Travel Montana Now: the Ultimate Resource for Traveling in Montana

25 Best Places to Visit in Montana: A Local’s 2024 Guide

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Best Places to Go in Montana for Nature, Skiing, Downtown Fun & Much More!

The best places to visit in Montana differ for everyone, but that is what makes Montana so special. There is something for every type of traveler!

25 Best Places to Visit in Montana

  • Bitterroot Valley
  • Glacier National Park
  • Yellowstone National Park
  • Montana Dude Ranch
  • Montana Badlands
  • Bighorn Canyon
  • Flathead Lake
  • Holter Lake / Gates of the Mountains
  • Big Sky Resort
  • Red Lodge / Beartooth Highway
  • Hot Springs
  • Great Falls
  • St. Ignatius / Mission Mountains
  • Little Bighorn Battlefield National Monument
  • Bannack State Park
  • Virginia City
  • Butte’s Mining Past
  • First Peoples Buffalo Jump State Park

If you’re looking to get away and get outside this year, then Montana is the perfect destination for you. However, as the fourth largest state in the United States, it can be hard to narrow down the best places to visit in Montana during your trip. We’re here to help!

We’re Montanans who have explored every part of this state. In this article, we’ve listed out the best places to go in our beloved state. These places are broken into different categories: Nature, Water, Cities, Skiing, History, and Wildlife Viewing.

Of course, most places you can visit in Montana are going to fall into numerous categories. For example, we put Yellowstone National Park under Best Places in Montana for Wildlife Viewing, but let’s face it — Yellowstone could go under practically all of these categories! It’s easily one of the best places to visit in Montana.

So with that out of the way (woo-hoo, we love our national parks, but there’s so much more to Montana!) let’s move onto the best places to visit in Montana, for every type of travel personality.

Top 25 Must-See Places in Montana

Montana has quickly become a coveted travel destination. The state provides epic scenery, crowd-free terrain, a burgeoning food and drink scene, and some of America’s most breathtakingly stunning national parks.

We love all of Montana! Still, there are some spots that stand out. Read on for our top 25 places to visit in Montana.

Best Places to Visit in Montana for Nature Lovers

It’s the beauty of the Montana mountains and plains that draws most people to the state. So let’s start with the best places to visit in Montana for nature… 

1. Bitterroot Valley

Bitterroot Valley is one of the best places to visit in Montana.

One of the main attractions of the Bitterroot Valley is its natural beauty. With the Bitterroot Mountains to the west and the Sapphire Mountains to the east, visitors are surrounded by breathtaking scenery and a variety of outdoor activities to explore.

The valley is home to several national forests and wilderness areas, including the Bitterroot National Forest and the Selway-Bitterroot Wilderness, which offer miles of trails for hiking and backpacking.

In addition to the natural beauty of the area, the Bitterroot Valley has a variety of cultural and historical attractions. Visitors can explore the small towns and communities that dot the valley, each with its own unique character and charm. You’ll find a historic, must-see chapel in Stevensville, art galleries in Hamilton, and a Main Street with a wild west feel in Darby (this is also where the ranch scenes in Yellowstone are filmed ).

2. Glacier National Park

One of the best places to visit in Montana is Glacier National Park and places to hike.

It’s probably no surprise this national park ended up here. Glacier National Park is known for its epic, gravity-defying scenery punctuated by towering mountain peaks, turquoise glacial lakes, and miles upon miles of stellar hiking trails.

Are You Looking For The Best Activity in Glacier National Park? Here are some top-rated tours that make it easy to explore the park and have memorable adventures:

  • Experience the quieter side of Glacier National Park with this Glacier National Park Scenic Float .
  • Have a thrilling day on a Half-Day Glacier National Park Whitewater Rafting Adventure
  • Spot wildlife in its native habitat with a Half Day Scenic Float on the Middle Fork of the Flathead River

Glacier National Park is best experienced when you hit the trail, making this an easy spot on our best places in Montana for nature lovers. It’s also one of the most likely areas to spot a grizzly bear or moose.

Read More: The Best Things to Do in Glacier National Park

3. Yellowstone National Park

Grand Prismatic Spring in Yellowstone National Park is a must-visit place.

With drives, hiking trails, and wide, open plains that make it easy to see wildlife, Yellowstone National Park is one of the best places to visit in Montana for many reasons. However, for many visitors it’s the wildlife that stands out.

While driving through Yellowstone you’re bound to see bison roaming the plains. Wolves, moose, bears, elk, mountain lions, and other animals are also possible to see.

One of the best places to see wildlife in the park is the Lamar Valley, which is located by Yellowstone’s northeast entrance. The gateway to this entrance is Cooke City, MT. And an epic way to get to Cooke City is via the Beartooth Highway – more on that under the Red Lodge entry!

Read More: Best Things to See in Yellowstone National Park

Bonus Place to Visit: West Yellowstone

To maximize your time in the great outdoors and proximity to wildlife when visiting Yellowstone, we recommend staying in West Yellowstone (if you can’t or don’t want to get a lodge within in Yellowstone’s boundaries , of course).

West Yellowstone is a small Montana town right by the west entrance to Yellowstone National Park , which makes it a gateway to some of the best natural wonders in the world. But West Yellowstone also has its own outdoor fun and animal adventures. 

West Yellowstone is home to the Grizzly & Wolf Discovery Center. Visit to see these majestic and often elusive creatures (all rescues) in their natural habitat.  We wrote more about our visit to the center here.

In West Yellowstone , you’ll find the Museum of the Yellowstone, where you can learn more about the flora and fauna inside the park.

West Yellowstone is also close to Big Sky where you can find seemingly endless adventures in every season!

4. Montana Dude Ranch

Cattle drive during a stay at an all-inclusive resort in Montana.

Experience the land and its animals the Montana way — or at least the Montana cowboy way — with a stay at a dude ranch.

You can choose to stay at a small family-run ranch where you’ll get to know the family well. Participate in day to day tasks that will truly give you a taste of what it’s like to live on a working ranch.

Want some pampering? Choose one of the luxury dude ranches like Triple Creek Ranch . You’ll dine on exquisite food, can get spa treatments after horseback rides, and do one-of-a-kind guided adventures.

Read More: The Best Dude Ranches in Montana

5. Montana Badlands

Makoshika State Park aka the Montana Badlands

The Badlands are located in eastern Montana and consist of miles upon miles of flat sandstone rocks stacked upon each other. This forms incredible rock stacks and structures against the background of the plains.

Many of the rocks look precariously stacked on top of each other. That combined with the barren surroundings, give the badlands an almost otherworldly appearance in parts. 

For some of the most scenic views of Montana’s badlands, head to Makoshika State Park off of Interstate 94 near Glendive. While you’re there, also make sure to check out the fun dinosaur museums in the town and park. Some of the world’s most incredible dinosaur fossils are from this area.

Read More: The Ultimate Glendive Travel Guide

The Terry Badlands near Terry, MT (a short drive southwest of Glendive) are also known for mesmerizing hoodoos and other rock formations.

Fun Water Destinations in Montana

Love water sports or gazing at serene water framed by gorgeous vistas? Montana is definitely the place for you then. Usually known for its mountains, Montana also has incredible water features, from glistening alpine lakes to rushing river wonders. Next up are our favorite outdoor spots to visit in Montana for some water fun.

6. Bighorn Canyon

Red rock and limestone in Bighorn Canyon in Eastern Montana.

Bighorn Canyon is easily one of Montana’s best hidden gems . This massive water reservoir is home to some of the most mesmerizing boating around.

The Yellowtail Dam created this massive canyon. The sheer size of the red-tinged cliffs that surround you as your boat or pontoon slices through the calm water is awe-inspiring.

You can easily find parts of Bighorn Canyon that you’ll have pretty much all to yourself. Waterski on calm water without worrying about wakes from other boats, or just relax on your pontoon and enjoy the peace and quiet. 

Read More: Insider’s Guide to Montana’s Best Kept Secret: Bighorn Canyon

7. Flathead Lake

Flathead Lake in Montana seen from the south.

Flathead Lake is located in northwestern Montana, about 70 miles north of Missoula. It’s considered one of the most picturesque lakes in Montana, with mountain peaks visible in the distance. Around the lake are charming little towns and cherry tree orchards producing famously sweet, delicious cherries. 

A good base for starting your Flathead adventures is either Polson on the south end of the lake or Bigfork on the northeast end. There are boat and watersport outfitters located around the lake where you can rent equipment. You can also bring your own and use the public dock and boat launch in one of the six Flathead Lake State Parks .

A boat ride or paddle over to Wild Horse Island is also an enchanting way to spend a day on Flathead Lake. This unique state park has a loop trail that takes you through island woods with water vistas and the chance to see the five wild horses who live on the island.

When we were there we didn’t see the horses on our hike, but did see the herd of bighorn sheep that also lives on the island.

Read More: Guide to the Best Flathead Lake Activities to Do on Your Trip

8. Swan Lake

Swan Lake, a hidden gem in Montana

If Flathead Lake is too big and busy for you, head to sleepy Swan Lake, less than thirty minutes from Bigfork on the northeast corner of Flathead Lake.

Swan Lake has an excellent day use area that is easy to access. It also has a low fee to visit for the day. Park and be at at a peaceful beach and picnic table in mere moments. Relax by the shore or head out on your paddle board or kayak.

Or simply go for a swim or sit on the shoreline and enjoy the beauty of this peaceful lake nestled against the backdrop of Flathead National Forest. My kids especially enjoyed splashing around by the beach even though the water was pretty cold! We brought wetsuits for them to wear.

9. Holter Lake / Gates of the Mountains

Gates of the Mountains near Helena, Montana

Follow in the canoe path of the Lewis and Clark expedition with a boating adventure in Holter Lake. Holter Lake is surrounded by the pristine Holter Wilderness Area. Part of the Holter Reservoir was created by a dam erected in the Missouri River.

You can boat and dock by campgrounds and trailheads after you glide through the infamous Gates of the Mountains. It’s called “Gates of the Mountains” because that is what Lewis said as they were going through the water pass.

No boat of your own? Sign up for a boat tour that takes you through this part of the reservoir. The tour is also a great way to learn about the area’s history.

Read More: Ultimate Guide to Visiting Holter Lake and the Gates of the Mountains

Love racing down the mountainside in the middle of winter? Us too! Next up are a couple of our favorite places in Montana to visit in winter for snow adventures.

10. Big Sky Resort 

Ski view of the mountainside of Lone Peak at Big Sky Resort in Montana.

The preeminent ski resort in Montana is massive Big Sky Mountain Resort. It’s home to a number of challenging runs that make Big Sky Mountain a ski destination exciting for experienced skiers and snowboarders. Yet it also has plenty of trails for beginners and is home to an excellent ski school.

Plus, the views you’ll get from the top of the ski runs are stunningly gorgeous.

You can stay right in Big Sky Resort at one of the ski-in, ski-out condos and townhomes, or rent a nearby vacation rental. Another popular option is to stay in Bozeman, which is about an hour’s drive away.

Read More: Insider’s Guide for All the Best Places to Ski in Montana

11. Red Lodge / Beartooth Highway

Top of the mountain at Red Lodge Ski Resort, one of the best places in Montana to go skiing.

If you want to ski where the locals ski (at least those who live in Billings and eastern Montana), head to Red Lodge instead of Big Sky in 2023.

You won’t find any of the pomp and circumstance Big Sky is sometimes known for due to it glitzy clientele. Instead you’ll find a laidback mountain town with one Main Street of restaurants and bars and a smattering of hotels. 

Summer in Red Lodge Tip: Red Lodge is also a popular destination in non-ski seasons. Mostly because it’s the start of the incredible Beartooth Highway Drive. This scenic drive leads to the northeast entrance of Yellowstone National Park and has some of the best mountain views in the country. You might see some mountain goats, too!

Plus, even is summer there’s a good chance you’ll see snow at the top of the pass. There’s even a ski run there in the summer, Beartooth Basin , that operates two platter lifts. We only recommend skiing here for advanced skiers, but even if you’re not skiing, it’s cool to watch people gliding down the mountainside seemingly in the middle of nowhere during the height of summer.

Read More: Winter Guide for Red Lodge Mountain

12. Hot Springs

Quinns Hot Springs Waterfall

Soak outside in one of Montana’s blissful hot springs. Montana makes it easy to do so at various hot spring resorts and facilities. Our favorites are:

  • Quinn’s Hot Springs
  • Chico Hot Springs
  • Bozeman Hot Springs

Read More: Best Hot Springs in Montana

Must-Visit Cities in Montana

Montana is known for nature and wildlife, but it also has a cosmopolitan side, which you can experience in these cities. All of which are still located close to gorgeous scenery and outdoor activities.

Landscape and mountains shot of the city skyline of Helena, Montana.

A visit to Helena takes you to Montana’s state capital, a gorgeous city located right in the mountains. It’s home to a university, the stately capitol building, and a downtown area brimming with historic homes and buildings. 

Our favorite place to hang out in Helena is along the Walking Mall. This is a pedestrian-only street in downtown that has an actual creek running through it. My kids love playing in it, while I enjoy watching them play in it from the patio of Windbag Saloon & Grill with a local beer in my hand. 🙂

Cross the road at the end of the Walking Mall and you’re at Reeder’s Alley, which is a really cool historic area that has been preserved to reflect the turn of the 20th century. It’s also where the visitor center is so you can get more ideas on what to do in and around Helena while there, such as going to the nearby Flathead National Forest or other local hiking trails.

Read More: Ultimate Guide for Things to Do in Helena

14. Billings

Beer Tasting Along Billings Brew Trail in Montana.

Billings doesn’t get enough clout as a tourist destination, in our opinion. It’s situated right in between Montana’s massive mountains to the west and the rolling farmland to the east.

(In fact, we love Billings so much we wrote a book about it, 100 Things to Do in Billings Before You Die , which you can get at local booksellers and from Amazon, Target, or Barnes & Noble.)

Billings often gets earmarked as just a starting off point or ending point if accessing Montana via the Billings International Airport. 

However, it would be a shame to overlook Billings on your trip since it has a burgeoning food and craft beer scene plus historic attractions. Despite being Montana’s largest city, it has still retained a small town vibe, making it a welcoming place to explore while in Montana.

Some of the top attractions in Billings include the Billings Beer Trail , the Yellowstone Kelly Memorial atop the rims (rocky cliffs on the north end of Billings that gives the city a beautiful frame) and the Old Town Historic District where you’ll find a number of old homes and museums. 

Read More: All the Top Things to Do in Billings, Montana

15. Bozeman

Downtown Bozeman

Beautiful Bozeman is nestled in the gorgeous Gallatin Valley in southern Montana and is surrounded by mountains. It’s home to Montana’s busiest airport and provides easy access to Big Sky Resort for skiing and snowboarding. Bozeman is also a short drive down to Yellowstone National Park. 

Bozeman is a great city in its own right, though, and shouldn’t just be used as a gateway to the rest of Montana. Dedicate a day or two (or more) to spend in Bozeman and get a feel for why it’s one of the best places to live in Montana — and some say, all of the USA! 

Bozeman has a number of craft breweries and distilleries, delicious restaurants that focus on local ingredients, and a fun downtown area with bars and nightlife. It’s also close to epic hiking at Hyalite Canyon which you can follow up with a relaxing soak at Bozeman Hot Springs.

In addition, Bozeman is the location of the esteemed Museum of the Rockies , which is one of the best dinosaur museums in the whole country.

Museum of the Rockies is a must-see for anyone who thinks dinosaurs are cool (and isn’t that pretty much everyone??). You’ll see a massive skeleton of a Tyrannosaurus Rex and a Triceratops plus learn about the paleontology work done in Montana that unearths these prehistoric dinosaur bones. 

Read More: Best Things to Do in Bozeman

16. Whitefish

Whitefish is a beautifully situated town located in the northwestern part of the state, nestled at the base of the impressive Whitefish Mountain Resort with the gorgeous alpine Whitefish Lake flanking the north edge of the town. With its stunning natural beauty, rich history, and vibrant culture, Whitefish is a must-visit destination for anyone exploring Montana.

One of the top attractions in Whitefish is the aforementioned Whitefish Mountain Resort, which offers a wide variety of outdoor activities year-round. In the winter, visitors can enjoy skiing and snowboarding on the resort’s world-class slopes. When visiting Whitefish in the summer , visitors can enjoy hiking, mountain biking, and zip-lining up at the mountain resort, or swimming and paddle boarding down the mountain at Whitefish Lake.

The town itself is also full of unique shops, delicious restaurants, and lively bars, making it the perfect place to unwind after a day of adventure. Whitefish is also home to a thriving arts and culture scene. The local community is known for its support of the arts, with numerous galleries and theaters showcasing the work of local artists and performers.

