors have a long list of sites and landmarks to explore, starting with Thompson-Hickman Muse. It is an old home built in the early 1900s with a varied display of photos and relics about the town's past. Virginia City's mining heritage comes to life at the River of Gold. This open-air living history museum preserves an authentic mining site with antique equipment scattered across its territory.

Many tourists find time in their schedules to watch a riveting theatrical performance at the landmark Virginia City Players. It is a popular art venue where residents gather for song, dance, musical, and drama shows.

Small-town Montana proves you can have a remarkable tourist experience in the Treasure State outside its famous cities. Venturing to these lesser-known havens promises an unforgettable mix of wilderness exploration, history education, and true Western hospitality. Exploring a few gems promises an intimate look into frontier living today amid the unspoiled scenery that defines Montana. The small towns in Montana are worthy tourist destinations that should not be overlooked, so make a point of including them on your upcoming Western United States itinerary.

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13 Fun Things to Do in Bozeman, Montana (With Tours & Free Activities)

By Mark Barnett

Bozeman is one of the most interesting cities in Montana with Hollywood stars, yoga studios, hip restaurants, coffee bars, breweries, farmers, ranchers, and everyday people looking for a simpler way of life.

Table of Contents

Today, Bozeman is a vibrant community and boasts both becoming a tech hub and a booming tourist attraction. Many flocks to the town thanks to plenty of outdoor attractions, recreational activities, and an art and cultural scene that can’t be beaten.

In this article, we will take a look at the many activities in and around the Bozeman area so you can plan for the best visit possible.

 The 10 Best Things to Do in Bozeman

1. bozeman hot springs.

Montana has its fair share of relaxing and rejuvenating hot springs, and Bozeman is home to its own. Some of the pools have been used for a century or more, and are warmed by the natural hot springs. Here you’ll find as many as twelve pools, and they are heated to various degrees somewhere between 59 to 106 degrees.

The Bozeman Hot Springs can be found along Highway 191 on route to Big Sky Resort. Here you’ll find a large indoor pool, hot tubs, and even a cold tub for recovery. There is an outdoor pool if you fancy a soak in the fresh Montana air , and there is sometimes live music on the outside stage.

2. Museum of the Rockies

Here you’ll find not only one of the best Montana museums but also one of the best dinosaur museums in the world. It is located within the Bozeman city limits, and contains some impressive dinosaur fossils and skeletons.

It also houses a fair few other items from the Cretaceous period, which were found in the Montana region. There is a Native American culture and history exhibition as Montana was also an original historical western frontier.

3. Take a Day Trip to Yellowstone National Park

Bozeman is within driving distance for at least a day trip to Yellowstone National Park. It’s about a 90-minute drive to both the north and west entrances in Gardiner and West Yellowstone.

If you are interested in checking out a few dormant supervolcanoes along with sky-high geysers, multi-hued hot springs, and wildlife like bison and bears – you’ll love this place. Yellowstone was actually the first national park in the US and it has been enthralling visitors from around the world for more than a century.

4. Visit the Local Breweries and Distilleries

As is the case in many of the towns in Montana, it’s not too difficult to get a taste of the craft brewery scene while in Bozeman. You’ll find a great list of acclaimed breweries in Bozeman that you should definitely check out if you are a beer lover.

There’s the MAP Brewing Company, the Mountains Walking Brewery and Pub, and the Bozeman Brewing Company, which is actually the oldest craft brewery in Bozeman. There are plenty more craft beer breweries in Bozeman to check out if that doesn’t satisfy you, or you might consider checking out a couple of the craft distilleries in Bozeman.

There’s Wildrye Distilling and Bozeman Spirits Distillery for starters, along with a more recent addition, The Cannery, which is located just a mile and a half from bustling downtown Bozeman.

5. Big Sky Resort

Bozeman is certainly high on the list if you’re looking to do a spot of skiing, and one of the prime ski resorts in Montana is Big Sky. This huge resort is around 30 miles south of Bozeman, and comprises towering peaks and breath-taking views from the chairlift, right down across the Paradise Valley.

You can also find a small village with its own craft brewery within the resort, along with a few decent eateries. The list of activities here includes zip-lining, snowshoe tours, a giant swing, a bungee trampoline, climbing walls, dog sledding and sleigh rides, Nordic skiing, and all kinds of coach tours.

6. Visit the Emerson Center of Arts and Culture

The Emerson Center for the Arts & Culture can be found in one of downtown Bozeman’s historic buildings. The purpose of the center is to bring the community together through art and cultural exhibits as well as a number of other activities. Visitors can check out the three exhibitions or get involved in an art or yoga class.

7. Go to Hyalite Canyon

Some of the best recreation areas in the region can be found at Hyalite Canyon Recreation Area. You can find this amazing stretch of natural outdoor scenery with a short, 25-minute drive south. If it’s winter then Hyalite Canyon Recreation Area has a myriad of ideal trails for snowshoeing or cross-country skiing, while in the summer months it is perfect for hiking and mountain biking.

8. Go Horseback Riding

There are plenty of operators offering a fairly wide variety of horseback riding options in Bozeman, Montana. This is absolutely one of the most ideal parts of the world to try a spot of horse-riding, and you can find anything from hourly, half-day, or full-day rides, right up to multi-day trips that are often combined with other outdoor activities like fishing, photography, and cattle drives.

