montana usa tourist attractions

Protect Your Trip »

23 top things to do in montana in 2024.

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

Top Things to Do in Montana

Getty Images

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

Tips on Trips and Expert Picks Newsletter

Travel tips, vacation ideas and more to make your next vacation stellar.

Sign up to receive the latest updates from U.S News & World Report and our trusted partners and sponsors. By clicking submit, you are agreeing to our Terms and Conditions & Privacy Policy .

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

• # 1 South Island, New Zealand
• # 4 Bora Bora

If you make a purchase from our site, we may earn a commission. This does not affect the quality or independence of our editorial content.

You May Also Like

Top music-themed cruises.

Gwen Pratesi Aug. 23, 2024

The Best Rome Tours

Kyle McCarthy and Ann Henson Aug. 23, 2024

The Best Kids Sail Free Cruises

Holly Johnson Aug. 21, 2024

7 Best San Francisco Wine Tours

John Rodwan and Marisa Méndez Aug. 20, 2024

The Best Weekend Getaways From LA

Sharael Kolberg Aug. 20, 2024

The 6 Best Chicago Walking Tours

Holly Johnson Aug. 20, 2024

The 9 Best Mexico City Tours

Gwen Pratesi Aug. 20, 2024

Best Horseback Riding in Estes Park

Gwen Pratesi Aug. 19, 2024

The Best College Town Hotels

Rachael Hood Aug. 19, 2024

The Best Rome Colosseum Tours

Laura Itzkowitz Aug. 19, 2024

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

8 of the best places to visit in Montana

Jul 15, 2024 • 6 min read

Immerse yourself in the landscapes of Big Sky Country in these top places in Montana.

Massive  Montana encompasses a wild terrain of Rocky Mountain adventures and bucket-list places to visit.

Amid the mountains, national forests and wild rivers teeming with trout, several historical and current railroad depots punctuate the state – now forming Montana's best cities – showcasing its independent yet inviting culture.

Interstate 90 and 15 cross in the mountainous western half of the state, supplemented by a network of state highways lending access to several notable Big Sky destinations. While some top spots get a wave of traffic throughout summer, getting around Montana typically involves wide-open roadways. Montana's cities are small enough to explore car-free, but a personal vehicle offers much more freedom to go beyond them.

Here's our guide to the very best places to see on your trip to Montana, the Last Best Place in the American West.

1. Glacier National Park

Best place to hit a hiking trail

The Crown of the Continent in northwest Montana,  Glacier National Park , is a true choose-your-own-adventure for  jaw-dropping hiking trails . Over 700 miles of well-worn paths navigate its terrain of startling mountain peaks and wildlife-strewn valleys. Several trails challenge the legs, although a general rule of thumb is the higher the climb, the better the view. 

For those just getting introduced to Montana hiking trails, head for the Hidden Lake Trail departing from the  Logan Pass Visitor Center . Clements Mountain provides a scenic guidepost along this approximately 5-mile round-trip hike, visible above the wildflower meadows of Hanging Gardens lining the route. For those ready for a bigger challenge, the park's signature hiking trail, the Highline Trail, also departs from Logan Pass.

Planning tip : Finding parking can be the most challenging aspect of visiting the famous Logan Pass – the highest point along the Going-to-the-Sun Road. The park's  free summer shuttle system ensures you'll never be turned away because of parking capacity.

Best place for Western history

Wild West history is on full display in Butte, Montana, near the western slopes of the Continental Divide. This mining town experienced its boom in the late 1800s with vast copper lodes contributing to its moniker: "the Richest Hill on Earth." 

Mining operations have ceased in Butte, leaving behind the infamous Berkeley Pit and over 6000 historic properties now part of the  Butte-Anaconda Historic District , one of the largest in the country. This landmark status plunges visitors into the history that once made Butte the largest city between San Francisco and Chicago.

Copper King mansions, underground mines and  sealed-away speakeasies are a few guided tour opportunities diving deeper into Butte's history. The Pekin Noodle Parlor is also a current attraction of historical interest as one of the oldest family-run Chinese restaurants in the country.

Best basecamp for skiing and snowboarding

The university city of  Bozeman draws an adventurous crowd throughout its long, powdery winter season. And between late November and April, residents and visitors flock toward the cold smoke of two of  Montana's best ski and snowboard destinations , Bridger Bowl Ski Area and Big Sky Resort.  

Bridger Bowl is at the backdoor of Bozeman, accessible with a 30-minute drive or a free shuttle ride. Its 2000 skiable acres attract a moderate crowd of students, community members, and tourists, though it only gets busy by Montana standards, with rarely more than a 20-minute chairlift wait. Lift tickets are cheaper if you buy online through Bridger Bowl's website . 

Big Sky Resort , located a scenic hour's drive south, is the pinnacle of Montana skiing. A growing collection of over 30 lifts, including North America's first 8-person lift (heated seats included), access its staggering 6000 acres flowing down from Lone Peak. Intrepid downhill visitors can ride the Lone Peak Tram to the summit for a memorable black-diamond ride.

4. West Yellowstone

Best place for spotting wildlife

West Yellowstone is a gateway community for  Yellowstone National Park , with the park's entrance less than a mile from the center of this small tourist town. Wildlife abounds in the nation's first national park, alongside hot springs, fumaroles, and geysers, with frequent sightings of American bison along the roadside. 

Head to the  Grizzly and Wolf Discovery Center in West Yellowstone for guaranteed sightings of Greater Yellowstone wildlife. This non-profit, AZA-accredited wildlife park maintains a stimulating habitat for animals unfit to live in the wild.

Planning tip:  Budget extra time to hang out in the Naturalist Cabin, featuring floor-to-ceiling windows overlooking the resident wolf packs.