Read More: Best Things to Do in Whitefish

17. Missoula

Clark Fork River and Brennans Wave eby Caras Park in Missoula

Missoula is one of the most beloved cities in Montana for a number of reasons. Its beauty is what first pulls people in.

Surrounded by towering mountain peaks, Missoula is breathtaking to behold. The city is a short drive from Lolo National Forest and Flathead Lake. Just a bit farther north and you’ll find yourself in Whitefish and Glacier National Park. 

Top things to do in Missoula include taking a ride around the hand-carved Carousel for Missoula , going for a stroll along the River Walk, dining at the hearty restaurants and craft breweries in town. Beyond downtown, you can escape to the Clark Fork River for some whitewater rafting, fly fishing, or kayaking. 

Read More: Top 10 Things to Do in Missoula

18. Lewistown

great places to visit in montana

Lewistown is a charming small town located in the heart of the state, surrounded by rolling hills, sprawling ranches, and endless natural beauty. Visitors to Lewistown are drawn to its laid-back atmosphere, friendly locals, and abundance of outdoor activities.

One of the top attractions in Lewistown is the Upper Missouri River Breaks National Monument, which offers stunning views of the rugged landscape and opportunities for hiking, camping, fishing, and boating. History buffs will also appreciate the town’s rich heritage, with several historic sites and museums showcasing the area’s Native American and pioneer past.

In addition to its natural and cultural attractions, Lewistown also boasts a thriving arts scene, with galleries, studios, and annual events like the Montana Winter Fair and the Chokecherry Festival. Whether you’re in the mood for adventure, relaxation, or inspiration, Lewistown is a great place to visit and experience the best of Montana.

Read More: Best Things to Do in Lewistown

19. Great Falls

view of walkway at river

Great Falls is a hidden gem surrounded by stunning natural beauty including the Missouri River, the Rocky Mountains, and the vast prairie lands of Montana. Visitors to Great Falls can experience the best of both worlds, with easy access to outdoor adventures and city amenities.

One of the top attractions in Great Falls is the Lewis and Clark Interpretive Center, which tells the story of the famous explorers who passed through the area on their expedition to the Pacific Northwest. The center features interactive exhibits, artifacts, and a replica of the boat used by the expedition.

Another must-see attraction is the C.M. Russell Museum. C.M. Russell is arguable Montana’s most famous artist. He’s one of the world’s most beloved Western painters, known for his paintings depicting the frontier and Native American life in the late 1800s and early 1900s. An extensive collection of his works are housed in the museum in Great Falls. His old log home is also located on the grounds.

Outdoor enthusiasts will also find plenty to do in Great Falls, with hiking, fishing, and boating opportunities available in the nearby mountains and rivers. The Giant Springs State Park is an especially popular spot for picnicking, bird watching, and fishing. The park features a natural spring that produces over 156 million gallons of crystal-clear water every day, making it one of the largest freshwater springs in the country.

Read More: Complete Guide to the Best Things to Do in Great Falls

By the way…

Before we get to the rest of this list, quick break to make sure you know about our First Timer’s Guide to Montana travel guidebook. If you’re feeling overwhelmed or want some expert advice for Montana trip planning all in one place, this 139-page guidebook is for you! Click here to learn more about it!

Montana Guidebook

…and now back to the best places to visit in Montana list!

Historic Places to Visit in Montana

History abounds in Montana, and here are some of the historic places that stand out that you should add to your Montana bucket list.

20. St. Ignatius / Mission Mountains

St Ignatius Mission Inside

A historic place to visit between Missoula and Flathead Lake is the town of St. Ignatius on the Flathead Indian Reservation.

St. Ignatius is home to the similarly named St. Ignatius Mission, which is a popular tourist attraction in this area.

St. Ignatius Mission is a Catholic Church that dates back to the 1890s. When visited, it must be seen from the inside. That’s where you’ll see the 58 original paintings on the ceiling painted by Brother Joseph Carignano. There is also a museum next to the mission.

To learn more about the history of the area, head to the Ninepipes Museum of Early Montana in St. Ignatius where you can learn more about the importance the land has played to the native people of Montana throughout the past centuries. 

St. Ignatius is also near the Mission Mountains, which provides visitors with opportunity to partake in a number of outdoor activities. Popular ones include rock climbing, ice climbing, river rafting, and boating.

21. Little Bighorn Battlefield National Monument

Little Bighorn Battlefield National Monument is a historic site located in Southeast Montana. The site is dedicated to preserving the memory of the Battle of Little Bighorn, which took place in 1876. This battle is also known as Custer’s Last Stand, as it saw the defeat of General George Custer and his troops by the Lakota Sioux and Cheyenne warriors. The battlefield is a somber, yet interesting place to visit because of its historical significance and natural beauty of its surroundings.

Visitors to Little Bighorn Battlefield can explore the site and learn about the events leading up to the battle, the battle itself, and its aftermath. The visitor center features exhibits and artifacts that give insight into the lives of the soldiers and Native Americans who fought in the battle. Guided tours are also available, led by knowledgeable rangers who can provide more in-depth information about the site and its history.

In addition to its historical significance, Little Bighorn Battlefield National Monument is also a beautiful natural area. The site is home to a variety of wildlife, including deer and prairie dogs. The landscape is dotted with rolling hills and wide open spaces, offering visitors a chance to experience the beauty of the American West.

The 1-mile Deep Ravine Trail is a good hike to do to soak in these views while learning more about the battle and the Native American history in the area. The site is also a great place for hiking, with several trails that offer stunning views of the battlefield and surrounding area. 

Bonus Site: While in this region, also head to Pompeys Pillar, a large sandstone rock tower that has a visitor center about the Lewis and Clark Expedition. Why here? It’s the only known spot where one of the explorers left a mark of their identity: William’s signature etched into the rock face. Read more about Pompeys Pillar here.

22. Bannack State Park

Bannack Ghost Town

Located in the southwest corner of Montana, Bannack State Park offers visitors a unique glimpse into the past. The park is home to the ghost town of Bannack, which was once a bustling gold rush town in the late 1800s. Today, visitors can explore the well-preserved buildings and artifacts of this historic town, giving them a glimpse into what life was like in the Old West.

Aside from its fascinating historical significance, Bannack State Park also offers plenty of outdoor recreational opportunities. Visitors can hike or bike on the park’s trails, fish in the nearby streams, or camp overnight in the park’s campground. The park is also home to a number of special events throughout the year, including living history days, ghost tours, and gold panning demonstrations.

23. Virginia City

General store in Virginia City, MT

While Bannack is cool and spookily deserted, if you want to really feel what it was like to live during the mining boom period, head to Virginia City. Located about 90 minutes east of Bannack State Park, Virginia City is also an old mining town that was once deserted…but this time an initiative in the 1960s refurbished many of the buildings along Virginia City’s Main Street. The buildings now reflect almost exactly as they would have been set up in 1890. Their is a bank, carpenter, hat store, general store, pharmacy, and many more shops all available for you to peer into and glimpse the past.

Virginia City is also where Montana’s oldest bar is located, which you can still sidle up to and order a beer or stiffer cocktail.

Just a couple minutes down the road from Virginia City is Nevada City, MT. This is another little ghost town has abandoned old buildings and homes with informational signs about what the town was like back during the gold rush.

24. Butte’s Mining Past

Historic Butte, Montana. Street in Uptown District of Butte is one of the best places to visit in Montana for mining history.

Located in Central Montana, Butte is located between Missoula and Bozeman right off I-94. As a result, most road trippers drive right through this historic city or just stop to get gas.

This is definitely doing yourself a disservice!

Butte has an incredible history and was once nicknamed the “Richest Hill on Earth.” This moniker was due to the extensive minerals (and resulting riches) its massive mining industry unearthed in the early 1900s.

Today, the mining industry is gone, but you can still see remnants of it, both in downtown Butte and on the outskirts of town.

In downtown Butte, tour the gorgeous Victorian homes from the mining town’s heyday. Beyond the town, you can see the Anaconda Smelter Stack jutting up into the sky. Drive up the hill to view acidic Berkeley Pit, a sad reminder of the toll mining has on the earth.

Read More: The Best Things to Do in Butte

25. First Peoples Buffalo Jump State Park

First Peoples Buffalo Jump State Park is a fascinating and historically significant site located in Montana. It was once used by Native American tribes as a hunting ground for bison. The bison would be driven over the edge of the cliff, providing an abundant source of food and supplies for the tribes.

Today, visitors to the park can explore the area and learn about its history through informational signs and plaques. The park also features an interactive visitor center, which provides additional information about the site and its significance. Visitors can even watch a short film that explores the history of the buffalo jump and its importance to Native American culture.

One of the highlights of First Peoples Buffalo Jump State Park is the hiking trail that leads to the top of the cliff. This trail offers breathtaking views of the surrounding landscape, and it is a great way to experience the site from a unique perspective. Along the way, visitors can explore the remnants of ancient hunting structures and learn more about the history of the site.

First Peoples Buffalo Jump Park is located in the town of Ulm, a short drive southwest of Great Falls. If you’re sticking to southwest Montana, there’s also a buffalo jump site in the small town of Three Forks called Madison Buffalo Jump State Park.

No matter what type of vacation you’re looking for, these best places in Montana to visit are epic. Each place will have you experiencing Montana in an epic way with gorgeous scenery.

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Global Grasshopper – travel inspiration for the road less travelled

Top 20 Most Beautiful Places to Visit in Montana 

Otherwise known as Big Sky Country, I personally think the diverse and dazzling Western state does live up to the hype! This is a seriously gorgeous place, home to a large and pristine wilderness preserve that crosses over into Canada.

It’s a tough choice as pretty much all the scenery here is jaw-dropping, but here are my favorite spots…

1. Glacier National Park

Glacier National Park

Aptly called the “Crown of the Continent”, the Glacier National Park is home to more than one million acres of beautiful and unspoiled terrain.

The scenic wilderness area encompasses jaw-dropping scenery such as spectacular lakes, glacier-carved peaks, pristine forests, and alpine meadows.

It also forms part of the world’s first International Peace Park , so is perfect for both adventurous souls and solitude seekers. I would suggest gazing in awe at the huge glacier and spotting mountain goats amid the gorgeous scenery at Grinnell Glacier.

Drive along the breathtaking scenic mountain road of the Sun Highway which passes through more than fifty miles of unique terrain and then paddle across the pristine waters of Lake McDonald. 

See the beauty of Glacier National Park in 4k…

YouTube video

My must-do highlights

  • Drive to Logan Pass , the highest point in the park that can be reached by car for the best panoramic views.
  • Hike to the Grinnell Glacier where you will find stunning waterfalls, vibrant emerald lakes and beautiful scenery along the way.
  • Take a boat tour across the Lake McDonald Valley for a more relaxed way to admire the surrounding landscapes.

2. American Prairie Reserve

American Prairie Reserve

The American Prairie Reserve is located on Montana’s Great Plains and I honestly think one of the most stunning spots to explore in Montana.

Stretching over north and south of the Missouri River, the massive conservation area preserves the natural mixed-grass prairie ecosystem along with the native wildlife which includes deer, elk, pronghorn, burrowing owls, bison, and bighorn sheep. 

The area is another beautiful gem in the Montana Tourism crown. Dive into the history at the Great Plains Dinosaur Museum or visit the restored Prairie Union Schoolhouse.

Wake up to the awesome free-roaming bison and chirping birds – this place will force you to slow down and observe the beauty of the prairie ecosystem. Roam around freely or hike or bike, this is a truly magical place that nature lovers will absolutely adore. 

  • Stop by the National Discovery Center to pick up a map and learn about the vision for the area.
  • Explore across the terrain on a mountain bike , where trails include obstacles such as steep hills, soft sand, and ruts.
  • Stay till it’s dark to witness the sky come alive with bright stars, if you’re lucky you might even see the Milky Way.

3. Rocky Mountains

Rocky Mountains Montana

Home to over a hundred ranges in Central Montana, the Rocky Mountains run along the western part of the state of Montana. The rugged and rustic charm of the Rockies is the best place to seek both solace and outdoor adventures.

Snuggled in the Madison Range of Montana, the Big Sky ski resort is enveloped with mountains in every direction and I think is definitely worth a visit especially if you’re a fan of winter sports. 

Another charming destination located at the doorsteps of Glacier National Park is the Whitefish Resort Mountain which is home to a shimmering lake, lofty peaks, stunning trails, and a quirky downtown area. 

  • Watch a breathtaking sunrise at Dream Lake before heading on to reach Emerald Lake.
  • Visit the Coffee on The Rocks café for beautiful views whilst enjoying a hot drink and light snack.
  • During the winter months, explore through the area with cross-country skiing , a magical activity to do in the snow.

4. Yellowstone National Park

Yellowstone National Park

One of North America’s most loved national parks, the world-famous Yellowstone National Park sprawls over a huge 3,500-square mile space. The beautiful landscapes sit atop a volcanic hot spot which makes it extra special offering some truly unique landscapes. 

Home to many species of wildlife, dramatic canyons, rivers, hot springs, and gushing geysers, the park is mostly located in Wyoming but crosses over to Montana and Idaho. 

  • Visit  the magical waterfalls at the spectacular Grand Canyon of Yellowstone.
  • Take a rafting ride down the river for some exciting and adrenaline-pumping fun.
  • Go for a hike through one of the popular trails to admire gorgeous views overlooking the landscape.

Bozeman Montana

Located in the Gallatin County of southwest Montana, the city of Bozeman is ranked amongst the most livable places in the US and for many good reasons.

I love the dramatic mountains, impressive wildlife and cultural scenes here as well as the opportunities to go hiking, mountain biking, rock climbing, skiing, and backcountry exploring. 

Ski on the Bridger Bowl area, raft on the Gallatin River or witness the stunning fall colors of the nearby Yellowstone Park, the city of Bozeman is a true Montana treasure! 

  • Have a go at learning how to rock climb at either an indoor wall or on the outdoor rocks.
  • Explore the town in a unique way with a scavenger hunt , where you will be given fun tasks to complete.
  • Soak in one of the best hot springs in Montana, the perfect way to end a busy day.

6. West Yellowstone

West Montana - one of the best small towns to visit in Montana

West Yellowstone is one of the best small towns in southern Montana. It’s a gateway to the world-famous Yellowstone National Park but is a wonderful tourist attraction in its own right and is a mecca for outdoor enthusiasts in both summer and winter.

The charming Montana town is quaint and easy on the eye and is home to some interesting independent shops and restaurants as well as a theatre and plenty of places to stay.

Highlights of West Yellowstone include the Yellowstone River ( the last “free-flowing” river in the country), the popular Playmill Theatre, the beautiful Earthquake Lake, and The Museum of Yellowstone. During the winter I would recommend snowmobiling as a fun Montana activity to get involved in!

  • Visit the Museum of Yellowstone located in the old train station to learn about the history of the area.
  • Have a thrilling adventure on a snowmobile during the winter season months.
  • Check out the array of local restaurants and cafes across the town, find your favorite one and have a delicious meal.

7. Paradise Valley

Paradise Valley Montana

Close enough to Yellowstone yet far away from the crowds, the Paradise Valley is dwarfed by the towering Absaroka Range on the east and Gallatin Range on the west.

Located in southwest Montana, the Paradise Valley is Montana’s premier vacation destination. With the gushing waters of the Yellowstone River, snow-capped mountains, a crisp blue sky, and beautiful ranch land, Paradise Valley deserves a place on this list!

I would highly recommend soaking in the naturally warm waters at the Chico Hot Springs or La Duke Hot Springs or hiking along the breathtaking trails! 

  • Watch the magnificent eruption of the Old Faithful , well known for being one of the best sights to see.
  • Relax at the Chico Hot Springs located in the heart of the area and surrounded by lush greenery.
  • Have a go at disc golf , an unusual activity that many people haven’t heard of.

8. Livingston

Livingston- best cities in Montana

This lovely town in SouthWestern Montana enjoys a truly gorgeous position nestled on the banks of the Yellowstone River between the rugged Crazy and Absaroka mountain ranges. The town which dates from the late 1880s is quiet and charming but its striking mountain backdrop is truly jaw-dropping.

The main focus here is for outdoor activities, but its historic buildings have drawn many notable visitors over the years and have even been featured in popular films A River Runs Through It , The Horse Whisperer, and even Marlboro advertisements.

There are some good accommodation options as well as museums, art galleries and restaurants to explore. Popular things to do here include cross-country skiing, river rafting, hiking or just kicking back and taking in the wonderful scenery!