9. American Computer and Robotics Museum

The American Computer and Robotics Museum is the place to find out all about the history of modern-day communications, computers, artificial intelligence, and even robotics. The museum is host to some fascinating exhibits related to what we call technological progress and the information age.

You find items such as old office equipment like typewriters, and some of the early 1970s computers that take up a whole room. You will also find a collection of documents from prominent contributors to the Information Age like Thomas Jefferson, Alexander Graham Bell, and Samuel Morse along with some of the first PCs like the IBM and the Apple I.

10. Go on a Bozeman Grizzly Encounter

Bozeman is also one of the places where you can get close and personal with some of the legendary grizzlies of the region. This is actually a Grizzly Bear Rescue & Education Sanctuary that serves as a natural home for rescued grizzlies.

It also gives visitors the opportunity to witness and learn about these majestic animals, many of which were rescued. The bears live their lives in an environment close to the one that is natural to them, with no bars or cages. This allows visitors the chance to see them acting as close to nature as possible.

Free Things to Do in Bozeman

11. take a wander around downtown bozeman.

Downtown Bozeman is a great place to check out coffee shops, bistros, craft breweries, sports shops. There are also a good few locally made items, and it’s a very walkable and bike-friendly stretch.

12. Visit Bozeman Beach

Glen Lake Rotary Park is the actual name of this area, but it is also known as Bozeman Beach . It is just 2 miles north of downtown Bozeman, and comprises a 4-acre lake, with fishing & diving docks, and its own sandy beach. There are picnic shelters and a pavilion as well as volleyball courts, climbing rocks, and grassy areas. You can also access some local biking & hiking trails from here.

13. Drive to Palisade Falls

Palisade Falls is an area at the base of Palisade Mountain near Hyalite Canyon, with an 80-foot drop of rugged vertical rock with falls. The falls are accessible by a short drive from Bozeman through Hyalite Canyon and have some good hikes suitable for families with children.

10 Best Tours in Bozeman

• Horseback Riding • You can do anything from a 1-hour to an all-day ride from Bozeman up to the Yellowstone National Park. With experienced, professional guides and horses that take it all in their stride, you can experience the outstanding natural beauty of the area in traditional style with this tour.
• River Tubing Adventure • Ideal for the warmer seasons, on this tour you get to float along the waters of the Madison River. There are a variety of tubing and rafting trips, and the tubes, life jackets, and straps to connect groups are all provided. Enjoy a relaxing and fun day on the water, with a shuttle back to the starting point included. Ideal for anyone including families, and the minimum age is 3 years old.
• Guided Kayak Tour • Taking a guided kayak trip along the Madison River is another great way to take in the natural scenery and wildlife habitat of the Bozeman area. With experienced, local tour guides and great kayaks, you might also encounter Montana wildlife like beavers, deer, and even eagles as you navigate and flow downstream. The guides will provide insights on the geography and history of the area.
• Zip Line Tour • The Gallatin River Zip Line is not too far away between Bozeman and Big Sky along Highway 191. You’ll get to experience some pretty dramatic scenery including pine forest, rivers, and cliffs on any of these tours. There are 2 tours – the Classic and the Super – both of which begin with the ascension of a sky bridge to a 50-ft high tree platform. The zip lines cross the Gallatin River, and the Super Zip has a few more challenging features than the Classic that will test both your balance and nerve.
• Guided Safari Tour from Bozeman • This tour will give you some insights into local wildlife habits in relation to the landscape. You get to ride in comfortable vehicles with an experienced guide who will plan various walking, viewing, picnicking, and wilderness activities according to your requirements. The professional guides are a mix of former wildlife specialists and rangers who will do their best to provide you with information and experiences to enhance your trip.
• Wilderness Picnic Llama Hike • How about having a llama as your hiking companion as you take a wilderness picnic?  This hike takes in beautiful wildflowers, native plants, and clean cool mountain streams, all with accompanying llamas. A ranch visit with the mama llamas and their babies is included before heading to select the llamas and venturing off.
• Mountain Biking Tour • A great way to take in the outdoor natural beauty of Bozeman is by joining a biking tour. Take it easy or ride hard on a tour to fit your fitness level. You can take to the streets in the city with its rich history or head for the miles of gravel trails that wind through the sloping hills of the surrounding countryside. Or, if you fancy a bit more rugged terrain, with mountain vistas and lakes, you can follow the trails in the nearby mountain ranges.
• Fly Fishing Tour • With locations in the mountains of southwest Montana, not too far from Yellowstone National Park, this trip is any fly fisherman’s dream. Tours cover one day or more depending on your requirements and take in areas such as the Gallatin River, the Yellowstone River, the Madison River, Yellowstone National Park, and private spring creeks.
• Bozeman Paragliding Tour • If you have a head for heights and fancy the idea of a specialty guided paragliding tour – then this is one for you. Tandem flights, instruction and guide service are all available.
• Molte Yoga Retreat • Molte specialty tours and yoga retreats combine active outdoor activities with mindful sessions on the yoga mat. Take the opportunity to connect with the power of nature by joining a high mountain retreat in scenic southwest Montana .

About The Author

Mark Barnett

Mark Philip is a writer and lifestyle enthusiast from the Midlands in the U.K. With a background in martial arts and fitness, Mark headed out to Bangkok, Thailand where he now lives and works. Mark has authored e-books, articles, and blogs across a wide range of topics for commercial, educational, factual, lifestyle and leisure-based purposes.

