15 Best & Fun Places To Visit in Montana

Montana, known as “Big Sky Country” and “The Treasure State,” is in the Mountain West region of the United States. The state capital is Helena, and Billings is the largest city. Montana covers an area of 147,040 square miles, making it the fourth largest state. However, it is one of the least populated states, with about 1.1 million residents.

Montana is divided by the Continental Divide. The western part is mountainous, part of the northern Rocky Mountains, while the eastern part features plains and badlands. The state has over 100 mountain ranges, with Granite Peak being the highest point at 12,807 feet.

Montana is famous for its natural beauty and vast landscapes. It houses Glacier National Park and parts of Yellowstone National Park, offering stunning views and diverse wildlife. The Missouri and Yellowstone Rivers flow through Montana, providing vital water resources.

Montana’s economy is driven by agriculture, mining, oil, and tourism. It’s known for its cattle ranches, wheat farms, and abundant natural resources like coal and precious metals. The state also attracts millions of tourists each year, drawn by its outdoor recreational opportunities and scenic beauty.

Are you wondering about places to explore in Montana? Here are the best places to visit.

Places To Visit in Montana

1. Glacier National Park

Glacier National Park is a gem in Montana. It features over 700 miles of hiking trails, pristine lakes, and majestic mountains. The park is known for its stunning scenery and diverse wildlife. Visitors can explore the famous Going-to-the-Sun Road, which offers breathtaking views and access to many parts of the park.

Glacier National Park also has historic chalets and lodges that provide a glimpse into the past. These structures, built in the early 20th century, add a unique charm to the park. Hikers can enjoy various trails, ranging from easy walks to challenging backcountry routes. Wildlife enthusiasts can spot grizzly bears, mountain goats, and moose.

The park’s glaciers, though receding due to climate change, are still a major attraction. Visitors should plan ahead, especially during the busy summer months. The park offers camping, but reservations are recommended. Winter also offers unique opportunities, such as snowshoeing and cross-country skiing.

Address: PO Box 128, West Glacier, MT 59936

2. Yellowstone National Park (Montana portion)

Yellowstone National Park is a must-visit in Montana. It’s famous for its geothermal features, including geysers, hot springs, and mud pots. The Montana portion of the park offers unique attractions such as Mammoth Hot Springs and the historic Fort Yellowstone. These features showcase the dynamic geological activity of the region.

Visitors can explore the Lamar Valley, often referred to as the “Serengeti of North America” for its abundant wildlife. Here, you can see bison, elk, and wolves in their natural habitat. The park’s rivers and lakes offer excellent fishing opportunities, with strict regulations to protect native species.

Hiking trails in this part of Yellowstone provide access to remote areas and stunning vistas. Camping is available, but sites fill up quickly, so reservations are essential. Winter transforms the park into a snowy wonderland, perfect for cross-country skiing and snowshoeing.

Address: PO Box 168, Yellowstone National Park, WY 82190-0168

3. Little Bighorn Battlefield National Monument

Little Bighorn Battlefield National Monument commemorates the historic battle between the U.S. Army’s 7th Cavalry and the Lakota, Cheyenne, and Arapaho warriors. This battle, which took place on June 25 and 26, 1876, is a significant event in American history. The site serves as a tribute to the bravery and sacrifice of all involved.

Visitors can start at the Visitor Center, which provides detailed exhibits and information about the battle. The center features artifacts, maps, and multimedia presentations that bring history to life. From there, you can follow the 4.5-mile tour road to see key locations, including Last Stand Hill and the Reno-Benteen Entrenchment.

The Indian Memorial, dedicated in 2003, honors the Native American warriors who fought to preserve their way of life. Guided tours are available, offering in-depth insights into the events and significance of the battle. The park also hosts reenactments and educational programs throughout the year.

Address: Little Bighorn Battlefield National Monument, P.O. Box 39, Crow Agency, MT 59022-0039

4. Museum of the Rockies

Museum of the Rockies in Bozeman houses one of the largest collections of dinosaur fossils in the world. The Siebel Dinosaur Complex features life-sized dinosaur skeletons, including a T. rex. Visitors can explore the fascinating exhibits that showcase the natural and cultural history of the Northern Rockies.

The museum is also home to the Taylor Planetarium, where you can enjoy immersive astronomy shows. The Living History Farm is another highlight. It allows visitors to step back in time and experience life on a Montana homestead in the late 1800s. The museum offers various educational programs, lectures, and workshops.

In addition to its permanent exhibits, the Museum of the Rockies hosts traveling exhibits that bring global treasures to Montana. The museum store offers unique gifts and souvenirs. Plan your visit to experience all the museum has to offer. It’s a perfect destination for families, history buffs, and anyone interested in learning more about the region’s past.