  • Watch live music at the cool venue, The Attic, a restored historic building.
  • Take a picnic to enjoy at Sacajawea Park after having a stroll through the gardens.
  • Check out the art galleries throughout the town filled with vibrant pieces, and the art walk during summer.

9. Beartooth Highway

Beartooth Highway - best places to visit in Montana

On the Beartooth Highway, you can experience one of the most beautiful road trips in Montana. Located on the northeast entrance of the Yellowstone National Park, this highway offers some truly wonderful scenery.

The mesmerizing views include the majestic Absaroka and Beartooth Mountains, countless glacial lakes, pristine waterfalls, and high alpine plateaus. 

Camp around the wide wilderness or hike across the broad plateaus, the Beartooth highway offers a rare opportunity to explore the untouched landscapes of Montana’s alpine country. Every wilderness lover’s dream, this 68-mile panoramic drive is a spectacular journey of a lifetime! 

  • Soak up the picturesque scenery as you drive along this gorgeous highway.
  • Make sure to stop off at several of the viewpoints to capture Instagrammable shots overlooking the landscape.
  • Grab a souvenir to remember the trip at the Top of The World Store.

10. Montana State Capitol 

Montana State Capitol

Located on a gentle slope and surrounded by beautiful lawns, you’ll find the state capital of Montana. One of the best things to see in Montana is the majestic state capitol of Montana was completed in 1902 and resides in Helena, the capital of Montana and one of the best cities to explore in the state.

Outside the building is comprised of granite and exquisite sandstone and inside it houses the Montana state legislature. The prominent feature of the Capitol includes the attractive rotunda with four circular paintings depicting the people of Montana’s early history.

Sitting atop the copper-based Capitol dome is the Lady Liberty or the Montana statue. Visit and enjoy viewing the beautiful murals, stained glass, and marble preserving the early history of the Treasure State.

  • Grab a brochure on your way in to experience a self-guided tour around the building.
  • Admire the stunning murals, stained glass and marble that have been preserved from the historic past.
  • Be amazed by the art located throughout this landmark.

11. City Beach

Whitefish Lake Montana

Located in Whitefish this wonderful place offers seven miles of sandy shorelines surrounding the south end of Whitefish Lake. It’s a much-loved hang-out area complete with a designated swimming area, kayak, and paddleboard rentals (during the summer), picnic tables, and gazebos. 

I would recommend going for a swim in crystal clear water or just lazing around on the beach, all with the amazing backdrop of beautiful mountains.

  • On a hot day, take a dip in the refreshing crystal-clear waters to cool off.
  • Rent a kayak or paddleboard to spend some time out floating on the ocean.
  • Pack a picnic to enjoy on the sandy shores and spend the whole day relaxing.

12. Waterton-Glacier International Peace Park

Waterton-Glacier International Peace Park 

The Waterton Glacier International Peace Park is a World Heritage Site and a wonderful example of friendly Canada and USA relations. A union of the Glacier National Park and the Waterton National Park of Canada, this is the first-ever global peace park.

Here you can expect exceptional mountain scenery, glacial landforms, crystal clear lakes, abundant wildlife, and distinctive climate which make both the national parks wonderful places to explore. A little slice of paradise, the park is home to travelers seeking both solitude and adventure.

The park also features dark night skies free from a lot of light pollution and has even received a Gold Tier Designation with provisional status from the International Dark Sky Association. 

  • Rent a bike from the town to explore along the roads that go through the scenic park.
  • Hike up to Bertha Falls to witness stunning views overlooking the landscape across this wonderful area.
  • Go on a boat tour and cruise down Waterton Lake , a more relaxed way to admire the surroundings.

13. Conrad Mansion

Conrad Mansion Montana

A beautifully preserved mansion in Kalispell, the Conrad Mansion Museum reflects the luxurious Norman-style architecture and the lifestyle in the Pacific Northwest. Built in 1895, the Conrad Mansion was the home of renowned businessman Charles E. Conrad.

A dreamy mansion in the backdrop of Montana wilderness, the Conrad Mansion overlooks the flathead valley and Swan mountain range. Tour the 26 rooms with diamond-paned, Tiffany stained glass windows with the original family furnishings along with the landscaped gardens and original drystone fence. 

  • Take a guided tour of the 26-roomed mansion and discover the history behind how the Conrad family had a big impact on Montana.
  • Stroll through the gorgeous gardens surrounding the property which feature six large flower beds filled with color.

14. Helena National Forest

Helena National Forest

This is a stunning natural area located in west-central Montana. The wonderful Helena National Forest covers a vast expanse of 984,558 acres.

Broken into several separate sections, the Big Belt Mountains dominate the eastern region while the Scapegoat wilderness and the Elkhorn Mountains form the west and south border of the National Forest.

A mix of grass, sagebrush lowlands, and shaded groves, the park also offers camping in designated areas. Covering the Gates of the Mountain Wilderness Area and a portion of the Scapegoat Wilderness Area, the National Forest is a little slice of paradise for naturalists and photographers.

  • Spend the night in one of the rentals available at the campgrounds located throughout the forest.
  • Have some fun out on the water with a bit of jet skiing, tubing and water skiing.
  • With thousands of miles of hiking trails , find one best suited to you and enjoy exploring this gorgeous area.

15. Wild Horse Island State Park

Wild Horse Island State Park

The largest primitive island on Flathead Lake, the Wild Horse Island State Park is only accessible by water. For centuries this beautiful island was used as pasture land by the Salish-Kootenai Indians to keep the horses from getting stolen.

Full of pine forests, incredible trails, and wildlife watching, here you can catch a glimpse of the wild horses that still inhabit this park. A designated state park since 1987, Horse Island’s 2,200-acre beautiful state park offers swimming, hiking, boating, and kayaking. 

  • Admire the picturesque landscapes as you ride over to the island by boat, and get your camera ready to capture some great shots.
  • Go for a swim in the refreshing waters on a hot summer’s day, or kayak along if the weather is a bit cooler.
  • Walk through the pine forests via the 4 miles of trails or if you’re feeling adventurous explore the off-trail areas too.

16. Gates of the Mountains Wilderness

Gates of the Mountains Wilderness

Out there in the lofty hills, the legendary Missouri River carves a path through towering sandstone cliffs which were once named the Gates of the Mountains by Meriwether Lewis (an American explorer, soldier, and politician).

Encompassing a wide area of 28,465 acres, the wilderness is managed by the Helena National Forest.

The Montana beauty spot is known for its prominent grey cliffs, an ancient lake, high meadows, narrow gorges, and open forests and they also offer an excellent opportunity to spot bighorn sheep and mountain goats up close.

Hike along the Refrigerator Canyon or camp on the Bear Prairie, the scenic gates promise pristine natural beauty galore! 

  • Visit the unique point of Refrigerator Canyon which acts as a wind funnel perfect to explore on a hot day.
  •  Head over to Holter Lake where you can enjoy a range of different water sports.
  • If you’re looking to spend more than a day in this area, camping overnight is a great idea and experience.

17. Blodgett Canyon

Blodgett Canyon Montana

When traveling in Montana if you’re anything like me you will want to find the best hiking spots and I honestly think this one of the best.

Nestled in southwestern Montana, the Blodgett Canyon – which was carved out by ice age glaciers – is beautifully positioned in the middle of the Bitterroot Mountain Range.

It features more than two dozen scenic canyons, steeply carved granite mountains, meandering valleys, and moraines.  Known for its wall climbing spots and excellent hiking trails, the Blodgett Canyon provides one of the best scenic hikes in Montana surrounded by truly spectacular landscapes. 

  • Hike to the magnificent overlook for dramatic views of the canyon.
  • A favorite spot for climbing , stopping at the local outdoor shop for some tips is a must-do.
  • For those who love mountain biking, ride along the 6-mile round trip as many times as you like.

18. Moss Mansion

Moss Mansion Montana

Head to the Montana city of Billings and seek out this wonderful red-stoned Moss Mansion Museum . I’m a big fan of this place which was once home to the wealthy Moss family, the stunning mansion was designed by Henry Janeway Hardenbergh in 1905.

The high-end interiors, walls with gold threading, marble fireplace, and beautiful paintings are a perfect example of early American residential architecture.

Still intact with the original items of the home, the mansion is a doorway to the unique architecture of the past. Listed as a National Historic Place, the mansion has also appeared in many period films over the years.

Today it’s managed by the Billings Preservation Society and the museum hosts a variety of cultural events all year round.

  • Admire the gorgeous and upscale interiors within the property.
  • Check out what events are being hosted at the mansion and grab a ticket to go.
  • Take a tour around this National Historic Place to learn about its history.

19. Lolo Trail

Wild Goose Island Lookout

Described by Lewis and Clark as the most challenging yet majestic portion of their journey, the Lolo Trail is not only of immense significance in US history, but it is also one of the top places to visit in Montana. Go hiking or mountain biking for miles on one of the most famous trails in the United States.

You can see the Lewis and Clark camps such as 13-Mile, Sinque Hole, Lonesome Cove and others and stop off at the visitor center to get practical information as well as historical insight into the Lewis and Clark and Native American trails.

  • Enjoy a thrilling ride through the trails on a mountain bike to cover more ground and see the stunning scenery.
  • Take a picnic and have a break at one of the designated areas whilst being surrounded by the tranquil nature.
  • Explore this location on foot and discover the magic within the forests.

20. Whitefish Mountain Resort

Whitefish Mountain Resort

Big Mountain in northwestern Montana is home to one of the top destinations in the state. Whitefish Mountain Resort has hosted its fair share of championships and has provided training slopes for many US Olympic athletes such as Andrea Mead, Tommy Moe, and others.

Located in Flathead County, near Going-to-the-Sun Road and Glacier National Park, the town of Whitefish is famous for its world-class skiing, but it also boasts a freshwater lake that is a popular Montana travel destination for those who like boating or simply taking in the spectacular views.

  • Sour through the sky on a zipline tour to witness a bird’s eye view overlooking the lands.
  • With over 3,000 acres of snow-covered terrain in the winter, skiing or snowboarding is a must-do activity.
  • Slow down with a scenic chair lift that takes you up to wonderful areas across the resort.

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Emma Clair Kelly

Emma-Clair Ni Clearaigh – writer and photographer

With itchy feet, an inquisitive nature and an ardent wanderlust, Emma Clair has always been a traveller at heart. Hailing from the Emerald Isle she calls a small coastal town near Dublin home, but has lived in a few countries including Saigon, Vietnam where she resided for over a year, now she balances travel and travel writing with teaching and a passion for vintage interior design. She counts supping on Bloody Marys on a rooftop in Manhattan, downing Singapore slings at the Raffles Hotel, daring a paraglide on the Grand Cayman, spending an exotic Christmas in Malaysia and exploring the Angkor Wat, Cambodia as her all time favourite travel moments. Although, she’ll always have a special place in her heart for the city where she makes her annual pilgrimages – Paris, her true city of lights. Find Emma-Clair on Instagram or Facebook .

Hotel Reviewing Experience – Asked by tourist boards and many high-profile travel brands to formally review hotels including the Catalonia Tourist Board ,  Visit Finland, Visit Zurich and Atout France. Also travelled around the world scouting out and reviewing all the most unique hotels in the world, check out our Instagram page for photos .

1 thought on “Top 20 Most Beautiful Places to Visit in Montana ”

Montana has been on my bucket list for years now! Love how majestic your photos are.

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10 Best Places to Visit in Montana

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Known as Big Sky Country, Montana is an amazing destination for all those who appreciate the beauty of the great outdoors. Primarily rural, Montana is home to national parks, miles of open country, an abundance of wildlife and spectacular scenery.

However, there are also a number of vibrant cities with a flair for cowboy culture. As you plan your upcoming getaway to this state, don’t miss out on any of these unforgettable places to visit in Montana.

10. Great Falls

Great Falls

In the very center of Montana is Great Falls, a destination that is also known as the Electric City. Great Falls is often considered a stopping point when diving across Montana or when exploring nearby national parks, but the city also offers a lot in its own right. You could, for example, spend a day visiting the Ryan Dam, which boasts miles of surrounding hiking trails and is where the Electric City got its nickname.

You might also want to walk along the banks of the Missouri River, feed the trout and get to know more about American history at the Giant Springs State Park and the nearby Lewis and Clark National Interpretive Center.

9. Missoula

Missoula

The second largest of Montana’s cities is Missoula, the home to the sprawling campus of the University of Montana. Missoula used to be a hub for rail travel, and you can still see the historic and preserved railroad stations around town. History lovers might also want to check out the iconic Caras Park Carousel, the Missoula Art Museum and the iconic Roxy Theater.

The Clark Fork River flows through the center of Missoula and is a hub for recreation, so you could also try rafting down the river or strolling along the waterfront Kim Williams Trail. Head Downtown for a number of local breweries, excellent independent restaurants and boutique shops perfect for snagging unique souvenirs.

8. Lewis and Clark Caverns State Park

Lewis and Clark Caverns State Park

The oldest and perhaps most impressive state park in Montana is the Lewis and Clark Caverns State Park, located just outside of Three Forks. The caverns are made from limestone, and they boast interesting columns, stalactites and stalagmites.

Guided tours of the caverns themselves cover a substantial amount of ground, and they take you down 600 steps until the air becomes noticeably cooler. Aside from the caverns themselves, which are open throughout the summer, the state park offers the opportunity to hike, enjoy a scenic picnic, go canoeing or spot wildlife in their natural habitats.

7. Little Bighorn Battlefield National Monument

Little Bighorn Battlefield National Monument

Arguably one of the most famous military battles in American history took place at the Little Bighorn Battlefield. This is where Custer’s Last Stand took place in 1876 between the United States and Native American tribes like the Dakota, the Lakota, the Northern Cheyenne and the Arapaho.

To this day, a big draw to the area is the reenactments that typically happen on an annual basis. You can tour the Little Bighorn Battlefield National Monument, and you can also head into the nearest town, Crow Agency, for dining, shopping and water sports.

Helena

Many people begin their Montana adventures in the city of Helena, which is the state’s capital as well as a hub in the heart of Gold West Country. The main attraction in the city is the Montana State Capitol Building, which is available for guided tours throughout the week.

You’ll also want to check out the Gates of the Mountains of the Missouri River, a collection of cliffs that open up to the river and were famously named by the explorers Lewis and Clark. Helena is also home to the historic mining district known as Reeder’s Alley, the beautifully hand-carved Great Northern Carousel and the 19th century Old Fire Tower.

5. Whitefish

Whitefish

Just north of Kalispell, a city known for being the gateway to the Glacier National Park, is the charming resort destination of Whitefish. Located in Flathead Valley, Whitefish was created by glacier activity, and there is an abundance of freshwater in the surrounding area, dotting the landscape with pristine lakes and stunning streams.

Most of the attractions in Whitefish are natural, and opportunities for outdoor activity abound. You may want to fish from Whitefish Lake, ski at the Whitefish Mountain Resort, kayak along the Flathead River or tee off at one of the great local golf courses in the area.

4. Flathead Lake

Flathead Lake

Just 15 minutes south of the city Kalispell is Flathead Lake, which is officially the largest natural freshwater lake west of the Mississippi River. Formed by glaciers, Flathead Lake is a connection to the past for Montana, but it also serves as a hub for sightseeing and recreation in the 21st century. Just north of the lake, you can try hiking or even horseback riding.

During the summer, fresh cherries are readily available at farmer’s markets around Flathead Lake. Sailing is also growing in popularity, and rentals as well as lessons are available from several spots along the perimeter of Flathead Lake in Montana.

3. West Yellowstone

West Yellowstone

Much of the famed Yellowstone National Park is located within the bordering state of Wyoming , but some of the entrances are actually located in Montana. One of the most commonly used is known as West Yellowstone. As the name suggests, this is the western entrance to the Yellowstone National Park.

In addition to serving as the entry point to one of the world’s most incredible national parks, which is home to attractions like Old Faithful , West Yellowstone boasts the extensive collections of the Yellowstone Museum. You can also snag interesting souvenirs from the shops located along Yellowstone Ave or head to Faithful Street for some affordable local cuisine.

Bozeman

Bozeman is one of the most popular cities in Montana for travelers, because it serves both as the home of Montana State University and as the gateway to the Yellowstone National Park.

Although natural scenery is a big draw to Bozeman, there is also a large emphasis on culture, history and art. Start your visit to the city by checking out attractions such as the Pioneer Museum, the Museum of the Rockies, the Emerson Center for Arts and Culture and the unexpected but impressive American Computer Museum.

The Gallatin River runs near Bozeman and provides opportunities for swimming, fishing and even kayaking, or you could get active by walking between the many bars and breweries Downtown in what is known as the Barmuda Triangle of Bozeman.