5. Missoula

Best place to fly-fish blue-ribbon waterways

Missoula is a fly-fishing paradise at the junction of great trout rivers in western Montana. Local author Norman Maclean captured this ethos in his iconic 1976 collection of stories, A River Runs Through It , and Brad Pitt and Robert Redford revamped enthusiasm with the 1992 blockbuster movie.

The Clark Fork, Bitterroot, and Blackfoot are world-class rivers within bicycling distance of Missoula, including tributaries like Rock Creek. Outfitters, such as  Missoulian Angler , offer guided fly-fishing trips for first-timers and experienced anglers alike. Fishing spots and hatch dates are often discussed at local fly stores like  Grizzly Hackle Fly Shop .

Planning tip: A valid fishing license is required to cast a line in a Montana waterway. Many guiding companies require you to  purchase your fishing license before a trip, which can be done online.

6. Flathead Lake

Best place for summer traditions

Flathead Lake is hard to miss when visiting northwest Montana. It's the largest freshwater lake west of the Mississippi River in the contiguous United States, requiring at least a 40-mile drive from end to end. And with state parks, campgrounds, boat ramps, and small towns lining the route, it's often a central base for summer road trip traditions .

Looking for an adventure? Rent a kayak or book a charter to Wild Horse Island near the lake's western shore, and keep your eyes peeled for the feral residents.

Planning tip:  Flathead cherries are one summer tradition not to miss. Cherry season is short and sweet in the Flathead Valley, with farm stands popping up near the shoreline in July through early August. Plan a visit to coincide with the  Flathead Cherry Festival , typically the last weekend of July, for the full taste of these regional treats.

7. Red Lodge

Best spot for a scenic drive

The Beartooth and Absaroka Mountains set the tone for the tourist-friendly town of Red Lodge in southern Montana, near the Wyoming border. These picturesque peaks, some of the tallest in the state, have unlimited outdoor recreation opportunities. And the seasonal 68-mile Beartooth Highway offers parking lot access to all the wild terrain spanning from Red Lodge to Yellowstone National Park.

The Beartooth Highway is one of Montana's best road trips between late May and October 15. This All-American road tops out at nearly 11,000ft with prominent views of the glacier-caked Beartooth Mountains and tree-lined valleys. Hiking trails, viewpoints and summer skiing opportunities line the route, eventually connecting to the hydrothermal wonders of Yellowstone National Park via Cooke City.

8. Phillipsburg

Best place to uncover gems of the Treasure State

Phillipsburg is a picturesque mountain town on the Pintler Veterans' Memorial Scenic Byway, approximately halfway between Glacier and Yellowstone National Parks. Silver and other underground resources built this early Montana town in the 1860s, and that era still resonates down Broadway St with antique storefronts housing modern shops and restaurants.

Montana Sapphires are still mined for in Phillipsburg, and visitors sift for their own at places like  Gem Mountain and  Montana Gems of Phillipsburg . Here, buy a bag of gravel sourced from nearby sapphire mines and head to the washing station to uncover personal treasures. Shops will cut and polish anything you find, though nothing is guaranteed in sapphire mining.

You can also find a sweeter type of treasure in Phillipsburg within hundreds of glass jars lining the walls of  the Sweet Palace . This nostalgic candy store sells homemade confections like fudge and saltwater taffy – you'll get a sugar high from the aroma alone. 

This article was first published Sep 16, 2021 and updated Jul 15, 2024.

Explore related stories

Jul 15, 2024 • 7 min read

Montana’s two national parks are simply majestic. Our guide will show you how to get the most of out of these American treasures.

Aug 27, 2024 • 6 min read

Jul 24, 2024 • 7 min read

Jul 20, 2024 • 6 min read

Jul 16, 2024 • 7 min read

Jul 12, 2024 • 6 min read

Jul 8, 2024 • 6 min read

Jul 8, 2024 • 11 min read

Jun 28, 2024 • 9 min read

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

Written by:

Pocket Montana 1716 W Babcock St Bozeman, Montana

© 2024 PocketMontana.com | All Rights Reserved

• Native America
• Science & Tech
• Photography

MONTANA BEYOND

No products in the cart.

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 !

Best 11 hot springs in and near Yellowstone National Park

Chinese wall of montana, 7 best hot springs near billings, montana, 5 best hot springs near glacier national park, wild horse island, montana – the largest island in the west, 6 best hot springs near kalispell and whitefish, 5 best undeveloped hot springs in montana, did you know this many hot springs surround missoula, 6 hot springs near bozeman, montana, 15 most beautiful scenic drives in montana, top 15 things to do in beautiful cut bank, montana, 15 best hot spring resorts in montana, 23 best hot springs in montana, national bison range – visitor’s guide [photos], charles m. russell national wildlife refuge, 11 best things to do in dillon, montana, 10 fun things to do in deer lodge, montana, 10 wonderful things to do in cozy bigfork, montana, montana sky at night – 10 best places to stargaze in montana, 9 breathtaking montana national parks + 6 enchanting state parks, “paradise valley – just beautiful”, 10 best dude ranches in montana – vacationing in the old west, what life’s really like where “yellowstone” is filmed, 5 best ski resorts in montana – popular & unknown resorts.

• Privacy Policy
• Refunds & Returns

Montana Beyond is an independent media project. Copyright © 2024 Montana Beyond. All Rights Reserved.

Affiliate disclosure: As an Amazon Associate, we may earn commissions from qualifying purchases from Amazon.com.