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

5. Lewis and Clark Caverns State Park

Lewis and Clark Caverns State Park, located near Whitehall, features one of the most highly decorated limestone caverns in North America. Visitors can take guided tours of the caverns to see impressive stalactites, stalagmites, and other formations.

The park offers more than just cave tours. There are several hiking trails that provide beautiful views of the surrounding landscape. These trails range from easy walks to more challenging hikes. The park also has picnic areas and campgrounds, making it a great spot for a family outing.

In addition to exploring the caves, visitors can enjoy ranger-led programs that provide insights into the park’s geology and history. The park is open year-round, with different tour options available depending on the season. 

Address: 25 Lewis and Clark Caverns Rd., Whitehall, MT 59759

6. Big Sky Resort

Big Sky Resort is a premier destination for outdoor enthusiasts. Located in the Rocky Mountains, this resort offers some of the best skiing in North America. With over 5,800 skiable acres and 4,350 vertical feet, it provides endless opportunities for adventure. The resort boasts 320 runs, catering to all skill levels.

In the summer, Big Sky transforms into a hub for hiking, mountain biking, and golfing. The scenic lift rides offer breathtaking views of the surrounding peaks. The Lone Peak Expedition is a highlight, taking visitors to the top of Lone Mountain for unparalleled vistas.

The resort also features a variety of lodging options, from cozy cabins to luxurious hotels. Dining options range from casual eateries to fine dining restaurants. Big Sky Resort hosts numerous events and festivals throughout the year, making it a lively destination. 

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

7. Flathead Lake

Flathead Lake is the largest natural freshwater lake west of the Mississippi. The lake covers nearly 200 square miles and offers stunning views of the surrounding mountains. Visitors can enjoy a variety of water activities such as boating, fishing, and swimming. The clear waters are perfect for kayaking and paddleboarding.

On the lake’s shores, you will find several parks and recreation areas. Wayfarers State Park, located on the eastern shore, provides excellent hiking trails and picnic spots. West Shore State Park offers great opportunities for camping and wildlife viewing. The quaint towns of Polson and Bigfork are nearby, offering charming shops and restaurants.

Flathead Lake is also famous for its cherry orchards. In the summer, you can pick fresh cherries or buy them from roadside stands. The lake’s pristine beauty and recreational opportunities make it a top destination for visitors.

Address: Flathead Lake, Polson, MT 59860

8. Virginia City and Nevada City

Virginia City and Nevada City are two of Montana’s best-preserved ghost towns. Located just a mile apart, these historic towns take you back to the gold rush era. Virginia City was once the territorial capital of Montana and a bustling center during the 1860s gold rush. Today, it remains a lively town with preserved buildings and artifacts.

Visitors can explore the town’s history through its many museums and exhibits. The Nevada City Music Hall features a collection of automated music machines. The Alder Gulch Shortline Railroad offers scenic train rides between the two towns. You can also enjoy live theater performances and reenactments of historical events.

Nevada City is a living history museum with over 100 historic buildings. During the summer, you can see costumed interpreters demonstrating life in the 19th century. The towns are also known for their vibrant festivals and events, which attract visitors from all over.

Address: 300 1/2 W Wallace St, Virginia City, MT 59755

9. Grizzly and Wolf Discovery Center

The Grizzly and Wolf Discovery Center in West Yellowstone is an educational wildlife park. It offers a unique opportunity to see grizzly bears and gray wolves up close. The center is home to bears that were removed from the wild for various reasons and could not be released back. Visitors can observe these magnificent animals in a naturalistic setting.

The center also features a pack of gray wolves. You can watch the wolves interact and learn about their behavior and habitat. Educational programs and exhibits provide insights into the lives of these predators and the challenges they face in the wild. The center aims to promote awareness and conservation of grizzly bears and wolves.

In addition to bears and wolves, the center has a variety of birds of prey and other native species. The River Otter Exhibit is a popular attraction where you can watch playful otters swim and play. The center is open year-round and offers special programs and events throughout the year.

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

10. National Bison Range

The National Bison Range, established in 1908, is one of the oldest wildlife refuges in the United States. The range spans nearly 19,000 acres and is home to a large herd of American bison. Visitors can see these magnificent creatures up close, along with other wildlife like elk, deer, and pronghorn.

The Bison Range offers several scenic drives. The Red Sleep Mountain Drive is a 19-mile loop that provides breathtaking views of the landscape and opportunities to see wildlife. There are also shorter drives and hiking trails for those who prefer to explore on foot. The Visitor Center offers educational exhibits about the history and ecology of the area.

The Bison Range is managed by the Confederated Salish and Kootenai Tribes. They have implemented conservation programs to preserve the natural habitat and ensure the health of the bison herd. The range is open year-round, but the best time to visit is in the spring and fall when the animals are most active.

