best montana cities to visit

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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 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

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

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 

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

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

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.

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

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

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

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

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

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!

…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

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

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

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

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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10 Best Places to Visit in Montana

By Vanessa Holmes · Last updated on February 4, 2024

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

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

10. Great Falls

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

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

9. Missoula

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

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

8. Lewis and Clark Caverns State Park

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

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

7. Little Bighorn Battlefield National Monument

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

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

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

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

5. Whitefish

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

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

4. Flathead Lake

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

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

3. West Yellowstone

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

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

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

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

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

1. Glacier National Park

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

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

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

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Montana , Inspiration

26 bucket-list places to visit in montana (+ map).

Montana is one of the most scenic and diverse states in the US. These are the best places to visit in Montana – a mix of cities, nature, parks, and more!

These Montana destinations offer something for everyone – some of the places in Montana are well-known, like Glacier National Park, and others are lesser-known (like Anaconda).

We hope that you have found some incredibly beautiful places to put on your Montana bucket list ! Let us know which places we failed to mention in the comments. Thanks!

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Montana Destinations Map

Best places to visit in montana, additional places in montana resources, pin this montana bucket list guide.

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1. Bighorn Canyon National Recreation Area

One of the five largest canyons in the United States, Bighorn Canyon stretches across the border of Montana and Wyoming.

The recreational area spans over 120,000 acres and features extraordinary canyon landscapes, vast forests, valleys and deserts, wetlands, and the famous Bighorn Lake.

The lake stretches nearly 71 miles across Montana and Wyoming , from where 55 miles pass through the canyon itself. This dry and rocky land was created about five million years ago by the rise of mountains and was eroded by the Bighorn River.

Today, it has become a favorite destination for hikers to hike, camp, and admire the rocky landscape!

2. Glacier National Park

This place is thought to be one of Montana’s treasures and is a gem regardless of whether you visit Glacier National Park in winter or in summer!

Located in the Northern Rocky Mountains , Glacier National Park covers more than a million acres of forests, lakes, alpine meadows, glacial-carved valleys, etc.

This park is home to more than seventy species of mammals and that is one of the main lures of tourists to the park. It is a pristine and raw place and is one of the most visited national parks in the United States , as a result.

According to data, the park has managed to welcome over 100 million visitors throughout the years.

It has over 700 miles of hiking trails, promising some outstanding scenic views . If you’re a fan of enjoying picturesque spots, then make sure to visit the largest (and most famous) lake in the park – Lake McDonald.

3. Hyalite Canyon  

Located in the gorgeous Custer Gallatin National Forest, Hyalite Canyon is a unique place to enjoy recreational activities in Montana. It is the perfect Montana weekend trip for all ages and there is plenty to keep occupied with!

The canyon is brilliant and quite remarkable and Hyalite Canyon is considered the most popular National Forest area in Montana.

Hikers, bikers, and road trippers will fall in love with the natural area and the best time to visit is between late June and early November.

Visitors are free to take their dogs with them and should try to keep them on a leash (but don’t be surprised if you see some running around freely).

Hyalite Canyon has four excellent trails, plus two great wheelchair-accessible trails to its waterfalls.

4. Whitefish

Located near Glacier National Park, Whitefish is a charming place in Flathead County and it is one of the most beautiful small towns in Montana !

There are many reasons to visit and plenty of things to do in Whitefish and most people end up there in conjunction with a trip to Glacier National Park.

Apart from the many things to do in the town, hiking is also a favorite activity for locals and visitors. The Viking Creek Wetlands Interpretive Trail and Whitefish Trail are some of the most visited trails. Both have moderate to easy difficulty and require about half a day to hike them.

In addition, there are some fantastic options for places to stay in Whitefish – from cabins to loft apartments and more!

5. Virginia City 

Virginia City is known as the most colorful pioneer mining camp to ever exist! It is just 85 miles west of Yellowstone National Park ; it is a surprisingly well-preserved West Victorian gold-mining area. 

When the gold ran out, the town was frozen in time. So, today people can visit this place to become familiar with the Old West. 

Many people, especially art and music enthusiasts, will appreciate a visit to the Virginia City Opera House, where the only remaining Cremona Player pianos in the world are located. 

If you want to feel like you’re time traveling, then pay a visit to the Thompson-Hickman Museum, where you can see some unique artifacts like rare guns, an Indian Treaty, oddities, and more.

6. Chinese Wall

The Wall of China is a large ledge located in the Bob Marshall Wilderness Area in Montana.

The Chinese Wall forms part of the Continental Divide, which is the place in North America that determines which ocean water and streams flow into.

The wall is usually accessed through the Benchmark Trailhead. It usually takes hikers several days to reach the wall, which is about 18 miles from the previous trail.

The Continental Divide route runs directly under the wall. Campgrounds are banned right along the wall to protect the relatively fragile ecosystem from overuse.

Located between Yellowstone National Park in the South of Montana and Flathead National Forest in the North, Helena was founded as a gold camp during Montana’s gold rush period.

Helena is widely loved by those who love the great outdoors. There’s plenty to see and do there, from outdoor activities like hunting and fishing to skiing and cycling. There are around 75 miles of mountain biking and hiking trails there, as well. 

Some of the best attractions in Helena include the Neo-Gothic styled cathedral of St. Helena, Mount Helena City Park, awe-inspiring landscapes of Gates of the Mountains Wilderness, and more!

8. Missoula

With beautiful flora and trees saturating the city’s streets, Missoula is also known as The Garden City of Montana. The number of things to do in Missoula is endless and you can find something for everyone in this famous university town.

Beer lovers might find Missoula a little bit exciting as there are many places where you can drink some of the most renowned craft beer in the United States .

Another thing that Missoula is known for is the world’s largest gold nugget that was mined in the area – it sold for $19,000 at the end of the 19th century!

There are a few ghost towns that you can visit as day trips from Missoula and you can even find some gold-mining tours in the nearby vicinity.  If you’re looking for a place to stay – there are many options for accommodation in Missoula .

9. Elkhorn (Ghost Town)

Elkhorn is a small, abandoned town in Montana. About a decade ago, only 10 people were reported living there. During its peak, Elkhorn usually had about 2500 residents and there were schools, hotels, churches, and shops.

In 1889, the city received a railway connection (Northern Pacific Road). In the years that followed, the silver rush faded, as did the prosperity of Elkhorn.

In addition, the city was struck by an epidemic of diphtheria which resulted in many deaths, especially children. In 1931, the railway connection to Elkhorn was discontinued and only a small part of the population remained in the city.

Nowadays, a handful of families live in the city, both in modern houses and in renovated buildings from the late 19th century. It is one of the most interesting places to visit in Montana.

10. Makoshika State Park

The name of this state park comes from the Dakota and it means “bad, barren lands”. Makoshika State Park is a park that spans over barren landscapes in Eastern Montana.

Travelers who visit are mesmerized by its obscure beauty. The badlands formed under the influence of wind erosion and rain showers and will appear before travelers as an array of different colors of clay rocks. You’ll see black, red, grey, and orange rocks (among many other hues).

11. Choteau

Choteau is famous for its fossil and dinosaur discoveries, which you can see at the Old Trail Museum. But this is not just a city for paleontologists!

Take some time to browse local downtown shops and walking trails nearby. The Choteau is affectionately referred to as the “front wing of the Rocky Mountains”.

If you love skiing, you can stay at Choteau to access the Teton Ski region. The Choteau also offers a charming city center with a traditional Western Flair and local shopping.

Popular with visitors exploring the Dinosaur Trail, this Old Trail Museum is one of 14 stops on the Montana Dinosaur Trail. It features dinosaur exhibits, fossils, Native American artifacts, and information on the diverse and colorful local history.

The community is also a starting point for nearby recreational activities such as hiking, mountain biking, rafting, blue trout fishing, and skiing.

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. In addition, Yellowstone National Park is nearby!

Apart from its outdoor attractions, Bozeman also has some vibrant “arts and culture” experiences to offer, from symphonies and theaters to street festivals, farmers’ markets, community centers, and museums. 

In the event that you’re curious to check out an extensive collection of dinosaur fossils, the Museum of the Rockies (MOR) is your go-to, especially if you’re near Bozeman!

The place holds a wide range of scientific insights into the Rocky Mountain region so it is a great destination to take kids to so they can learn more about the region.

13. Big Sky

Big Sky is an outstanding mountain town where outdoor lovers will find their paradise! Because of its high elevation and rugged mountains, Big Sky has a great abundance of hiking, biking, skiing, golfing, rafting, sightseeing, fishing, and more. 

One of the most exciting activities in the town are the hikes. One of the most famous hiking spots is Ousel Falls Park, which is located outside of the Meadow Village area of Big Sky. In Ousel, you will find an adventurous 1.6-mile hike that is popular. 

Other great ways to explore Big Sky can be horseback riding, spending a day at Lone Mountain Ranch, rafting the Gallatin river, etc.

14. Hamilton

Hamilton is another favorite small town in Montana and is located in the western part of the state. It is located in the Bitterroot Valley between the mountain ranges and is growing rapidly.

Hamilton is also easily accessible from other places in Montana and is a great place for adventurers. There are many public lands covered with forests and excellent hiking opportunities.

History buffs also love Hamilton because of its significant buildings like Dali’s Mansion. You only need to drive about an hour south of Missoula to check Hamilton in a day.

One interesting Montana fact is that many famous writers have found inspiration in Hamilton, including Norman McLean!

Tucked away in the northwestern corner of the state near the Idaho border, in a valley carved by the Kootenay River at the foot of the Kabinet Ridge, Libby is a small community offering a variety of stunning scenery.

Despite once being renowned solely for its mountainous landscapes, today the city of less than 3,000 is popular for its many other things.

Visit Ross Creek, Ancient Western Red Cedar Sanctuary or Libby Dam, the Kootenay River, and Kootenai Falls- the largest waterfall in Montana where you’re traveling to Libby.

There are also many camping options in and around Libby. One of the most amazing views in town can be seen by walking along the swinging bridge over the waterfall.

16. West Yellowstone

This town is nestled at the West Entrance to Yellowstone National Park. A lot of the best accommodation near Yellowstone National Park is located here.

Nature, forest, and wildlife enthusiasts will surely appreciate the beauty of this area. The beautiful lake of Hebgen and wild animals like moose, bison, pelicans, and bald eagles are what make this town worth a visit!

Scenic drives are yet another way to experience the best of West Yellowstone while also avoiding the mass crowds around the park. 

The visitors there also have a unique chance to get acquainted with West Yellowstone’s long-lived traditions, like a rodeo. Take into account that rodeos do sell out, but there are five per week. So, be sure to make the booking online before your visit. 

West Yellowstone is a great place to stay regardless of whether you’re visiting Yellowstone in winter or summer.

17. Anaconda

Anaconda was founded in 1883 by Marcus Daly, and the unusual name of the town comes from Daly’s mining company, which had the same name. 

In the past, the city had copper smelting and phosphate goods production as its primary economic activity. These days, Anaconda is known for having something for everyone. 

To see an impressive quantity of relics from Montana’s past, visitors should consider visiting Anaconda’s Old City Hall Copper Village Museum and Art Center. 

When it comes to exploring the hills and mountains, the Montana town offers scenic routes, hiking and backpacking locations, camping, golfing, and more. 

Butte is yet another town in Montana that was once established as a gold and silver mining camp. This one, however, even was at one time called ‘the richest hill on Earth’. 

The town’s vibrant past can be seen in the Victorian Uptown business district and stately mansions.

Historical tours, natural hot springs, ranch holidays, camping, boating, resort cabins, river floats, hunting, horseback rides, fishing, golf, cross-country and downhill skiing, snowmobiling are all guided services and activities for this area.

In Butte, you can find the World Museum of Mining, which is one of the few museums in the world to be housed in an actual mine yard. This is a place where you can feel like you’re stepping way back into the past!

19. Flathead Lake

Flathead Lake is one of the cleanest lakes in the world and the largest natural freshwater lake in the western US outside of Alaska . It is located in the northwest region of Montana.

If you’re planning to visit the lake and surrounding area, note that there are six units within Flathead Lake State Park. In these areas, visitors are welcome to enjoy their time while having picnics, boating, sailing, fishing, camping, hiking, and swimming. 

Also, golf fans can take advantage of the two local golf courses that offer some spectacular views and well-maintained courses.

20. Philipsburg

The historic town of Philipsburg was, at its prime, a mining town in the second half of the 19th century. Today, it offers a range of attractions, from mining sapphires, Vaudeville performances at the 1891 Opera House, and the Granite County Museum, which offers an excellent overview of silver mining operations.

The Museum features exhibits about the history of the pioneer and backyard-era, old photographs, and real mining equipment.

Nearby, you can explore the ghost town of Granite, part of the Montana State Park System, which contains relics left behind such as the Miners Union Hall and the Granite Mine Manager’s home.

21. Lewis and Clark Caverns State Park

Located between Butte and Bozeman, Lewis and Clark Caverns Park is a popular open space for exploring the underworld! The first designated state park in Montana gives visitors the opportunity to experience the caverns as part of a guided tour led by the park’s staff.

