10 Best Places to visit in Montana

10 Best Places to visit in Montana!

Montana is known as the “Treasure State“, is a gem of the American West, famed for its breathtaking natural landscapes and rich cultural heritage. From rugged mountains to vast plains, this state offers a diverse range of attractions for every traveler. In this guide, we are excited to showcase 10 best places to visit in Montana during your visit.

1. Billings

Billings, the largest city in Montana, is often called the “Hub of the Yellowstone” because it’s the gateway to some of the most beautiful landscapes in the United States. Known for its rich history, vibrant culture, and stunning natural beauty, Billings is a great place to visit for anyone who loves the outdoors, history, or just a relaxing escape in a welcoming city.

Things to Do in Billings

Pictograph Cave State Park, just outside Billings, features ancient rock paintings and offers easy hiking with stunning views. Art lovers can explore the Yellowstone Art Museum in downtown Billings, showcasing regional contemporary art. The Billings Depot is a restored train station with a museum and local history. For panoramic city views, visit the Rimrocks, perfect for hiking and picnicking.

The Moss Mansion, built in 1903, offers guided tours of its rich history. ZooMontana is a family friendly spot with native wildlife like grizzly bears and bison. The Big Horn County Historical Museum showcases Native American culture and Old West history. Billings is easily reachable via Billings Logan International Airport, a short drive from downtown.

Missoula is a charming city located in the heart of the Rocky Mountains. Known for its vibrant arts scene, outdoor adventures, and friendly community, Missoula offers a unique experience for travelers looking to explore the beauty of the American West. From hiking and fishing to great food and local shops, this city is perfect for those seeking a genuine Montana experience.

Things to Do in Missoula

Missoula is a paradise for outdoor lovers, offering hiking, biking, and fishing. The Rattlesnake National Recreation Area has scenic trails with stunning views, and the Clark Fork River is perfect for fishing. For all history enthusiasts, National Museum of Forest Service History is a must visit. Downtown Missoula is full of charming shops, cafes, and restaurants with fresh, locally sourced food.

A popular hike is the 2 miles M Trail, which offers fantastic views. The University of Montana has beautiful grounds and cultural events. Big Sky Brewing Co. offers tours and local beer. Families will enjoy the Carousel for Missoula, with hand-carved animals in a lovely riverside park. Whether exploring nature, history, or downtown, Missoula has something for everyone.

Great Falls is a beautiful and underrated destination tucked away in the heart of the American West. Known for its breathtaking landscapes, fascinating history, and outdoor adventures, this small city offers visitors a peaceful yet exciting escape. Whether you’re an outdoor enthusiast, a history buff, or someone looking to experience the charm of a less visited place, Great Falls has something for everyone.

Things to Do in Great Falls

Great Falls offers something for everyone, starting with five beautiful waterfalls along the Missouri River, including Black Eagle Falls and Rainbow Falls. You can enjoy these views from the River’s Edge Trail, perfect for photos or a peaceful break. History buffs will enjoy the Lewis and Clark Interpretive Center, where you can learn about their journey through Montana.

For a relaxing day outdoors, Gibson Park provides walking paths, picnic spots, and a pond for wildlife watching. The C.M. Russell Museum showcases the work of Western artist Charles Marion Russell. If you love hiking, visit Sluice Boxes State Park or Giant Springs State Park for stunning trails. Summer visitors can enjoy a Great Falls Voyagers baseball game at Centene Stadium, offering a fun atmosphere for families and friends.

Nestled in the heart of the Rocky Mountains, Bozeman is a charming town that offers a blend of natural beauty, outdoor adventure, and a relaxed yet vibrant culture. Known for its stunning landscapes, including the nearby Yellowstone National Park, Bozeman is an ideal destination for nature lovers, outdoor enthusiasts, and those looking for a peaceful getaway. Whether you’re an adventure seeker or someone looking to explore, Bozeman has everything.

Things to Do in Bozeman

Bozeman is a perfect base for exploring Yellowstone National Park, just an hour away, where you can enjoy wildlife, geothermal features, and stunning landscapes. Bridger Bowl offers skiing in winter and hiking in summer, with amazing views of the Gallatin Valley and mountains. Stroll through Bozeman’s downtown to find unique shops, restaurants, and cafes, plus the Museum of the Rockies to learn about local history and dinosaurs.

A scenic drive along the Gallatin River offers spots to relax, fish, or enjoy kayaking. After outdoor adventures, unwind at the Bozeman Hot Springs with naturally heated pools. Try local Montana cuisine, like bison burgers and trout, at restaurants like Montana Ale Works, which also features state-brewed beers.