Automated page speed optimizations for fast site performance

41 Fun Things To Do & Places To Visit In Montana

By: Author Jerric Chong

Posted on 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

Vaclav Sebek / Shutterstock

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

Mihai_Andritoiu / Shutterstock

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

Teresa Otto / Shutterstock

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

Hugh K Telleria / Shutterstock

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

VarnaK / Shutterstock

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

Leigh Anne Meeks / Shutterstock

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

Jacob Boomsma / Shutterstock

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

tusharkoley / Shutterstock

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

Joseph Sohm / Shutterstock

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

Robert Vincelli / Shutterstock

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

goodluz / Shutterstock

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

Gregory Johnston / Shutterstock

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

Ric Schafer / Shutterstock

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

Wollertz / Shutterstock

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

EQRoy / Shutterstock

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

cendrine chenel / Shutterstock

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

Brett Welcher / Shutterstock

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

Start Planning Your Trip To Montana

These are just a few of the best things to do in Montana.

Whether you’re interested in art, nature, culture, history or just great places to grab a beer, there’s a little something for everyone in Big Sky Country.

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! 

Home » Travel Guides » United States » Montana (MT) » 15 Best Things to Do in Montana

15 Best Things to Do in Montana

Montana is well known as a haven for outdoor enthusiasts. Winter sports, water sports, biking, hiking, you name it. Those who have been there call it Big Sky Country because of the rugged otherworldly beauty. A scenic drive through the Rockies, or along one of the longest state stretches of border with Canada will leave you breathless. It also happens to be the fourth largest state and one of the most northerly. Its population is low, which means wildlife lovers and birders flock here year round. Montana certainly is a dream destination.

Lets explore the best things to do in Montana :

1. Glacier National Park

This is one million acres of paradise on earth. The astounding list of facts is almost too numerous to fit in. Trek the over 700 miles of hiking and biking trails, drive down the 50 mile Going-to-the-Sun road, cross the 7,700-foot-high Logan Pass, see Reynolds peak at 9,100 feet, rest by one of over 130 lakes, and get lose in the wildlife dense park interior. Easily Montana’s most popular tourist attraction, you be amazed at every turn. It’s been called the Crown of the Continent Ecosystem, and there’s no doubt why. If this is on your list, and it should be, you’ll need to plan a second trip to do anything else because once you arrive, you won’t want to leave.

2. Flathead Lake

The largest natural lake in the Western US is Flathead. It has 200 square miles of water and 185 miles of shore. Thanks to the Swan and Flathead rivers, fishermen and water enthusiasts have made the lake a Montana destination spot. Part of the lake is on tribal reservation land and visitors must purchase a pass to visit this gorgeous stretch of the lake. If you’re arriving during Memorial Day, you can catch the annual Bigfork Whitewater Festival. In the middle of the lake is Wildhorse Island. Accessible only by boat, this 2000+ acre state park is a perfect place to spend an afternoon.

3. Little Bighorn Battlefield National Monument

Perhaps one of America’s best known historic landmarks in the Little Bighorn Battlefield National Monument in Crow Agency, Montana. The memorial is made up of several components including a visitor’s centre, the Custer National Cemetery, a museum, the 7th Cavalry Memorial, as well as the Reno-Benteen Battlefield. The area serves to commemorates the Battle of Little Bighorn – one of the most infamous battles between the US government and the Sioux and Cheyenne American Indians.  Thousands died during the battle and the memorial has been a powerful aid in the reconciliation efforts since.

4. Ringing Rocks

Just outside of Butte, Montana are the Ringing Rocks of the Boulder Batholith. These unique rock formations actually chime melodically when tapped with a mallet or similar instrument. These interesting formations are found in only a few places in the world. In addition to Montana, you can visit the Pyeongyang in Vietnam, Orissa, India, or the lithophones in Africa. Knowledge of these formations is as old as 2000 years. Though there are theories about why the rocks rings, there is actually no scientific proof as of yet. If you remove one of the boulders, the formation no longer rings.

5. The Museum of the Rockies

Located in Bozeman, Montana, the Museum of the Rockies is a ‘do not miss.’ An extension of the Smithsonian Institute, the museum is famous for all things dinosaur related. Including eggs, skeletons, and realistic models of several species. The collection also has the largest Tyrannosaurus skull and a T-Rex skeleton, affectionately known as “Bike Mike.” When you visit, you can also see artefacts of the Plains American Indians, pioneer exhibits, and Tinsely House, a preserved log cabin from the 19th century.

6. Lake McDonald

One of those incredible 130 lakes in Glacier National Park is Lake McDonald. It’s ten miles long and almost 500 feet deep. The view of the Great Continental Divide from here is unsurpassed. Visitors come for hiking, wildlife viewing, birding, picnics, and photography. It’s common to see elk, bighorn sheep, black bears, and mountain goats. Lake McDonald is really the hub of the western portion of the park. Stay at the early 20th century lodge that makes for a perfect rest at the end of an incredible day. The glacial carvings that happened over thousands of years has left an indelible impression that everyone falls in love with.

7. The Garden of One Thousand Buddhas

It’s a bit surprising to come across the Garden of One Thousand Buddhas in the middle of Montana, but that’s part of the beauty. Located on an American Indian reservation, it was originally established as a centre for peace in 2000. Reaching 750 feet and laid out in a circular pattern, the layout represents the wheel of dharma and the Noble Eightfold Path symbolizing the cycle of life, death, and rebirth. In the centre is Yum Chenmo, the Great Mother. Each of the buddhas are made from white concrete and are placed symmetrically around the circle. It’s a moving sight that is a point of pride for the volunteers that have helped in its creation.

You want skiing? Big Sky, Montana is your best choice. One of the largest and most popular ski resorts in all of the US, Big Sky is always busy thanks to an average 400 inches of snow per year and almost 6,000 acres of skiable land. There is something for all levels here. At peak season, the lifts carry 29,000 ski lovers per hour. Luxury accommodations, fantastic restaurants, and plenty of entertainment make a visit to Big Sky a win win. If you talk with some of the locals, you’ll hear a number of stories from people who came for a visit and never left. The town itself is quaint and rustic with the perfect blend of modern amenities and escapism.