Three different tours are available during the summer months at the caverns. A special Winter Candle Festival takes place during the colder months, also.

Lewis and Clark Cave is one of the largest limestone caves in the world, with colossal caverns, handrails, and resident bats. Outside the cave, the area above ground in Lewis and Clark Cave State Park is interesting to explore, with many hiking trails, a visitor center, and a camping site where you can book cabins and group campsites.

22. Little Bighorn Battlefield National Monument

The Little Bighorn Battlefield National Monument commemorates the US Army’s 7th Cavalry and the Lakotas and Cheyennes in one of the last armed attempts by the Natives to maintain their way of life.

In 1876, Lt. Col. George A. Custer and more than 260 soldiers died here while battling several thousand Lakota and Cheyenne warriors.

The monument is located in southeastern Montana. It shows battle history exhibits, weapons of the time, archaeology, Native life in the Plains, and more.

Custer National Cemetery is also located nearby. Please note that the museum is accessible by wheelchair and it can definitely be on everyone’s Montana bucket list.

23. Billings

Billings is excellent with its recreation areas, tasty food, and super nice parks – it is the most populous city in the state and one of the best places to visit in Montana.

The city is also the getaway route to Montana’s highest peaks – the Beartooth Mountains, which offer endless terrain for alpine enthusiasts to explore.

Billings has 45 miles of trails that are quite convenient for biking, dog walking, running, and more. 

Another perk of visiting Billings is that the city is never too crowded. Most tourists flock to the western part of Montana and leave the east unexplored… which is a shame because there is so much to see no matter what part of the state you visit!

24. Livingston

Livingston is a place where the true spirit of cowboys, ranchers, and wealthy and famous artists can be felt.

This historic late 19th-century city offers year-round attractions including art, music, activities, and more. Located on the Yellowstone River in southwest Montana, Livingston’s Old West heritage blends well with the local artists who now call this Montana city home.

Livingston is an hour’s drive from Yellowstone National Park and right down the road from Grand Teton National Park , but you don’t need to leave Main Street to enjoy the spectacular sights of this Rocky Mountain region.

Restaurants, art galleries, and a vibrant cultural life now define this Old Western city, as well as wide access to fly fishing, hiking, and hot springs. The most famous Marlboro ad was also shot there!

25. Gardiner

Serving as the original entrance to Yellowstone National Park, the small town of Gardiner is located in southwest Montana. The area spans over 10 million acres of land and is one of the best places to stay near Yellowstone . 

Surrounded by some of the most beautiful landscapes in the country, the area is famous for its past of trappers, hunters, farmers, and mountain men, including prominent western characters such as Jim Bridger and Calamity Jane.

Gardiner is also home to a vast array of wildlife, including bison, bighorn sheep, pronghorn, elk, grizzly bears, black bears, and wolves. Some o the most beloved activities there include fishing, hiking, horseback riding, hot springs, ziplining, and more. 

26. Great Falls

Located on the Missouri River in downtown Montana, Great Falls is a city where you can experience the true, authentic side of Montana. This is a great base from which to explore the lush gardens, freshwater springs, and mountain views in a rugged part of the state.

The main attraction for tourists there is Giant Springs State Park, one of the largest freshwater springs in the country, which also includes Missouri’s Great Falls, a stunning set of four waterfalls. 

What are the best places to visit in Montana , in your opinion? And did we fail to mention any fantastic destinations in Montana on this list?

Let us know in the comments! Thanks!

• Glacier National Park in winter
• Best places to visit in Montana
• Things to do in Whitefish
• Places to stay in Whitefish
• Places to stay in Missoula
• Small towns in Montana

Megan is a travel blogger and writer with a background in digital marketing. Originally from Richmond, VA, she now splits her time between Frankfurt, Germany and Arctic Finland after also living in Norway, Armenia, and Kazakhstan. She has a passion for winter travel, as well as the Nordic countries, but you can also find her eating her way through Italy, perusing perfume stores in Paris, or taking road trips through the USA. Megan has written for or been featured by National Geographic, Forbes, Lonely Planet, the New York Times, and more. She co-authored Fodor’s Travel ‘Essential Norway’ and has visited 45 US states and 100+ countries.

16 thoughts on “ 26 Bucket-List Places to Visit in Montana (+ Map!) ”

Recheck distance between Yellowstone and Virginia City

Corrected! Thanks for the catch :)

I believe the river near Libby is spelled like the national forest there, Kootenai and the mountains there are the Cabinet mountains. .

How could you leave off Red Lodge?

Ahhhh thank you! Yea, definitely need to get back there and explore a bit more for sure. Red Lodge is on that list! Thank you!

Been to almost all of these locations. I suggest a few better ones.

Twin Bridges Pompeii’s Pillar White Sulphur Springs Three Forks of the Missouri Quake Lake Belt /Big&a little Belt Mountains

So many other places to spend time.

Thank you so much!!! As a non-resident, it is hard to get to see all of the places like a local! Just means a trip back is necessary :)

Medicine Rocks State Park Carter County Museum

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The 8 best places to experience Big Sky Country in Montana

Sep 17, 2023 • 7 min read

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.

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.   

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.

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 Sep 16, 2021 and updated Sep 17, 2023.

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20 Best Places to Visit in Montana

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

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

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

20 Best Places to Visit in Montana – Montana vacation spots

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

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

Let’s discuss each one in detail.

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Top Montana Vacation Spot – Old Faithful Geyser

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

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

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

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

See it on the map .

2. Best Places to Visit in Montana – Lake McDonald

(Lake McDonald, Glacier National Park)

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

• Wildlife viewing
• Sightseeing

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

• Black bears
• Mountain goats
• Bighorn sheep

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

(Importance of Bear Spray in Montana)

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

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

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

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

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

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

Back to Lake McDonald

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

• Native trout

And much more. 

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

See it on the map . 

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

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

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

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

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

• Mountain climbing
• Wildlife watching 

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

Other Sites in the Park – Best Montana vacation spots 

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

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

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

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

4. Best Places to Visit in Montana – Columbus

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

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

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

Drive Along the River – Best Montana vacation spots

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

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

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

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

Absarokee – Best places to visit in Montana

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

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

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

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

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

5. Best Places to Visit in Montana – Livingston 

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

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

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

Paradise Valley – Top Montana vacation spots

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

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

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

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

6. Best Places to Visit in Montana – Bozeman

(Hyalite Canyon, 5 minute drive from Bozeman)

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

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

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

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

Shopping Bozeman – Best places to visit in Montana

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

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

Skiing Bozeman – Best Montana vacation spots

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Underground – Top Montana vacation spots

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

8. Best Places to Visit in Montana – Billings

(Zimmerman Park)

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

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

Largest City in Montana – Best places to visit in Montana

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

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

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

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

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

Zimmerman Park – Best places to visit in Montana

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

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

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

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

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

Lake Elmo – Best places to visit in Montana

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

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

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

9. Best Places to Visit in Montana – Pryor Mountains

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

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

Wild Horses – Montana vacation spots

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

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

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

Hiking and Biking – Best places to visit in Montana

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

A Thousand Stupas – Best places to visit in Montana

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

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

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

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

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

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

11. Best Places to Visit in Montana – Beartooth Mountains

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

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

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

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

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

The Bear’s Tooth

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

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

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

12. Best Places to Visit in Montana – Red Lodge

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

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

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

Skiing and Snowboarding – Top things to do in Montana

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

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

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

 See it on the map .

13. Best Places to Visit in Montana – Missoula

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

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

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

Access to Nature – Best places to visit in Montana

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

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

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

14. Best Places to Visit in Montana – Whitefish

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

Whitefish Lake – Best places to visit in Montana

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

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

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

Flathead Lake – Best places to visit in Montana

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

Glacier National Park – Best places to visit in Montana

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

15. Best Places to Visit in Montana – Butte

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

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

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

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

Irish Heritage – Top Montana vacation spots

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

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

16. Best Places to Visit in Montana – East Rosebud

(East Rosebud road)

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

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

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

It’s an incredible sight. 

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

17. Top Montana Vacation Spots – Helena

(Montana State Capitol)

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

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

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

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

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

18. Best Places to Visit in Montana – Great Falls

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

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

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

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

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

Other historic and natural points of interest include: 

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

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

19. Top Montana Vacation Spots – Chico Hot Springs

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

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

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

Montana History – Top Montana vacation spots

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

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

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

20. Best Places to Visit in Montana – Big Timber

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

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

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

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

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

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

Yellowstone River – Top Montana vacation spot

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

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

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

20 Best Places to Visit in Montana – Final verdict

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

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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

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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

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18 Top Things to Do in Montana

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

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Known as "The Treasure State," Montana offers a plethora of travel treasures, such as beautiful national and state parks, unique museums, historical monuments and more.

Montana is the fourth-largest state in the U.S. by landmass, measuring 147,040 square miles. The Treasure State is also home to some of the most beautiful natural wonders in the world, including Glacier National Park , Yellowstone , the largest natural freshwater lake west of the Mississippi and more than 300 mountain peaks standing more than 9,600 feet tall.

If you love the outdoors, Montana has so much to offer, from hiking and camping to skiing and fishing. But it's also an excellent place to learn about the history of its inhabitants, particularly the Native American tribes, as well as the wildlife that roam the region.

The state also has the third-lowest population density in the nation, and plenty of wide-open spaces, making it a great place to go if you want to avoid crowds. Read on to learn about all of the best things you can do as a visitor in Montana.

(Note: Some tours and excursions may be affected by the coronavirus pandemic. Capacity restrictions, mask mandates even closures may be in effect. Check with the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention and local tourism boards before making plans.)

Glacier National Park

Established in 1910, Glacier National Park is sometimes referred to as the Crown Jewel of the Continent. Here, you'll find 26 glaciers, 762 lakes, 563 streams, hundreds of species of animals and thousands of species of plants. It also includes roughly 746 miles of hiking trails, making it a paradise for avid hikers. Some of the more iconic routes include the Trail of the Cedars to Avalanche Lake, the Grinnell Glacier Trail and the Highline Trail . Just be sure to look up trail conditions and difficulties before you set out.

While you're visiting, you'll also want to add Going-to-the-Sun Road to your itinerary. The 50-mile road that crosses the Continental Divide is an engineering marvel, passing glaciers, valleys, waterfalls, alpine meadows covered in wildflowers and more. Just keep in mind that the upper portion of the road past Lake McDonald Lodge closes during the winter months.

Visitors hail the park as one of the most beautiful places they've been to, citing stunning views and clear blue glacier water that's almost unreal. Get out on the water in a canoe, kayak, paddleboard, raft or half - or full-day whitewater rafting tour.

Depending on what kind of experience you're looking for, you can camp at one of the park's many campgrounds, or you can stay at a lodge, hotel or bed-and-breakfast. If you're considering more formal accommodations, the Lake McDonald Lodge and Belton Chalet should be on your list of options.

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

Yellowstone National Park

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

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

Depending on where you're coming from, there are plenty of lodging options for each entrance. In West Yellowstone, the ClubHouse Inn West Yellowstone and the Alpine Motel are top-rated. If you're coming from the north entrance in Gardiner, Montana, Yellowstone Village Inn and Yellowstone Riverside Cottages have great reviews. And if you're coming from the northeast, consider the Elk Horn Lodge or Alpine Motel in Cooke City. If you're interested in a guided experience, consider a private Yellowstone tour .

For an especially unique experience in Yellowstone National Park, get out on the water. You can go fly-fishing, kayaking and boating on Yellowstone Lake or take a half - or full-day whitewater rafting tour.

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

Soak in one of the state's many hot springs

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

For a unique experience, check out the Boiling River in Yellowstone near Mammoth Hot Springs. It's one of the few areas where you can legally soak in the national park, and it features a mix of hot water from the spring and cold water from the Gardner River. Before you go, be sure to check the park's website , as the area does close due to varying water conditions. Visitors can access the spot via a short half-mile walk from the parking lot.

You can bed down at the Yellowstone Village Inn or Yellowstone Riverside Cottages in nearby Gardiner. Some travelers have called the Boiling River a highlight in the park, but recommend bringing sandals to walk in the river and a towel to dry off afterward. Other favorite hot springs to visit in the state include the Chico Hot Springs, Bozeman Hot Springs, Norris Hot Springs and Elkhorn Hot Springs.

Visit the Museum of the Rockies in Bozeman

Courtesy of Museum of the Rockies

The museum is a Smithsonian affiliate and offers an incredible array of exhibits. For starters, it has one of the world's largest collections of North American dinosaur fossils, including T-Rex, one of very few mounted Tyrannosaurus rex skeletons on display in the U.S. It also offers exhibits about the history of Yellowstone National Park and the American Indians who lived on the Northern Plains and near the Rocky Mountains, among other topics. There's also an exhibit dedicated to children 8 years and younger, where they can explore and learn about the science of Yellowstone. Every year, the museum also showcases three to five temporary exhibitions. There's also a planetarium, where you can watch shows about the cosmos.

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 staying at the RSVP Hotel or the SpringHill Suites Bozeman .

