If you’re looking for an incredibly diverse and genuinely enjoyable travel destination, look no further than Montana! This beautiful state truly offers something fun for everyone, from exploring stunning mountain ranges and pristine lakes to experiencing charming small towns and vibrant cities. In this article, I’ll share some of the most Fun Places To Visit In Montana, based on my own experiences as a native.
Montana is famous for being a part of the legendary Wild West, and most visitors come seeking outdoor adventures and a taste of the pioneer spirit. With only about six people per square mile, Montana doesn’t have many bustling metropolises, making it a fantastic place to disconnect from the daily grind, reconnect with nature, and recharge your batteries. This state is easily one of my favorite places in the United States, though I admit my Montanan roots might make me a little biased!
As a native Montanan, my affection for this state runs deep. I never fully grasped why we called ourselves the “Big Sky” state until I traveled elsewhere. That’s when I realized that those awe-inspiring, star-filled nights and vast, clear blue skies weren’t a common sight across the country.
The best time to visit Montana really depends on what kind of fun you’re seeking. Whether you dream of hitting the ski slopes or hiking scenic mountain trails, you’ll find exciting options in this list of fun places to go in Montana.
15 Fun Places To Visit In Montana
Let’s dive into some of my top picks for the most enjoyable spots across the state, perfect for creating unforgettable memories.
1. Glacier National Park: An Absolute Must-Visit for Epic Fun
It’s no secret that Glacier National Park is one of the top places for adventure and fun in Montana. The Rocky Mountains here are simply majestic. Their immense scale is hard to fully appreciate until you witness them in person. Among all the incredible national parks in Montana, Glacier holds a special place as my personal favorite.
The Rocky Mountains, stretching through Montana and Alberta, Canada, are undeniably my favorite mountain range. Glacier National Park is a fantastic destination for all kinds of travelers – solo explorers, couples, families, or groups of friends. Its diverse offerings make it one of the most fun places to visit in Montana for everyone!
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Hikers enjoying the stunning mountain scenery at Glacier National Park, one of the most fun places to visit in Montana
Glacier National Park boasts over 700 miles of hiking trails, stunning waterfalls, beautiful alpine meadows, and crystal-clear lakes. And you absolutely cannot miss the legendary Going-To-The-Sun Road.
This incredibly scenic drive offers some of the most breathtaking mountain views in the entire country. Ascending the side of a mountain on a narrow road while gazing at the best vistas Montana has to offer is an experience you’ll never forget.
There’s truly something here for every kind of outdoor enthusiast: hiking, biking, boating, picnicking, scenic driving, and so much more. For a relaxing afternoon break, pack a delicious picnic and find a spot by one of the park’s many beautiful lakes!
Just remember that Glacier is a popular spot, especially in the summer. Planning ahead and booking things like entry tickets or accommodations in advance on the official NPS website is highly recommended to ensure a smooth and fun trip.
Consider checking out Kalispell as a convenient base for exploring Glacier National Park. It offers easy access and plenty of amenities.
2. Yellowstone National Park: Geysers, Wildlife & Montana Entrances
Yellowstone is another iconic, bucket-list national park that offers immense fun and exploration opportunities. While most of the park is located in Wyoming, Montana provides three convenient entrances, each with its own unique charm.
Cooke City: This entrance is typically open only in the summer once the Cooke City Highway and Pass are clear of snow. You can drive up to 10,000 feet for stunning views of the Beartooth Mountains before reaching this small, charming town and the park entrance. A great bonus is that this entrance often feels a bit less crowded than the others.
Gardiner: Reaching Gardiner involves driving through the famous Paradise Valley, an area so beautiful it attracts many notable visitors. Enjoy the scenic drive alongside the winding river with constant mountain views. For campers, there are several state park campgrounds where you can stay before entering the park.
West Yellowstone: This is one of the most popular entrances, largely because the town of West Yellowstone offers so much itself. With abundant accommodation options, it’s a great spot to base yourself for Yellowstone exploration. Plus, you can easily book thrilling adventure tours here, such as white water rafting, ATV excursions, fishing trips, and more.
Once you’re inside the park, don’t miss classic attractions like the Old Faithful geyser and the unique Mammoth Hot Springs! There’s a reason Yellowstone is considered one of the fun places to visit in Montana, just be prepared for potential traffic and crowds, especially during peak summer months.
