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
- Swan Lake
- Holter Lake / Gates of the Mountains
- Big Sky Resort
- Red Lodge / Beartooth Highway
- Hot Springs
- Helena
- Billings
- Bozeman
- Whitefish
- Missoula
- Lewiston
- 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:
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.
13. Helena
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.