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

Check out the World Museum of Mining in Butte

Josie Trudgeon | Courtesy of World Museum of Mining)

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

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

Address: 155 Museum Way, Butte, MT 59701

Visit the Lewis and Clark Interpretive Center in Great Falls

The Lewis and Clark Interpretive Center offers a look into the history of the famous 19th-century expedition, with a focus on the Corp of Discovery's time in Montana. When you first walk in to the center, you'll see a two-story diorama depicting the portage of the Missouri River's five falls. The museum, which was developed in partnership with the U.S. Forest Service, features exhibits, hundreds of artifacts and art collections, all of which help tell the story of the residents and travelers over the course of hundreds of years in the Great Falls region.

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

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

Learn about the cattle industry at Grant-Kohrs Ranch in Deer Lodge

Originally established in 1862 by Canadian fur trader John Grant, then expanded by cattle baron Conrad Kohrs, this ranch was once the headquarters of a 10-million-acre cattle empire. Now a historic site, the ranch serves as a commemoration of the Western cattle industry from the mid-1800s through recent times. It's also still a working cattle ranch, so travelers can witness some live demonstrations. Visitors can also walk through 88 historic buildings, hike nearly 10 miles of ranch roads and trails and take a tour of the ranch house.

Grant-Kohrs Ranch is located in Deer Lodge, which sits 37 miles northwest of Butte. Many travelers say they stopped by the ranch on their way to somewhere else and describe the historic site as a worthy detour.

Address: 266 Warren Lane, Deer Lodge, MT 59722

Enjoy an all-inclusive dude ranch experience at the Resort at Paws Up

Courtesy of The Resort at Paws Up

Montana is home to a number of all-inclusive dude ranches , which give travelers the chance to experience Western culture (think: horseback rides, nightly campfires and fly-fishing) in a luxurious setting. For example, The Resort at Paws Up , located about 30 miles northeast of Missoula in Greenough, is home to 28 luxury homes and 36 luxury glamping tents . The resort offers more than 50 activities for travelers to enjoy on its 37,000-acre cattle ranch. Options include backcountry tours, canoeing, dog sledding, fly fishing, geocaching, snowshoeing, photography and more. The rate includes all meals and more than a dozen activities that can be enjoyed solo, and more than 50 guided activities for an additional charge. Travelers describe the resort as "unreal," "intimate" and a "once-in-a-lifetime experience."

Other top-rated all-inclusive dude ranches in Montana include the Ranch at Rock Creek , Blacktail Ranch, the Hawley Mountain Guest Ranch and Elkhorn Ranch.

Address: 40060 Paws Up Road, Greenough, MT 59823

Drive the Hi-Line

The northernmost route in the state traveling east to west, U.S. Highway 2, is called the Hi-Line by locals. If you're visiting Glacier National Park, the western edge of the roughly 650-mile highway is close by. As you drive the Hi-Line, you'll come across small towns that will make you feel like you've stepped back in time. The farther you get from glacier country, the landscape morphs into great rolling plains with isolated volcanic peaks, which are sacred to the local Native American tribes. Keep going, and you'll come across reservoirs, rivers, historic homes and shops, breweries and distilleries and so much more.

Travelers say you can easily spend a week exploring all of the places you come across along the way. Depending on how far you plan to travel along the highway, check local towns for lodging options.

Visit Little Bighorn Battlefield National Monument

Located in southeastern Montana, Little Bighorn Battlefield National Monument memorializes the Battle of Little Bighorn, which is also known as Custer's Last Stand. The battle was between the U.S. Army and the Sioux and Cheyenne tribes. The monument includes a visitor center and a museum, where you can learn about the battle and some of the prominent men who fought there. You'll also discover what it was like for Native Americans living on the plains. You can take a 4.5-mile self-guided tour between two battlefields, the Custer Battlefield and the Reno-Benteen Battlefield, with parking lots at each site.

Some travelers describe visiting the monument as a solemn experience, but also an important one to learn the real history of the events that took place. The nearest major city to the national monument is Billings, which is 65 miles northwest.

Address: I-90 Frontage Road, Crow Agency, MT 59022

Pick your own fruit at Bozeman's Rocky Creek Farm

Montana has many farms where you can pick your own fruits and vegetables. If you're in Bozeman, Gallatin Valley Botanical at Rocky Creek Farm is a great place to find fresh berries and apples. Berry season kicks off in late June with strawberries, and continues with raspberries and aronia berries in the later summer months and early fall. You can pick apples from the farm's orchard between late August and November, and even request to have your apples pressed into custom cider. During your visit, stop by the farm stand in the blue barn, where you can buy vegetables, herbs, flowers, meats, eggs, honey and more, all of which are grown at the farm. According to reviewers, the farm also offers activities for children, such as farm school and summer camps.

Address: 34297 Frontage Road, Bozeman, MT 59715

Relax in the Garden of One Thousand Buddhas

It's not where you'd expect to find a shrine to the Buddha, but the Flathead Indian Reservation just north of Arlee, Montana, is home to the Ewam Sang-ngag Ling Garden of One Thousand Buddhas. Here, you'll find 1,000 hand-cast Buddha statues, all arranged around the central figure of the Great Mother, or Yum Chenmo, who is the manifestation of the perfection of wisdom. It's hoped by those who have built the shrine that those who visit feel peacefulness and compassion. And that's exactly what past visitors say they experienced when describing their time in the garden. Located in western Montana, Arlee sits just 26 miles north of Missoula.

Address: 34756 White Coyote Road, Arlee, MT 59821

Ski at Big Sky Resort

Courtesy of Big Sky Resort

Considered one of the top ski vacations in the U.S. , Big Sky Resort is home to 5,850 skiable acres and 39 lifts. There are runs for skiers of all experience levels, including a 1,450-foot vertical ride up to Lone Peak, giving seasoned skiers an experience similar to heli-skiing. After you're done skiing for the day, hit the spa or one of the many restaurants for après-ski or dinner. There are also a handful of retailers if you want to upgrade your ski uniform. Other winter activities include cross-country skiing, ziplining, snowshoeing, dog sledding, sleigh riding and more.

During the summer months, the resort remains open with a variety of outdoor activities, such as golfing, ziplining, hiking, disc golf, whitewater rafting and more. Visitors talk up the resort's beautiful setting, both in the winter and the summer. If you're staying at the resort, there are four hotels to choose from. There's also the Whitewater Inn, which is a short 15-minute drive from the resort.

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

[Read: The Top Ski Resorts in Montana .]

See rock paintings at Pictograph Cave State Park

Andy Austin | Courtesy of Pictograph Cave State Park

Within Billings city limits, Pictograph Cave State Park is an area with three caves, which were home to generations of prehistoric hunters. Those hunters left behind artifacts and more than 100 rock paintings, or pictographs. The oldest painting dates back more than 2,000 years, while the most recent are from 200 to 500 years ago. To reach the caves, there's a three-quarter-mile loop with displays providing more information about the pictographs, as well as the vegetation and natural features of the area. You can also enter the visitor center to see some of the artifacts that were collected from the caves. The deepest of the three caves, Pictograph Cave, is where the rock paintings of animals, warriors and rifles are still visible.

It's recommended that you bring binoculars to properly view the paintings. Some visitors describe the pictographs as too faded, but binoculars may help solve that concern. Others warn that there's a steep climb to Pictograph Cave that may not be suitable for small children and casual hikers.

Address: 3401 Coburn Road, Billing, MT 59101

Marvel at the Ringing Rocks in Whitehall

David Abrams | Courtesy of Western Montana BLM

Roughly 18 miles east of Butte, there's a unique geologic area where the rocks actually chime with the light tap of a hammer. Experts believe that this phenomenon was caused by a combination of the rocks' composition and the joining patterns that have developed during the natural course of erosion – if one of the boulders is removed from the pile, it no longer rings. Some visitors note that the road leading to the rocks can be tough on smaller vehicles without four-wheel drive. There may also be a hike, depending on where you stop your car. Reviewers say that there are hammers near the entrance, so you don't have to worry about buying one at the local hardware store before you go.

Aside from Montana, you'll find a similar experience at Ringing Rocks County Park in Pennsylvania, one of the state's most unique attractions .

Visit the C.M. Russell Museum in Great Falls

Courtesy of CM Russell Museum

Charles Marion Russell was an American artist whose works centered on the Old West. His work, which includes paintings, sculptures and drawings, portrays the daily life of cowboys and Native Americans, as well as the landscapes of Big Sky Country, through the lens of his personal experiences. Russell's home, which was built in 1900, along with his log studio, which was built three years later, were both converted into a museum that houses the largest collection of the artist's art and memorabilia. The C.M. Russell Museum contains more than 3,000 works of Western art across 16 galleries, an outdoor sculpture garden and a research center. Nearly a third of the works on display were created by Russell himself. The museum is rated among the top things to do in Great Falls. Many visitors are impressed with the sheer volume of work showcased here, saying it gives you a feeling like you're stepping back in time to the artist's life.

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

Witness the destructive power of nature at Quake Lake

About 25 miles northwest of West Yellowstone is Earthquake Lake, called Quake Lake for short. The lake in the Madison Canyon River Area was formed in 1959 when an earthquake struck the area. The seismic activity created a landslide of roughly 80 million tons of rock, halting the water flow in the Madison River Canyon gorge. Tragically, 28 people were killed as a result of the landslide. The 7.2 magnitude earthquake was so devastating that it altered the geyser patterns in Yellowstone National Park and was felt as far away as Salt Lake City, which is 330 miles away. Today, Quake Lake is a popular fishing spot, with authorities stocking it each year with brown and cutthroat trout. Just watch out for the timbers below the surface that were brought down in the landslide.

See the wildlife in West Yellowstone at the Grizzly and Wolf Discovery Center

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

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

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

You may also be interested in:

• Amazing Montana Vacations
• The Best U.S. National Parks
• The Best Places to Hike in North America
• The Best Places for National Park Camping
• The Top Things to Do in Colorado
• The Top Things to Do in South Dakota
• The Top Restaurants in Jackson Hole, Wyoming
• The Top Restaurants in Colorado Springs
• The Top Restaurants in Omaha, Nebraska
• The Best Tourist Attraction in Every U.S. State

Tags: Travel , Montana Vacations , US Vacations , National Parks , U.S. West Vacations

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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 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

Aptly called the “Coorown of the Continent,” Glacier National Park is home to over one million acres of beautiful, 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 , 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…

https://youtu.be/x7GkebUe6XQ

My favorite highlights…

• Driving to Logan Pass, the highest point in the park (that can be reached by car) and saw some seriously gorgeous panoramic views.
• Hiking to the Grinnell Glacier where I found stunning waterfalls, vibrant emerald lakes and beautiful scenery along the way.
• Taking a boat tour across the Lake McDonald Valley.

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2. American Prairie Reserve

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

Stretching north and south of the Missouri River, the massive conservation area preserves the natural mixed-grass prairie ecosystem and native wildlife, including 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, hike, or bike. This is a truly magical place that nature lovers will adore. 

My personal highlights…

• Stopping by the National Discovery Center and learning about the area and its history.
• Exploring by mountain bike, where trails include obstacles such as steep hills, soft sand, and ruts.
• Staying until it was dark to see the clear, starry skies, I even saw the Milky Way.

3. Rocky Mountains

Home to over a hundred ranges in Central Montana, the Rocky Mountains run along the western part 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 by mountains in every direction. It is definitely worth a visit, especially if you’re a fan of winter sports. 

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

My highlights…

• Watching a breathtaking sunrise at Dream Lake before heading to Emerald Lake.
• Visiting the Coffee on The Rocks café for beautiful views whilst enjoying an oat milk latte.
• Discovering cross-country skiing in the winter.

4. Yellowstone National Park

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

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

• Driving to the Northeast Entrance road and looking out at the incredible scenery.
• Rafting ride down the river. 
• Hiking the scenic Fairy Falls Trail and seeing one of the best waterfalls in the park.

Located in Gallatin County in southwest Montana, Bozeman is ranked among the most livable places in the US, and for good reason.

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

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

• Learning how to rock climb on a climbing indoor wall. 
• Going on a scavenger hunt which was a fun way to explore the city.
• Soaking in Bozeman Hot Springs which was the perfect way to end a long day of sightseeing.

6. West Yellowstone

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

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

Highlights of West Yellowstone include the Yellowstone River ( the country’s last “free-flowing” river), 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!

• Visiting the Museum of Yellowstone located in the old train station and learning all about the area’s history.
• Going on a thrilling adventure on a snowmobile during the winter season months.
• Enjoying hearty homestyle food at the Western-style Outpost Restaurant. 

7. Paradise Valley

It is 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, 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, It deserves a place on this list!

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

• Watching and videoing the magnificent eruption of the Old Faithful.
• Relaxing at the Chico Hot Springs which was surrounded by lush greenery.
• Having a go at frisbee golf! 

8. Livingston

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 dates from the late 1880s and is quiet and charming, but its striking mountain backdrop is truly jaw-dropping.