Helena, the state capital of Montana, is often overlooked by travelers in favor of larger cities, but this small town has a lot to offer. It’s located at the base of the beautiful Rocky Mountains, surrounded by forests and mountains that are perfect for outdoor adventures. The town’s rich history goes back to the gold rush days, and you can still feel that historical charm walking through its streets.

Things to Do in Helena

You can explore the Montana State Capitol, with free tours showcasing the state’s history and stunning views. Last Chance Gulch, where gold was discovered in the 1860s, is perfect for shopping and dining, with the Last Chance Splash Fountain adding a fun photo spot. The Helena National Forest has hiking trails for all levels, offering beautiful landscapes.

The Montana Historical Society Museum gives a deep dive into Montana’s past, from Native American history to the gold rush. In winter, Great Divide Ski Area is perfect for skiing and snowboarding. Hauser Lake, just outside the city, is great for fishing, kayaking, and picnicking. Helena’s Historic District, with Victorian-era buildings, offers charming streets to explore and photograph. Carroll College adds to the area’s historic charm.

Nestled in the heart of Montana, Glacier National Park is a true gem of the American wilderness. Known for its stunning landscapes, towering mountains, crystal-clear lakes, and abundant wildlife, this national park offers visitors an incredible experience of nature in its purest form. Whether you’re an avid hiker, a wildlife enthusiast, or simply someone looking to immerse themselves in breathtaking scenery, Glacier National Park has everything.

Things to Do in Glacier National Park

With over 700 miles of hiking trails, there’s something for everyone, from easy lake walks to challenging mountain climbs. The Highline Trail offers stunning views, while the Avalanche Lake Trail provides a more relaxed hike with wildlife spotting. The park is home to bears, mountain goats, and elk, best seen early mornings or late afternoons.

Going-to-the-Sun Road offers scenic drives with chances to spot wildlife and take in breathtaking views. The park’s lakes, like Lake McDonald, are perfect for fishing, boating, or relaxing. There are several campgrounds, including Apgar and Many Glacier, ideal for camping under the stars. In winter, visitors can enjoy cross-country skiing, snowshoeing, and snowmobiling in a peaceful snow covered landscape.

Located in the heart of the stunning Rocky Mountains, Flathead Lake in Montana is one of the largest and most beautiful freshwater lakes in the United States. It stretches for 28 miles and offers visitors a perfect blend of outdoor activities, stunning natural landscapes, and peaceful moments by the water. The lake is surrounded by picturesque towns like Polson and Kalispell, making it a great place for experiencing all that Montana’s wild beauty has to offer.

Things to Do at Flathead Lake

Flathead Lake is a paradise for outdoor lovers, offering activities like boating, jet skiing, kayaking, paddleboarding, and fishing. You can rent a boat from local marinas and explore the lake’s hidden coves and scenic spots. The area also has beautiful hiking trails, including Wild Horse Island State Park, where you can hike among wildlife and enjoy stunning lake views. For an easier hike, visit Flathead Lake State Park near Bigfork. Fishing is a popular activity, with plenty of spots for lake trout, bass, and pike.

The towns around the lake, like Polson and Kalispell, are perfect for shopping, dining, and sightseeing. Enjoy local wines at Mission Mountain Winery or visit nearby breweries for craft beer. Scenic drives along Highway 93 offer beautiful views and photo opportunities, with Glacier National Park just a short detour away.

Big Sky is a breathtaking destination nestled in the heart of the Rocky Mountains. Known for its stunning natural beauty and outdoor adventure opportunities, Big Sky attracts travelers year round. Whether you’re looking to experience skiing in the winter, hiking in the summer, or just enjoy the serenity of mountain views, Big Sky has everything. This charming town offers a relaxed atmosphere, perfect for a getaway from the hustle and bustle of city life.

Things to Do in Big Sky

Big Sky is a year-round destination offering a range of outdoor activities. In the winter, it’s known for skiing and snowboarding, with over 5,800 acres of terrain. Visitors can also try snowshoeing, snowmobiling, or ice fishing. When the snow melts, Big Sky transforms into a haven for hiking and mountain biking, with trails like the Ousel Falls Trail.

The area is just a short drive from Yellowstone National Park, home to geysers and wildlife. Big Sky is great for wildlife watching, with elk, moose, and bears often spotted. Scenic drives along the Gallatin River offer beautiful views. For thrill-seekers, there are zip-lining and scenic gondola rides up Lone Peak.