Address: 58355 Bison Range Rd, Charlo, MT 59824

11. Bighorn Canyon National Recreation Area

Bighorn Canyon National Recreation Area is a hidden gem in Montana and Wyoming. It covers over 120,000 acres and features stunning landscapes and diverse ecosystems. The highlight of the area is Bighorn Lake, which is perfect for boating, fishing, and kayaking. The lake is surrounded by towering canyon walls that provide a dramatic backdrop.

Visitors can explore over 17 miles of hiking trails that range from easy walks to challenging climbs. The trails offer spectacular views of the canyon and opportunities to see wildlife like bighorn sheep and eagles. The recreation area also has several campgrounds for those who want to stay overnight.

The Bighorn Canyon Visitor Center provides information about the area’s history, geology, and wildlife. Rangers offer guided tours and educational programs for visitors of all ages. The area is also rich in cultural history, with several historic sites and petroglyphs to explore.

Address: 20 US Hwy 14A, Lovell, WY 82431

12. Pompeys Pillar National Monument

Pompeys Pillar National Monument is a historic site located along the Yellowstone River. The pillar is a massive sandstone outcrop that stands about 150 feet high. It is famous for the inscription left by William Clark of the Lewis and Clark Expedition in 1806. Clark’s signature is the only remaining physical evidence of their journey.

Visitors can climb to the top of the pillar for panoramic views of the Yellowstone River and surrounding plains. The Visitor Center features exhibits about the Lewis and Clark Expedition and the natural history of the area. Interactive displays and films provide a deeper understanding of the significance of the site.

The monument is also a great spot for bird watching and photography. The area around the pillar is home to a variety of wildlife, including deer, foxes, and numerous bird species. The site is open from late spring to early fall, and guided tours are available during the peak season.

Address: 3039 MT-312, Pompeys Pillar, MT 59064

13. Gates of the Mountains Wilderness

The Gates of the Mountains Wilderness is a breathtaking area located along the Missouri River. Named by Meriwether Lewis in 1805, this natural wonder features towering limestone cliffs that appear to open like gates. The best way to explore this stunning landscape is by taking a boat tour. These tours offer a unique perspective of the cliffs and the rich wildlife that inhabits the area.

Hiking trails in the wilderness provide opportunities for adventure. The Mann Gulch Trail is a notable path that leads to the site of the tragic 1949 Mann Gulch Fire. The trail offers a mix of history and scenic beauty. Wildlife enthusiasts will enjoy spotting bald eagles, bighorn sheep, and other native species.

The Gates of the Mountains Wilderness is accessible from the Gates of the Mountains Marina, where you can find information and book boat tours. The area is perfect for a day trip filled with natural beauty and outdoor activities.

Address: 3131 Gates of the Mountains Rd, Helena, MT 59602

14. World Museum of Mining

The World Museum of Mining in Butte offers a fascinating look into Montana’s rich mining history. Located on the site of the Orphan Girl Mine, this museum features over 50 exhibit buildings and 66 mine yard displays. Visitors can explore Hell Roarin’ Gulch, a recreated 1890s mining town that brings history to life.

One of the main attractions is the underground mine tour. Guided tours take you 100 feet into the Orphan Girl Mine, where you can see original mining equipment and learn about the harsh conditions miners faced. The tour offers a rare opportunity to experience a real mine environment.

The museum also showcases a variety of exhibits, including the Samie Keith Doll House exhibit and the Roy Garrett Rock and Mineral Exhibit. These displays provide insights into the daily lives of miners and the geology of the region. The World Museum of Mining is a must-visit for history buffs and anyone interested in Montana’s mining heritage.

Address: 155 Museum Way, Butte, MT 59701

15. Montana Dinosaur Trail

The Montana Dinosaur Trail is a must-see for dinosaur enthusiasts. This trail spans the state, featuring 14 locations that highlight Montana’s rich paleontological history. Each stop on the trail offers unique exhibits and activities related to dinosaurs and other prehistoric life.

The Museum of the Rockies in Bozeman is a major highlight. It houses one of the largest collections of dinosaur fossils in the world, including a fully mounted T. rex skeleton. The Great Plains Dinosaur Museum in Malta and the Two Medicine Dinosaur Center in Bynum offer guided tours and even opportunities to participate in fossil digs.

Makoshika State Park, another trail stop, features dinosaur fossils embedded in its stunning badlands landscape. Visitors can hike through the park and explore its visitor center, which includes dinosaur displays. Each location on the Montana Dinosaur Trail provides a different glimpse into the state’s ancient past, making it an educational and exciting adventure.

Address: Various locations across Montana

Final Thoughts

Montana offers a rich tapestry of natural wonders, historical sites, and unique attractions for everyone. These destinations provide an immersive experience, blending education with adventure. Explore these treasures to fully appreciate the beauty and history of the Treasure State.