The main focus here is on outdoor activities. Still, 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, museums , art galleries and restaurants to explore. Popular things here include cross-country skiing, river rafting, hiking, or just kicking back and enjoying the wonderful scenery!

• Watching live music at the cool venue, The Attic which is housed in a restored historic building.
• Taking a picnic to enjoy at Sacajawea Park after having a stroll through the gardens.
• Checking out the art galleries throughout the town filled with vibrant pieces, and the art walk during summer.

9. Beartooth Highway

On the Beartooth Highway, you can experience one of Montana’s most beautiful road trips. 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! 

• Soaking up the picturesque scenery and taking photographs of the views along the way.
• Browsing souvenirs at the Top of The World Store.

10. Montana State Capitol 

Montana’s state capital is on a gentle slope and surrounded by beautiful lawns. One of the best things to see in Montana is the majestic state capitol, 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 comprises granite and exquisite sandstone; 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.

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

• Taking an interesitng self-guided tour around the building.
• Admiring the stunning murals, stained glass and historic marble.
• Being in awe of the beautiful art displays.

11. City Beach

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

I recommend swimming in crystal clear water or just lazing around on the beach, all with the amazing backdrop of beautiful mountains.

• Taking a dip in the refreshing crystal-clear water and cooling off on a hot day.
• Renting a kayak.
• Enjoying a picnic on the sandy shores.

12. Waterton-Glacier International Peace Park

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

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

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

• Renting a bike from the town exploring the roads that wind through the scenic park.
• Hiking up to Bertha Falls and witnessing the stunning views.
• Going on a boat tour and cruising down Waterton Lake which was a very relaxed way to admire the surroundings.

13. Conrad Mansion

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, landscaped gardens, and a drystone fence. 

• Taking a guided tour of the 26-roomed mansion and discovering the history of how the Conrad family impacted Montana.
• Strolling through the gorgeous gardens surrounding the property which feature six large flower beds filled with different colors.

14. Helena National Forest

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

The Big Belt Mountains dominate the eastern region, which is broken into several separate sections. The Scapegoat wilderness and the Elkhorn Mountains form the national forest’s west and south borders.

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.

• Spending the night in one of the rentals available at the campgrounds located throughout the forest.
• Having fun on the water with jet skiing, tubing and water skiing.
• Hiking the scenic and easy Willard Creek Trail which was filled with pretty scenery and a creek at the end.

15. Wild Horse Island State Park

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

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

• Admiring the picturesque landscapes as I sailed to the island by boat. 
• Going for a refreshing swim on a hot summer’s day.
• Walking through the picturesque pine forests via the Trail #2 Loop.

16. Gates of the Mountains Wilderness

In the lofty hills, the legendary Missouri River carves a path through towering sandstone cliffs 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 Helena National Forest manages the wilderness.

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

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

• Visiting the unique point of Refrigerator Canyon which also acts like a wind funnel! 
• Paddleboarding on Holter Lake.
• Camping overnight near the river at White Bridge Lane Private Campsite.

17. Blodgett Canyon

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

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

It features over 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. 

• Hiking to the magnificent overlook for dramatic views of the canyon.
• Going on a rock climbing lesson.
• Going mountain biking along the 6-mile round trail.

18. Moss Mansion

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, once home to the wealthy Moss family. The stunning mansion was designed by Henry Janeway Hardenbergh in 1905.

The high-end interiors, with walls with gold threading, a 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 appeared in many period films.

Today, the Billings Preservation Society manages it, and the museum hosts a variety of cultural events throughout the year.

• Admiring the gorgeous and upscale interiors within the property.
• Going on a Historian Walking Tour event.
• Taking a private tour to learn about the history.

19. Lolo Trail

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

• Enjoying the trail by mountain bike .
• Taking a picnic whilst being surrounded by the tranquil nature.
• Exploring this location on foot and discovering the beautiful forests.

20. 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. It also boasts a freshwater lake, a popular Montana travel destination for those who like boating or simply taking in spectacular views.

• Going on Montana’s longest zipline tour.
• Going skiing in the winter, the snowy landscapes are magical! 
• Enjoying the scenic chair lift over the gorgeous landscapes.

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 “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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9 Charming Small Towns in Montana With Easy National Park Access, Scenic Views, and Delicious Food

These Montana towns are big on charm and small on crowds.

Size is a relative concept in Montana. The mountains here could certainly be called big. But somehow, it seems like hardly an adequate way to describe ranges that reach thousands of feet toward the sky and stretch outward for hundreds of miles into the horizon. Big Sky Country, as it's colloquially known, is actually an understatement. The opposite is true of the population centers across the state. Bozeman (with a population around 56,000) and Missoula (with a population around 75,000) aren't just "big" by local standards; they're considered major cities in this part of the world.

Yet for many an outsider, anywhere in Montana is a small town. So, in compiling a list of the best small towns in Montana, we're not simply addressing the number of residents within these respective places. Instead, this collection takes into account the look and feel of what makes a tiny place so much larger than the sum of its parts. Small-town charm is a big part of what makes this state so great, and you'll find it writ large in these lovable Montana destinations.

About an hour drive west of Glacier National Park's main entrance, this quaint town has long served as the national park's unofficial gateway. Now a growing number of visitors are sticking around, validating its worth as a destination in its own right. Whitefish is perched under the shadows of the Northern Rockies, at the foot of its pristine, eponymous lake. This prime positioning affords easy access to all manner of outdoor play, regardless of the season. And a stroll down its lively downtown streets provides a portal to a surprisingly cosmopolitan collection of flavorful food and drink options. Check out Loula's Cafe for lunch, Tupelo Grille for dinner, and the Great Northern Bar & Grill for nightcaps.

Downtown Hamilton, in the heart of the Bitterroot Valley, is a postcard example of small-town charm. The facades of Main Street seem largely unchanged since the place was founded near the end of the 1800s. Make time for the Ravalli County Museum , which showcases local art and history of the region. Then, enjoy some healthy cuisine at Suzette's Organics , or savor some pub grub at Bitter Root Brewing , where 16 house-made beers are on always on tap and shift with the seasons.

By now, you probably know all about Bozeman. As does most of the country, evidenced by the rising cost of real estate in the trending enclave. But about 25 miles east along Interstate 90, Livingston offers enviable quaintness with a fraction of the hype. The destination of approximately 8,000 year-round residents sits alongside the Yellowstone River at the foot of the Paradise Valley, which is as picturesque as its name implies. Tour the streets, talk with friendly locals, and get a sense of their sporting bonafides at the Fly Fishing Discovery Center. It's also home to the Yellowstone Gateway Museum , the perfect place to learn about the 150-year-old national park before you make the hourlong drive to its northwestern entrance. Just make sure to get some prime cuts of steak from Montana's Rib & Chop House before you go.

West Yellowstone

As its name implies, this century-old former railroad stop abuts the western entrance of the world's oldest national park . In fact, it's the closest town to Yellowstone across all three states that it occupies. And it does a great job of preserving a Wild West motif. There's the Grizzly & Wolf Discovery Center , offering visitors a chance to view live animals and learn about their conservation efforts. You might even spy some healthy herds of elk or buffalo roaming the outskirts of town. It can get pretty crowded in the heat of summer, but come in the wintertime and you'll be in the heart of snowmobile country. Rentals are available at half a dozen outposts.

Ennis sure has a lot going on for a town of less than a thousand. Its Main Street crosses the Madison River — a fly fishing wonderland — and holds half a dozen taverns and saloons, in addition to a craft distillery and an old-fashioned soda fountain for those craving something a little softer. Most of the buildings downtown feature wooden facades, evoking a Wild West feel. It's emphasized in grandiose fashion by the backdrop: three separate mountain ranges hovering over the horizon in every direction.

Virginia City

Not far from Ennis lies this former hub of the region's 19th-century gold rush. In its 1865 heyday, it attracted upwards of 10,000 prospectors looking for a piece of the action. Nowadays, it serves as time machine to that era, allowing visitors to look at live blacksmith demonstrations and historical recreations, or even pan for gold of their own. A National Historic Landmark District since 1961, this is a living, breathing slice of Montana's pioneer past.

Stevensville

Established in 1841 as St. Mary's Mission, this tiny town holds the distinction of first permanent non-Indigenous settlement in all of Montana. In fact, it's older than the state by some 48 years. Today, that history is on display in the architecture along Main Street, and the original mission is still standing. Nestled against the banks of the Bitterroot River, this is a great place to take in the local flora and fauna — just take a short hike on the interpretive trails of the Lee Metcalf National Wildlife Refuge . If you get thirsty, head back downtown and sip some spirits from The Montana Distillery , where the award-winning vodka is distilled from native sugar beets.

Most visitors arrive here by way of the Beartooth Highway, a 68-mile marvel traversing the eponymous mountain range on its way to the northeast entrance of Yellowstone. It's a memorable road trip for sure, and one that you can only do during the summer months. Just make sure you do more than merely pass through Red Lodge along the way. This idyllic destination of approximately 2,300 is home to disproportionate levels of charm. Historic Broadway runs through downtown and is lined with art galleries, artisan eateries, and its very own candy emporium.

This former railroad town is the only entry from eastern Montana to make the list. As such, the terrain is quite less mountainous than the rest. Nevertheless, nature lovers will be compelled by the stark beauty of Makoshika State Park . It's home to totem-like rock formations and fossil remains of prehistoric origin. You'll get a better glimpse of the latter at the Glendive Dinosaur & Fossil Museum in the heart of town. If you still haven't had your fill of rock, check out Hell Creek Music & More , an indie guitar shop. Also lining these streets, straddling the Yellowstone River, you'll find a livestock exchange, a taxidermy shop, and The Gust Hauf, a beer hall filled with local ephemera.

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

Written by Brad Lane Updated Jan 24, 2024

Montana is the American West at its best. This rugged state still has a touch of its wild past brimming from its cities and small towns and its massive unaltered natural spaces. National forest acreage outnumbers residents in Montana, the country's 4th largest state by land size and one of the least populated. These uncrowded spaces have enticed explorers, writers, and Big Sky enthusiasts to Montana over the last 100 years.

Adventure and the outdoors dominate many of the things to do in Montana. And adventures in Montana always come with remarkably beautiful and vast landscapes. From mountains glistening in Glacier National Park to the many wild rivers teeming with trout, the state is a foreign land to some, its wild places unmatched anywhere else in the country.

But it's more than just the opportunities for adventure that make the state worthy of a visit or long stopover. There's also a wild sense of the Old West that still lingers. The state capital, Helena, exemplifies this Western aura with its gold-digging past woven throughout its downtown district. This frontier history of Montana evokes a sense of exploration that feels like something new is around every corner.

Find out why the state is known as the Last Best Place with our list of the top attractions and things to do in Montana.

1. Glacier National Park

2. explore a national forest, 3. hit the slopes at big sky resort, 4. fly fish blue ribbon waterways, 5. meet the residents at the grizzly and wolf discovery center, 6. unearth history at the museum of the rockies, 7. visit yellowstone national park, 8. discover the richest hill on earth at the world museum of mining, 9. tour the state capitol in helena, 10. explore the shore of flathead lake, 11. go underground at lewis and clark caverns state park, 12. soak in one of montana's hot springs, 13. get inspired at the c.m. russell museum complex, 14. spot the smelter stack in anaconda, 15. drive the beartooth highway, 16. visit the moss mansion in billings, 17. indulge at the sweet palace in philipsburg, 18. ross creek cedars scenic area, 19. pay respects at the little bighorn battlefield national monument, 20. dive deep into the western heritage center, 21. bike on the route of the hiawatha.

Glacier National Park stands proudly as the Crown of the Continent in Northwest Montana. This outstanding scenic area comprises mountain ranges, alpine meadows, thick forests, tall waterfalls, countless sparkling lakes, and numerous glaciers. It's a real adventure paradise with iconic landscapes enticing repeat visitors for years to come.

The 50-mile-long Going-to-the-Sun Road is a marvel of engineering and the only paved route that navigates across the park. It crosses the Continental Divide at the 6,646-foot-high Logan Pass, connecting St. Mary to Apgar Village and West Glacier. This automobile route is worth a visit alone.

The national park is a magnet for adventure tourists, with over 700 miles of hiking trails. Some of the most iconic hiking routes include Grinnell Glacier, Ptarmigan Tunnel, and the incredible Highline Trail. While day hiking is the most common way to explore, overnight adventures are also popular within the park's extensive backcountry.

Accommodation: Best Places to Stay near Glacier National Park

• Top-Rated Things to Do in Glacier National Park, MT
• Best Campgrounds in Glacier National Park

Montana is home to a remarkable seven national forests comprising nearly 20 million acres. This vast, wide-open space has come to define the Montana experience, and no visit is complete without trekking through these public lands. From the Kootenai to the Custer-Gallatin , the western half of the state is home to many of these national treasures.

At least five national forests are within a short drive of Missoula , home to the University of Montana. And Lolo National Forest surrounds the city. This proximity to public lands offers residents and visitors backyard access to adventure hot spots like Rattlesnake and Blue Mountain National Recreation Areas.