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10 Things To Do In Bozeman: Complete Guide To The Most Livable Place In MT

T hose who consider Bozeman a small sleepy city in Montana have obviously never visited it. This city is anything but sleepy. Granted, Bozeman isn’t large, with a population of slightly over 50,000. Plus, it’s not even the second or third-largest city in Montana : those titles go to Missoula and Great Falls respectively, and the largest city is Billings. Nonetheless, Bozeman has taken the more important title of the most livable place in the US.

Therefore, the city's small size is no reason to disregard this haven of nature. It is located in one of the most scenic spots in Montana, in the Rocky Mountains, right next to Yellowstone National Park. As one would expect, several trails that weave through the mountains and forests start from Bozeman, offering hiking, biking, and even skiing sites. Plus, Downtown Montana is always a beehive of fun activities and is considered a tourist attraction. Bozeman certainly has a lot to offer both residents and visitors. For anyone planning a trip to the most livable place, this ultimate travel guide to Bozeman has everything one needs to know before visiting.

UPDATE: 2023/07/28 12:14 EST BY NICHOLAS MAYAMBA

Top Things To Do In Bozeman

Bozeman draws visitors from far and wide to experience the allure of the most livable place. This updated list features more of the city's top attractions, including the Montana Grizzly Encounter and Big Sky Resort.

Top Things To Do In Bozeman, Montana

First-timers should definitely include Bozeman among the first stops on their Montana itinerary . This charming town boasts picturesque scenery marked by jagged snow-capped mountains, pristine nature, and a vibrant downtown. Here are just some of the top things to do in the city.

Related: 10 Most Unique Montana Tours To Experience The Best Of This Iconic State

Tour The Gallatin History Museum

Tourists interested in Native American History should visit the Gallatin History Museum in Bozeman. The museum building is a historic site where the former Gallatin County Jail was built in 1911.

Presently, the building hosts the museum, which chronicles the region's past through exhibits on its agricultural history and the lifestyle of Bozeman’s early settlers.

• Address : 317 W Main St, Bozeman, MT 59715, United States
• Hours : Tue - Sat: 11 am - 4 pm (closed on Sun & Mon)
• Fees : Adults: $7.50; 17 and under Free; Seniors (age 62+): $5

Take advantage of guided tours to get a more immersive feel of the artifacts, images, and other exhibits at the Gallatin History Museum, including a closer look at the old jail cells.

Visit The Museum Of The Rockies

For a trip even further back into the past, to an age when dinosaurs roamed the earth, the Museum of the Rockies is the place to visit. This museum is home to a largest collection of dinosaur fossils in the country; the most popular is the Montana T.Rex, a fully mounted Tyrannosaurus Rex skeleton.

Visitors are also fascinated by the Taylor Planetarium, which boasts a 40-foot dome on which 4k images are projected.

• Address : 600 W Kagy Blvd, Bozeman, MT 59717, United States
• Hours : 9 am - 5 pm (daily)
• Fees : Children (under 5): Free; Youth (5 - 17): $12; Adults (18 - 64): $18; Seniors (65+): $17

All admission tickets to the museum are valid over two days; a great incentive for those who like to get the most out of their money.

Explore The American Computer & Robotics Museum

Visitors interested in the history of computers should head to the American Computer & Robotics Museum . The exhibits showcase exciting artifacts like the first computers and the original cuneiform tablets used in the Bronze Age.

The museum also explores the future of computing, with exhibits on fascinating topics from Artificial Intelligence to Quantum Computing.

• Address : 2023 Stadium Dr #1a, Bozeman, MT 59715, United States
• Hours : Tue - Sun: 10 am - 4 pm (closed on Mon)
• Fees : Adults: $8.50; Youth (10 - 17): $5; Seniors (65+): $5; Children under 9: Free

Related: Here’s Why Winter Is The Most Magical Time To Visit Yellowstone National Park

Take A Road Trip To Yellowstone National Park

Yellowstone National Park is about 80 miles from Bozeman, a road trip that will take roughly an hour and 20 minutes. Visitors are drawn to the vast wildlife population at the park led by bison, moose, and elk population. There are also bears and hundreds of bird species in Yellowstone.

However, other spectacles await guests at Yellowstone National Park , including geysers, waterfalls, and one of the largest petrified forests in the world.

All these can be viewed on a hike on one of the park's trails; there are over 900 miles of hiking trails in the National Park .

• Hours : 24 hours (daily)
• Fees : Single Vehicle (Private): $35; Buses/Vans (Private): $20 per person; Single Motorcycle/Snowmobile: $30; Individual Person: $20
• Activities : Hiking, fishing, camping, wildlife viewing, bird watching

For a comprehensive experience at Yellowstone National Park, tourists can book a tour with Yellowstone Safari Company. They provide well-curated excursions to the historical national park, complete with food and lodging arrangements.

Check Out The City’s Historic Buildings

Since Bozeman was founded in 1864, there are a number of historical buildings that reveal its rich past. Visitors can check out these structures, take photographs, and learn more about Bozeman’s past.

Here are some of the top 5 historical buildings in Bozeman;

Holy Rosary Church Rectory

• Date constructed : 1912
• Address : 220 W Main St, Bozeman, MT 59715, United States

Brandenburg House

• Date constructed : 1882
• Address : 121 N Willson Ave, Bozeman, MT 59715, United States

St. James Episcopal Church

• Date constructed : 1889
• Address : 5 W Olive St, Bozeman, MT 59715, United States

R.T. Barnett and Co.Building

• Date constructed : 1890
• Address : 13 E Main St, Bozeman, MT

The Hotel Baxter

• Date constructed : 1929
• Address : 105 W Main St, Bozeman, MT 59715, United States

Hike In Burke Park

This is a popular hiking, biking, and running spot in Bozeman with 41 acres for visitors to explore. The chief attraction here is Peets Hill, an elevated part of the park from where visitors get breathtaking views.