9. West Yellowstone

Shortly after the US congress created Yellowstone National Park (the first national park) in the late nineteenth century, tourists started flocking to see this incredible and largely undiscovered area. The gateway to the park began to build up into a settlement and is now home to about 1200 residents today. West Yellowstone hosts over four million people annually and caters to the parks visitors. Check out the Grizzly and Wolf Discovery Centre to see live wolves, grizzly’s, and raptors. West Yellowstone has an IMAX theatre, tons of local crafts, all the outdoor gear you can imagine, and every type of dining experience you could want. Enjoy a touring snow coach and spot incredible wildlife while learning about the history of the town and park.

Available tour : West Yellowstone: Yellowstone Park Tour with Local Guide

10. Castle Ghost Town

Montana is home to a number of towns established and then later bankrupted by the silver rush in the late 19th century. Castle is one that you can visit today. In less than seven years, almost 1000 sites had been claimed by prospectors, and Castle, Montana was born. At its peak, Castle boasted a school, a jail, several shops, 14 saloons, and seven brothels. Needless to say, it was a rollicking good town. Calamity Jane (Martha Jane Cannary Burke) stayed in Castle for a short time while running a restaurant. The town lived a short life, no more than 50 years. Abandoned in the 1930’s visitors can see the remains of the town – including Minnie’s sporting house.

Montana’s capital city was once called Last Chance, thanks to a small group of down-on-their luck prospectors who decided to dig one last time and literally struck gold. Helena’s capital building is a stunning example of Greek Renaissance architecture with murals throughout representing various historical moments that happened in Montana. A stay in Helena makes for a perfect basecamp to explore much of what’s great about the state. Visit Helena National Forest, hike the Continental Divide National Scenic Trail, and stop by the Elkhorn Wildlife Management Unit to see some wonderful big game. Don’t miss the Cathedral of St. Helena, the Holter Museum, and take a walking tour of the historic district

12. Grizzly and Wolf Discovery Centre

If you stay in West Yellowstone (and you should) you really can’t miss the Grizzly and Wolf Discovery Centre. It’s a sanctuary for the animals that grow comfortable around humans or were orphaned. See impressive grizzly’s and majestic gray wolves in their natural habitat. You can also get up close and personal with the cubs while you’re there. The visitors centre shares information about the animal’s behaviour, history, and population decline. The bears really love a good time and you can watch them play in their pond and fish. Early morning visitors are treating to the haunting calls of the wolf packs.

13. The Lewis and Clark National Historic Trail

Almost 4,000 miles long, the Lewis and Clark National Historic Trail runs from a small town in Illinois, to the start of the Columbia River in Astoria, Oregon. It connects 11 states, including Montana, as well as several American Indian reservations. Established in the late 1970’s, visitors follow the approximate trail of the Corps of Discovery. Lewis and Clarks epic journey helped to define and expand America.

14. Earthquake Lake

Without digging deeper, you might see the lake and think that it’s a perfectly nice, and perfectly average, lake. The mountains frame the scenery and the water is serene and a gorgeous blue. But there is something beneath the surface there. In 1959, a 7.3 earthquake hit the area and sent an unbelievable 80 million tons of earth hurtling down into the canyon at over 100 miles per hour. The earthquake also disturbed the existing lake, sending a tsunami sized wave and strong winds down the canyon as well. Scarps jutted up from the earth, geysers erupted, and the ground dropped 19 feet in a matter of seconds. When it was over, 28 lives were lost. Scientists are still baffled by events and the area has a mysteriously beautiful quality to it. For nature lovers, it’s a must see. You’re able to get a real sense of what Mother Nature is capable of.

15. The Western Heritage Centre

Located in Billings, the Western Heritage Centre can be found in the Parmly Billings Library – more than a century old. There are over 16,000 artefacts at the centre. Visitors are treated to 1,000 photos that show the culture and development of the Yellowstone River region. Connected to the Smithsonian Institute, the centre focuses on preserving the history and heritage of the Crow and Cheyenne American Indians. Before going, check their website for special lectures, programs, and workshops

15 Best Things to Do in Montana:

• Glacier National Park
• Flathead Lake
• Little Bighorn Battlefield National Monument
• Ringing Rocks
• The Museum of the Rockies
• Lake McDonald
• The Garden of One Thousand Buddhas
• West Yellowstone
• Castle Ghost Town
• Grizzly and Wolf Discovery Centre
• The Lewis and Clark National Historic Trail
• Earthquake Lake
• The Western Heritage Centre

How does your Montana vacation play out?

When you Montana, you discover a feeling that can only be found here. To Montana is to live fully, to experience authenticity, to awaken your inner adventurer. So come, Montana with us, and take in the essence of a place affectionately known as “the last best.” A place that’s as welcoming as it is wild. A thing that’ll change you forever.

Outdoor Adventure

Bring the fam, rv and camping, how will you montana, start planning, getting to montana, all regions, leave no trace, travel alerts, montana guidebooks.

• Best Time to Visit
• Weather & Climate
• Top Destinations
• Things to Do in Montana
• Things to Do in Helena
• Things to Do in Bozeman
• Montana's National Parks
• Skiing in Montana
• Glacier National Park Guide
• Food to Try
• Best Breweries
• Search Please fill out this field.
• Newsletters
• Destinations
• United States

18 Top Things to Do in Montana

TripSavvy / Alisha McDarris

The majestic Rocky Mountains, wide-open prairies, and clear winding rivers make Montana a true vacation wonderland. The state's colorful human and natural history—touching on everything from paleontology and Lewis and Clark’s journey to Old West mines and mining towns—is the subject of many attractions that appeal to visitors from around the world.