Bozeman, home to Montana's other state university, is also an excellent jumping-off point for exploring national forests. While several public lands are within reach, the Custer-Gallatin National Forest draws the most interest. South of Bozeman, the Custer-Gallatin reaches past the adventurous town of Big Sky and connects to Yellowstone National Park.

Read More: Best Hiking Trails in Montana

Big Sky Resort, home to some of the "Biggest Skiing in America," is approximately an hour's drive south of Bozeman. The slopes are known for their abundance of snow, with an average of 400 inches per year. Thousands of skiers and snowboarders descend onto the resort come winter. Still, with 5,750 skiable acres, there's plenty of room to make some turns.

Visiting Big Sky provides the full resort experience. From the heated eight-person lifts to the energetic base of the mountain filled with events, restaurants, and après-ski entertainment, Big Sky offers the crème da la crème of a Montana downhill experience. The resort recently upgraded their iconic Lone Peak Tram for the 2023/24 season, offering a breathtaking and sightseeing adventure to the top of its namesake peak and an adventurous black-diamond ride down for those comfortable with steep terrain. Down rides are also available.

But Big Sky isn't the only ski destination worth visiting in the state – several of Montana's best ski resorts offer similar landscapes for downhill endeavors. Lost Trail Powder Mountain is a local favorite near the Idaho border. And up north, Whitefish Mountain Resort offers excellent views of the adjacent Glacier National Park. Other popular spots like Montana Snowbowl and Bridger Bowl are within easy reach of Montana's university cities.

Address: 50 Big Sky Resort Road, Big Sky, Montana

Official site: https://bigskyresort.com/

Read More: Top Things to Do in Big Sky, Montana

The 1992 movie, A River Runs Through It , starring Brad Pitt and directed by Robert Redford, made Montana synonymous with fly fishing. But anglers have been casting lines in the state for years prior, already aware of the surplus of mountain streams and rivers primed for a fly.

The movie, adapted from an iconic 1972 novella by Norman Maclean, takes place primarily on the Blackfoot River . But many of the most mesmerizing river scenes were filmed on the Gallatin River . These two rivers both offer productive seasonal hatches and some of the best mountain scenery in the sport.

And world-renowned fly fishing takes place throughout the state. Besides other major rivers like the Madison , Missouri , and Yellowstone Rivers , the state has thousands of mountain streams and creeks with plenty of action. One of the best ways to enjoy Montana fly fishing is by connecting with a local guide shop.

Undoubtedly the only time you'll be happy to see a bear or wolf up close, the Grizzly and Wolf Discovery Center is a must-see excursion when visiting Montana. It's in the town of West Yellowstone , near the western entrance of Yellowstone National Park.

Opened as a sanctuary for animals otherwise not fit to live in the wild, the center offers a chance to see giant grizzly bears and gray wolves in a natural habitat. It also encourages learning about their behavior, history, and population decline. Highlights include watching the bears forage for food, play in their ponds and with each other, as well as the chance to hear the haunting howls of the wolf packs (best in the mornings and evenings).

The facility also features an engaging Banks of the Yellowstone indoor exhibit, with a dynamic riparian display with cutthroat trout and river otters.

Address: 201 S. Canyon Street, West Yellowstone, Montana

Official site: www.grizzlydiscoveryctr.org

Read More: Top Things to Do in West Yellowstone, MT

The Museum of the Rockies adds to Bozeman's status as one of Montana's best cities . Along with its planetarium, the museum – part of the Smithsonian Institution – is renowned for its excellent displays of dinosaurs and dinosaur eggs . The collection includes skeletons and realistic models of numerous species found in the state.

The museum's dinosaur collection is one of the largest in the US and includes the world's biggest Tyrannosaurus skull. Other highlights include a T-Rex thighbone with soft-tissue remains and the T-Rex skeleton at the museum entrance known as "Big Mike." All these prehistoric monuments help share the region's history.

It's not all dinosaurs, however. The museum also features a dynamic display welcoming people to Yellowstone Country, illustrating the region's evolution into a tourism magnet. Other subject matters include native peoples of the region, Western art exhibits, and the Tinsley House – an original pioneer log home from the late 1800s.

Address: 600 W. Kagy Blvd, Bozeman, Montana

Official site: https://www.museumoftherockies.org/

Read More: Top Attractions and Things to Do in Bozeman, MT

Montana has two main entrances into Yellowstone National Park, the nation's first national park. These two openings, the West Entrance and the North Entrance , also feature gateway communities that are fun places to visit on their own. And it's a world of adventure once you're inside the park, with over two million acres to explore.

From the aptly named town of West Yellowstone , the West Entrance of Yellowstone dives deep into geyser country. After reaching the iconic Madison Junction 14 miles from the entrance, the road diverges, with top Yellowstone attractions either way. North of the Madison Junction is Norris Geyser Basin , home to Steamboat Geyser . The Lower, Midway, and Upper Geyser Basins are to the south, with big-name sights like Grand Prismatic and Old Faithful .

The North Entrance of Yellowstone is in Gardiner, Montana. This entrance is accessible via a beautiful 90-minute drive through Paradise Valley from Bozeman. Shortly after the park's gates, the Boiling River , another top attraction of Yellowstone, invites immediate exploration. Farther into the park, the Mammoth Hot Springs area offers stunning travertine terraces and a touch of the park's history.

Read More: Top Hiking Trails in Yellowstone National Park

Butte, once known as the Richest Hill on Earth, is Montana's most historic city. It began in the late 1800s and flourished in the copper mining industry. It grew to be Montana's first major city and the biggest city between Chicago and San Francisco for a period in history.

Mining operations continued into the 1980s in Butte, though never reaching their early 1900s heydays ever again. 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.

The museum centers around a restored mining camp with more than three dozen historic buildings and structures on display. It was part of the old community known as Hell Roarin' Gulch at the base of a now inactive silver and zinc mine. A highlight is the huge headframe – the winding tower at the mineshaft's head – along with underground tours of the mines.

Other mine-related highlights in Butte include the Copper King Mansion , constructed in 1888. This 24-room Victorian mansion features many of the original artifacts that reflect the prosperity of the Richest Hill on Earth. The Mineral Museum is also a fun place to visit, featuring more than 1,300 specimens, like a 27-and-a-half-troy-ounce gold nugget.

Address: 155 Museum Way, Butte, Montana

Official site: https://miningmuseum.org/

Read More: Top-Rated Things to Do in Butte, Montana

Montana's capital, Helena, once known as Last Chance Gulch after a group of disheartened gold-diggers decided to have one final dig before striking gold, possesses one of the most attractive state capitol buildings in the US.

The building reflects a Greek Renaissance-style of architecture with sandstone and granite composing much of the facade. It's topped with a copper dome and houses several eye-catching murals featuring themes of Montana's past. The iconic Montana artist, Charles M. Russell, has a mural in the building depicting Lewis and Clark meeting the Salish Indians.

It's not just the state capitol that makes Helena a pleasure to visit. The city has a distinct and vibrant culture tied to its gold-digging days of the past. Historical places like Reeder's Alley co-mingle with the modern art galleries and hip storefronts nearby.

Helena is also a great base camp for exploring the Montana countryside. The two-million-acre Helena-Lewis and Clark National Forest surrounds the entire city. Popular things to do in the forest include fishing, hiking, backpacking, and big game viewing. For an even closer adventure, the expansive Mount Helena City Park is within walking distance of downtown.

Read More: Top-Rated Attractions & Things to Do in Helena, MT

Flathead Lake is the largest natural freshwater lake in the American West outside of Alaska. It's in the northwest part of the state, approximately 25 miles south of Whitefish. The lake has over 160 miles of shoreline, meaning it takes a while to drive its length.

Boating and boating activities tend to reign supreme at Flathead Lake. The lake is known for its crystal-clear water alongside its icy depths. And adventure extends from the shoreline, too, with hiking trails and parks operated by either Montana Fish, Wildlife & Parks , or the Confederated Salish and Kootenai Tribes .

Like Polson and Bigfork, small towns punctuate the shoreline with services like restaurants and boat rentals. Less than 15 miles north, Kalispell is another Montana city worth checking out, and a great spot to find a hotel to spend the night near Flathead Lake.

Read More: Top-Rated Things to Do near Flathead Lake, Montana

Lewis and Clark Caverns is between Butte and Bozeman. It's Montana's first state park and a popular spot to explore underground. And the only way to experience its depths is as part of a guided tour led by park staff . Three different tours are available during the summer that cater to different ability levels. And a special Winter Holiday Candlelight Tour occurs throughout the colder months.

Lewis and Clark Caverns are one of the largest limestone caverns in the world. They host colossal cave features, handrails, and resident bats. Tours follow a concrete walkway the entire way and never navigate through tight spaces. For those not affected by claustrophobia, the state park does offer a unique three-hour Wild Cave Tour that does include some crawling.

Outside the cavern, the park's aboveground area has hiking trails and a visitor center with interpretive information about the caves. The cavern's campground is also above ground, with cabins, tipis, and group campsites available. Reservations are recommended for campsites and cave tours.

Address: 25 Lewis & Clark Caverns Road, Whitehall, Montana

Official site: https://fwp.mt.gov/stateparks/lewis-and-clark-caverns/

Among its many natural features, Montana has several hot spring facilities that inspire a soak. Many of Montana's mainstream hot springs are developed, meaning it's usually a pool of some sort with natural hot water piped in. These hot springs vary in size and are mostly found in the state's western half.

One of the best hot springs in Montana is Quinn's Hot Springs Resort , located next to the Clark Fork River in Paradise, Montana, an hour's drive northwest of Missoula. This beautiful hot spring resort recently added more natural outdoor pools to its landscaped grounds. The resort also offers lodge rooms, cabins, and the decadent Hardwood House Restaurant.

The most historic hot spring, Chico Hot Springs , is another fun one to visit. Alongside a large open-air pool, it's the ambiance of this historic resort, established in 1900, that makes for a memorable visit. That and its prime location within Paradise Valley , close to the Yellowstone River and a short scenic drive to Yellowstone National Park.

Other notable soaking spots include Lolo Hot Springs near the Idaho border and Elkhorn Hot Springs in the Pioneer Mountains. And Yellowstone Hot Springs , 30 miles south of Chico Hot Springs, is a relatively new hot spring with one of the state's best outdoor pools.

In Great Falls , the C.M. Russell Museum celebrates the life and work of famed US artist Charles M. Russell, perhaps best known as the Cowboy Artist. The museum includes numerous documents and artifacts relating to the artist's career spanning the end of the 19th and early 20th centuries and an extensive collection of original paintings .

A highlight is visiting the original Russell House and Studio , now designated a National Historic Landmark. Also of interest is the museum's Russell Riders Sculpture Garden with its statues of area wildlife. The museum also has entire wings dedicated to Russel's many contemporaries, offering a vast and varied collection of Western artworks.

The city of Great Falls itself offers several other things to do to tack onto a long weekend. The Lewis and Clark Interpretive Center is a great place to learn about a different slice of regional history. Natural spaces also line the city, like Giant Spring State Park and Gibson Park, many of which connect to the River's Edge Trail .

Address: 400 13th Street N., Great Falls, Montana

Anaconda is a historic town in Western Montana, dating back to the copper mining days of the late 1800s. This history is on display throughout the town, including a preserved smelter stack towering on the horizon. Today, it's a vacation destination for its modern but rustic attractions and its easy access to the great outdoors.

A few fun things to do in Anaconda include hot spring adventures and skiing at the nearby Discovery Ski Area . Anaconda is also home to the Jack Nicklaus Old Works Golf Course . This unique 18 holes sits upon an old refinement site and features black "slag" bunkers – a byproduct from the smelting days.

Anaconda sits near the end of the Pintler Veteran's Memorial Scenic Highway. This 64-mile route offers a beautiful alternative for I-90 and a recommended course for adventure when traveling from Yellowstone to Glacier. The Scenic Highway is also a launching point for adventures into the surrounding Beaverhead-Deerlodge National Forest.

The Beartooth Highway is in southwest Montana and leads into Wyoming. It is an All-American Road and a true marvel of engineering. Comparable to the Going-to-the-Sun Road in Glacier National Park, but less crowded, this 68-mile route switchbacks up and over a mountain pass for fantastic views.

The route begins south of Red Lodge , one of Montana's best small towns . The road then climbs over 5,000 feet to reach Beartooth Pass (elevation 10,947 feet) on the other side of the Wyoming border. The highway then proceeds west throughout Shoshone National Forest to the northeast entrance of Yellowstone National Park .

It's truly a bucket-list drive, even though it's not as well-known as some other Montana adventures. The highway is typically open between Memorial Day and Columbus Day (May through October), weather dependent. And with hiking trails, campgrounds, and stunning landscapes lining the way, plan for ample time driving the 68-mile route.

Read More: Top Things to Do in Red Lodge, Montana

The Moss Mansion Historic House Museum is one of the most important landmarks in Billings, comprising a large red sandstone manor that dominates its neighborhood. Renowned New York architect Henry Janeway Hardenbergh designed the 28-room mansion in 1903. His previous works included the Waldorf Astoria, Plaza, Willard, and Copley Plaza hotels.