Plus, those who visit in winter can enjoy sledding down the hill.

• Address : Bozeman, MT 59715, United States
• Fees : Free

Burke Park is only a few blocks from downtown Bozeman, offering the most convenient escape from the city's hustle and bustle for those who need a short break from civilization.

Walk Around Downtown Bozeman

For an authentic feel of the city's vibe and culture, downtown Bozeman is an exciting area to explore. The vibrant district is laden with cute antique stores, trendy shopping boutiques, quaint eateries, and other businesses to keep newcomers busy. Yet, the friendly and welcoming locals help Bozeman maintain a small-town charm that visitors are drawn to.

Main Street is probably the most famous corridor in downtown. It hosts many of the area's businesses and sees a continuous flow of foot traffic. Whether looking to shop, sample local dishes at the different restaurants, or simply admire the historic buildings, downtown won't disappoint.

Hit The Slopes At Bridger Bowl Ski Area & Big Sky Resort

Montana is known throughout the country for its alpine adventures. Fortunately, Bozeman is home to some of the best ski resorts in the state , led by Big Sky Resort and Bridger Bowl Ski Area. The former is just an hour's drive from the city and offers international-level amenities tailored to skiers and snowboarders.

It boasts about 6000 acres of terrain spread across four mountains with consistent snowfall through the winter period. Meanwhile, Bridger Bowl Ski Area offers a more local vibe, having grown from community-inspired beginnings.

Today, it has over 2000 acres of rideable terrain and beckons the students from Montana State University, as well as tourists from all around.

Big Sky Resort

• Address : 50 Big Sky Resort Road, Big Sky, Montana
• Hours : Open daily, 10 am - 5 pm
• Cost : Full-day Lift Ticket -$200 for Adults, $115 for Juniors, $140 for Seniors over 70) and $1 (kids 6 and under)

Bridger Bowl Ski Area

• Address : 15795 Bridger Canyon Road, Bozeman, Montana
• Hours : Monday to Thursday, 9 am - 4 pm
• Cost : Not provided

The best time to go skiing is March when Bozeman experiences the most snow in the year . This means there is ample powder to fuel all kinds of alpine expeditions.

Face The Beasts At Montana Grizzly Encounter

The Montana Grizzly Encounter is an amazing sanctuary in rural Bozeman that rescues bears born into captivity, providing them with a haven to grow and live a happy, healthy life. It opened in 2002 by adopting Brutus from a wildlife park.

Today, Brutus is a fully-grown 900-pound and 7-foot grizzly bear, proving to be the main attraction at the sanctuary.

The facility strives to educate the public about co-existing with the state's resident wildlife through various informative programs like demonstrations and workshops.

• Address : 80 W Bozeman Hill Rd, Bozeman, MT 59715, United States
• Hours : Wednesday to Monday, 10 am - 6 pm
• Cost : Adult $10, Seniors $9, Kids $8

The Montana Grizzly Encounter offers free admission to school groups, but they must call in advance.

Partake In Water Sports On The Gallatin River

The Gallatin River is a tributary of the great Missouri River and offers endless water fun opportunities for visitors in Bozeman. Spanning about 120 miles into neighboring Wyoming, the river attracts kayakers, boaters, anglers, paddleboarders, and other thrill seekers who don't mind a splash.

For those with a penchant for high-octane activities, the infamous "Mad Mile" rapids are perfect for whitewater rafting.

Water sports aside, the banks of the river offer the ideal setting for outdoor lovers who just want to take advantage of Mother Nature's bounty and bask in her glory.

What To Know When Visiting Bozeman

• The weather in Bozeman can be quite erratic, so visitors are advised to always have warm clothes, even in summer.
• There are several campgrounds in and around Bozeman but visitors should always book in advance, especially during summer. This is because they are popular among visitors during this season.
• Bears are common in the forests, so hikers should take the necessary precautions, like carrying bear spray and hiking as a group.
• Visitors planning to head to Yellowstone should note that there are two entrances to the national park, both of which are slightly over an hour from Bozeman.

Best Time To Visit Bozeman, Montana

Bozeman welcomes a lot of visitors no matter what time of year. So, the best time to visit depends on a tourist’s preferred activities.

Winter (December to February)

Those interested in winter activities like skiing may visit Bozeman at this time. The ski season in Bozeman starts in December and lasts until March. Temperatures at this time can dip to as low as 14 degrees Fahrenheit (-10 degrees Celsius), with up to 5 inches of snow in January.

Spring (March to May)

Spring’s coldest month in Bozeman is March, with spillover low temperatures from the previous months. However, the city starts to slowly warm up in April and May as summer approaches. Highs in May can get to 64 degrees (18 degrees Celsius), with lows of about 37 degrees (3 degrees Celsius).

There are fewer visitors in spring, allowing those who visit at this time to enjoy low hotel rates. April and May are also good months for outdoor activities although some higher-altitude trails are still covered in snow. Moreover, the chances of rain in spring are high.