Often referred to as "Big Sky Country," Montana is spread across more than 147,000 miles but is one of the least populated states in the whole country. For travelers seeking stunning vistas, beautiful natural parks, and fewer crowds, Montana is definitely a top destination.

Learn About Native American Culture and History

Museum of the Plains Indian

Long before Europeans settled in North America, Montana was home to many Indigenous peoples, including the Lakota Sioux, Nez Percé, Shoshone, Arapaho, Cheyenne, and Blackfeet, among other Native American nations. Celebrate the rich culture and history of the region at the Museum of the Plains Indians in Browning, located about two hours from Great Falls near Glacier National Park, or the Western Heritage Center in Billings, which also sprinkles in stories of the area's Pioneer past.

For a more somber look at Montana's history, visit the Little Bighorn Battlefield and Memorial , which commemorates those who were lost in the fighting between Lakota Sioux, Arapaho, and Cheyenne forces and the U.S. Army’s 7th Cavalry, led by Lt. Col. George A. Custer (this was also the site of Custer’s Last Stand). While the battle was a brief victory for the Northern Plains Indians, the tensions led to a stronger response by the U.S. government, resulting in the forceful relocation of any remaining groups into reservations. Today, the battlefield and its memorial, located about an hour outside Billings, are places of peaceful reflection.

Behold the Power of Nature at Earthquake Lake

stellalevi / Getty Images

Located about an hour from Big Sky and 30 minutes from West Yellowstone, the Earthquake Lake Geologic Area and its visitor center make a great day trip for nature lovers and anyone interested in seismic activity. 

While it’s a popular spot for fishing, boating, camping, whitewater rafting, and other recreational activities, the site is best known for the massive 7.3 earthquake that occurred on August 17, 1959, causing a horrific landslide that formed Hebgen Lake and killed 28 people. Stop by the Visitor Center to learn more about what happened here and pay your respects to those who were lost at the Memorial.

Stay at a Dude Ranch

Boogich / Getty Images

For a truly memorable Montana travel experience, spend a few nights at an upscale Dude Ranch . These typically offer all-inclusive packages that cover luxury lodging, dining, and depending on where you’re staying, other amenities like fly-fishing, cookouts, horseback riding, sailing on the lake, stargazing, mountain biking, among other seasonal activities.

Those who prefer to get their hands dirty and indulge their inner cowboy or cowgirl can opt for a stint on a working ranch , where guests can get a hands-on experience of what it’s like to live and work on a traditional Montana cattle ranch. What you’ll get to do mostly depends on the time of year you're visiting—lambing and calving are springtime activities while gathering cattle and leading them back to the ranch is something that happens in the fall—but you’ll have access to hiking, photography, bird watching, and horseback riding opportunities all year long.

Get Outdoors at Glacier National Park

Jordan Siemens / Getty Images

Glacier National Park is famous for its jagged snow-capped peaks, glacier-carved valleys, serene lakes, rushing rivers, and abundant wildlife. A handful of glaciers also remain here. One popular way to experience Glacier National Park’s beauty is by traveling along Going-to-the-Sun Road, a steep, winding, and amazingly scenic route. Enhance your trip by staying in grand historic lodges and taking part in your choice of outdoor recreation options ranging from easy to challenging.

Catch an Exhibit at Montana's Museum

Montana Historical Society

Located near the capital city of Helena , the Montana Historical Society Museum, also known as Montana's Museum, is full of interesting artifacts from the state's past and present. Inside, the Mackay Gallery of Russell Art houses a fine collection of about 80 paintings, sculptures, and illustrated letters by prominent U.S. artist Charles M. Russell, while the Montana Homeland exhibit provides a timeline of interesting objects that take you through all phases of Montana’s history. Special and traveling exhibits change over time, covering topics that touch on the history of the state and region. Note that the museum is closed Sundays and holidays.

Follow the Lewis and Clark National Historic Trail

Wesley Hitt / Photographer's Chocie RF / Getty Images

In the early 1800s, Lewis and Clark of the Corps of Discovery Expedition found their way to many points in Montana with the help of their Lemhi Shoshone guide Sacagawea, while traveling westward across the country to the Pacific Ocean and on their journey home. Paddling or walking along the same route is a thrilling way to experience and appreciate this historic accomplishment. There are several Montana road trips you can take that are themed around attractions and activities; the Lewis and Clark National Historic Trail Interpretive Center, located in Great Falls , is also a major highlight.

Take a Boat Tour at the Gates of the Mountains

Angela M. Brown 

The Gates of the Mountains, a gorgeous canyon along the Missouri River, can best be viewed on a boat tour , many of which are available just 20 miles north of Helena. Keep an eye out for interesting geology and varied wildlife, including birds of prey throughout the trip. 

The canyon was named by Lewis in July 1805 during the Corps of Discovery Expedition—you'll hear why on the tour, which also includes a stop at the entrance to Mann Gulch, the site of a tragic 1949 wildfire that is the subject of several books. This part of the state is officially called the Gates of the Mountain Wilderness Area, administered as part of Helena National Forest. Boating, camping, hiking, and picnicking are among the recreational activities that are most popular here.

Appreciate Cowboy Art at the C.M. Russell Museum

The C.M. Russell Museum

Charles M. Russell is one of the great cowboy artists in the U.S., capturing accurate and compelling images of the West, covering its days as a wild frontier and into the era of homesteading and settlement during the late 1800s and early 1900s.

The C. M. Russell Museum Complex in Great Falls, open daily, includes not only several galleries but the Russell's original home and log cabin studio. Highlights from the museum's permanent collection include hundreds of his paintings and sculptures, a selection of illustrated letters, and the Browning Firearms Collection. The Studio also contains an exhibit of artifacts from Russell's personal collection.