1. Glacier National Park

Glacier National Park

For those in search of dramatic landscapes and breathtaking scenery, there are few destinations more appealing than Glacier National Park . On the border with Canada, and connected to the Canadian Waterton Lakes National Park, Glacier National Park is an incredible place to visit in Montana to see unparalleled flora and fauna.

Shuttles and guided tours are readily available, but the best way to see the beauty of the park is on your own two feet.

More than 700 miles of hiking trails are available, with some of the most popular paths being the Trail of the Cedars and the Huckleberry Mountain Trail. Within the park, you can also go fishing, mountain biking or horseback riding, and there are opportunities for boating on Waterton Lake as well as Lake McDonald.

Map of Montana

Map of Montana

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The 15 best montana vacations.

Plan your next getaway to one of these scenic locales or combine several itineraries to create your own amazing Montana vacation.

The Best Montana Vacations

Montana vacations

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Breathtaking landscapes and year-round outdoor adventures will inspire you to visit Big Sky Country.

Montana's spectacular scenery makes it the perfect destination for year-round outdoor adventures. The state is famous for its mountainous terrain yet only one-half to one-third of the state has mountains. The rest is made up of prairies, badlands and rivers. Each season's landscape offers an entirely different playground. Plan your trip in the winter when snow blankets everything and Montana becomes a wintry wonderland. When the ice and snow have melted, the warm weather brings flowing rivers and blooming pastures. From world-class skiing, fly-fishing and Old West ghost towns to luxury dude ranches and Native American history and culture, there's something for everyone in Montana. No matter which season you choose to travel, these vacation ideas will inspire your visit to Big Sky Country.

Big Sky Resort: Big Sky

Montana vacations

Jeff Engerbretson | Courtesy of Big Sky Resort

Located approximately 45 miles southwest of Bozeman, Big Sky Resort is one of the largest ski resorts in the U.S. , encompassing more than 5,850 acres of world-class ski runs. The vertical drop is 4,350 feet and the summit, Lone Peak, measures at 11,166 feet above sea level. Accommodations range from luxury hotels and ranches to individual vacation homes. Spend winter days snowboarding or skiing or try something new like dog-sledding through the mountains with a team of huskies. In the winter – or in the summer – ride the longest zip line in the Yellowstone area, Adventure Zipline. For a challenging hike, take the scenic lift where you can venture to the top of Lone Peak for unforgettable views of the surrounding scenery.

Flathead Lake

Montana vacations

Located in northwestern Montana, Flathead Lake is the largest freshwater lake west of the Mississippi, covering almost 200 square miles – and with 185 miles of shoreline. The scenery here is truly awe-inspiring: Snow-dusted mountains serve as the lake's backdrop, while verdant forestry and cherry orchards line its calm shores. Spend your days here with family or friends swimming, water skiing, fishing or boating. Make sure to take time to visit Wild Horse Island, which is only reachable by boat and is home to bighorn sheep, mule deer and a small band of wild horses. For accommodations, reserve a rustic room or cabin at Flathead Lake Lodge, an all-inclusive 2,000-acre dude ranch situated along the lake.

Glacier National Park via the West Glacier Gateway

East Tunnel of The Going To The Sun Road

The majestic beauty of this region in Glacier Country is unparalleled. Take a week off to explore the 1,600 square miles of pristine landscapes and rugged beauty that make up Glacier National Park . Guides and outfitters are available year-round for activities like hiking, rafting, snowshoeing or even ice climbing. While here, don't miss one of the most scenic drives in the U.S., the Going-to-the-Sun Road . This 50-mile drive crosses the Continental Divide at 6,646 feet at Logan Pass. After long days of adventuring, relax in the nearby town of Whitefish at The Lodge at Whitefish Lake. This chic resort town located approximately 30 miles southeast of the West Glacier gateway to the park features excellent restaurants, nightlife and boutique shopping. If you want to stay a little closer to the park, Columbia Falls – about 20 miles from the gateway at West Glacier – offers several types of lodging and vacation rentals. During your visit to Columbia Falls, Backslope Brewing is a great spot to grab casual fare and a cold brew – and you can hire a local guide for a customized tour of the park with Glacier Adventure Guides.

[See more of Glacier National Park: Things to Do | Hotels | When to Visit | Photos ]

The Blackfeet Indian Reservation: Browning

For another option to enter the park, check out the eastern gateway entrance from the town of Browning. This entrance is approximately 70 miles east of West Glacier – and Browning is home to the Blackfeet Indian Reservation. Encompassing 1.5 million acres of land on the eastern side of the park, these lands have been home to the Blackfeet Tribe (and many other tribes) for thousands of years. If you're visiting the area in early July, don't miss Browning's North American Indian Days, a celebration of the Blackfeet traditions and one of the largest gatherings of U.S. and Canadian tribes.

In the park, you can learn about the Blackfeet, Kootenai, Salish and Pend d'Oreille tribes during Native America Speaks. This series of programs, started in 1982, takes place during the summer – and it's the longest running Indigenous speaker series in the National Park Service. You'll find these programs at various locales throughout the park, including the St. Mary Visitor Center, and the historic lodges and park campgrounds. There are also cultural presentations along Two Medicine Lake, at the 193 Ranger Station and at Logan Pass during what's known as "star parties." These events are hosted by the Big Sky Astronomy Club and feature evenings of stargazing under the Montana's big dark sky.

Virginia and Nevada cities

Montana vacations

Take a step back into 1864 and the days of Montana's gold rush with a trip to these famous ghost towns in southwest Montana. Here, families can spend long summer days exploring the second most extensive collection of Old West artifacts and buildings in the U.S. (behind the Smithsonian). Kids can learn about the art of blacksmithing during Living History events or go panning for gold. And you can take a ride on the seasonal Alder Gulch Shortline Railroad, which connects the two old towns that are located just 1.5 miles apart – or even take a tour by stagecoach. Then, plan to spend a spooky night at the rumored-to-be haunted Fairweather Inn in Virginia City.

Montana vacations

Helena, Montana's capital, is located halfway between Glacier and Yellowstone national parks in southwest Montana. This old prospecting town offers activities and attractions perfect for family vacations. The Gates of the Mountain boat tours take visitors along Lewis and Clark's exploration on Holter Lake. And The Last Chance Tour Train highlights Helena's Old West history, traveling through gold rush-era neighborhoods such as Reeder's Alley. Adventure-seekers will appreciate Helena's world-class fly-fishing, mountain biking, rock climbing, horseback riding and 80 miles of hiking trails that are accessible from downtown. No matter what you decide to do, save time for a relaxing dip in the invigorating mineral waters at Broadwater Hot Springs.

City view. Billings, Montana, USA.

Located along the Yellowstone River in southeast Montana, Billings is the most populated city in the state. It's also the gateway to Yellowstone National Park, the first national park in the U.S., via the Beartooth Highway. Known as Yellowstone's Most Scenic Route, the nearly 70-mile-long drive to the northeast entrance of the park offers unparalleled views, especially at the summit of 10,977 feet elevation through Beartooth Pass. You'll also find more than 20 mountains with peaks reaching over 12,000 feet high along the route. Back in town, check out Montana's only walkable brewery trail, the self-guided Billings Brew Trail. Culture and history buffs can peruse several museums, including a Western Heritage Center, which is affiliated with the Smithsonian and highlights the history of Billings and the surrounding area.

If you're visiting in mid-August, you won't want to miss nine days of fun at the annual MontanaFair, the largest event in the region. There's also plenty of year-round adventure for outdoor enthusiasts, including rock climbing, horseback riding, hiking, biking, boating, paddleboarding, kayaking and windsurfing. In the winter months, you can bundle up and head outdoors for cross-country skiing , ice fishing and spectacular views of the town's winter wonderland. For accommodations in the heart of Billings, close to the city's top restaurants and bars, reserve a room at the historic boutique property, the Northern Hotel.

Warrior Trail Highway

Montana vacations

Discover the history of the Native American warrior on this storied route in Indian Country. Warrior Trail Highway is one of three road trip routes through Indian Country, and it takes travelers from Billings through southeast Montana. Along the way, you'll hear stories of the tribal war chiefs and visit the fields where famed battles once happened. Take a guided tour of the former site of Sitting Bull's camp on the Little Bighorn River at the Custer Battlefield Museum on the Crow Reservation. Afterward, stop at the Custer Battlefield Trading Post and Café for a buffalo burger or an Indian taco. And at the Medicine Turtle and River Crow Trading Post, you'll find souvenirs of Crow-designed handcrafted artwork and jewelry. If you're continuing on the trail, plan an overnight stay where you can stargaze outside your luxury tent provided by the Apsaalooke Glamping Company.

Aerial View of Downtown Bozeman, Montana in Summer

Situated in southwest Montana, Bozeman is regarded as a home base for many visitors to Yellowstone National Park. The city sits between the park's north entrance – 91 miles away in Gardiner – and the west entrance (78 miles away) in West Yellowstone. Bozeman is also an outdoor adventurer's paradise. Anglers will want to fly-fish for several species of trout and other fish, like white sucker and mountain whitefish, on the 97-mile-long Gallatin River, which has seven access points for fishing. Hyalite Canyon Recreation Area, the most visited recreation area in the state, is another draw for active outdoor enthusiasts. Located just 15 miles south of Bozeman, the popular spot features several campgrounds, trails for hikers and bikers, and a reservoir for canoeing and fishing. In the winter, thrill-seekers can go ice climbing, while less adventurous visitors can head out for cross-country skiing. After a long day of exploring, visitors can head back to explore Bozeman's exciting culinary and bar scene. You can kick back and relax over craft beers, casual bites and steaks at Montana Ale Works or, if you prefer to sip a glass of wine and people-watch outdoors, grab a seat with a view at Plonk. And for accommodations, the historic Kimpton Armory Hotel downtown is an excellent choice for your stay.

Yellowstone National Park

Montana vacations

Montana is one of the best spots in North America for seeing wildlife. As the first national park in the U.S., Yellowstone National Park (which stretches across parts of Montana, Wyoming and Idaho) is home to grizzly bears, elk, mountain lions, gray wolves, bighorn sheep, bison, pronghorn, bald eagles, and many more species of mammals and birds. At one time, as many as 60 million bison roamed the Great Plains, and now Montana is one of the last places where you'll find them in the wild. You can even take a private safari-style tour to view the animals year-round with Safari Yellowstone. If you want to stay close to the park, West Yellowstone is the closest town – located just minutes from the West Entrance. Here, you'll have access to a variety of accommodations, restaurants and fun activities like ice fishing, dog-sledding, sleigh rides and cross-country skiing in the winter. In the summer months, head out on the hiking and biking trails, take a ride on 3,000 feet of zip lines at Yellowstone Aerial Adventures, or check out the action at the Wild West Yellowstone Rodeo.

[See more of Yellowstone National Park: Things to Do | Tours | When to Visit | Photos ]

The Ranch at Rock Creek: Philipsburg

Montana vacations

Courtesy of The Ranch at Rock Creek

For romance and adventure combined with a five-star luxury experience, plan a getaway to western Montana at The Ranch at Rock Creek . This all-inclusive Relais & Châteaux resort is set on a 6,600-acre working cattle ranch. Choose from 29 distinct accommodations, which include upscale Western-themed rooms with a view of the grasslands at Granite Lodge to glamping under the stars in hybrid canvas-covered cabins situated along the banks of Rock Creek. Fill your days with invigorating outdoor activities such as fly-fishing on Blue Ribbon Rock Creek, horseback riding in the wilderness, or try your hand at sporting clays at Rimfire Range. When you're ready to relax, unwind with a signature treatment at The Spa at Rock Creek or grab a drink on a seat with a saddle at the Silver Dollar Saloon.

Central Montana's Scenic Byway motorcycle ride

Montana vacations

Hop on a motorcycle or put the top down for this 265-mile road trip through central Montana. The route begins 25 miles east of Great Falls on U.S. Route and includes 71 miles of the Kings Hills Scenic Byway before circling back to Great Falls. Take a break for a locally brewed Pig Ass Porter or Get Lost Ale at Harvest Moon Brewery in Belt or take a dip in the hot springs at White Sulphur Springs. Between Helena and Great Falls, explore sections along Interstate 15 and the frontage road with its picturesque scenery along the Missouri River. And at First Peoples Buffalo Jump State Park in Ulm, visit an archeological site and educational center that pays tribute to the bison and the Native American people that honor this magnificent animal. Before heading back, dine with the locals at The Angus Bar in the small town of Cascade.

Missoula – then take a road trip to Kalispell

View of Missoula from Mount Sentinel, in Missoula, Montana

Take several days – or even a week – to make the 120-mile trip from Missoula to Kalispell. Start your adventure with a few days in Missoula at the AC Hotel Missoula Downtown, which is convenient to some of the town's best dining and imbibing spots, including The Camino Mexican restaurant and Bar Plata, a Spanish-inspired cocktail bar and eatery. If you're an angler, you'll want to head out on the Bitterroot, Blackfoot, Clark Fork or Missouri rivers for some of the best trout fishing in the U.S. with local outfitter Grizzly Hackle Fly Shop. And don't miss attractions like the Missoula Art Museum, Radius Gallery, a hike on the short M Trail to the top of Mount Sentinel and live music performances at the KettleHouse Amphitheater, situated along the Blackfoot River. When it's time for a sweet treat, get in line at Big Dipper Ice Cream to choose from tasty, handcrafted flavors like huckleberry, a local favorite.

On the way to Kalispell, make sure to plan a quick stop in Bigfork. This charming community, located at the convergence of the Swan River and Flathead Lake, about 100 miles north of Missoula, features boutiques and galleries with artwork and pieces from western Montana artists. While in town, grab breakfast at Pocketstone Café (be sure to order a cinnamon roll) and have lunch and a cold beer at Flathead Lake Brewing Co.

Exterior of The Kalispell Grand Hotel.

Courtesy of The Kalispell Grand Hotel

During your visit to Kalispell – approximately 15 miles south of Whitefish, the gateway to Glacier National Park – plan to stay at The Kalispell Grand Hotel, a historic property located on Main Street. From here you can walk to three legendary favorites in town. A visit to Kalispell wouldn't be complete without a trip to Norm's Soda Fountain for huckleberry ice cream; pizza and a cold beer at Moose's Saloon; and shopping for a pair of Western boots (with more than 2,500 pairs to choose from) at Western Outdoor.

When you're ready for outdoor adventure, local outfitter Sea Me Paddle offers year-round kayaking excursions. Horseback riding is also available year-round on trails in the Salish Mountains with Artemis Acres Guest Ranch. You can also take a 2-mile walk or go biking on the new Parkline Trail, which sits along the tracks of the Great Northern Railway running through the downtown area. And for a unique way to explore northwestern Montana's beautiful scenery, book a shorter three-hour evening trek or an extended multiday excursion with Swan Mountain Llama Trekking. After working up an appetite, check out the culinary and beverage scene featuring locally sourced meats and produce. Some not-to-miss spots include Mercantile Steak, KM Bar, Waters Edge Winery & Bistro and Big Mountain Ciderworks.

Fort Peck, Montana

Montana vacations

Northeastern Montana's section of the Missouri River is home to the largest body of water in the state, the Fort Peck Reservoir. There are 1,520 miles of shoreline and 50 species of fish, including the prized walleye, small mouth bass and chinook salmon. Spend time fishing and hiking in the Charles M. Russell National Wildlife Refuge, which offers more than 1 million acres of public land. Then, visit the Fort Peck Power Plant Museum to learn about the "largest hydraulically filled earth dam in the world." In the evenings, return to The Historic Fort Peck Hotel, built in the 1930s, to experience an earlier slice of Montana life.

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

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The 8 best places to experience Big Sky Country in Montana

Sep 17, 2023 • 7 min read

great places to visit in montana

Immerse yourself in the striking landscapes of Big Sky Country © Nature Is Magical / Getty Images

Massive Montana comprises the Last Best Place in the American West, encompassing 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 grown into 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 explore outdoors.

1. Glacier National Park

Best place to satisfy wanderlust on 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 five-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.

Glacier National Park

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 6,000 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 2,000 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 6,000 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. Budget extra time to hang out in the Naturalist Cabin, featuring floor-to-ceiling windows overlooking the resident wolf packs.   

A view of a blooming cherry orchard on the shores of Flathead Lake, framed by mountains in the background

5. 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.    

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.

Planning Tip: 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.

6. 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 their 1992 blockbuster hit. 

The Clark Fork, Bitterroot, and Blackfoot are world-class rivers within bicycling distance of Missoula, including tributaries like Rock Creek. Outfitters like 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.

Red Lodge, Montana

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, offer 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 15th. This All-American road tops out at nearly 11,000 feet 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 hidden 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 Street 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.   