3. Virginia City: Step Back in Time for Historic Fun
For any history buff, this remarkably well-preserved National Historic City is an absolute must-see in Montana. Virginia City was once a booming gold mining town teeming with thousands of people. Today, you can wander through the original buildings and really get a feel for what life was like during that exciting era.
virginia city montana old wooden building offering a fun glimpse into the past
What makes Virginia City particularly fun and unique is that it feels somewhat like a ghost town, yet it still has a vibrant population of around 600 residents. These locals are incredibly proud of their heritage and warmly welcome visitors to explore.
You can freely stroll around the city, popping into the old shops for unique goodies and souvenirs. For an even more immersive and fun experience, book a tour on a vintage fire truck or take a ride on the local train.
Keep an eye out for local happenings in the old bars – sometimes they host shows or concerts, adding to the authentic atmosphere. An old friend from graduate school still plays there some weekends, and it’s always a great time! You can find more details on their official website.
4. Red Lodge: Gateway to Scenic Drives & Mountain Fun
Red Lodge serves as an excellent base camp for exploring the legendary Beartooth Highway – widely regarded as one of the most scenic drives in the entire state. This 68-mile route climbs to over 10,000 feet of elevation, offering countless pull-outs where you can stop and soak in the jaw-dropping views.
In the town of Red Lodge itself, you can have fun exploring the historic downtown area. Visit the Carbon County Museum to learn more about the fascinating local history and geology of the region. For a unique and heartwarming experience, visit the Yellowstone Wildlife Sanctuary, which provides care for animals that cannot be released back into the wild.
There are also abundant hiking and biking trails just south of town if you’re eager to explore the great outdoors around Red Lodge. Red Lodge Mountain Resort is a popular local spot for hitting the slopes and enjoying skiing or snowboarding fun in the winter. I grew up skiing here and always had a blast!
This small town almost always has something fun happening each weekend, from concerts to thrilling rodeos. Check their full calendar of events to see what’s on during your visit.
For campers looking for fun and free options, there’s plenty of BLM (Bureau of Land Management) land available on a first-come, first-served basis. A favorite spot is along the beautiful Rock Creek River, heading towards the Glacier Lake Trailhead – it’s a cherished weekend camping spot for my family.
Finally, for family-friendly outdoor fun (even with little ones!), head to Wild Bill Lake. It offers short, easy hikes and a well-stocked fishing hole perfect for some relaxing casting. Red Lodge definitely earns its spot among the fun places to visit in Montana.
5. Missoula: A Lively Hub for Culture & Outdoor Fun
This vibrant college town is often considered the cultural heart of Montana and truly offers a little bit of everything fun. From great food scenes to exciting outdoor adventures, there are countless enjoyable things to do in Missoula – this city has it all.
Start your visit with some delicious food in the historic downtown area. If you’re lucky enough to be there on a Saturday in the summer, browse and find some yummy treats from the bustling farmer’s market vendors.
For a special lunch or dinner, Finn & Porter offers a splurge with fantastic river views. Or, for a casual and fun late lunch or early dinner, head to Bridge Pizza. Grab a slice and enjoy their free beer from 3 to 5 PM – it’s a local institution and was my favorite hangout as a college student.
Just across the street, treat yourself to some locally made ice cream at the Big Dipper. I highly recommend trying the yellow cake ice cream dipped in chocolate sprinkles – it’s pure fun in a cone!
After indulging, explore some of the city’s many art galleries, or catch a show at the historic Wilma Theater for some cultural fun.
If outdoor fun is what you crave, Missoula boasts plenty of hiking and biking trails. You can also head to the nearby Rattlesnake National Recreation Area for a full day of exploration and adventure.
For something more lowkey and relaxing, simply walk along the paved river path in town. Or, for great city views and a bit of exercise, tackle the short but steep “M” hike on the university grounds.
In the summer, you can cool off and have fun splashing around in one of Missoula’s public pools, or take a quintessential Montana float trip down the Clark Fork River. No matter the time of year, be sure to experience the excitement of a game at Washington Grizzly Stadium – home of the University of Montana Grizzlies.
There’s always something fun happening in Missoula, making it one of the most dynamic fun places to visit in Montana.
6. Bozeman: Mountain Views & Downtown Excitement
Bozeman is a fantastic place to visit in Montana, known for its lively downtown scene and incredible access to outdoor adventures. With stunning mountain views seemingly everywhere you look, you won’t be disappointed by the scenery or the fun!
There are so many enjoyable things to see and do in Bozeman, but starting downtown is always a good bet. Here you’ll find tons of great shops, diverse restaurants, and fun bars.