Paddle Down the Upper Missouri Breaks River

Angela M. Brown

Upper Missouri Breaks National Monument is a unique stretch of the Missouri River that passes through remote and rugged canyons. Take a multi-day canoe trip along the Upper Missouri National Wild and Scenic River , which passes through the monument, enjoying the same scenery and wildlife experienced by Lewis and Clark.

The official Missouri Breaks Interpretive Center , located in the small historic town of Fort Benton, is where experts can fill you in on all the details you'll need to explore the Upper Missouri Breaks by land or water, whether you plan to take a guided trip or embark on your own boat or canoe adventure. While at the interpretive center, learn about the natural and human history of the region. Hiking, birdwatching, fishing, and camping are also available.

Get Spooked at a Ghost Town

Garnet Ghost Town

In 1898, about 1,000 people (many of which were gold miners) lived in the town of Garnet in the Garnet Mountain Range. The town east of Missoula grew to have a school, hotels, a doctor's office, and saloons, among other small-town services. Today, Garnet is the best-preserved ghost town in Montana, making it an interesting family field trip to check out the remnants of its beautifully abandoned buildings.

At Garnet Ghost Town in Drummond, you'll find a few trails to explore. Nearby, outdoor activities from camping and mountain biking to cross country skiing are fun ways to spend a day.

Drive Along Beartooth Highway

Carol Polich Photo Workshops / Getty Images

Beartooth Highway is a National Scenic Byways All-American Road that covers about 70 miles through the rugged Beartooth Mountain range in Montana and Wyoming. The Montana stretch of it follows U.S. Highway 212 from Red Lodge in the east to the Cooke City entrance to Yellowstone National Park in the west.

There are numerous places to stop and take in stunning mountain views along the way, whether from a scenic overlook, on a hike, or during a picnic. You'll also find clear lakes, waterfalls, a fire lookout tower, a general store, and, in autumn, colorful foliage. Beartooth Highway is considered to be one of the most beautiful drives in the U.S. and you won’t want to miss it.

Learn About Dinosaurs at the Museum of the Rockies

 Museum of the Rockies

The natural and human history of the Rocky Mountain region is the focus at Museum of the Rockies in Bozeman. While Montana's rich body of dinosaur fossils and the vast amounts of knowledge represented make the museum worthy of a visit in its own right, other exhibits cover aspects of Montana's human history, including Native Americans, mining, and transportation. 

The Museum of the Rockies has a lot to stimulate young minds; the "Explore Yellowstone" exhibit in the Martin Children's Discovery Center does an awesome job of introducing little ones to all the animals, geology, and outdoor recreation opportunities to be found in Yellowstone National Park. The Taylor Planetarium, a living history farm, and traveling exhibits are among other fun things to check out during your visit.

Explore Caves on the Lewis and Clark Caverns Tour

AllAroundTheWest / Flickr / CC BY 2.0 

See stalactites, stalagmites, and other interesting mineral formations at Lewis & Clark Caverns State Park , home to one of the largest limestone caverns in the Northwest, which can be experienced on one of many guided tours taking place from early May through the end of September. The park also offers hiking and biking trails, 40 campsites, a modern visitor center, an amphitheater, interpretive displays, a gift shop, and food and beverage concessions, as well as other activities like bird watching, viewing wildlife, and canoeing.

Sip Suds at a Local Brewery

 Justin Brockie / Flickr / CC BY 2.0

After a long day of sightseeing, relax at one of Montana's many local breweries. The Philipsburg Brewing Company , located inside a bank from the late 1880s in a historic town, is a fun stop. In Missoula, Big Sky Brewing Company is a popular destination, as is Bayern Brewing , the oldest brewery in the state, started in 1987 and known for being the only German brewery in the Rockies. In Billings , an unofficial downtown brewery district includes six breweries, two distilleries, and a cider house, all within walking distance. This map of state breweries will help guide your way to some enjoyable times.

View Historic Pictographs in a Cave

 AllAroundTheWest / Flickr / CC BY-SA 2.0

History enthusiasts will want to head to Pictograph Cave State Park , a National Historic Landmark in Billings, where a loop trail leads to caves with paintings dating back 2,000 years. There, generations of prehistoric hunters who stayed in the area left behind about 30,000 artifacts (like weapons and stone tools) and more than 100 rock paintings, known as pictographs, in three main caves. The visitor center is a good place to start your day and learn about area history from interpretive displays.

Greet Wolves and Grizzly Bears

 Wikimedia Commons / CC BY-SA 4.0

The Grizzly & Wolf Discovery Center is a not-for-profit, wildlife park and educational facility in West Yellowstone where visitors have a rare opportunity to see wildlife every day of the year. The animals cannot survive in the wild for a variety of reasons, and you'll be able to view three Yellowstone wolf packs and seven rescued grizzly bears in a large outdoor habitat. Educational programs for children and adults cover grizzly bear eating habits, encounters and pepper spray use, and onsite raptors like hawks, eagles, falcons, and owls.

Find Peace Among 1,000 Buddha Statues

gjohnstonphoto / Getty Images

If you’re looking for some inner peace, The Garden of One Thousand Buddhas is a botanical garden and public park known for bringing about positive change; approximately 2,000 monthly visitors of many different faiths and religious backgrounds show up during the warmer months.

Located 20 miles north of Missoula in Western Montana’s Jocko Valley, the garden boasts lovely Mission Mountain range views. Its information center is also a gift shop selling a mix of imported items from Nepal, local crafts, and Buddhist shrine pieces. While it is open daily, guided tours are only available from April through October; check the website for other seasonal particulars.

Time Travel at the American Computer and Robotics Museum

American Computer and Robotics Museum

With 4,000 years of artifacts related to the history of humans and technology, the American Computer and Robotics Museum , founded in Bozeman in 1990, is a place you won't want to miss. Exhibits cover diverse topics like historic cuneiform tablets, the first personal computers, and women in computing. Best of all, there is no charge to enter the museum unless you are on a reserved group tour.