Planning Tip: 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 its aroma alone. 

This article was first published September 2021 and updated September 2023

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22 Best Places to Visit in Montana

Written By: The Planet D

United States

Updated On: February 11, 2024

If you are looking for a memorable US getaway , visiting the state of Montana is the perfect plan. Montana is full of interesting places and has some of the country’s best art galleries and national parks. Montana uniquely balances cultural attractions for history buffs and culture lovers and outdoor activities for thrill-seekers. Immerse yourself in old traditional western flair or head out for a day of hiking trails and rock climbing.

But what are the best places to visit in Montana? Do you head to Eastern Montana or Western Montana? To Glacier National Park or to the town of Great Falls? This guide will break down the very best places to visit in Montana. Let’s get straight into it.

Table of Contents

Best towns and cities to visit in Montana

Some of the best places to visit in Montana are its towns and cities. You’ll find many tourist attractions, cultures, and communities in these places – perfect for getting a  real  feel of Montana living. These are our top eleven best towns and cities in Montana.

Helena is Montana’s capital city. If you want action, culture, and a lively but friendly atmosphere, Helena is where to visit in Montana. The city is packed with art galleries, museums, and historical architecture. You’ll spend a lot of time on your feet, be it walking Reeder’s Alley or through the exhibits at the Montana Historical Society.

Helena was originally a gold camp in the Montana gold rush. Its glitzy history is recognizable thanks to the city’s wealth today, and visitors can enjoy wandering the elegant historical buildings – especially in the downtown district.

Of course, you can’t visit a state capital without visiting the State Capitol Building either. Montana State Capitol is well worth visiting for its architectural and political history.

Have you heard of Big Sky Country? If not, Big Sky is a small ski town in the Rocky Mountain region of Southwest Montana. The town is most famous for Big Sky Resort and is one of the best places to visit in Montana for a winter getaway.

According to Forbes, the town is surrounded by ‘5,850 skiable acres. Whether you want to learn to ski or are already a pro, you’ll love the fierce winter sports culture. Visiting Big Sky in winter means a lot of snow, skiing, and après ski. For a winter wonderland experience, you really can’t do better. Plus, Big Sky is just an hour’s drive from the western entrance to Yellowstone National Park.

If you are visiting Big Sky in winter, make sure to grab your ski rentals here before you go. It makes things much more convenient.

3. Philipsburg

Philipsburg is small but mighty. First and foremost, it is a mining town. Philipsburg has kept an industrial, old west atmosphere that makes it a fantastic place to visit. The tiny town is no shy wallflower on Montana’s tourist scene either and has scored the title of the most beautiful small town in Montana. If you like immersive history and small towns, look no further.

Granite County Museum is a great place to discover Philipsburg’s old mining industry, while Granite Ghost Town State Park is another gem to visit. The abandoned town is the remnants of the region’s golden years during the mining boom of the late 19th century. Immerse yourself in Philipsburg and its surrounding area’s distinct characters.

4. Garryowen

Garryowen gets its name from an old Irish marching song. The town itself has strong military links, and it was formed as a cavalry station. One of the town’s best attractions, Custer National Cemetery, is a military graveyard marked by the Little Bighorn Battlefield National Monument. Visitors can walk to mass burial sites marked by white memorials and visit the visitor center and museum on-site.

Nowadays, Garryowen is located on Crow Indian Reservation. If you are interested in 19th-century American history or military history in general, Garryowen is a great place to visit. You can learn about the town’s history, pay respects to local Native American culture, or visit the Little Bighorn National Monument.

5. Great Falls

Great Falls is a stunning riverside city located in central Montana. Great Falls is known as somewhat of a cultural hub, and you’ll find museum after museum in the city. You can spend your days visiting the C.M. Russell Museum, Paris Gibson Square Museum of Art, or the Children’s Museum of Montana. There’s even the Lewis & Clark Interpretive Center, which follows the story of the Lewis & Clark western expedition with unique exhibits, films, and displays.

Great Falls is an excellent choice if you want an interesting cultural base in central Montana. It has a lively city atmosphere and is only a two-hour drive from Helena-Lewis and Clark National Forest and Giant Springs State Park – home to one of the largest natural hot springs in the US.

Want a pleasant stay in Montana? Bozeman is considered the most liveable place in the state, making it one of the best places to visit in Montana for a laidback getaway.

In the city center, there are more attractions than you can count. Bozeman itself is located just outside of the mountainous region around Big Sky, with plenty of small towns and areas of natural beauty to explore on a day trip. If you don’t mind a two-hour drive, there’s Yellowstone to your south and Helena-Lewis and Clark National Forest to your north.

Bozeman is also home to Montana State University, giving the city a sociable, friendly atmosphere. You can head to the trendiest eateries, soak in Bozeman Hot Springs, or make the most of the city’s fantastic location for day trips in nature. Bozeman is the perfect compromise between city living and access to natural wonders.

7. Whitefish

Like Big Sky, Whitefish is a little resort town that floods with skiers every winter. The town is one of the best places to visit for outdoor fun and adrenaline sports. Whitefish is scenically situated on the outskirts of Glacier National Park and has stunning alpine views – perfect for beautiful scenery while cross-country skiing. There’s also a vast freshwater lake, where you can enjoy a dip or spend some time fly fishing in summer.

Whitefish’s famous ski resort is Whitefish Mountain Resort. If you want a holiday full of outdoor activities and winter sports, Whitefish Mountain Resort is a fantastic place to stay with a ton of facilities, equipment rentals, and shuttles.

This is a great place to base yourself for a visit to Glacier National Park. This private full-day tour has something for everyone!

8. Missoula

Choteau might seem off the beaten track and unassuming. However, the town is one of the best paleontology sites in the world. Exciting, right? If you love everything fossils and geology, then a visit to Choteau should be on the cards. In fact, its nearby Egg Mountain was used as a breeding ground for dinosaurs millions of years ago. In nearby Bynum, you can participate in fossil digs at the Montana Dinosaur Center.

Old Trail Museum is the major attraction in Choteau itself. The museum covers everything from dinosaurs to teepees. Old Trail Museum is a perfect stop-off and place to spend an hour or two, especially if you like your museums eclectic.

Missoula has become known as a natural retreat, despite its city status. The city is divided into two by the Clark Fork River, famed for its Blue Trout (take note if you love fishing). Situated in Western Montana, Missoula is right next to the Idaho border and is within driving distance from Lolo and Flathead National Forests. Missoula is a beautiful place to visit if you want to base yourself in Western Montana.

Of course, the city also has a lot of its own attractions, including the Missoula Art Museum. While history lovers can learn more at Missoula Natural History Museum and the Historical Museum at Fort Missoula.

Butte was once a gold and silver mining camp. A couple of centuries later, Butte is now one of the best places to visit in Montana and one of the state’s most booming cities. Butte is somewhere to appreciate Montana’s past while enjoying the present moment. The city has great historical attractions and a fantastic entertainment scene.

You can discover the city’s humble beginnings at the World Museum of Mining. You can also peer into Berkeley Pit (an old copper mine) from a viewing stand within easy walking distance from the city center. Alternatively, have a flutter by visiting Richest Hill. Richest Hill is Butte’s casino and the center of its nightlife and partying scene – great if you want to let your hair down.

11. Virginia City

Virginia City is one of our absolute favorite places in Montana. The town is a complete time capsule, from log cabins to old western street signs. Get ready to be transported back to 19th-century Montana.

The town has a small museum called the Thomas-Hickman Museum. You can also catch a performance at the Virginia City Opera House. However, the main draw of Virginia City is to just walk the traditional town main street and soak up the old western architecture and atmosphere. Virginia City is easily the most authentic place to visit in Montana. You’ll love it, especially if you love immersive history.

Best natural places to visit in Montana

Now that we’ve covered the best towns and cities, let’s look at the best natural places to visit in Montana. From national parks to state parks, these are our top ten recommendations.

12. Yellowstone National Park

Yellowstone is a celebrity amongst US national parks. You’ll find the world’s largest collection of geysers, including Old Faithful. There are also more hot springs, mountains, and animals than you’ll be able to count. If you want a national park that will provide lifelong memories, Yellowstone National Park is the one.

Yellowstone actually straddles Wyoming, Idaho, and Montana. While the largest section of the park is in Wyoming, you can experience some parts in Montana – or just allow time to cross the borders and see as much as possible. Some attractions, like the Grizzly & Wolf Discovery Center (near the West Yellowstone entrance) and the Museum of Yellowstone, are in Montana. Others, like Old Faithful, are located in Wyoming, so you’ll need to allow extra travel time.

If you are interested in hiking don’t miss our recommendations for the Best Hikes in Yellowstone , complete with difficulty ratings and elevation.

In West Yellowstone, you’ll find the Grizzly & Wolf Discovery Center. The animal refuge center has resident grizzly bears, grey wolves, and birds of prey. It is an excellent place to visit if you want to support a local not-for-profit and don’t manage to spot animals in the wild.

Fancy an adrenaline rush? Go whitewater rafting down Yellowstone River. Yellowstone River snakes through the national park’s center with many exciting sections of rapids – perfect for an adventurous day out.

13. Flathead National Forest

How does 2.4 million acres of mountain forests sound? In winter, you can zip through Flathead National Forest on snowmobiles and skis. In spring and summer, you’ll have hiking trails galore and no shortage of space for camping and multi-day treks. Flathead National Forest is an excellent natural place to visit in Montana, regardless of the season.

The forest is home to many animals, including black bears and grizzlies. You’ll see bighorn sheep, elk, moose, and mules. And, if you keep your eyes on the skies, you may get lucky and catch sight of an eagle or owl. Flathead National Forest is one of the most rewarding natural places to visit in the state of Montana.

14. Gates of the Mountains Wilderness

Just outside of Helena, the Gates of the Mountains Wilderness is one of the most accessible places of natural beauty to visit in Montana. It is also one of the most exciting to explore since the best way involves hopping on a boat.

The nature preserve is situated along a section of the Missouri River that winds through a jaw-dropping mountain park. Sailing up the river, you can admire and be humbled by the scale of the mountain range surrounding you – definitely bring a camera.

You can take a guided tour or rent water sports equipment to appreciate the Gates independently. The Gates of the Mountains Wilderness is best visited in warm, dry weather, as sailing can get extremely cold with the strong breeze and exposure to the elements. We recommend visiting in late spring or summer for the best experience. Plus, the mountains will be covered in beautiful greenery during these months.

15. Giant Springs State Park

The name Giant Springs State Park speaks for itself. The park is home to one of the US’s largest freshwater springs, and the Giant Springs produces an incredible 156 million gallons of water daily. It is said that water takes approximately 26 years to reach the springs from its origin in the Little Belt mountains – a fascinating concept.

Aside from viewing this natural phenomenon though, visitors can make the most of river activities like fishing, swimming, and boating. There are also trails for mountain biking and horseback riding if you want to explore a little differently than on foot. The park was first discovered on the Lewis & Clark Expedition in 1805 and is an important location in the early mapping of Montana.

Giant Springs is the best place for you if you like natural attractions with a large network of trails and a historical backstory.

16. Lewis & Clark Caverns State Park

Lewis & Clark Caverns State Park is an excellent natural place to visit in Montana. The 3,000-acre park is best known for its limestone caverns, named the Clark Caverns. Visitors can take guided tours into the Clark Caverns for an ultimate caving experience. Allow just under two hours for a tour of the caverns, but a whole day to experience the best of the park.

The park is an exciting place to witness underground beauty and explore beautiful hikes in the sunshine above ground. It is undoubtedly one of the most unique places to visit in Montana if you want to experience natural beauty.

17. Flathead Lake State Park

Flathead Lake is split into six different park sections, so choose which area you want to visit wisely (our favorite is West Shore). The park is situated around Flathead Lake, making it ideal for fishing, swimming, and water sports activities. The park is the best place to spend a lake-side holiday and is dreamy in late spring and summer.

Flathead Lake is a good option if you are looking for great camping spots in Montana. The park has many well-established campgrounds with plenty of facilities, which is excellent if you want a relaxing, entry-level camping experience.

18. Spring Meadow Lake State Park

Spring Meadow Lake State Park is a cheeky addition to our list of natural beauty spots. The 61-acre park has an artificial lake – so technically, it is a manmade area of beauty. However, it is so stunning we just had to add it to the list.

The park is best for those who want clear trails and purpose-made walking paths. You can follow the paths, stop for a bite to eat on one of the picnic benches, or enjoy some water activities. Spring Meadow Lake State Park is a popular spot for kayaking and paddle boarding, and you can hire equipment on-site if you don’t have your own to bring along.

The best part about Spring Meadow Lake State Park is that it is located just outside of Helena. The park is less than a ten-minute drive from Helena’s center and a great way to get some time in the outdoors during a city break.

19. Bighorn Canyon National Recreation Area

Have you ever seen a wild horse? If not, Bighorn Canyon National Recreation Area is where you just might. With a bit of luck, you’ll spot herds of wild horses when exploring the area’s hiking trails. There are also plenty of ranches where you can saddle up to see the wild horses on horseback.

Located on the Montana-Wyoming border, the area is centered around Bighorn Canyon itself, which is definitely worth visiting. You can drive to scenic overlooks or hike to the most remote yet rewarding viewpoints – it is totally up to you. Bighorn Canyon National Recreation Area is full of surprises and exciting things to see.

20. Makoshika State Park

Meet the largest state park in Montana. Makoshika State Park is overflowing with fossils, and dinosaur lovers will be ecstatic at seeing the fossil remains of dinosaurs like Tyrannosaurus Rex and Triceratops. Families note this park down for your little ones. But adults don’t miss out on the fun either – Makoshika State Park impresses all ages.

Start your visit at the visitor center, where you can admire a series of interpretive exhibits and the best dinosaur fossils. Then you can hike the Montana Dinosaur Trail for the ultimate paleontology experience. Allow a whole day to visit as there is so much to see, and you don’t want to rush.

21. Upper Missouri River Breaks National Monument

Now the Missouri River is the longest river in the US, so, unless you want to sail the length of it (which would be an exciting adventure), you’ll have to choose a small section to visit. The river cuts through Montana east to west, passing multiple riverside towns and cities. However, our favorite place to enjoy the river is the Upper Missouri River Breaks National Monument.

Upper Missouri River Breaks National Monument is a 377,000-acre national park and the ideal spot for a riverside adventure. You can kayak, swim, or hike. To experience the Missouri River, the national park is the best and quietest place in Montana.

Of course, you can also indulge in a river rafting experience to pump your adrenaline or sit along the river banks for some relaxing fly fishing. North Montana is also full of different attractions like Bear Gulch Pictographs and the Phillips County Museum that you can combine with visiting the park.

22. Glacier National Park

Glacier National Park is beautiful. There’s no denying it. In particular, its hiking is renowned as some of the best in the US, and you can read our complete guide on the best hiking trails in Glacier National Park here . The park is sure to impress no matter the season and no matter your interests.

If you are in a rush, we recommend visiting Lake Mcdonald and Logan Pass. Lake Mcdonald is the park’s largest lake and is a picture-perfect alpine destination with still water and mountainous views. Logan Pass is a dramatic elevation pass on the Continental Divide, with gorgeous scenery and lots of mountain goats to spot. You can’t go wrong with a visit to Glacier National Park.

Final Thoughts

Montana is incredible. The state has a dreamy mix of natural wonders and historic towns and cities to explore. By visiting Montana, you’ll be visiting some of the  best places in the US  – get ready to start ticking off your bucket list.

If you have the chance, try to visit as many of these places as possible for the ultimate Montana experience. We hope you have a fantastic trip.

Plan Your Nest Trip to Montana With These Resources

  • 46 Best Places to Visit in the US
  • 9 of the Best Glacier National Park Hikes
  • 21 Best Winter Vacations in the US For 2022

Travel Planning Resources

Looking to book your next trip? Why not use these resources that are tried and tested by yours truly.

Flights: Start planning your trip by finding the best flight deals on Skyscanner

Book your Hotel: Find the best prices on hotels with these two providers. If you are located in Europe use Booking.com and if you are anywhere else use TripAdvisor

Find Apartment Rentals: You will find the cheapest prices on apartment rentals with VRBO . 

Travel Insurance: Don't leave home without it. Here is what we recommend:

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Need more help planning your trip? Make sure to check out our Resources Page where we highlight all the great companies that we trust when we are traveling.

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2 thoughts on “22 Best Places to Visit in Montana”

Would love to visit Yellowstone someday.