The mansion features original draperies, fixtures, furniture, Persian carpets, and artifacts. It's like stepping back in time when going inside. Guided and self-guided tours are available . The site also hosts temporary displays and exhibits, including seasonal events and festivals.

Billings is Montana's most populated city with over 100,000 residents. Alongside the fascinating history at the Moss Mansion, the city has several notable tourist attractions and things to do . It's also surrounded by a fantastic landscape, well represented by the massive Rimrocks jutting throughout the center of town. Billings is also home to ZooMontana, the Yellowstone Art Museum, and Pictograph Cave State Park.

Address: 914 Division Street, Billings, Montana

Official site: www.mossmansion.com

In Phillipsburg, on the Pintler Veteran's Memorial Scenic Highway , the Sweet Palace is a candy lover's dream come true. Rows and rows of candy jars line this old-fashioned candy shop, offering all types of flavors and confectionary styles. Visitors add to their bags as they are shopping, with most candies costing the same per pound.

The Sweet Palace is only one of many things to do in Philipsburg . The main drag, where the Sweet Palace is centrally located, has several other local shops and attractions worth a full afternoon of perusing. This includes places to shop for and sluice out the city's most precious resource: Montana sapphires.

Ross Creek Cedars Scenic Area is a notable point of interest in Kootenai National Forest. This ancient grove is in the far northwest part of the state, near the border with the Idaho Panhandle. And within its approximately 100 acres, a tall world awaits.

Some of the cedars in this scenic area have been growing for over 1,000 years. Today, visitors crane their necks at these long-living hardwoods along a 0.9-mile interpretive path. Take some time on this wide and accessible path, listening to the sounds of Ross Creek rumbling nearby.

Expect some crowds on the weekends and throughout summer at Ross Creek. It's a bit of a drive on a dirt road to access the scenic area. Downloaded GPS coordinates are helpful when visiting for the first time. Visitors can also extend the hike for up to four miles along the Ross Creek Trail, where it's easy to ditch the crowds and connect with nature.

The Little Bighorn Battlefield National Monument commemorates the 1876 clash between the US Army and Sioux and Cheyenne Indians. It is one of the best-known historical landmarks in the US – and one of the most important in terms of the reconciliation that has taken place since. This must-see attraction includes a visitor center, museum, the Custer National Cemetery , the 7th Cavalry Memorial, and the Reno-Benteen Battlefield.

For the most in-depth experience at the battlefield, book an Apsaalooke Tour , available throughout the summer between Memorial Day and Labor Day. The Crow Nation of Tourism offers this one-hour, air-conditioned bus tour across the battlefield, providing perspectives on this significant historic landmark.

Address: Interstate 90 Frontage Road, Crow Agency, Montana

Official site: https://www.nps.gov/libi/index.htm

Another Billings attraction worth a visit is the Western Heritage Center, housed in the old Parmly Billings Memorial Library built in 1901. The center features a diverse collection of more than 17,000 artifacts . Highlights include more than 6,000 photos covering the history and culture of the Yellowstone River region .

Opened in 1971 and now affiliated with the Smithsonian Institution, the museum also houses a broad collection of materials focusing on the history of the Northern High Plains and Yellowstone River Valley. It also has a special focus on the preservation of the histories of the Cheyenne and Crow Indians . Other highlights include lectures, educational programs, and workshops.

Address: 2822 Montana Ave, Billings, Montana

Official site: www.ywhc.org

The Route of the Hiawatha is one of the most scenic rail-to-trail conversions in the country, departing from Lookout Pass at the Idaho/Montana border . It spans approximately 15 miles and primarily follows a downhill grade, meaning riders can coast most of the route. Along the way are 10 scenic tunnels and seven trestle bridges that span high above the mountainous environment.

Lookout Pass operates the shuttles and bike rentals that make this scenic bike ride a breeze. The route and rentals are only available throughout the summer season, approximately between Memorial Day and Labor Day. Trail passes are required to ride, and most finish the bike ride within approximately two hours .

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• 10 Most Beautiful Towns In...

The Most Beautiful Towns in Montana

The stunning mountain scenery of Montana only accentuates the rustic charm of the small towns beneath it, such as Whitefish and Hamilton. Here, check out some of the coolest urban spots. Did you know – Culture Trip now does bookable, small-group trips? Pick from authentic, immersive Epic Trips , compact and action-packed Mini Trips and sparkling, expansive Sailing Trips . Did you know you can travel with Culture Trip? Our premium small-group trips are designed by Travel Experts with the culturally curious traveler in mind.

Bozeman, in the southwest of Montana, is a great place if you’re seeking clean, fresh air and a relaxing environment. While it may be one of the larger towns in the state, it retains a small-town feel: national forests and trails are easily accessible, making it a great place for outdoor recreation. There are also many shops, parks, arts opportunities and museums; this college town is always buzzing with activity.

The small city of Hamilton can be found in the western part of Montana, nestled between two mountain ranges in the Bitterroot Valley. While it still has a small population, it’s the fastest growing city in Montana. Hamilton offers easy access to mountains and millions of acres of public forested land, making it a great place for outdoor recreation of all kinds. Founded in 1890, it has a number of beautiful, historic buildings, including the Daly Mansion, Old Ravalli County Courthouse and the City Hall.

Polson lies on the southern shore of Flathead Lake in northwestern Montana. It has vast cherry orchards, celebrated every year with a Cherry Festival. Polson is bordered to the south by the Mission Mountains, providing a jaw-dropping backdrop to this charming town. Animal enthusiasts will be delighted to find that the National Bison Range isn’t far, and there are also bird refuges nearby. Polson offers a wide variety of attractions, including several interesting museums, a golf course and a popular car show.

Located in the very center of Montana, Lewistown is where the mountains and plains meet. It grew to prominence during the 1880s gold rush; when the gold supply ran out, many decided to settle permanently. The aptly-named Heart of Montana is an outdoor recreation paradise: hunting, fishing, skiing, hiking and biking are just a few of the possibilities for those of you who enjoy the great outdoors. Lewistown is also surrounded by five mountain ranges. Embracing the western heritage it has, it maintains a strong sense of community and offers many events in which everyone can get involved.

West Yellowstone

The town of West Yellowstone is adjacent to Yellowstone National Park and is a popular spot to stay for those planning to visit one of America’s greatest treasures. West Yellowstone itself also has tons to offer, no matter the season. Outdoor enthusiasts will be delighted with the range of activities available, such as ATV trails, biking, birdwatching, fishing, boating, golf, swimming, hunting, kayaking, horse riding, skiing and snowmobiling. West Yellowstone also offers many opportunities to visit local museums and learn more about the area’s Native American heritage.

Anaconda is surrounded by mountains, lakes and densely timbered forests. Founded as a copper mining town, it is now a popular destination for anyone visiting Montana. The beautiful Washoe Theater on main street is a must-see for those of you interested in architecture. There are also a lot of sporting opportunities available in the area: hunting, fishing, skiing, golf, hiking and darts are all popular.

Butte is full of rich history, small-town charm, vintage architecture and friendly hospitality, which attracts visitors from all over. A mining town initially, it experienced an economic boom during the gold rush and became one of the largest copper hotspots. What sets it apart from other mining towns, however, is the sense of individualism and architectural diversity. Butte has welcomed a large variety of immigrants, who have all left a cultural impact. The availability of Cornish pasties, povitica (a sweet bread) and huckleberry products are reminders of a colorful past, as is the popular Montana Folk Festival.

Stevensville

As the officially recognized first permanent settlement in Montana, Stevensville has a long and interesting history. The town was founded when Jesuit missionaries came at the request of the local Native Americans who were interested in learning about Christianity. Today, the quaint town is a community set with the stunning Bitterroot and Sapphire mountains in the distance. The charming downtown is great for a relaxing stroll and offers many opportunities to experience the friendly hospitality of the locals. The nearby Lee Metcalf National Wildlife Refuge is a main attraction in this area, home to various types of wildlife.

Choteau is affectionately known as the Front Porch of the Rockies. This small town made headlines in 1999 when famous late-night talk show host David Letterman purchased a vacation home nearby. It’s also home to one of the most important paleontology finds in the world. The maiasaura-type fossil, discovered in the nearby Egg Mountain, can be viewed in a 3D display at the Old Trail Museum. A number of charming locally owned shops are to be found in the quaint downtown and several wilderness trails are easily accessible from here, making it a place with something for everyone.

Browse our full collection of Epic Trips around the globe, as well as their little sibling, Mini Trips .

Since you are here, we would like to share our vision for the future of travel - and the direction Culture Trip is moving in.

Culture Trip launched in 2011 with a simple yet passionate mission: to inspire people to go beyond their boundaries and experience what makes a place, its people and its culture special and meaningful — and this is still in our DNA today. We are proud that, for more than a decade, millions like you have trusted our award-winning recommendations by people who deeply understand what makes certain places and communities so special.

Increasingly we believe the world needs more meaningful, real-life connections between curious travellers keen to explore the world in a more responsible way. That is why we have intensively curated a collection of premium small-group trips as an invitation to meet and connect with new, like-minded people for once-in-a-lifetime experiences in three categories: Culture Trips, Rail Trips and Private Trips. Our Trips are suitable for both solo travelers, couples and friends who want to explore the world together.

Culture Trips are deeply immersive 5 to 16 days itineraries, that combine authentic local experiences, exciting activities and 4-5* accommodation to look forward to at the end of each day. Our Rail Trips are our most planet-friendly itineraries that invite you to take the scenic route, relax whilst getting under the skin of a destination. Our Private Trips are fully tailored itineraries, curated by our Travel Experts specifically for you, your friends or your family.

We know that many of you worry about the environmental impact of travel and are looking for ways of expanding horizons in ways that do minimal harm - and may even bring benefits. We are committed to go as far as possible in curating our trips with care for the planet. That is why all of our trips are flightless in destination, fully carbon offset - and we have ambitious plans to be net zero in the very near future.

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Health & Wellness

Summer's dreamiest wellness getaway, in the montana wilderness, culture trip spring sale, save up to $1,100 on our unique small-group trips limited spots..

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12 Must-See Places When Visiting Montana For The First Time

• There are plenty of unique Montana vacations to be had; for example, Bighorn Canyon offers stunning views and outdoor activities for all fitness levels.
• There's not really a "best time to visit Montana" because it offers so many different activities and opportunities in each month and season; for instance, Billings provides small-town charm with access to year-round hiking and local breweries, while Whitefish transforms into a winter wonderland full of fantastic skiing.
• The national parks of Montana are a must, too, especially Glacier National Park, which is a must-see for wildlife and outdoor enthusiasts year-round.

Big Sky Country has mesmerizing landscapes and there are plenty of things to do in Montana for every taste. This wild and lovely western state also has some of the country's largest wilderness areas and vast national forests, perfect for exploring on a one-week bucket list road trip circuit to discover the wilds of Montana .

However one explores the state, whether staying in scenic Montana towns with hiking trails in abundance or going for adventures in the state's national parks, including Waterton Lakes, Yellowstone, and Glacier National Park, sightseeing in Montana in every month of the year is second to none.

For those wondering where to visit in Montana, head straight to these idyllic spots to enjoy the best Montana vacation possible.

UPDATE: 2024/04/24 19:04 EST BY ERICA BLAIR

Check Out Even More Of The Best Places to Visit in Montana!

Enjoy more context on the top places to visit in Montana, plus new destinations, plenty of eye-catching images, and easy-to-read tables that let you know pertinent information about each spot.

Top Slopes: These Are The 10 Most Iconic Ski Resorts In Montana

Bighorn canyon, some of the most stunning views in big sky country.

If you want to see some of the best vistas in Montana, visit Bighorn Canyon . Explore the rim of the canyon or engage in some boating and water sports in the canyon below. There are also some fantastic hiking trails for people of all fitness levels .

If you want to experience the natural majesty of Big Sky Country, put this canyon on your Montana bucket list.

Small-town hospitality with big-town amenities

If you're looking for a good home base to experience some of Montana's best nature but also want the big city amenities, Billings is an excellent spot and is one of the most charming small towns in Montana to visit.

You'll find some incredible hiking right around Billings , including in nearby Pictograph Cave State Park , but if you'd prefer another type of trail, you can also tour the tasty local Billings Breweries .

Glacier National Park

See the "crown of the continent ecosystem".

Glacier National Park, or the "Crown of the Continent Ecosystem," is a large natural paradise in Montana's northern corner. Exceptional wildlife, including endangered and rare creatures, may be found in this nature lover's heaven, which offers a wide range of outdoor experiences that easily make it one of the best places in Montana to visit on vacation.

Tourists can hike the splendid trails and explore the environment that embraces them. If visitors do not have enough time for a walk, a scenic drive along the famous Going to the Sun Road will allow them to view many of the park's most beautiful sights.

An amazing skiing destination in Montana

Whitefish is an astonishing outdoor recreation hub and was voted one of National Geographic's Top 25 Ski Towns Worldwide . If you love skiing, the best time to visit Whitefish, Montana, is during the winter.