Lewis and Clark Caverns State Park, Montana

If you’re looking for a unique adventure in Montana, Lewis and Clark Caverns State Park should be on your list. Named after the famous explorers Meriwether Lewis and William Clark, this state park is a true natural wonder. It’s a place where you can explore beautiful underground caves, enjoy hiking trails, and take in the stunning scenery. Whether you’re a nature lover or someone looking for a new experience, the park offers everything.

Things to Do — Lewis and Clark Caverns State Park

Lewis and Clark Caverns State Park in Montana is a must visit for nature lovers. The park’s main attraction is the guided cave tours, where you can explore stunning underground formations like stalactites and stalagmites. The trails offer varying levels of difficulty, providing beautiful views of the surrounding landscape. Wildlife such as deer and elk can often be spotted along the trails.

After a hike or cave tour, enjoy a relaxing picnic at one of the park’s peaceful spots. The campground offers a great option for those who want to stay overnight and enjoy the outdoors. Whether you’re into hiking, caving, or just relaxing, there’s something for everyone at this beautiful park.

Custer Gallatin National Forest, Montana

Custer Gallatin National Forest spans over 3 million acres and is divided into two regions: the Custer and Gallatin portions. This forest is unique for its diverse landscapes, ranging from tall mountain peaks to expansive valleys and serene lakes. It is one of the most popular outdoor recreation areas in the region, with activities suited to every season. Whether you’re planning a short day trip or a long camping getaway, Custer Gallatin National Forest has everything.

Things to Do — Custer Gallatin National Forest

With over 1,000 miles of hiking trails, including the Lava Lake Trail and Beartooth Highway, it’s a paradise for hikers. The forest has both developed and primitive campsites, perfect for backcountry or more comfortable stays. Fishing is popular in the many lakes, rivers, and streams, including Yellowstone River and Hebgen Lake. Wildlife watchers can spot animals like elk, deer, and even grizzly bears, especially early or late in the day.

In winter, enjoy skiing, snowshoeing, and snowmobiling, especially at Bridger Bowl Ski Area. Cross-country skiing is also popular on groomed trails. Scenic drives, like the Beartooth Highway, offer stunning views of the forest’s beauty. Whether you’re hiking, camping, fishing, or just driving through, the forest has endless opportunities for outdoor fun.

1. When is the best time to visit Montana?

The optimal time to visit Montana depends on your own choices and interests. Summer (June to August) is ideal for exploring national parks and enjoying outdoor activities like hiking and wildlife viewing. Winter (December to February) is perfect for skiing and snowboarding in places like Big Sky Resort. Spring (March to May) and fall (September to November) offer milder weather and fewer crowds, making them great for scenic drives and cultural experiences.

2. What are the best outdoor activities in Montana?

Montana offers a variety of outdoor activities. In the summer, visitors can enjoy hiking, fishing, and wildlife watching in places like Yellowstone National Park and Glacier National Park. In winter, skiing, snowboarding, snowshoeing, and snowmobiling are popular at resorts such as Big Sky and Whitefish Mountain Resort. Montana’s wide open spaces also make it great for camping, horseback riding, and river rafting.

3. What are some family-friendly activities to do in Montana?

Montana has plenty of family-friendly activities, from visiting The Children’s Museum of Bozeman to exploring the hands-on exhibits at the Museum of the Rockies in Bozeman. Families can enjoy outdoor activities like wildlife watching in Yellowstone, or take a scenic drive on the Beartooth Highway. For a fun day trip, head to Lewis and Clark Caverns State Park, where you can tour impressive limestone caves.

4. Are there any historical sites in Montana?

Yes, Montana is home to several historical sites. Fort Benton, once known as the “birthplace of Montana,” offers a glimpse into the state’s frontier past. The Little Bighorn Battlefield National Monument, where the famous Battle of the Little Bighorn took place, is another important historical site. Additionally, Virginia City and Nevada City are well-preserved ghost towns that let visitors step back in time to the gold rush era.

5. What are some top attractions to see in Montana?

Montana has many breathtaking attractions, with Yellowstone National Park being one of the most famous. Visitors also flock to Glacier National Park for its stunning mountain landscapes and hiking trails. Other top spots include the Big Sky Resort, the Museum of the Rockies, and the Beartooth Highway, known for its scenic beauty and picturesque views.

6. Are there any special events or festivals to attend in Montana?

Montana hosts several special events and festivals throughout the year. The Montana State Fair in Great Falls offers concerts, rides, and rodeo events every summer. The Western Art Week in Great Falls is a must for art lovers. The Red Ants Pants Festival in White Sulphur Springs celebrates Montana’s ranching culture with music, dancing, and local food. Additionally, Montana Shakespeare in the Parks puts on outdoor theater performances, offering a unique cultural experience.