Very beautyfoul places i would live there

  • Native America
  • Science & Tech
  • Photography

Montana beyond blog logo

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

where to visit in montana 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

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

where 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

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 

montana vacation spots paradise valley

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

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

where to visit in montana lewis 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

montana vacation spots 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

where 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

best places to visit in montana garden 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

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

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

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

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

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

(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

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

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

best places to visit in montana 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

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.

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41 Fun Things To Do & Places To Visit In Montana

By: Author Jerric Chong

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

things to do in Montana

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Castle 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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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.

PlanetWare.com

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.

Glacier National Park, Montana

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.

Glacier National Park

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.

Mountain goat in Glacier National Park

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.

Accommodation: Best Places to Stay near Glacier National Park

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

Glen Lake Rotary 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.

Museum of the Rockies

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

Missoula

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

Flathead Lake

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.

Mammoth Hot Springs

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

World Museum of Mining in Butte

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

Helena State Capitol building

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.

Montana Historical Society

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.

Wildflowers blooming along Flathead Lake

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.

Giant Spring State Park

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

Philipsburg, 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.

Old Works Golf Club, Anaconda

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.

Livingston, Montana

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.

Ghost town of Virginia City

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.

Little Bighorn Indian Memorial

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

Rimrock Drive in Billings

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

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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.

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Montana Travel Guide: Plan Your Perfect Trip

Discovering Montana

The 8 Prettiest Places in Montana (Plus the Best Gardens)

Mark Barnett

By Mark Barnett

If you’re a seasoned visitor to Montana you already know this state is chock-full full of more scenic gems than you’ll ever be able to get to. There are definitely some pretty and picturesque spots in this part of the world that should be seen at least once.

Big Sky Country is, in simple terms, a seriously photogenic place. From the huge and expansive untouched wilderness regions to the impossibly scenic, carved glacial landscapes of the national parks—you won’t be too pushed when it comes to finding amazing scenery in the Treasure State .

The main difficulty for most visitors is deciding which aspects of the landscape are more striking, considering the sheer beauty and diversity of the landscape.

Bison, bears, elk, and bighorn sheep roam freely in some regions. In other spots, you’ll find magical-looking alpine lakes glistening at high altitudes.

Add to that the huge towering peaks dusted and layered with snow come wintertime. You are literally spoilt for choice when it comes to where to point your camera.

So let’s try to narrow things down a little by looking at eight of the prettiest places in Montana.

The Top 8 Prettiest Places in Montana

Table of Contents

st. mary lake

1. Paradise Valley

paradise valley

Not too far away from another naturally rugged and geologically scenic area by way of Yellowstone National Park , the vast expanse of Paradise Alley manages to thin out the crowds.

This southwestern region of Montana is an area of land flanked by both the Absaroka Range and the Gallatin Range on its eastern and western sides respectively.

The Yellowstone River courses through the area and the mountain ranges take on the familiar, iconic, snow-capped appearance that comes with the winter months.

Vast blue skies and scenic, rolling prairie and ranch land are the order of the day in Paradise Valley. Rather unsurprisingly this entire region is a prime Montana vacation destination—not to mention the backdrop to many a ‘best vacation ever’ snapshot.

Attractions within the valley include the naturally warm and therapeutic waters of the Chico Hot Springs . There is also plenty of hiking and outdoor action in this vast region, which is certainly one of the prettiest places in Montana.

2. Whitefish Mountain Resort

whitefish mountain resort

Talking of iconic Montana views and pretty places—if there’s one spot that in so many ways encapsulates the very best of the state’s scenery it is more than likely Whitefish Mountain Resort.

Just north of the scenic Flathead Lake sits the yet more picturesque mountain resort town of Whitefish . Here we are talking snow-capped peak heaven alongside pristine lakes.

On top of this, you have the well-maintained friendliness and small-town charm of a remote mountain village.

In Whitefish you’ll encounter picture-postcard views featuring rolling green meadows in the summer and snow-covered vertical drops in the winter.

But in actual fact, the time of year really makes little difference to the pretty scenery and impressive landscape in this entire region.

Once you’ve been to Whitefish in the flesh it’s not hard to see why many visitors keep coming back again and again. Undoubtedly, this is one of Montana’s prettiest destinations.

The resort town is a popular destination year-round, although the skiing months of winter are the prime time for many.

The town is located in the very scenic Flathead County region, which is further exacerbated by the fact that Glacier National Park is well within reach from here.

Thus many visitors are likely to tie two of the most scenic regions in the state together in one trip. This way they get to witness the best of the iconic yet diverse scenery that the Treasure State is renowned for.

3. Mission Valley

mission valley

Flanked by the Mission Mountains and their 10,000-foot-plus elevations, the Mission Valley is well-known for its great scenic drives and road trips with stunning backdrops.

The area in its entirety encompasses the lower half of Flathead Lake. This includes the Flathead Reservation , located among landscapes with more elements of tranquility to them than many other regions of Montana.

These Mission Valley landscapes can present some wonderful, mountain-backed scenery that varies depending on the time of year, but loses none of its prettiness.

libby

Libby is something of a laid-back country town surrounded by amazing mountain terrain scenery. We are talking some seriously pretty spots here folks, especially along the banks of the winding and photogenic Kootenay River .

The nearby Kootenai National Forest is popular for its hiking and various other outdoor recreation options. Absolutely one of the prettiest places in Montana is here—the Kootenai Falls —just outside of town with an accompanying suspension bridge to add to the scenery.

Maybe none of that exactly fits your profile of a pretty place in Montana and instead you prefer something a bit more on the rugged side?

Then check out the 90,000-plus acres of the Cabinet Mountains Wilderness Area . It may be just the place to go off exploring yet deeper and further into the scenery that the Libby landscape has to offer.

5. American Prairie Reserve

american prairie reserve

The American Prairie Reserve is located on Montana’s Great Plains. That gives some clue as to the type of scenarios likely to be encountered here.

Many outdoor types believe this to be one of the most stunning natural wildlife areas in Montana, and just a brief look at the area makes that entirely believable.

Spanning north and south of the Missouri River , this huge expanse of protected and incredibly scenic areas provides habitat for a variety of wildlife. This includes bison, deer, elk, and bighorn sheep to name but a few.

This is a scenario where you can commonly see bison wandering around freely with contented-sounding birds chirping away merrily in the background.

This is nothing less than a magical nature-lovers paradise amidst some absolutely stunning landscapes.

6. St. Mary Lake

st. mary lake

The east side of Glacier National Park is commonly considered the most scenic. It’s really a question of where to begin in this entire region of the park when looking for inspiring and pretty Montana places.

St. Mary Lake is as good a place as any to start out when looking for pretty places in Montana.

The lake is the second-largest body of water within the park and it features what many believe to be some of the best reflective views going.

Wild Goose Island is one of the most photographed angles of the lake region. You’ll also see the perhaps familiar-looking Jackson Glacier towering over the lake.

St. Mary Lake has served as the backdrop for more than its fair share of ‘best Montana moment’ shots. This may be due to the fact that it has a variety of different aspects that may be brought out at different times and under particular weather conditions.

But if you are coming to Montana for the scenery then St. Mary Lake easily qualifies as a must-see.

7. Lee Metcalf Wilderness and Beehive Basin

beehive basin

The solitude of nature without too much of a long haul is what’s on offer in this picturesque expanse near Big Sky . The basin is accessible by a hike which will lead you through dense forests and along flowing creeks.

As if that doesn’t sound picturesque enough there are also wildflower-strewn meadows featuring views of the snow-capped Lone Mountain in Whitefish.

When you arrive at the basin with its accompanying surrounding peaks, you’ll certainly feel like you are in one of the prettiest places in Montana, which will leave you feeling invigorated.

choteau

It’s very hard not to agree that the atmospheric mountain town of Choteau is pretty in various ways.

Choteau for many serves more as a calming and charming experience. Often termed the “Front Porch of the Rockies”, the landscape surrounding the small town and stretching from the Flathead National Forest to Glacier National Park has to be seen to be believed by many.

When you consider spots such as the Freezout Lake Wildlife Management Area , you’ll see how this picturesque area is home to a wide variety of wildlife and natural terrain. This makes it a popular place for wildlife enthusiasts and Instagram-ers alike.

With plenty of accessible hiking trails as well as avenues for fishing and birding, the Freezeout Lake Wildlife Management Area is a great place for anyone who loves the scenic outdoors. Aside from that, Choteau has many other scenic aspects that visitors can seek out for themselves.

The Prettiest Gardens in Montana

tizer botanic gardens

1. Tizer Botanic Gardens & Arboretum, Jefferson City

Tizer Botanic Gardens and Arboretum are located in the vicinity of the Elkhorn Mountains that straddle Prickly Pear Creek just outside of Jefferson City .

These amazingly scenic gardens are a member of the American Public Garden Association and they certainly qualify as some of the prettiest in Montana. The gardens cover 6 acres and contain thousands of different high-altitude plants surrounded by some outstanding natural beauty.

The Tizer Botanic Gardens include herbs and vegetables, annuals, roses, wildflowers, perennials, and bulbs, to name but a few. There are a host of different themed gardens including the delightful gnome gardens, a secret garden, a Buddha garden, rose gardens, and herb patches—not to mention a crystal clear creek.

You’ll also encounter a fully-restored Gold Miner’s Cabin and a Hotel—thoughtfully placed on a little island right in the middle of the creek. You can take a self-guided tour and explore garden paths leading to high-altitude plants and flowers.

The gardens are a popular spot for visitors to stop for a picnic lunch taking advantage of the numerous tables in the theme gardens.

The center opens daily from 10 am-6 pm, from mid-April through October depending on weather conditions. The Gardens & Arboretum is open Mother’s Day through October—again weather permitting.

2. DanWalt Gardens, Billings

danwalt gardens

The DanWalt Gardens near Billings is a lively display of colors and features flowering annuals, perennials, shrubs, and trees.

The plants contained here are all zoned for the Billings climate, and prime examples include the colorful irises and bright hibiscus that begin to show themselves anytime between June and September.

DanWalt Gardens are a delightful visitor attraction with their thousands of hanging baskets everywhere—not to mention the popular Memorial Rose Garden that is contained here. Some of the garden’s other tranquil features include water features and the surrounding expanse of nature.

The gardens are another popular venue for classy-looking and romantic wedding events, not to mention the fact that they are conveniently located near local hotels, restaurants, and downtown Billings.

The gardens are open 9 am-6 pm under normal conditions of operation.

3. Jackson’s Garden, Sheridan

Jackson’s Garden on Mill Creek is just 2 miles from Sheridan in southwest Montana The gardens first took shape in the early 1970s, and have been through several transformations over the years to become the scenic and peaceful place that they are today.

Surrounded by lovely flowers and huge trees providing shade at the Creekside, the gardens as they stand today came about as a result of much community work and effort. The result is a public space resembling something of an oasis.

The garden features an installed high tunnel greenhouse to lengthen the growing season, as well as an irrigation system. A nature trail is available for the information and enjoyment of visitors.

The floral gardens have parking, bathroom facilities, and other amenities. The location is a popular venue for weddings and includes sweet paths and lush manicured lawns, with overhanging trees for shade.

This spot is just outside of the town of Sheridan and thus has easy access to hotels and other local amenities. Yet the gardens still manage to maintain a slight, off-the-beaten-path vibe which adds to their romantic mountain backdrop appeal.

4. Bibler Gardens, Kalispell

bibler gardens

From its location on a Kalispell hillside, Bibler Gardens looks out across the Flathead Valley . The Swan Mountains can be seen in the background to the east, including some peaks in Glacier National Park .

The 4-acre garden and its stunning floral displays feature artfully-landscaped beds and subtle water features by way of brooks and waterfalls. The water flows into two ponds, which are in turn highlighted by sculpted bridges, a gazebo, and water fountains.

It’s worth considering that many of these features are best seen along with the full glory of the Montana Spring bloom. Early May is absolutely the best time to catch sight of the colorful daffodils and tulips.

Wildlife and nature lovers alike will be pleased to know that various birds and fowl make an appearance. They tend to be Australian black swans, Argentine black-necked swans, and native Tundra swans, which will then roam the vicinity of the pond during the warmer months.

5. Gatiss Gardens, Creston

gatiss gardens

Gatiss Gardens is a rather scenic property of five acres or more located in the north-western corner of Montana. The garden features the style of an English Cottage and a zone 4 perennial garden.

The pretty perennial garden features hardy varieties from the original family homestead in England dating back to 1898.

They have stood the test of time along with the variety of other American heritage garden plants that bloom here—many of which were gathered over the course of more than a century.

Gatiss Gardens is off Highway 35 close to Kalispell and features thousands of varieties of flowers with signs for identification.

The gardens are open during the summer months from 9 am-9 pm, and the grounds feature a trail that stretches around mill creek and is a great way to enjoy the flowers.

6. Memorial Rose Garden, Missoula

memorial rose garden

The Missoula Rose Society’s initial goal in 1944 was to establish a Memorial Rose Garden . As it turned out, enthusiastic donors from around the state contributed hundreds of flowers, and Rose Society members planted 650 rose bushes around the Memorial in 1946.

At present, there are more than 44 beds planted with over 600 bushes, including an interesting range of hybrid teas, grandifloras, floribundas, and miniatures.

There are also a number of old shrub roses located in the park, and together the floral display serves as a memorial to the casualties and veterans of America’s many 20 th -century wars.

The garden came about as a joint effort between the Missoula Rose Society and the Missoula Parks and Recreation Department, and the plaques list the names of those who lost their lives in World War II along with Vietnam and the Korean War and other U.S. conflicts in Grenada, the Persian Gulf, and Panama.

Both the American and Montana state flags are lighted 24 hours a day as symbols of enduring honor. This pretty garden also serves as a quiet place of reflection, and the rose beds can be adopted by individuals, groups, or organizations who want to care for them throughout the year.

The Roses usually start to bloom around mid-spring and are likely to last for a good few months.

7. Montana Arboretum & Gardens, Missoula

montana arboretum

The Montana Arboretum and Gardens are located on the Montana State University campus in Missoula, and the Arboretum proper is on the campus’s north-western corner near the West College Avenue and South 11th Avenue intersection.

This small arboretum and gardens are free for the public to visit and feature native plants from the northern Rocky Mountain region for both research and display purposes as well as specimens from the plains and other drier areas of Montana. A Xeriscape garden can be found here, in the designated “Tree Campus USA”.

The arboretum and gardens were established for display and research purposes around a decade back, and feature some pretty and colorful arrangements of native species.

Another one of the gardens’ functions was to engage campus staff and students alike in conservation goals, as well as nurture public interest in nature related to the shrubs, trees, and plants of the local surrounding region.

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About The Author

Mark Barnett

Mark Philip is a writer and lifestyle enthusiast from the Midlands in the U.K. With a background in martial arts and fitness, Mark headed out to Bangkok, Thailand where he now lives and works. Mark has authored e-books, articles, and blogs across a wide range of topics for commercial, educational, factual, lifestyle and leisure-based purposes.

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365 Atlanta Traveler

21 Phenomenal Things To Do in Montana Everyone Will Love

When it comes to Montana, there is so much to see and even more to do.

With national parks, world-famous ski resorts, museums, lakes, wildlife, tourist attractions, and even a ghost town or two — you’re going to love this wild and natural state, that’s perfect for visiting year-round.

Montana is called “The Treasure State,” and it’s easy to see why. Here are 21 of the best things to do in Montana.

GLACIER NATIONAL PARK

When it comes to national parks, Glacier National Park is one of the best. This national park located in northwestern Montana on the Canadian border, encompasses more than 1 million acres, and is one of the best places to visit in Montana.

Featuring two mountain ranges, over 100 named lakes, and home to many plant and animal species, Glacier National Park is amazing.

Going-to-the-Sun Road is one of the most popular things to do in the park. This 50-mile long, scenic mountain road takes you across the Rocky Mountains showing you spectacular views along the way. Logan Pass is the highest point on Going-to-the-Sun Road at 6,646 feet, and is a popular spot — the parking lot usually fills up by sunrise!

Wildlife is often present in Glacier National Park, and it’s not uncommon to see mountain goats and bighorn sheep near Logan Pass. Grizzly bears also call Glacier their home, so make sure you take precautions.

Along Going-to-the-Sun Road you will find campgrounds, restaurants, visitor centers, and plenty of scenic overlooks. Jackson Glacier Overlook, found between Logan Pass and St. Mary, is the best place to see a glacier from the road.

You could spend years and still not see everything Glacier National Park has to offer, but make time to visit Lake McDonald while you’re here. It’s the largest lake in Glacier National Park, and its formation is the direct result of glacial carving. The lake is so beautiful, it looks unreal. Stay the night in the Lake McDonald Lodge, to make the most of your time here.