Summer (June to August)

Tourists who prefer warm weather may visit Bozeman in June, July, and August. Naturally, these are the busiest months, so prices are at their highest. However, there are numerous activities to enjoy in the good weather.

Temperatures reach 82 degrees (28 degrees Celsius) in July and August. The chances of rain are high in June, so those visiting during this month should prepare for some wet days.

Autumn (September to November)

With the summer crowds gone, autumn presents a good opportunity for those who want to save money and enjoy decent weather. September is still warm, peaking at 71 degrees (22 degrees Celsius).

This is the best month to visit in autumn as many campgrounds start to close at the end of September. However, the trails are still open and ideal for hiking and cycling. Temperatures start to drop in October, and chances of snow increase as winter approaches.

Best Ways To Get Around Bozeman, Montana

Bozeman is served by a free public bus known as the Streamline Bus , which operates on four routes in the city. The bus runs from 6:30 am to 10 pm on weekdays and from 9 am to 6 pm on weekends, covering most of the city’s places of interest.

Several car rental companies operate at the Bozeman Yellowstone International Airport, including Alamo, Avis, Budget Car Rental, and National.

This is a convenient way of getting around Bozeman, as tourists get to travel on their own schedule.

By Bike/On Foot

Bozeman is a walkable city, with a lot of places of interest found within a few minutes of the downtown area. Visitors can rent bikes to explore these sites or tour on foot.

Companies like Owenhouse Cycling and Bangtail BIcycle are found in the downtown area.

Where To Eat In Bozeman

Montana's best bites are available in Bozeman's plethora of restaurants. Here are some of the places a visitor can eat in the city.

Jam is a vibrant eatery in Bozeman with an eclectic breakfast and lunch menu. Past visitors have been impressed by their breakfast options, with dishes like biscuit sandwiches, Loaded Hash Browns, and Grazi’s Granola.

Jam also serves a variety of pancakes, including coconut banana pancakes, cinnamon roll pancakes, peanut buttercup pancakes, and blueberry ricotta pancakes. All these can be downed with a choice of coffee or tea.

• Address : 25 W Main St, Bozeman, MT 59715, United States
• Hours : 7 am - 3 pm (daily)

Sidewinders American Grill

This charming restaurant is renowned for its array of comfort food enjoyed with a view, at least for those who choose its outdoor seating. It is an all-American grill where visitors can enjoy classic American treats like Buffalo Wings, hamburgers, or ribeye steak.

Lovers of sandwiches will love the available options: Philly Beef, Reuben, and BBQ Pulled Pork, to name a few.

• Address : 780 Boardwalk Ave, Bozeman, MT 59718, United States
• Hours : 11:30 am - 10 pm (daily)

Dinner & Drinks:

Plonk Bozeman

Plonk is a fun place to enjoy an evening in Bozeman, with a variety of wines and cocktails that bring night owls after dark.

They serve cocktails like their own Plonk Cosmo, a concoction of ginger vodka, orange liqueur, lime, and pomegranate. However, several other options exist, including Midday Manhattan, Czech Toddy, and the Salma Hayek!

Visitors can start with dinner; the restaurant's menu includes seared salmon, Angus hanger steak, and grilled pork chops.

• Address : 29 E Main St, Bozeman, MT 59715, United States
• Hours : 3 pm - 1:30 am (daily)

Copper is a rustic bar and grill with a quaint interior and a welcoming vibe. This joint serves mouthwatering food, but the drinks have earned the spot from rave reviews. Patrons can try out house cocktails like Smoked Maple Old Fashioned, Copper Old Fashioned, and the creatively named That One!

There’s also an elaborate beer and wine menu, with wines sold by the glass or bottle.

• Address : 101 E Main St, Bozeman, MT 59715, United States
• Hours : 3 pm - 10 pm (daily)

Related: Fill Your Mug In Montana At One Of Big Sky Country's Best Breweries

Where To Stay in Bozeman, Montana: Top Accommodations

Montana offers campgrounds , cabins, and hotel rooms in and near Bozeman, where tourists may want to stay.

Campgrounds

Spire Rock Campground

• Location : Gallatin Canyon, Gallatin National Forest
• Amenities : Picnic tables, toilets, fire pit, firewood
• Activities : Wildlife viewing, biking, hiking, birding
• Price : From $24

Bozeman Hot Springs Campground

• Location : 150 Welcome Dr, Bozeman, MT 59718, United States
• Amenities : Laundry, Wi-Fi, bathroom facilities, free breakfast, game room, outdoor pools, indoor pools
• Activities : Ladder golf, pedal carts, volleyball
• Price : From $15 per day

Secluded Mountain-Modern Chalet for Outdoor Lovers

• Amenities : 2 bedrooms, outdoor hot tub, internet, full kitchen, stone fireplace
• Price : From $1000

Papa's Treehouse

• Amenities : Deck, fire pit, gas heater, 1 bedroom, kitchen
• Price : From $180

Residence Inn by Marriott Bozeman Downtown

• Address : 815 E Main St, Bozeman, MT 59715, United States
• Amenities : Indoor pool, fitness center, hot tub, dry cleaning, picnic area, Wi-Fi
• Price : From $161

SpringHill Suites by Marriott Bozeman

• Address : 1601 Baxter Ln, Bozeman, MT 59715, United States
• Amenities : Heated pool, hot tub, dry cleaning, Wi-Fi, fitness center, outdoor fireplace,
• Price : From $170

Related: 10 Most Beautiful Montana Small Towns You Should Add To Your Bucket List

Spending The Perfect Day In Bozeman, Montana

The perfect day in Bozeman starts with a hearty breakfast at a local restaurant like Jam! Afterward, head to the Museum of the Rockies to learn about natural history then pick up some lunch and enjoy it on a picnic at Burke Park before exploring the park's trails.