Related Articles

More related articles.

Touropia Travel

Discover the World

12 Best Things to do in Montana

By Alex Schultz · Last updated on June 26, 2024

One of the most beautiful states in the country, the large and lovely Montana is awash with stunning scenery, with marvelous mountains rising dramatically above pretty plains and prairies. As it is sparsely populated, many of its standout tourist attractions relate to its incredible wilderness and wildlife which are on show wherever you go.

Known as ‘Big Sky Country’ due to its wide-open skies and endless meadows, its natural wonders beg to be explored. Hiking, camping, and canoeing are popular things to do in Montana alongside skiing and snowboarding in the winter months. With bison, grizzly bears and wolves to be spied – in nature and in wildlife reserves – and fascinating ghost towns and battlefields to visit, Montana really does have something for everyone to enjoy.

12. National Bison Range

Located in the far west of Montana is the incredible National Bison Range, which can be found just to the north of Missoula on the way to Flathead Lake. Home to a huge herd of bison and many black bears, bighorn sheep, and deer, the wonderful wildlife refuge is well worth checking out if you have the chance.

Established in 1908, it encompasses some lovely landscapes and scenery, with majestic mountains rolling hills, and picturesque prairies and plains. After having stopped by its interesting and informative visitor center, there are two scenic roads to drive along which offer up fantastic wildlife viewing opportunities.

In total, there are around 500 bison residing within the park. The National Bison Range has played a crucial role in the preservation and protection of these magnificent mammals and their gorgeous grazing grounds.

11. Grizzly & Wolf Discovery Center

Set in the small town of West Yellowstone is the Grizzly & Wolf Discovery Center, which lies not far from Yellowstone National Park and the state border with Wyoming. Since opening in 1993, the excellent educational facility has offered visitors the unique experience of seeing grizzly bears and grey wolves in their natural habitat.

Founded as a sanctuary for nuisance bears who were sadly facing extermination, the wildlife park later expanded to include captive-born wolves who can’t survive in the wild. Now at home in large enclosures dotted with pools and trees, these astounding animals act as ambassadors for their wild counterparts, with interesting exhibits looking at their natural behavior and habitats.

In addition to watching them prowl about and play, visitors can hide food about for the bears and wolves to find. Besides these fabulous furry friends, there is an excellent birds of prey exhibit to visit and a freshwater aquarium containing various otters and fish.

10. Flathead Lake

Nestled in the northwest of Montana are the crystal clear waters of Flathead Lake. A very popular and picturesque place, it has almost 300 kilometers of scenic shorelines for visitors to explore, with countless outdoor activities to try out.

The largest natural freshwater lake to be found in the States west of the Missouri River, it reaches 48 kilometers in length, spanning 26 kilometers at its widest point. Tucked away along its serene and secluded shores are laidback lakeside communities such as Bigfork and Polson to check out with the Mission and Salish mountain ranges rising magnificently in the background.

While it is renowned for its clean and clear waters (which formed a gigantic glacier during the last ice age), the lake also has lots of fun activities on offer, with fishing, swimming and hiking particularly popular. Besides taking boat trips to its handful of isolated islands, visitors to Flathead Lake can also find some fine wineries along its western shore.

9. Gates of the Mountains

So named by the Lewis and Clark Expedition in 1805, the glorious Gates of the Mountains certainly make for one of the most spectacular sights in the whole of Montana . The canyon’s cliffs can be found just half an hour’s drive to the north of the historic city of Helena.

Towering dramatically above the wild waters of the Missouri River, its sheer cliff faces impressively reach up to 360 meters in height. With its rugged ridges and limestone layered landscapes, it’s no wonder that the expedition was so astounded by its scale and splendor.

While the Gates of the Mountains attract the most attention, it actually lies at the heart of a pretty and pristine wilderness area. In the canyon and its surrounding valleys, there are some exquisite hiking trails to explore and cosy campsites to stop off at, and some great fishing can be had along the Missouri River.

8. Whitefish Mountain Resort

Lying just to the north of the small town and large lake of the same name is the beautiful Whitefish Mountain Resort. Nestled in the northwest of the state, it has superb snow-coated slopes for you to ski or snowboard down, with hiking and mountain biking available during summertime.

Founded in 1947, the resort has since grown, with plenty of lodges and cabins now dotted about The Big Mountain. Towering to 2,078 meters, the mighty mount has 113 marked trails for visitors to explore, which cater to beginners, intermediates, and advanced skiers alike. In addition, it has four terrain parks with a total vertical drop of 717 meters.

Servicing its slopes are 11 chairlifts and three surface tows, with various cafes and restaurants found at different elevations. From the mountain summit, visitors can enjoy divine views out over its surroundings, with marvelous mountains spied in the distance.

7. Lewis and Clark Caverns State Park

Named after the famous expedition that camped near their entrance in 1805, the large Lewis and Clark Caverns have since been protected as part of a state park. Nowadays, tourists travel from all around the state and further afield to gaze upon its sublime stalactites and stalagmites and explore its tunnels.

Full of fantastical formations and striking silhouettes and shapes, the caves are a delight to wander around, with the caverns stretching for many kilometers. As they are illuminated by flickering fairy lights, the underground tunnels make for a magical sight. Tours take you past remarkable rock formations, gaping chasms and dizzying drops.

While most people are enticed by its cool caverns, the state park also has lots of stunning scenery and nature to enjoy above ground, with hiking, camping and canoeing on offer. Set in a scenic and secluded spot to the northwest of Bozeman, it is well worth checking out if you have the chance.

6. Bannack State Park

Located in the remote reaches of the southwest of the state is the fascinating ghost town of Bannack. Protected as part of a state park, it has lots of abandoned old buildings and atmospheric empty streets for you to explore.