You’ll find the Grinnell Glacier in the heart of the park. The Grinnell Glacier Trail is an 11 mile hike with significant elevation gain — but is so worth it for the amazing views.

An amazing and unique way to explore Glacier National Park is on horseback.

When it comes to horseback riding in Glacier National Park, the wranglers with Swan Mountain Outfitters are the experts. They are the only place that will allow you to ride within Glacier National Park.

With three corrals within the national park, and one just outside the park in West Glacier, they truly know Glacier National Park best. Depending on what part of the park you want to explore, they offer 1-hour, 2-3 hour, half-day, and full-day rides.

Take a trail ride through forests, up to the Sperry Chalet, through meadows, or up Apgar Mountain. There are so many great rides to choose from, and they all have lots of fun in common.

Read More: What to do in Glacier National Park

Ready to experience more of Montana? Try one of these amazing tours!

  • Enjoy a 2-Day Yellowstone National Park Tour with Lunches . Experience the upper and lower loops of Yellowstone on this guided 2-day excursion. See all major points of interest and the abundant wildlife. Stay overnight at Chico Hot Springs Resort and Day Spa or in Gardiner.
  • Explore from the water on a Glacier National Park Scenic Raft Trip . Enjoy an easy scenic raft trip down Glacier National Park’s Middle Fork of the Flathead River. Relax and learn about the river and Glacier National Park with a friendly, interpretive river guide.
  • Take a Yellowstone & Grand Tetons: 4-Day/3-Night Wildlife Adventure trip . Discover Grand Teton and Yellowstone National Parks on this multi-day adventure. Stop frequently to take in landmarks and search for unforgettable wildlife such as bears, wolves, moose, and more.

MUSEUM OF THE ROCKIES

Are you a huge fan of the Jurassic Park series? Does the idea of seeing real remnants of dinosaurs make you excited? In that case, the Museum of the Rockies in Bozeman is the place for you to visit!

Even if you’re not a huge fan of these prehistoric beasts, they’re still worth looking at for their sheer size alone. The museum also happens to have one of the largest collections of dinosaur fossils in the country.

Of course, dinosaur fossils are not the only things you can find in this massive museum. The main purpose of the compound is to study life in the Rocky Mountains, examining both humans and animals from almost 500 million years ago.

You can catch some of their incredible permanent exhibits like the Taylor Planetarium, History of the Northern Rocky Mountain Region, and Enduring Peoples, just to name a few.

Read More: 12 AMAZING THINGS TO DO IN BOZEMAN MT

GRIZZLY & WOLF DISCOVERY CENTER

The Grizzly & Wolf Discovery Center in West Yellowstone is an educational facility and wildlife park in one. It strives to entertain and educate visitors about local wildlife.

The discovery center is open every day of the year, meaning that no matter when you’re in Montana, you can visit. If you’re interested in gray wolves, birds of prey, and grizzly bears, get ready to look at them in a new light.

All of the animals at the Grizzly & Wolf Discovery Center are unable to survive in the wild, and now serve as ambassadors for their wild counterparts. Visit the center, and observe and learn to appreciated these amazing animals.

You can view the animals from either inside or outside, and the bears here don’t hibernate — so you can see them year-round. The center is located near the west entrance to Yellowstone National Park.

MAKOSHIKA STATE PARK

Makoshika State Park is Montana’s largest state park and clocks in at 11,00 acres. It is considered a publicly-accessible recreational center and nature preserve wrapped into one. When you visit, you’ll experience the Montana badlands, where paleontologists unearth dinosaur fossils. In fact, fossil remains of the Tyrannosaurus Rex have been found here.

A visitor center near the park entrance features interactive exhibits. Triceratops and T-Rex fossils are housed here too!

Enjoy scenic drives, hiking trails, camping, and picnic areas within the park. Special events are held here throughout the year.

Read More: 15 AWESOME THINGS TO DO IN BILLINGS MT (+ SE MT DAY TRIPS)

LEWIS & CLARK CAVERNS STATE PARK

If you are curious about limestone caverns, you must check out Lewis & Clark Caverns State Park . This is another public recreational area, but it is also a preservation area that stretches across 3,000 acres.

When it comes to exploring the caves, you can only explore them during a guided tour. Offered seasonally, two tours are offered daily — the Classic Tour and the Paradise Tour.

The Classic Tour is a 2-mile, 2-hour long tour that shows you so much of the cave and allows you to learn so much. You do have to navigate 600 stairs, and maybe bend, slide, or duck waddle on some parts — so be prepared! The Paradise Tour is best suited for those with small children, or for those who want to avoid the 600 steps thing. It’s another great tour, and is the only one that takes you to the Paradise Room, the most decorated place in the cave.

In addition to cave tours, you’ll also find miles of hiking trails, a campground, and two visitor centers here.

YELLOWSTONE NATIONAL PARK

Yellowstone National Park is America’s first national park, and an absolute must-visit when in Montana.

Yellowstone in primarily in Wyoming, but parts of it extend into Idaho and Montana. Montana is the proud home of the West Yellowstone entrance.

Within Yellowstone’s 2.2 million acres, you can enjoy the park’s unique hydrothermal and geological features. Hot springs are the most common hydrothermal features in Yellowstone. The geothermal areas in Yellowstone make up about half of the world’s active geysers!

Old Faithful is the most famous of Yellowstone’s nearly 500 geysers. What makes it so special? It’s one of six that park rangers can currently predict its eruptions. It lives up to its name, and has only lengthened the time between eruptions by 30 minutes in the last 30 years! Watch eruptions from the Old Faithful viewing area or along the boardwalks that weave around the geyser and through the Upper Geyser Basin.

Visit the Grand Prismatic Spring, hike the Upper Geyser Basin Trail, and see the Grand Canyon of Yellowstone.

Wildlife is abundant in Yellowstone, so don’t be surprised if you have to wait for bison to pass by while you’re driving. Keep an eye out for elk, grizzly bears, otters, and more.

With hiking, camping, fishing, boating, biking, lodging, restaurants, horseback riding, and guided tours — Yellowstone is full of adventure.

Read More: 38 BEST THINGS TO DO IN YELLOWSTONE NATIONAL PARK

WHITEFISH SKI RESORT

Whitefish Ski Resort exists as part of Big Mountain in the Flathead National Forest, and it’s a great place to visit during any season. With winter skiing, summer sports, lodging, restaurants, and shops — Whitefish has it all.

If you’re looking to get your ski game on in Montana, then Whitefish is the place to go. It offers over 3,000 acres of skiing space, so you can ski to your heart’s content. It is considered a world-class ski resort, so you know you’ll get quality runs in.

If you’re a beginner skier, don’t worry! They offer an affordable Learn to Ski or Ride package that includes two days of equipment rentals, two days of beginner-area lift tickets, and two half-day lessons, to get you on the bigger slopes in no time.

After skiing, you can relax in the Base Lodge, which features dining, shops, a Kids Center, bus transport, and a bar.

In the summer, you’ll find zip lining, alpine slides, mountain biking, an aerial adventure park, summer tubing, scenic lift rides, hiking, and more fun than you can handle, making Whitefish a great year-round choice.

Read More: WHITEFISH MOUNTAIN RESORT: A WORLD OF SUMMER FUN!

BIG SKY RESORT

Big Sky Resort near Bozeman is one of the biggest ski resorts in the country. The incredibly high summit of over 11,000 feet is only for the most well-versed skiers or those looking for a beautiful view of Montana.

The location offers plenty of incredibly fun activities, such as snowshoe tours, climbing walls, snowmobile tours, and zip-lining, all of which make your visit that much more exciting. They also happen to have one of the most advanced tramway systems in North America, with fast coaches or weatherproofed ones that can let you rest from the cold. There are also plenty of skilled trainers who can teach you skiing or snowboarding on different beginner trails.

Big Sky is a more modern resort, and it boasts nearly 4,500 acres of skiing space as well as one of the most technologically-advanced chair lifts in all of North America. Not to mention that the food in the base lodge restaurant is to die for.

In the summer, popular activities at this resort include exploring the hiking trails, mountain biking, enjoying the golf courses, zipline tours with aerial views of places like Lone Peak, rock climbing, or taking a scenic lift ride. Adventure Mountain in Mountain Village has great activities for kids, too!

Read More: 9 AWESOME THINGS TO DO IN BIG SKY MONTANA FOR OUTDOOR LOVERS

BEARTOOTH HIGHWAY

Although few roads in the United States are considered “popular,” one of them is US Route 212, which stretches between Montana and Wyoming. Beartooth Highway is part of this stretch of road, and it passes by the northern entrance of Yellowstone National Park.

Beartooth Highway features an extremely scenic view that stretches nearly 70 miles between the two states. If you’re looking for a low-key but beautiful experience in Montana, a drive on this highway is the perfect choice.

LITTLE BIGHORN BATTLEFIELD NATIONAL MONUMENT

The Battle of Little Bighorn occurred in 1876, and the Little Bighorn Battlefield National Monument serves as a place of reflection for the lives lost there.

In addition to the monument, you’ll also find lush, grassy fields that span the 190-mile area. Hiking trails, guided tours, and scenic views can also be found here.

WORLD MUSEUM OF MINING

Located in Butte, Montana, the World Museum of Mining is a museum and not-for-profit educational corporation. Opened in 1965, this museum has been a delight for visitors ever since. It is an active mining site, maintaining precious metals and jewels such as zinc and silver.

The main mine is named The Orphan Girl, and it stretches across 22 acres of land. However, outside of mining, this museum also exhibits over one hundred years’ worth of American history.

If you have an interest in mining and/or American history, this is the museum to check out.

PICTOGRAPH CAVE STATE PARK

Pictograph Cave State Park is located in Billings, Montana. It’s an area that is made up of three separate cave systems that were once home generations of prehistoric hunters.

The hunters who camped in Pictograph Cave left behind artifacts and over 100 rock paintings, or pictographs. Some of the oldest pictographs in the cave are over 2,000 years old!

A 3/4-mile loop trail to the caves allows visitors to view the rock paintings, and learn more about them from the interpretive displays along the way. If you’re visiting, consider bringing binoculars to get a better look at the pictographs.

Allow an hour to visit the park, the trail, and the visitor center. Picnic facilities are available here, and bird watching is also a popular pastime.

Read More: 15 AWESOME THINGS TO DO IN BILLINGS MT (INCLUDING SE MONTANA DAY TRIPS)

When it comes to some of the best small towns in the United States, you can’t go wrong with Red Lodge , MT.

Red Lodge is located along the Beartooth Highway, and you’ll pass through this awesome town on your way to the northern entrance to Yellowstone National Park. This small town is one of the most historic towns you can find. Nestled against The Beartooths, Montana’s highest mountain peaks, Red Lodge is simply beautiful, and filled with fun things to do.

Here, you’ll find skiing and snowboarding, ice skating, shops, restaurants, and great lodging choices. Make sure to check out the Yellowstone Wildlife Sanctuary while you’re in town, and see and learn more about mountain lions, wolves, bears, and more.

FLATHEAD LAKE

Flathead Lake is the largest freshwater lake west of Mississippi. It stretches for nearly 30 miles and, as the leftovers of a glacial dam, it features stunningly beautiful water.

This beautiful lake is popular for its water sports, including swimming, boating, kayaking, and sailing.

If you’re not feeling up for getting wet, you can check out the many hiking trails in the area. In the winter, you can even try your hand at ice fishing!

BISON RANGE

If you thought that Beartooth Highway was the only place in Montana to offer scenic driving routes, think again. Bison Range is a natural nature reserve that exists as part of the Flathead Indian Reservation. It exists to help with the conservation of American bison.

At the writing of this article, there are currently between 350 and 500 bison on this preserve. If you come to visit the range, you can check out the wildlife by driving along the roads, or walking on designated trails. Picnic areas are also available here.

EARTHQUAKE LAKE

Earthquake Lake , also known as Quake Lake, is — as you might be able to guess — a lake that was made in the wake of an earthquake.

In 1959, a 7.5 magnitude earthquake caused a massive landslide, which stopped the flow of the Madison River in the Madison River Canyon Gorge. The landslide caused 28 deaths, flooding, and millions of dollars worth of damage to the forests and highways in the West Yellowstone area.

In its wake, Quake Lake was formed. The lake spans 6 miles and is about 130 feet deep, making it a popular recreational spot for people today.

Fishing and hiking are popular activities here. The Earthquake Lake Visitor Center features a Memorial Boulder to honor those who lost their lives.

VISIT A GHOST TOWN

When it comes to things to do in Montana, there are so many things…it may be hard to choose. But ghost towns? They should always be on your list!

The Ghost Town of Castle City is one you could try to see — but it’s currently on private lands, so you’d need permission. But Bannack State Park is a great and easy way to see a Montana ghost town. Walk the deserted streets and learn about the realities of the “Old West.”

Bannack was the site of Montana’s first major gold discovery in 1862. People moved in from miles around, and the town grew. But when the value of gold dwindled, so did the population of Bannack — leaving behind the 50 buildings that you can still see today.

Tours are conducted from the visitor center in the summer months, and ice skating on the pond is popular in the winter.

ZOO MONTANA

Zoo Montana is, perhaps confusingly, not exactly a zoo. Zoo Montana is a 70-acre wildlife botanical garden of zoology. It is more an area of education and study these days, but entertainment comes in the form of seeing the animals.

If you or your family are interested in animals, checking out this conservatorium is a must-do on your list of things to do in Montana.

This location features over 58 species of animals who live in habitats meant to mimic their real habitats.

GARDEN OF ONE THOUSAND BUDDHAS

If you’re looking into more spiritual locales that will clean out your chakras and restore you with positive energy, then the Garden of One Thousand Buddhas is your place. This is an area in Montana that is meant for spiritual experiences that stretches across 10 acres of land.

This garden features one thousand hand-cast Buddha statues that are displayed around a figure in the center of the design (The Great Mother).

In recent times, it is also a public park and botanical garden, although many Buddhism-practicing individuals still use it for spiritual means.

C.M. RUSSELL MUSEUM

Located in Great Falls, MT, the C.M. Russell Museum features more than 3,000 pieces of Western art, and honors one of America’s greatest artists, Charles M. Russell.

With 16 galleries, an outdoor sculpture garden, educational programming, and a research center, the C.M. Russell Museum is a must-visit for any art lover.

Featuring almost 1,000 of Russell’s creations, the museum presents his personal reflections on Western history.

You’ll find permanent exhibitions, such as The Bison: American Icon and the Josephine Trigg Collection, along with visiting exhibits as well. The sculpture garden contains six major bronzes representing western wildlife, and is free and open to the public.

MONTANA FAQ

What is the number 1 attraction in montana.

The number 1 attraction in Montana is Yellowstone National Park. Most of Yellowstone is located in Wyoming, but the park is so large that part of it is in Montana. Though only that small portion is in the state, a lot of visitors use Montana as a gateway to Yellowstone National Park.

What are some things you should not miss when visiting Montana?

There are a lot of things to do see and do in Montana, but some of the things you do not want to miss are Going-To-The-Sun Road, Museum of the Rockies, Little Bighorn Battlefield National Monument, and the Grizzly and Wolf Discovery Center.

What is Montana best known for?

Montana is best known for its natural beauty, outdoor recreation, and diverse wildlife. Montana is nicknamed u0022The Treasure Stateu0022 because of its abundance of natural minerals.

MORE INFORMATION FOR YOUR TRIP TO MONTANA

  • YOUR MONTANA VACATION
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  • SKI RESORTS:  15 Of The Best Montana Ski Resorts To Visit This Winter
  • WATERFALLS: 17 Amazing Waterfalls In Montana (Inside And Outside Glacier NPS)

When it comes to Montana, there is so much to see and even more to do. With national parks, world-famous ski resorts, museums, lakes, wildlife, and even a ghost town or two -- you're going to love this wild and natural state, that's perfect for visiting year-round. Here are 21 of the best things to do in Montana.

Buildings lining a street in downtown Livingston, Montana. Image credit EQRoy via Shutterstock.com

  • 8 Most Overlooked Towns in Montana

Also known as “Big Sky Country,” the northwestern State of Montana is the fourth largest in America by total area. Ode to its nickname, the state boasts wide-open skies and large areas of raw nature, adored by outdoor enthusiasts. The natural beauty of Montana is only rivaled by its unique history and Western cultural ambiance. While major cities like Billings and Helena continue to receive their due attention, Montana also boasts a number of equally beautiful smaller towns that are great ways to experience another side of the “Treasure State.”

Whether it is the historic charm of Hamilton or the outdoor opportunities in Big Sky, these towns have plenty of hidden secrets. An exploration of these great and often overlooked towns will create the perfect holiday outing for the entire family.

Downtown Hamilton, Montana.