Later in the afternoon, drop by the American Computer & Robotics Museum to check out the exhibits. Then, the rest of the evening can be spent strolling around Downtown Bozeman, scoping out the stores and shopping.

After cleaning up, go for dinner at a local restaurant like Plonk Bozeman, then end the day with drinks at a bar like Copper.

Q: What is Bozeman, Montana, most known for?

Bozeman is most known for its proximity to natural sites like Yellowstone National Park , which offers exciting outdoor activities like hiking, mountain biking, fishing, skiing, and hunting. This city has earned the title of being the most livable place.

Q: What is the coldest month in Bozeman, Montana?

The coldest month in Bozeman is January, with average lows of 12 degrees Fahrenheit (-11 degrees Celsius) and average highs of just 33 degrees Fahrenheit (1 degree Celsius).

Q: Can you get around Bozeman without a car?

Yes, Bozeman has a public bus known as the Streamline Bus, which is fare-free and operates every day. Visitors can also explore Bozeman on foot or by bike as this is a walkable and bike-friendly city.

The 10 Best Places to Live in Montana in 2024

Reading Time: 12 minutes

If you’re planning on moving to Montana, add these cities to your list.

With natural beauty, diverse history , and lively cities, Montana has it all .

In this Redfin article, we’ve uncovered the best places to live in Montana, ranking them on qualities such as affordability, navigability, and number of amenities. You can find more information about our methodology here or at the bottom of the article.

Overview of Montana

With natural beauty, diverse history , and lively cities, Montana has it all . Across its three distinct regions , there are rivers, glaciers, grasslands, and more in this expansive state. You can ride a horse, raft down a river, and shop at a bustling mall on the same day, for example. Even if you want to experience “ the middle of nowhere ,” Montana has you covered. 

Known as Big Sky Country, Montana boasts expansive plains, sprawling forests, towering mountains, and flat buttes that give way to unobstructed views of clear, beautiful skies. Everywhere you go, it seems, there’s more to see. 

Montana’s climate varies widely depending on where you live. In the mountainous west, winters are cold and snowy, and summers are warm and pleasant. As you move east over the Continental Divide into the High Plains, the climate is much drier, although winters are still very cold. Farthest to the east and lower in elevation, you’ll see cold winters and dry, hot summers. 

Lastly, Montana’s population has grown consistently over the past decade, with most newcomers moving to the hip mountain towns of Bozeman and Whitefish .

1. Missoula, MT

Home to the University of Montana, a thriving outdoor economy, stunning landscapes, and much more, Missoula tops our list as the best place to live in Montana. The city’s prime mountainous location, great weather, ample outdoor recreation opportunities, and easy navigability helped earn it a high score.

Missoula retains a small-town feel while containing all the big-city amenities you expect. Events and gatherings like the Farmers’ Market , the International Wildlife Film Festival , Germanfest , and more all add to the city’s charm and artistic spirit. You’ll experience a different kind of living in Missoula – one of community, exploration, and education. The natural beauty doesn’t hurt, either. 

Missoula’s history adds to its charm. The city sits in an ancient lakebed, at the confluence of five mountain ranges which rise steeply on all sides. Indigenous peoples, including the Salish, Kootenia, and Shoshone, have long lived in the region and taken advantage of the narrow passages leading into the valley. The Lewis and Clark Expedition brought the first European settlers to the area, and Missoula was established in 1860.

Missoula’s climate is comparatively humid and mild, due to its location west of the Rocky Mountain peaks. Winters are cold and snowy, while summers are warm but not often hot. This means four-season recreation is enjoyable and plentiful. An increase in wildfires, smoke, drought, and heat waves are affecting the region, though, which is important to keep in mind. 

Missoula homes for sale | Missoula houses for rent | Missoula apartments for rent

Deciding between renting or buying your next home?

Located at 4,800 feet in elevation in the foothills of the Rockies, Bozeman is second on our list. What was long a small town in the Rockies, Bozeman has since become a trendy, hip place to live. Whether it’s the 360-degree mountain views and incredible outdoor recreation, or the opportunity for growth and many outlets for creativity, people love the city. 

“Bozeman is perfect for people looking for outdoor adventure, community, and culture. You’re surrounded by stunning natural landscapes, a welcoming and fast-growing community, and plenty of museums, theaters, music, and events throughout the year. Every season brings a new feel to the mountain city, each with its own charm and benefits.” – The team at Visit Bozeman , the region’s official tourism department

The city has consistently ranked as the fastest-growing city of its size in the country. It’s primarily attracted people , including celebrities, from coastal metros looking for a small, lively mountain escape. Because of its popularity, though, Bozeman has become very expensive and even earned a disparaging nickname: Boz Angeles . Houses of all types regularly sell in the millions. 

Eclectic, locally-owned shops and restaurants are everywhere in the city. Bozeman Taproom , Rice Fine Thai Cuisine , Sweet Chili Asian Bistro , and Western Cafe are hotspots for all types of cuisine, while Heyday and Meridian Men are great places for souvenirs and clothing. Amenities are generally located near Downtown Bozeman , where most annual events also take place.