The town's Mountain Resort is regarded as one of the most incredible places to go skiing for a reasonable price on unique slopes with beautiful mountain scenery with superb beginner and expert territories. Visitors may enjoy boating, bicycling, and hiking once the shimmering snow has melted, as well as a live professional theater and superb cuisine.

Historic and lovely Butte should be on your Montana vacation itinerary

Butte offers an authentic Montana experience and is a magical spot to explore. The city, formerly known as the "Richest Hill on Earth," has a lengthy history in the mining sector, which can still be seen on the roads today. It has one of the country's biggest National Historic Landmark Districts and several exceptional museums, as well as trolley excursions to its historical landmarks.

Butte, surrounded by spectacular mountain ranges, provides thrilling snowmobiling, skiing, trout fishing, fantastic hiking, golf courses, and even relaxation in fabulous hot springs.

Helena is a fusion of contemporary and historic architecture tucked in the mountains

The beautiful Helena is Montana's state capital, and its prominent attractions provide a great reflection of the state's present and past.

The fantastic city, a combination of ancient and contemporary, has preserved many of the old attractions and buildings that made it famous during the post-Gold Rush period when it was a refuge for those who struck it big.

8 Scenic Washington Parks With Cheap Camping

Lewis & clark caverns state park, see montana's phenomenal underground world.

Lewis and Clark Caverns State Park is Montana's earliest and most well-known state park home to one of the Northwest's most extensive limestone caverns. They are lined with stalactites, stalagmites, and columns illuminated by electric lights and provide cool natural relief from the summer heat.

The park also has picnic spaces, cabin rentals, campgrounds, a visitor center, hiking trails, and an amphitheater.

West Yellowstone

Be perfectly based for spending time in the oldest national park in the us.

West Yellowstone town, located just outside Yellowstone National Park's West Entrance, serves as a magnificent gateway to the park, which is one of the most beautiful national parks in the US as well as the oldest. In the summer, it's a great place to go river rafting, four-wheeling, fly-fishing, hiking, horseback riding, and mountain biking.

In the winter, it's a perfect area for cross-country skiing and snowmobiling. Tourists will find marvelous shopping stores and various restaurants along West Yellowstone's promenades.

Fort Benton

Experience the "birthplace of montana".

The whole town of Fort Benton was designated a National Historic Landmark because of its fascinating, rich history. Tourists can see its past exhibited throughout its streets, especially in the magnificent Heritage Complex on the Missouri River's banks, where the ancient fort shares space with several other museums.

Outdoor art exhibits may be seen along the old riverboat levee, and the historic town's art galleries, boutiques, theaters, and superb cafés perfectly blend the present with the past.

Flathead Lake

Spend some time in montana's giant idyllic flathead lake state park.

Flathead Lake is a massive body of water known for its bewitching flat surface and excellent fishing circumstances. The coastline has a number of public access spots and boat ramps, including several Flathead Lake State Park units.

The cleverly titled Wild Horse Island is one of this state park's most challenging sections. This lake's main island is still home to marvelous wild horses. Kayak rentals, ferries, and powerboat rentals are available on the west side of the lake on the island.

Why Visit The Colored Pebbles Of Montana's Lake MacDonald

Virginia city, step back in time in the perfectly preserved virginia city.

Virginia City was previously the interior Northwest's most populous city. There are various opportunities to experience what this astonishing place was like in its halcyon days, like riding a train or even getting aboard an old-fashioned carriage, thanks to the city's popularity.

Tourists may see the famed Virginia City Players play melodrama and vaudeville in the exceptional opera house, which is still the most popular form of entertainment here.

Check out Montana's "Garden City" and enjoy the best of the great outdoors

Missoula is nicknamed the "Garden City" because of its hypnotic green terrain and thick trees. It provides a ton of outdoor adventure activities, including kayaking, boating, fishing, hiking, biking in the summer, and skiing and snowshoeing in the winter.

It is nestled within the lofty Rocky Mountains and surrounded by outstanding beauty, including three amazing rivers and seven great wilderness areas. It's also among the best cultural centers in the state.

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Bucket-List Montana Road Trip Itinerary

February 21, 2024 //  by  Follow Me Away //   4 Comments

I have written the perfect Montana road trip itinerary so you can avoid stress when planning!

This itinerary features the best things to do in Montana ! You will see iconic landscapes, beautiful mountain towns, bustling cities, and fun hidden gems.

Montana is well known for its wilderness, national parks, and wildlife. This state is a true playground for those who love the outdoors, hiking, and photography. 

Some things included on this Montana example itinerary:

• Glacier National Park
• Yellowstone National Park
• Big Sky Mountain

Pick and choose what stops to explore depending on how much time you have. This is truly one of the best road trips in the USA!

Keep reading to learn how to plan a trip to Montana!

Table of Contents

Montana Road Trip Map

I created this Montana road trip map so those of you who are visual can get an idea of how much driving is involved.

This way, you can see if there is something you want to cut off your itinerary for Montana. For example, you may see Billings is out of the way and decide you don’t have enough time so you choose to skip it!

Save this map as a reference so you can have the best trip to Montana!

CLICK HERE FOR THE MONTANA ROAD TRIP MAP!

Stop 1: Glacier National Park

Glacier National Park is 1,583 miles of wilderness in the Rocky Mountains and features over 700 miles of hiking trails. A Glacier National Park road trip is a must in Montana!

There are seriously so many things to do in Glacier National Park !

The Trail of Cedars is probably one of the easiest hikes here while Grinnell Glacier is the most difficult.

No matter what trail you pick, you’ll see scenery with jagged peaks of the Rocky Mountains and ice-blue lakes contrasted by green meadows.

Lake McDonald is also a great place to check out, especially on a guided Glacier Park Boat Company Tour. Or you can head north of the park to explore the Waterton Lakes National Park ! 

Apgar Nature Center is the official park visitor center and is fun and interactive for families and all travelers. If you’re really interested, you can check out guided tours that usually base themselves out of the center, such as Private Wildlife Tours! 

Don’t forget to drive the Going-to-the-Sun Road ! This paved, two-way highway snakes through the park and Logan Pass. It is known as one of the most scenic drives in America!

Visiting Montana in the summer is the best time to see Glacier National Park as some parts are closed in winter.

All the best Montana road trips include Glacier, and you will love it too!

Best Hotels Near Glacier National Park: 

Mid-Range: Wonderstone at Glacier . Check Rates: Booking.com

Luxury: Great Northern Resort (Lodge) . Check Rates: Booking.com

Stop 2: Whitefish

The next stop on your Montana road trip is Whitefish . Here you will trade in vast, sweeping views for a classic, small-town USA experience.

Bed and breakfasts, local shops, and fantastic restaurants line the streets of this town.

I recommend visiting the Marina for some activities like jet skilling and swimming especially if you’re visiting during the summer! 

There is also a local spa at The Lodge at Whitefish that is well-reviewed if you want to relax with massages and facials. 

True to the small-town vibe, the Whitefish Downtown Farmer’s Market is quaint and quiet with lots to explore. It is one of the best places to purchase your travel trinkets!

Although it is a small town, Whitefish is close to Glacier National Park (only 30 minutes). This can be a quick day trip to enjoy the local side of Montana! 

You will definitely want to add Whitefish to any unforgettable road trip planner for Montana!

Best Hotels in Whitefish: 

Mid-Range: Baymont by Wyndham Whitefish .  Check Rates: Booking.com

Luxury: Grouse Mountain Lodge . Check Rates: Booking.com

Stop 3: Yellowstone National Park

Would you be on a Montana road trip without stopping at another national park? From Whitefish, it is a scenic 6.5-hour road trip to Yellowstone National Park .

This is arguably one of the most famous national parks. There is so much to do here even if a good portion of the park is located in Wyoming!

I have even written a Yellowstone road trip if you want to spend more time here!

Start at the iconic  Old Faithful.  This legendary geyser erupts on schedule, spraying mist through the air while also spouting water straight up. It is a truly beautiful part of nature. 

Grand Prismatic Spring is also a geyser, but this geyser is also a hot spring and a volcano! This is the largest hot spring in the US and has striking coloration. Reds, oranges, yellows, and blues will catch your eye!

Some hikes you may want to check out include Mt. Washburn, which runs up an old road and past meadows and gnarled rocks throughout Yellowstone.

The Storm Point Natural Trail is a varied loop trail that is close to a pond and frequently visited by bison. Here you can walk through dense forests and finish your walk/hike at the shore of Yellowstone Lake.  

Home to dramatic features and a vast array of animals, the stops of Yellowstone in Montana are something you must add to your itinerary. I hope you see wildlife in Yellowstone!

After you enjoy this natural scenery, make sure to check out nearby communities, such as Livingston and Cooke City!  I also suggest staying in West Yellowstone which is a cute town near the park’s entrance.

Best Hotels Near Yellowstone National Park :

Mid-Range: Al’s Westward Ho Motel . Check Rates: Booking.com

Mid-Range: Crosswinds Inn. Check Rates: Booking.com

Luxury: Yellowstone Park Hotel . Check Rates: Booking.com

Stop 4: Billings

Billings is the perfect stop on your Montana road trip for those who enjoy the outdoors and urban attractions. This is one of the top Montana travel destinations!

I recommend starting at Pictograph Cave State Park . The three caves here (Pictograph, Ghost, and Middle) have rock paintings dating back to prehistoric times, and guided tours help you navigate this rocky region. 

Yellowstone River is also a great presence in Billings.

Near the top of the river, at Riverfront Park , you can rent a tube and float down the river while stopping at a variety of parks on the shore. Make sure to look at Josephine Park in particular for a landing spot!

The Yellowstone Wildlife Sanctuary houses many native animals from Montana. All of these animals have been injured and cannot survive in the wild.

You can get up close to see mountain lions, buffalo, and more! If you want a guarantee of seeing wildlife when you road trip Montana, add this to your itinerary!

Yellowstone Cellars and Winery  offers fantastic tours of the local grounds and cellars. You can do a tasting experience as well. The samples of red and white wine and live music call to many tourists! 

For one of Montana’s unique attractions, check out the Billings Amusement Park Drive-In !

This old-fashioned, large-screen theatre shows two movies at once while you camp under the Montana sky. You may be distracted from the movie by the stars! 

Lastly, you can be adventurous and visit the Madison River , which is a part of the Missouri River. Many tourists come here for white water rafting, but even the stunning views are enough to stop and stare!

Billings is truly one of the best vacations in Montana!

Best Hotels in Billings 

Affordable: Baymont by Wyndham Billings . Check Rates: Booking.com

Mid-Range: Northern Hotel . Check Rates: Booking.com

Mid-Range: Boothill Inn and Suites. Check Rates: Booking.com

Stop 5: Big Sky Mountain and Bozeman

As mentioned earlier, there are many communities near Yellowstone, and two you CANNOT miss and need to add to your Montana itinerary are Big Sky  and Bozeman.

Tucked away in the Rocky Mountains of Montana, Big Sky is well-known for its downhill trails that offer hiking in the summers, and skiing in the winters. 

In the heart of Big Sky, you must check out Ousel Falls Park , which features waterfalls, picnic areas, and fantastic views. It is fairly close to Yellowstone so you can do both on your Montana road trip!

The Gallatin River cuts through the Gallatin Canyon just a few miles from the town of Big Sky on the northeast side. It offers stunning scenery to witness wildlife in their natural habitats. 

Bozeman , which is located at the foot of the Bridger Mountains, is just a short drive from Big Sky.

This town is more suburban but features must-sees such as the Montana State University’s Museum of the Rockies.  This museum features a Siebel Dinosaur Complex and a planetarium.

Just on the outskirts of Bozeman itself, are the Spanish Peaks , which offer more trails for skiing, biking, and hiking! 

Best Hotels in Bozeman 

Mid-Range: Microtel Inn & Suites . Check Rates: Booking.com

Luxury: The LARK. Check Rates: Booking.com

Stop 6: Helena

Helena has it all: nature, museums, landmarks, and local food. This city is a must-see during your Montana road trip.

I recommend starting with the Gates of the Mountains . If you want to add a little history to your Montana itinerary, this is the place!

The Gates of the Mountains were made famous by Lewis and Clark. The river that runs through the foothills of the Rocky Mountains is easily explored, especially through boat tours!

Spend some time exploring the city of Helena and its landmarks and museums!

You can visit the Montana Historical Society Museum , the Montana State Capital, and the Cathedral of St. Helena,  all of which are fairly close to one another!

If you’re looking for something interactive and fun, I recommend the Montana Blue Jewel Mine !

If you’re lucky, in between learning about the history of mining, you may be able to find and take home a few sapphires! 

Lastly, make sure to wrap up your time in Helena with Mount Helena. The hike to the peak offers sweeping views of the city.

After you finish up, these hiking and biking trails lead to downtown restaurants for some relaxation after an active time on your Montana road trip.