Hamilton, the seat of Ravalli County, is a cultural wonderland whose modern history can be traced to the late 19th century. With a population of just under 5,000, Hamilton offers a tranquil retreat for those seeking a taste of Montana's rich heritage. Visitors can tour several 19th and 20th-century revival-style landmarks, including the Daly Mansion (1910) and the Ravalli County Courthouse (1900), which offers fascinating insights into life at the turn of the 1900s.

Stroll through Main Street and the Historic District, where plenty of friendly local businesses and inviting restaurants round out the day’s activities. Meanwhile, the nature enthusiast can enjoy outings like biking and hiking at the nearby Trapper Peak Trails. The best part is that with moderate summer and winter temperatures, Hamilton is a pleasure to explore throughout the year.

Kootenai Falls near Libby, Montana.

Libby, situated in the northwestern corner of the state, finds itself beautifully centered at the confluence of Libby Creek and the mighty Kootenay River . The seat of Lincoln County, this town of just under 3,000 residents, is known for its warm summers and cool winters and is indeed an outdoor lover's dream. Enjoy excellent mountain trail hiking and biking opportunities while fishing is always a popular activity in the Rivers Edge Community Park.

In addition, excursions to the stunning Kootenai Falls (featured in several motion pictures) will surely impress, and chances to see wildlife like black bears and big horn sheep make for truly picture-perfect moments. Between the natural formations, tourists overlook manmade sights like the historic Kootenai Falls Swinging Bridge that was constructed during the Great Depression. Here breathtaking views of the falls and surrounding forests create an impression that will not be forgotten!

The lively Main Street in Whitefish, Montana.

The scenic town of Whitefish is conveniently located along the coast of Whitefish Lake, where awesome opportunities for hiking, biking, swimming, and even fly fishing attract thousands of visitors. Whitefish is also a great place for the alpine enthusiast, where the inviting slopes of the Whitefish Mountain Resort can satisfy the professional and amateur athlete alike. Meanwhile, beyond its natural allure, Whitefish is a pretty place to enjoy cultural enrichment.

Home to a modest community of 7,800, everyone is full of vibrance, palpable through the number of fun festivals throughout the year. Some of the most popular are the Taste of Whitefish, the Winter Carnival, and the Big Sky Music Festival. From amazing seafood along the glistening shores of Whitefish Lake to live concerts with amazing vibes, these events are a world of fun for everyone. End the day along the City Beach for a wonderful time in this Montana town.

Historic buildings along a street in Miles City, Montana.

Miles City serves as the seat of Custer County, where just over 8,000 inhabitants reside. Known for its hot summers, this town is a friendly snapshot of small-town Montana life with a great assortment of local attractions. Enjoy time by the Yellowstone River , which passes through town, or relax at the nearby Spotted Eagle Recreation Area. Offering splendid opportunities to go camping, swimming, hiking, cycling, and fishing, this is one outdoors pitstop no nature enthusiast will want to miss out on.

Meanwhile, an afternoon at the informative Range Riders Museum is a great way to learn about Montana’s unique cultural history and special geographic features through various interactive exhibits. After the fun, visitors should stop by Tongue River Winery, where wines made only from Montana-grown fruits and grapes make this a memorable day trip excursion.

Main Street in Ennis, Montana.

Ennis, home to just under 1,000 permanent residents, is a silent reprieve from the commotion of urban cities. Thus, this charming river town is a scenic destination perfect for a road trip pit stop. With the 183-mile-long Madison River flowing through town, spending time along the water’s edge is always a peaceful outing. Surrounded by the Tobacco Root and Madison Range Mountains, the picturesque ambiance of Ennis makes it an ideal place just to stop and reflect away from the busyness of the major urban centers.

Still, there is cultural excitement on offer here too, and among the events of note in Ennis include the elaborate Fourth of July Parade and the Madison Valley Arts Festival. For those who miss out on the events, a welcoming array of tasty local restaurants and other friendly businesses are available year-round. Whether this involves a pizza at Alley Bistro or fishing supplies from FishWater Outfitters, these spots make Ennis a nice little place to discover for all ages.

A street in downtown Livingston, Montana.

The picturesque town of Livingston is a veritable treasure of nature adjacent to Yellowstone National Park and along the banks of the Yellowstone River. With its breathtaking mountain panoramas, this seat of Park County is home to just over 8,000 residents, where the outdoors can be enjoyed throughout the year. Go hiking and biking at numerous trails in the area, enjoy wonderful views of Livingston Peak, or head over to Yellowstone National Park. This massive park boasts over 2 million acres of mountains, canyons, geysers, and wildlife that’ll make any nature enthusiasts rejoice.

Livingston also boasts a charming historic center, and guests can appreciate several well-preserved 19th and 20th-century buildings here. These include the former rail station, the Livingston Depot (1902), which today serves as a museum commemorating Montana’s rail past and growth in the Western United States. Whether it is to enjoy some small-town charm or marvel at the exquisite natural beauty all around, tourists in Montana often overlook a stop in Livingston.

Fort Benton

Fort Benton Bridge in Fort Benton, Montana.

Fort Benton, the county seat of Chouteau County, is Montana’s oldest continuously occupied settlement (not counting indigenous peoples). It was founded in 1846, some 43 years before Montana’s statehood! Today, this historic community of 1,500 inhabitants continues attracting visitors for its ties to the past and its beautiful natural setting. A former fur trading post, Fort Benton is scenically situated along the banks of the Missouri River and maintains a charming historic ambiance that all guests can enjoy. Explore several landmarks and museums that bring one back to the latter half of the 1800s.

For example, the Chouteau County Courthouse (1883) and Grand Union Hotel are a blast to the past, echoing tales of a bygone era. Meanwhile, an afternoon at the Fort Benton Historic District is always delightful. Near the waterfront, this district designated as a National Historic Landmark is a fine place to enjoy a quiet stroll, all while learning more about Montana’s past. With cool winters and hot summers, this community is pleasing no matter the season.

Welcome to Big Sky sign in Big Sky, Montana.

An outdoor lover’s paradise, the mountain town of Big Sky is indeed the perfect place to enjoy the wonder of nature throughout the year. With just over 3,500 inhabitants, this modest place is big on outdoor excitement, and tourists can enjoy local destinations like the Big Sky Ski Resort and the Gallatin National Forest and River. At the former, majestic views of the Rocky Mountains never disappoint, while at the latter, fantastic opportunities for cycling, hiking, and even fly fishing are on offer. Add in loads of small-town charm with a plethora of welcoming local businesses and tasty eateries, and Big Sky leaves its mark as one Montana town that should never be overlooked!

Montana is called the “Treasure State,” and examining its stunning natural geography and fascinating American history makes it easy to see why. The state's beauty can be further appreciated through a trip to its many smaller and often overlooked towns, creating sets of memories that visitors cherish. From Whitefish's cultural and natural allure to the historic ambiance of Fort Benton and beyond, these wonderful towns may be lesser known but are still second to none. Visit the beautiful Montana and see some of the very best of the Western United States by experiencing these wonderful small towns!

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This Is the Best Destination to Buy a Winter Vacation Home in the U.S., According to Vacasa

Property management company Vacasa lists the best places to invest in a vacation home.

great places to visit in montana

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Investing in a vacation home has several perks such as more frequent vacations but also tax benefits and generating rental income that can help pay off the home's mortgage and maintenance costs. If that's something you've considered, then buying a winter residence certainly makes sense since mountain destinations are excellent for year-round recreation. 

According to property management company Vacasa's latest list of the best places to invest in a vacation home, a residence in Montana's Big Sky can potentially bring in a whopping $108,772 in annual rental revenue. 

"Between Big Sky Ski Resort's world-class appeal and the area's largely untouched natural landscape, Montana is rich in outdoor recreation and makes an easy vacation destination that appeals to buyers, with a strong cap rate of 8 percent," the company noted in its report.

However, houses there are not cheap — the median value is $730,814, according to Vacasa's data.

If you'd like to spend less, the second destination on the list might be a better fit. Killington, in central Vermont, is home to one of the biggest ski resorts in the region and is only a couple of hours away from Boston and about five from New York City. With a cap rate of 7.5 percent and a median home value of $361,007, vacation homeowners can add, on average, $46,000 to their annual income.

And if you're looking to splurge near one of the country's most famous ski towns , then Wyoming's Teton Village is your best bet, where your investment could make you $190,000 from short-term rentals. However, you need to have some serious initial capital as the median home prices in Teton Village run in the millions — or $2,158,856, to be exact.

Vacasa's top five markets for winter vacation homes are rounded out by Vail in Colorado, which, as the company points out, attracts about 1.3 million visitors a year. The median home price in Vail is $1,337,867, but you could make over $110,000 with the current cap rate of 5.10 percent. 

And finally, Stowe in Vermont is fifth, with the same cap rate but a much lower rental income of $58,734. Vacation residences there are also more affordable — the median home value is $700,158.

“Don’t discount cold weather destinations, which attract adventure enthusiasts and those looking to enjoy cozy, private amenities like glowing fireplaces and steamy hot tubs," Daned Kirkham, senior director of real estate for Vacasa, told Travel + Leisure. "Notably for 2024, we’re seeing a spike in upcoming spring break interest for places like Steamboat Springs, Colorado (up 14 percent over last year) and Vail, Colorado (up 11 percent), signaling to potential homeowners that travelers are considering cold weather destinations at unconventional times of the year — making them an investment worth considering.”

You can read Vacasa's full report at vacasa.com .

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  1. 21 of the most beautiful places to visit in Montana

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  2. The Top Things to Do in Montana

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  3. Montana's Glacier National Park: A Travel Guide

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  4. Montana 2021: Top 10 Tours & Activities (with Photos)

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  5. 10 Best Attractions to Visit in Montana

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  6. 21 of the most beautiful places to visit in Montana

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COMMENTS

  1. 25 Best Places to Visit in Montana: A Local's 2024 Guide

    The best places to visit in Montana differ for everyone, but that is what makes Montana so special. There is something for every type of traveler! 25 Best Places to Visit in Montana. Bitterroot Valley. Glacier National Park. Yellowstone National Park. Montana Dude Ranch. Montana Badlands. Bighorn Canyon.

  2. 18 Top Things to Do in Montana

    The museum is rated as one of the top things to do in Bozeman. Past visitors call out the dinosaurs, in particular, as a major draw. If you're looking for accommodations in Bozeman, consider ...

  3. THE 15 BEST Things to Do in Montana

    6. Playmill Theatre. 683. Theaters. After nearly fifty years of the "Finest in Family Entertainment," the Playmill continues the tradition with three popular hits. Join us for a night of great theatre in our rustic home in beautiful West Yellowstone, Montana, gateway to Yellowstone. See full details. 7.

  4. 22 Best Places to Visit in Montana

    Bighorn Canyon National Recreation Area, Fort Smith. Best Places to Stay. Surely one of the state's best-kept secrets, the Bighorn Canyon National Recreation Area is located 80 miles south of Billings and has been compared to the Grand Canyon. It spans 70 miles of canyon walls, some of which are over 1,000 feet high.

  5. Top 20 Most Beautiful Places to Visit in Montana

    1. Glacier National Park. Aptly called the "Crown of the Continent", the Glacier National Park is home to more than one million acres of beautiful and unspoiled terrain. The scenic wilderness area encompasses jaw-dropping scenery such as spectacular lakes, glacier-carved peaks, pristine forests, and alpine meadows.

  6. 10 Best Places to Visit in Montana (+Map)

    4. Flathead Lake. Just 15 minutes south of the city Kalispell is Flathead Lake, which is officially the largest natural freshwater lake west of the Mississippi River. Formed by glaciers, Flathead Lake is a connection to the past for Montana, but it also serves as a hub for sightseeing and recreation in the 21st century.

  7. The 15 Best Montana Vacations

    The Ranch at Rock Creek: Philipsburg. Courtesy of The Ranch at Rock Creek. For romance and adventure combined with a five-star luxury experience, plan a getaway to western Montana at The Ranch at ...

  8. Best places to visit in Montana

    Massive Montana comprises the Last Best Place in the American West, encompassing 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 grown into Montana's best cities, showcasing its independent yet inviting culture.

  9. 15 Best Places To Visit in Montana in 2023

    13. Off the Beaten Path Ski Resorts. 14. Georgetown Lake. 15. Flathead Lake. FAQs About Visiting Montana. In Conclusion. Montana is famous for being a part of the Wild Wild West, most visitors come to enjoy the great outdoors and get a feel for what the original pioneers must have felt.

  10. 26 Places to Visit in Montana (for Your Montana Bucket List!)

    12. Bozeman. Bozeman is a city and the county seat of Gallatin County in Montana. Known by the name of "the most livable spot," this city enjoys world-famous fly fishing, dramatic mountains for hiking, mountain biking, hunting, skiing, rock climbing, exploring the backcountry, and wildlife.

  11. 21 Top-Rated Tourist Attractions & Things to Do in Montana

    Today, this history and culture are still on full display, making Butte one of Montana's best places to visit. One of the best places to dig into the city's mining history is the World Museum of Mining. ... 14 Top-Rated Places to Visit in Montana. Montana in Pictures: 18 Beautiful Places to Photograph. 12 Top-Rated Ski Resorts in Montana, 2023/24.

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    16. Lewis & Clark Caverns State Park. Lewis & Clark Caverns State Park is an excellent natural place to visit in Montana. The 3,000-acre park is best known for its limestone caverns, named the Clark Caverns. Visitors can take guided tours into the Clark Caverns for an ultimate caving experience.

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    Chico Hot Springs. Big Timber. 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.

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    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.

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    The Best Times to Visit Montana for Beautiful Weather, Lower Prices, and Fewer Crowds ... How Big Sky, Montana, Became One of America's Best Places to Ski — and Why 2024 Is the Year to Go.

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    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. 5. Yellowstone National Park.

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    Montana Is Packed With Luxury Hotels, Charming Small Towns, and Lots of Adventures — How to Plan the Perfect Trip. Find big adventure in Big Sky Country — here's where to eat, stay, and play ...

  18. 35 Best Places to Visit in Montana & Things to Do

    See Related: Ways to Get Paid to Travel and Take Photos. Best Places to Visit in Montana's Missouri River Country. For rodeos, river rafting, and wildlife refuges, there's no greater place than Missouri River Country. Base yourself in towns such as Glasgow, Sidney, or Scobey to enjoy Montana's attractions. 27. Missouri River

  19. 30 BEST Places to Visit in Montana (UPDATED March 2024)

    2023. 6. Playmill Theatre. 683. Theatres. After nearly fifty years of the "Finest in Family Entertainment," the Playmill continues the tradition with three popular hits. Join us for a night of great theatre in our rustic home in beautiful West Yellowstone, Montana, gateway to Yellowstone. See full details. 7.

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    15. Flathead Lake. Ken Lund/Flickr. Flathead Lake is the largest freshwater body in the West and is 28 miles long. At 185 miles, the shoreline is farther than the eye can see. Even though the lake is famous in the region, it's still a mystery for many unwary visitors to Montana.

  21. 30 Best Places To Visit In Montana, The USA

    25. Deer Lodge. Source: Photo by user Mark A. Holloway used under CC BY-SA 4.0. Deer Lodge is a small town in Powell County. One of its most popular and most intriguing places of interest is Old Montana Prison Museum, where you can learn more about the prison that used to sit in Deer Lodge.

  22. Best Places to Visit in Montana (2024 Vacation Fun)

    Here are some of the best places to visit in Montana for an unforgettable family vacation experience. Lewis & Clark National Historic Trail. Commemorating the journey of the Corps of Discovery led by explorers Meriwether Lewis and William Clark in the early 19th century, the Lewis & Clark National Historic Trail offers a glimpse into the lives ...

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    2. Whitefish Mountain Resort. Talking of iconic Montana views and pretty places—if there's one spot that in so many ways encapsulates the very best of the state's scenery it is more than likely Whitefish Mountain Resort. Just north of the scenic Flathead Lake sits the yet more picturesque mountain resort town of Whitefish.

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    Jackson Glacier Overlook, found between Logan Pass and St. Mary, is the best place to see a glacier from the road. ... But Bannack State Park is a great and easy way to see a Montana ghost town ...

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    Visit the beautiful Montana and see some of the very best of the Western United States by experiencing these wonderful small towns! Rivers in MontanaDiscover the 10 longest river in the "Treasure State." Share. Home. Places. ... 8 Best Places to Live in Utah in 2024. 12 of the Most Hospitable Small Towns in Wisconsin.

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    According to property management company Vacasa's latest list of the best places to invest in a vacation home, a residence in Montana's Big Sky can potentially bring in a whopping $108,772 in ...