Founded in 1862 when gold was discovered in the nearby mountains, the mining town’s population slowly dwindled in the following decades as the shimmering seams were exhausted. As its last residents only left in the 1970s, most of its wooden buildings and log cabins are still in good repair: a school, store and hotel can be spotted along its now decaying streets.

As it is set in such an idyllic yet isolated spot, it is a good idea to stay a night at the nearby campsite and hike or bike around the mountains to make the most of your visit. A particularly great time to stop by is in July, when costumed re-enactors descend upon the dilapidated ghost town for the ‘Bannack Days’ and recreate what life would have been like in the late 19th century.

5. Big Sky Resort

One of the most popular and picturesque places to go skiing in the state, the brilliant Big Sky Resort can be found some 70 kilometers to the southwest of Bozeman. With more than 250 runs for visitors to enjoy and a total vertical drop of 1,330 meters, it is the second-largest ski resort in the States after Utah’s Park City.

Reaching over 250 kilometers in length, its snow-coated slopes are exhilarating to ski or snowboard down, with its tempting trails and pretty pistes catering to all levels. In total, there are 38 chairlifts dotted about the resort, with an awe-inspiring aerial tram to take you up to the top of the 3,403 meter high Lone Mountain – Big Sky’s standout feature.

Opened in late 1973 after having been a private ranch, it has various lodges and cabins for guests to stay in, with ski shops and restaurants found here and there. While most people visit in winter for its sparkling snow and spectacular scenery, there is also some great hiking and horseback riding to be had in the sunny summer months.

4. Garnet Ghost Town

Despite having been abandoned back in the 1930s, Garnet Ghost Town is remarkably well-preserved and certainly warrants a visit if you have the chance. Now a popular tourist site, it has over 80 crumbling yet charming buildings to explore, with the gorgeous Garnet Mountain Range rising all around them.

Set in a scenic yet secluded spot, the tiny town was founded in 1895 when gold was discovered nearby. In the following decades, stores, saloons and hotels catering to the prospectors shot up before being just as quickly abandoned and left to the elements once the shiny seams ran dry.

An eerie yet evocative place, its dusty cabins are fascinating to wander around, with everything left just as it was by the miners almost a century ago. As well as learning all about its interesting history, visitors can go hiking, mountain biking and fishing in its sublime surroundings, with Garnet Ghost Town lying an hour’s drive to the east of Missoula at the end of a long dirt track.

3. Museum of the Rockies (Bozeman)

While the Museum of the Rockies focuses on the physical and cultural history of the rearing range, it is perhaps most well-known for being home to the most extensive collection of dinosaur bones in the States. Set just to the south of Bozeman’s city center , it has a range of excellent interactive exhibits to explore as well as a plethora of phenomenal paleontological findings to peruse.

Founded in 1957 to preserve and promote the history and heritage of not just the massive mountain range but that of Montana, its colossal collection has since grown to include more than 300,000 objects. Even more astonishing is the fact that its earliest finds date back around 500 million years. Astounding archaeological findings can be found next to Native American artifacts and artworks.

Despite all its displays on the culture, geography and geology of the region, its standout sight is understandably its collection of dinosaur remains. There is an enormous T-Rex skull on show alongside the skeletons of a Triceratops and its baby, with countless other fabulous fossils located nearby: the magnificent museum is not to be missed when in the area.

2. Little Bighorn Battlefield National Monument

One of the best-known battlefields in the United States, it was at the bloody Battle of Little Bighorn that General Custer made his famous ‘last stand.’ Located in the southeast of the state, the moving monument and memorial can be found around an hour’s drive from Billings on the Crow Indian Reservation.

Now a very popular place to visit due to its historic importance, the sprawling site with its cemetery, sculptures and scenic views tells the story of the epic encounter that took place here on the 25th and 26th June 1876. Often portrayed as a clash of cultures, the battle saw Custer and his cavalry lose their lives to the local Native Americans who were fighting to preserve their traditional way of life.

Besides learning about the legendary leaders of the Lakota, visitors also hear about the run-up to the battle and its aftermath, which sadly saw the Northern Plains Indian Tribes confined to reservations soon afterwards. As informative as it is engaging, a visit to the Little Bighorn Battlefield National Monument is a must for anyone interested in the history of the US.

1. Glacier National Park

Boasting an astounding array of majestic mountains, vast valleys and turquoise lakes, Glacier National Park is home to some of the most epic scenery in the whole of the States. Sprawling over a scenic and secluded swathe of northwestern Montana, it protects a wealth of incredible wilderness and wildlife, with lots of outstanding outdoor activities on offer.

Founded in 1910, the park is named after its gigantic glaciers which were once believed to number around 150. While only 20 or so remain, the rugged and ravaged landscapes they left behind are a delight to gaze upon and explore, with mighty mounts lying alongside sweeping valleys, verdant forests and sparkling waterfalls.

Hidden away among its wild woods are grizzly bears, moose and wolverines for visitors to spy with wildlife watching being a very popular pastime. In addition, many people come to the national park to go hiking and camping with the breathtaking beauty of the ‘Crown of the Continent’ on show wherever you go.

Map of Things to do in Montana

Share this post:

10 Best Places to Visit in Montana

12 Best National & State Parks in Montana

12 Most Charming Small Towns in Montana

25 Best Places to Visit in the USA

12 Best Things to do in Bozeman, Montana

12 Best Things to Do in Glacier National Park

12 Best Things to do in Missoula, Montana

12 Best Things to do in Helena, Montana

7 Beautiful Mid-Atlantic States

25 Most Beautiful Places in America

Reader interactions, leave a reply cancel reply.

Your email address will not be published. Required fields are marked *

This site uses Akismet to reduce spam. Learn how your comment data is processed .