Bozeman is a very snowy city, seeing upwards of 90 inches of snow per year . Winters can be quite cold, while summers are typically mild and sunny. Two ski resorts, Big Sky and Bridger Bowl , are within an hour’s drive, and cross country skiing trails snake through the city during the long winter. 

Bozeman homes for sale | Bozeman houses for rent | Bozeman apartments for rent

3. Helena, MT

With its mix of historical charm, recreational opportunities, and plenty of amenities, Helena earns the number three spot. Helena is the capital of Montana and a city rich with culture and charm. Founded in the 1860s, the city embraces both the old and new – you can find old brick alleyways adjacent to modern buildings. 

Helena began as a gold rush town and grew very quickly, becoming a wealthy city toward the end of the century. 50+ millionaires lived in Helena by 1888. This concentration of wealth contributed to the dozens of elaborate Victorian buildings that dot the landscape, the most prominent of which is the Cathedral of St. Helena . Today, Downtown Helena sits at the epicenter of the gold rush and is lined with local shops, restaurants, and parks. The Mansion District lies just to the east. 

Popular dining spots include the Windbag Saloon & Grill , known for its hearty meals, and On Broadway , offering upscale Italian food in a historic setting. 

“We love living in Helena, MT because of the numerous hiking trails, lakes, and parks within city limits, especially Mount Helena City Park, Canyon Ferry Lake, and Holter Dam. Helena is also full of local businesses. Some of our favorite places to frequent are the historic Carousel for Wilcoxson’s ice cream and The Bagel Co for fresh-baked and boiled bagels.” – Erik and Susan Wood, owners of The Bagel Company

The city’s gold rush roots influenced more than just its wealth. Old prospector trails winding around the city’s foothills to the south have been turned into more than 400 miles of multi-use path, 80 of which start right in downtown. Helena was even named an IMBA Silver Ride Center for mountain biking, one of only 16 in the world, due to the abundance and quality of trails.

Helena homes for sale | Helena houses for rent | Helena apartments for rent

4. Billings, MT

Situated along the Yellowstone River in south-central Montana, Billings is a thriving city known for its old western character , midwest charm, and access to outdoor adventures. An affordable cost of living , plenty of amenities, and economic stability help make it a great place to live. 

As Montana’s largest city, Billings offers a lively urban environment with the scenic backdrop of the Rimrocks to the north and east, and seven mountain ranges further out. The Beartooth Mountains to the southwest are the most prominent. Hills, plains, forests, and streams make up the rest of the awe-inspiring landscape, perfect for adventures of all kinds.

Billings’ modern history can be traced back to the Lewis and Clark Expedition, when Clark arrived at Pompey’s Pillar , now a popular state park. About 80 years later, settlers arrived to take advantage of the great lumber in the area, and a railroad was built not long after. Billings was established in 1882 and quickly grew to become one of the state’s largest cities. 

Today, Billings has steadily grown to become the economic epicenter for multiple states. In fact, the city’s regional influence is nearly unmatched , making it the place to be for job hunters. Even with its large status, Billings manages to retain its small-town western roots and larger than life outdoor space. Riverfront Park and Two Moon Park are two great spots to enjoy the scenery.

Billings homes for sale | Billings houses for rent | Billings apartments for rent

5. Great Falls, MT

Great Falls is fairly small in size, but boasts a rich history, strong industry , and creative populace. Named after the many waterfalls in the area, the iconic Missouri River runs through the heart of Great Falls and has provided electricity through dams and water for agriculture for over a century. The five dams (and waterfalls) along the river helped give the city the nickname “Electric City.” 

Great Falls was the largest in Montana from 1950 to 1970 due to its thriving industry and affordable land. The cost of living has stayed very reasonable.

Most famously, Great Falls is an emblem of the American West. The city seemingly begs you to get out and explore the vast wilderness. Located in the high plains, Great Falls is nestled between four mountain ranges, three rivers, and home to vistas as far as the eye can see. More than 1 million tourists visit the city each year. 

This renowned landscape has inspired many famous artists to capture its beauty, earning Great Falls the moniker “The Western Art Capital of the World.” You can find the most famous artwork at the C.M. Russell Museum or see more modern pieces during Western Art Week . A total of ten museums dot the city’s gridded streets. 

“Great Falls is amazing because of the community. Everyone is so welcoming and warm to newcomers, especially people moving to the area. Our downtown is a must-see, full of great restaurants, museums, and shops. There are plenty of food options for every palette Downtown, but my favorite is our own restaurant, 5th & Wine!” – Tara Tronson-Strunk, co-owner of 5th & Wine

Great Falls’ climate is fairly dry, with cold, snowy winters and warm summers. Afternoon thunderstorms in the summer are common, and is when a majority of precipitation falls during the year. Like most cities just east of the Rocky Mountains, strong Chinook Winds can cause brief, unseasonably warm winter temperatures. 

Great Falls homes for sale | Great Falls houses for rent | Great Falls apartments for rent

6. Kalispell, MT

The sixth-best place to live in Montana on our list, Kalispell is the gateway to Glacier National Park and the hub of Northwestern Montana . A former railroad town turned industrial and commercial hub, Kalispell is primarily known for its outdoor recreation, natural wonders, and small-town charm. People are looking to enjoy the peaceful and adventurous way of life, too; the Kalispell region was the fastest-growing in Montana in 2023. 