Best Hotels in Helena

Affordable: Days Inn by Wyndham Helena . Check Rates: Booking.com

Mid-Range: Ramada by Wyndham Helena . Check Rates: Booking.com

Mid-Range: Delta Hotels by Marriott Helena Colonial . Check Rates: Booking.com

Stop 7: Helena-Lewis and Clark National Forest

Although I’ve already talked about Helena, I need to emphasize a very important spot near that wonderful city: Helena-Lewis and Clark National Forest.  This national forest must be on your Montana road trip.

The forest spans over 2,900 miles in two separate zones. The eastern section has a lot of grass and shrublands while the west is designated as an environmental preservation wilderness. 

At the park, you must see the Giant Springs State Park . This is one of the top sights in the forest as it is a huge freshwater spring. It is over 200 acres and features activities such as boating, swimming, and more. 

The forest spreads across mountain ranges and counties. It is well known for its coniferous streets, tall mountain peaks, and grassy meadows. 

The park itself offers vast recreation opportunities from scene drives, hikes, horseback riding, camping, and even skiing in the winter. This is such a beautiful, natural place to explore.

Stop 8: Finish Your Montana Road Trip in Missoula

The last stop on your Montana road trip is Missoula . Although it once started as a small trading post, this city is now HUGE and is surrounded by the stunning scenery of the Rockies. 

The Clark Fork River runs through the center of the city and connects many attractions along its Riverfront Trail, meaning you can walk it and hit all of your mini-adventure stops!

I recommend checking out Mount Sentinel , a 1,958-foot-tall mountain that looks over the city, close to the University of Montana . This is a popular hiking destination and has trails from easy to difficult!

Caras Park hosts hundreds of events every year. Its two large pavilions help contain crowds during celebrations and festivities, such as the annual Pray for Snow Party.

The Clark Fork Market is also hosted at Caras Park every Sunday, and adjacent to the park is the famous and historic  Wilma Theatre !

Lastly, I think you should check out Rattlesnake National Recreation Area . It is perfect for a Montana on a budget itinerary .

Although this is 4 miles north of Missoula and part of a larger forest, this is a popular spot to explore the wild outskirts of the city. Many people come here to hike, fish, and ride (both horses and bikes).

If you want to include more nature on your Montana road trip guide, this is a great area to visit.

Best Hotels in Missoula

Mid-Range: La Quinta Inn.  Check Rates: Booking.com

Mid-Range: StoneCreek Lodge. Check Rates: Booking.com

Luxury: The Wren . Check Rates: Booking.com

Getting To And Around Montana

I suggest flying into Glacier Park International Airport (FCA). It is the closest airport to Glacier National Park, and many lodgings are located around this airport.

It is 12 miles from popular Whitefish and 30 miles from the West Entrance of the national park itself. 

You can also fly into Bozeman if that works better for you. Just rearrange the order of the stops on this route.

Whichever airport you fly into, you can rent a vehicle and set out on the best Montana vacation itinerary. You can also drive to Montana if you live close or want a longer road trip!

Montana driving routes are easy, and it is a safe state to drive in. There are smooth roads, even in the mountains.

When navigating roads at nearly 80 mph, I recommend renting a car that is comfortable but also has good gas mileage. Rent a car that is large enough to navigate roads and many miles well. 

At the Glacier National Park Airport, you can rent cars in the terminal through businesses such as Avis, Budget, Hertz, and International.

Don’t forget to check out my detailed road trip packing list so you don’t forget any essentials!

How Long to Spend on Your Road Trip in Montana

I suggest about 7-10 days when planning a trip to Montana by car. This will give you plenty of time at each stop without feeling rushed or needing to drive long distances each day.

Of course, I understand not everyone can take so much time off for a vacation. Even if you only have a few days in Montana to explore the top sites, a road trip is worth it!

Below, I will provide some Montana road trip itineraries for different timelines.

Sample 5-Day Montana Itinerary:

Day 1: Start in Missoula – Explore the University of Montana and Mount Sentinel. – Drive to Helena: Approx. 2 hours.

Day 2: Explore Helena – Visit the Montana State Capitol, the Cathedral of St. Helena. – Hike up Mount Helena for panoramic city views.

Day 3: Helena to Helena-Lewis and Clark National Forest – Spend the day in the national forest, visit Giant Springs State Park. – Drive to Billings: Approx. 4.5 hours.

Day 4: Billings Exploration – Visit Pictograph Cave State Park and the Yellowstone Wildlife Sanctuary.

Day 5: Return to Missoula – Drive back to Missoula for departure. – Drive time: Approx. 5 hours.

Sample 7-Day Montana Itinerary:

Day 1: Whitefish Arrival – Arrive in Whitefish, explore downtown and the Marina. – Drive to Glacier National Park: Approx. 30 minutes.

Day 2 & 3: Glacier National Park – Explore Glacier National Park: Trail of Cedars, Lake McDonald. – Drive the Going-to-the-Sun Road. – Drive to Missoula: Approx. 3.5 hours.

Day 4: Missoula – Explore Missoula, including Mount Sentinel and downtown.

Day 5: Drive to Helena – Visit Helena’s state landmarks and museums. – Drive time: Approx. 2 hours.

Day 6: Helena to Helena-Lewis and Clark National Forest – Explore the national forest and Giant Springs State Park.

Day 7: Billings – Drive to Billings, explore local attractions. – Drive time from Helena: Approx. 4.5 hours.

Sample 10-Day Montana Itinerary:

Day 1: Missoula – Begin in Missoula with downtown exploration and Mount Sentinel. – Drive to Helena: Approx. 2 hours.

Day 2: Helena – Explore Helena, including city landmarks and museums.

Day 3: Helena-Lewis and Clark National Forest – Visit the national forest and Giant Springs State Park. – Drive to Billings: Approx. 4.5 hours.

Day 4: Explore Billings – Visit Pictograph Cave State Park, Yellowstone Wildlife Sanctuary.

Day 5 & 6: Yellowstone National Park – Explore Old Faithful, Grand Prismatic Spring. – Drive from Billings to Yellowstone: Approx. 2.5 hours.

Day 7: Big Sky and Bozeman – Explore Big Sky: Ousel Falls Park. – Visit Bozeman: Museum of the Rockies. – Drive times: Yellowstone to Big Sky: Approx. 1 hour, Big Sky to Bozeman: Approx. 1 hour.

Day 8 & 9: Glacier National Park – Explore trails, Lake McDonald, and drive the Going-to-the-Sun Road. – Drive from Bozeman to Glacier National Park: Approx. 5.5 hours.

Day 10: Return to Whitefish – Enjoy leisure time or prepare for departure. – Drive from Glacier National Park to Whitefish: Approx. 30 minutes.

When you’re finished in Missoula, you’ll return to the FCA airport and then fly home to complete your Montana road trip! 

I know you’ll have a wonderful time exploring Montana by car with all its natural wonders and fun towns. Enjoy your trip and safe travels! 

Reader Interactions

February 5, 2021 at 12:41 pm

Does your itinerary include staying in a different hotel each night? Do you have a map of this trip? Looking for a week to travel the area however not wanting to pack and unpack each night. Suggestions?

March 24, 2021 at 9:03 pm

You should have added great falls—-we have giant springs park, the country’s shortest river—-the roe river—-Charlie Russell museum, Lewis & Clark center, and just down the road from peoples Buffalo jump and the dinosaur center in chateau——we are the center of the state so it’s a great starting point

January 23, 2022 at 8:25 pm

How many days would this need to accomplish?

January 24, 2022 at 3:39 pm

I would say 7-10 days is good to start!

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• 6 Cutest Small Towns In Maryland To Visit In 2024

Maryland is a historic state in the Mid-Atlantic region with a bustling tourism industry. Besides its vibrant and beautiful cities, this state is home to cute towns, most of which are flanked or cut through by gorgeous waterbodies. Additionally, these towns feature mountains, verdant forests, and colorful downtowns that complement their natural scenery and offer endless adventures. Regardless of your idea of fun, there is something to satisfy everyone in these towns across Maryland.

From Havre de Grace to Boonsboro, make it a goal to visit these cutest towns in Maryland in 2024, and the year will forever be fresh in your memory.

Chesapeake City

Chesapeake City is a scenic small town of just below 800 residents that punches more than its weight in terms of natural beauty and touristy allure. The town lies by the functioning Chesapeake and Delaware Canal, sparkling with picturesque charm. While in this town, head to this canal to explore its waters on a vessel or head to the C & D Canal Museum to learn about the area’s glorious past.

Next, hit the Ben Cardin C&D Canal Recreational Trail to bike, hike, and enjoy the town’s waterfront scenery. For wine lovers, the Chesapeake Wine Trail offers access to 15 wineries, all of which are within 40 minutes of the town.

Solomons is a charming town at the mouth of Patuxent River where it joins the Chesapeake Bay . Once here, visitors are invited to enjoy the visual pleasures of the Patuxent River via the town's boardwalk, which also features seafood restaurants for some delicious meals. Afterward, rent a boat in one of the town’s marinas for sightseeing cruises. Do not miss out on a visit to the Calvert Marine Museum, where several exhibits provide insights into the natural and maritime history of the area.

More adventures await at the nearby Calvert Cliffs, which offers opportunities for picnicking, swimming, hiking, and hunting. Wrap up the Solomons Island experience with a visit to Annmarie Gardens to explore its outdoor sculptures and enjoy art exhibitions.

Havre de Grace

Havre de Grace is one of the most beautiful towns in Maryland, located at the entry point of the Susquehanna River and head of Chesapeake Bay. Thus, it presents loads of stunning natural sights and bountiful recreational activities for visitors. For the relaxed traveler, explore the town's picturesque charms at the waterfront by strolling its boardwalk, which stretches from Concord Point Light to the Yacht basin. At the Yacht basin, savor views of many yachts docking at the bay and rent a sailboat to explore the waters.

Blend the experience with a healthy dose of history by hopping the town’s museums, starting with the Decoy Museum, which is remarkable for preserving the area’s art history. Havre de Grace Maritime Museum is also a worthy mention as it explores the town's maritime history. After the exploration, grab some delicious seafood at MacGregor’s Restaurant & Tavern or Water Street Seafood.

Thurmont is a lovely small town in Frederick County positioned on the foothills of the Catoctin Mountains. Once here, head to the nearby Cunningham Falls State Park, home to the largest cascading waterfalls in Maryland. The park is also home to a 43-acre artificial lake, where visitors can swim, boat, fish, hike, and camp around. Additionally, Big Hunting Creek flows through the park for those who want to fish trout. Visitors can also explore the Catoctin Mountain Park, featuring 25 miles of hiking trails, campgrounds, and a picnic area, and great trout fishing spots. It is also interesting to note that Catoctin Mountain is home to the historic Camp David, a retreat hub for US presidents .

Experience something different, and maybe sensational, at the Catoctin Wildlife Preserve and Zoo, featuring natural ponds and animals, such as bears, panthers, alligators, lemurs, zebras, and pythons. Before leaving town, check out the town’s scenic covered bridges, including the Roddy Road Covered Bridge (built in the 1850s) and Utica Covered Bridge (built in 1834).

Cumberland is a fascinating destination to visit along the Potomac River in Allegany County. Visitors will be spoiled for options here, although a good starting point is the Canal Place Heritage Area located on the Chesapeake and Ohio Canal. This spot features a station plaza, picnic area, shops, and the Cumberland Visitor Center, which features educative displays about the history of the canal and the town. For more history, visitors can head to the Washington Street Historic District to bask in the splendor of the town's architectural brilliance.

The most elite buildings to capture in the district include the towering Allegheny County Courthouse (built in the 1700s), Emmanuel Episcopal Church (built in 1755), and Queen City Hotel (constructed in 1871). For thrilling adventures, rent a bike or get hiking boots and hit the Great Allegheny Passage Trail to enjoy the gorgeous natural scenery of Maryland.

Boonsboro is an adorable small town at the foot of the South Mountains, rich in natural beauty and attractions. A visit here automatically sets one up for several sightseeing tours and exhilarating experiences. For starters, the Crystal Grottoes Caverns, just outside the town, is a place of wonder and magic. As the only show cave in Maryland, exploring its magnificent interiors comes with a bit of pride and privilege. Proceed to the Greenbrier State Park to catch postcard-perfect sunset views of its 42-acre lake, or boat, swim, fish, and kayak on the waters.

For hikers, head to the Annapolis Rock/Black Rock Cliff on the Appalachian Trail to enjoy panoramic forest views, including the Greenbrier Lake. While in this town, don’t forget to visit the iconic Washington Monument Park to see a 40-foot tower erected in honor of President George Washington . The park also has access to the Appalachian Trail for hikers and is a good spot for picnics. Wrap up with a slice of history at the Boonesborough Museum of History, housing diverse collections of historic artifacts, including Egyptian, religious, and Civil War objects.

The true essence of natural beauty, warmth, and serenity is reflected across the small towns of Maryland. These towns offer a break from the cares of life and serve as launch pads for various adventurous pursuits. For those particularly seeking retreats in 2024, these cute towns are home away from home, with low population, serenity, and a laid-back aura. As a plus, they feature rich local cultures as well as delicious cuisines, and reassuring hospitality, making them ideal destinations.

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