Kalispell embraces its role in Indigenous history. Numerous tribes lived and traveled through the fertile region, namely the Salish and Pend d’Oreille . Kalispell’s name comes from “Kalispel,” a common name for the Pend d’Oreille peoples, for example. You also have the option to learn Montana Salish, either as a student or adult, through local Salish and Kootenai tribal schools at the Flathead Indian Reservation.

The beloved Flathead Cherry Festival also happens within the reservation every July, along Flathead Lake. Be sure to come hungry – there are food carts and more Flathead Cherries than you can eat waiting for you. 

Kalispell homes for sale | Kalispell houses for rent | Kalispell apartments for rent  

7. Whitefish, MT

Just north of Kalispell, Whitefish is a fast-growing , upscale vacation town known for its outdoor recreation, natural beauty, and mountain views. The city is situated along crystal clear Whitefish Lake and home to two ski resorts, plenty of luxury lodging, locally-owned businesses, and an amazingly friendly population. Paired with remarkable weather, these high-end amenities have led an influx of people to the area, many just seasonally . 

The sunny and mild summer is generally when Whitefish is most crowded with seasonal residents , but all four seasons, especially powdery winters, have something special to offer. Glacier National Park is also right in your backyard, just 30 minutes away, for example. No matter what you choose to do outside, you’ll find it in Whitefish. 

Plenty of local events keep residents connected during the year, most happening downtown. The Under the Big Sky Music Festival , Huckleberry Days Arts Festival , and a weekly Tuesday farmers market are among the most popular. You can also get together with friends and family at high-end restaurants, homey local brunch spots, and lively coffee shops. Most are walkable from downtown.

Whitefish homes for sale | Whitefish houses for rent | Whitefish apartments for rent

8. Butte, MT

Butte, officially Butte-Silver Bow, is a small city about 100 miles northwest of Bozeman. Butte was the first major city in Montana and retains an old-western, mountain atmosphere to this day. Mining has played a major role in the city’s economy and culture since its founding and continues to this day . Today, natural beauty, an affordable cost of living, and access to outdoor recreation make it a desirable place to live.

Butte’s long mining history brought jobs, wealth , and people to the city. However, it has also harmed the environment. When one of the largest mines shut down in 1982, Butte unknowingly inherited one of the largest Superfund sites in the country . The Berkeley Pit, as it’s now known, is located on the edge of town and was the site of open-pit mining. The pit is now filled with toxic groundwater , which is still rising today. 

The Berkeley Pit has become a tourist attraction of sorts, with a viewing stand and memorial plaza dedicated to lost miners. It’s infamous for its role in bird migrations, as well – birds who land on it for more than a few hours will die. Montana has funded efforts for 40 years to scare birds from landing on the lake. 

Butte’s history also includes a robust Chinatown and immigrant population (similar to most of Montana), including the oldest continually-operating Chinese restaurant in the country. You can learn more about the city’s history at museums in the area.

Butte homes for sale | Butte houses for rent | Butte apartments for rent

9. Livingston, MT

Just 30 minutes east of Bozeman, Livingston is the ninth-best place to live in Montana on our list. Livingston is a picturesque town known as being the gateway to Yellowstone National Park , but is home to plenty of natural wonders in its own backyard. The city sits in aptly-named Paradise Valley , flanked by the rugged Absaroka and Gallatin Mountains on either side. The Yellowstone River flows through downtown and along open plains and thick forests. No matter what you want to do outside, you’ll find it around Livingston. 

There’s plenty to do in the town, too. Livingston is a small railroad town, but you can still learn something new, grab a great coffee, and sit down for a nice dinner all within a mile from each other. Campione and the Murray Bar offer some of the best experiences. Unique shops and historic buildings also line the brick-filled streets. 

Importantly, though, Livingston is fairly expensive for homeowners, with house prices about $100,000 above the national median. People continue to be attracted to small-town living in the rugged American West. 

Livingston homes for sale | Livingston houses for rent | Livingston apartments for rent

10. Belgrade, MT

Belgrade, a suburb 20 minutes from Bozeman, rounds out our list of the best places to live in Montana. People looking for more affordable homes without sacrificing the Bozeman, Big Sky lifestyle will feel right at home in Belgrade. And along with a historic city center and unique shops and events, you’ll be sure to find something to love. The Fall Festival is the most popular among locals. 

Belgrade is fairly rural and has a history of agriculture , similar to most towns in the Gallatin Valley . The area has easy access to water, plenty of fertile land, and favorable summer weather for wheat, oats, and other crops . A complicated network of irrigation canals that have been used for a century carve through the landscape for dozens of miles, influencing local water use and regulation . 

The four seasons heavily influence life in Belgrade. Winter is perfect for enjoying the snow and spending time inside, while summer is ideal for exploring the great outdoors. Spring and fall are great in-between seasons for most activities, but are dependent on weather.

Belgrade homes for sale | Belgrade houses for rent | Belgrade apartments for rent

House hunting made easy

Methodology.

Redfin’s Best Places to Live rankings are meant to help home searchers make an informed decision when choosing where to live. To attempt to measure the overall quality of a metro area, each ranking takes into account several key factors, including access to healthcare, open outdoor space, navigability, housing trends, employment statistics, income, and travel time to work. Only metros with a population of 7,500 or greater were considered for our Montana list. More information about our methodology can be found here .

Data valid May 2024. This article is for informational and educational purposes only.

Jamie is part of the content marketing team and is passionate about climate change, housing affordability, and housing market trends. His dream home is a small, modern, and minimalist forested home where he can hear the wind blowing at night.

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