Plenty of hiking and biking trails surround the area, and Bozeman is also renowned for excellent fly fishing opportunities. You can easily wander around this beautiful town on pedestrian-friendly streets (on foot or by bike), or visit one of the many local parks. My daughter’s favorite spot for some fun is the Story Mill Community Park.
Just a short distance from town, you can further explore the natural beauty of Hyalite Canyon or the Bridger Bowl area. In the winter, Bridger Bowl is a popular spot for skiing and snowboarding fun. And no matter the season, be sure to catch the energy of a game at Bobcat Stadium – home of the Montana State University Bobcats.
Discover all that Bozeman has to offer, including its event calendar, to plan your fun visit. Looking for a great place to stay? Whether you’re dreaming of mountain views, a cozy country home, or a downtown apartment, you’ll find excellent options among the best Airbnbs in Bozeman.
Other exciting nearby destinations easily reachable from Bozeman include the Big Sky ski resort and the intriguing Lewis and Clark Caverns.
While the caverns make for a perfect fun day trip, you might find yourself wanting to extend your stay in the Big Sky area if you’re ready for a bit of a splurge! Don’t miss exploring the many fun things to see and do in Big Sky itself. Bozeman is certainly one of the most popular and fun places to visit in Montana.
7. Billings: The Largest City with Diverse Fun
As the largest city in Montana, Billings is a convenient hub for getting all your shopping done – you’ll find everything from major retail stores to local boutiques and lively farmers’ markets here.
Billings offers a unique blend of fun activities. To the south and west, you can explore tons of mountains (like the Beartooth range near Red Lodge and areas toward Big Timber). The city itself is framed by its own distinctive rock formations known as the “Rims,” which run along the entire north end of town, offering great views and recreation.
Additionally, heading east from Billings leads you into the vast plains of Montana, where you can explore fascinating historic areas like the Little Bighorn Battlefield, adding a layer of historical fun to your trip.
If you enjoy being outdoors, there are plenty of fun hiking and biking trails along the Rims and close to the Yellowstone River. My personal favorite activity is walking along the trails behind the Yellowstone Country Club, where I spent many enjoyable hours growing up.
For families with kids who need a break from hiking and museums, Billings has local parks with free splash pads or wading pools for some cool summer fun. For more historical fun, check out the Western Heritage Center or take a tour of the elegant Moss Mansion.
After a day of exploring, Billings has a thriving craft beer scene with tons of local breweries to try out. You can easily walk to several in the downtown area, or head out to newer west-end spots like Diamond X and Meadowlark. With so many fun things to see and do, you’ll never be bored in Billings, making it one of the key fun places to visit in Montana.
8. Helena: Capital City Charm & Historic Fun
Montana’s state capital, Helena, is a must-see for its stunning architecture and rich history, offering a unique kind of fun. The best way to start your visit is at the Helena Visitor Center downtown, where you can pick up a map and get oriented.
Be sure to enjoy a fun stroll along Last Chance Gulch, the main street in Helena, which is lined with beautiful historic buildings. You can also visit the impressive Montana State Capitol building, explore one of the city’s many museums, or check out the Helena Civic Center, which offers great views of the city.
For outdoor enthusiasts, there are plenty of options for hiking, biking, and kayaking fun in the area. One of the most easily accessible spots for nature is Mount Helena City Park, which also provides fantastic city vistas.
In the winter, you can enjoy skiing or snowboarding fun at one of the nearby resorts like the Great Divide Mountain. And no matter the time of year, you can always have fun sampling the local craft scene at one of Helena’s many breweries or distilleries. Helena beautifully blends history and outdoor recreation, earning its spot among the fun places to visit in Montana.
9. Dillon: Rural Charm, Shopping & Angler’s Fun
This charming small town is located in southwest Montana and is a great place to visit for its beautiful scenery and outdoor adventures. Dillon is wonderfully off the beaten path, making it perfect for those who want to experience the fun of a more rural Montana setting.
The drive to Dillon is an enjoyable experience in itself, with wide-open countryside and distant mountain views stretching before you.
The heart of town is downtown, where you’ll find a small handful of shops, restaurants, and bars. Be prepared to dine primarily on classic Montana fare like burgers and steak – a simple, hearty kind of fun.
Plus, Dillon is a key hub for the outdoor brand Patagonia, and you can visit their outlet store for some killer deals on outdoor apparel. Sometimes my family makes a trip to Dillon just for the fun of browsing here!
For those who love the outdoors, this area is a paradise for fishing and hunting in the Bitterroot Mountains. The local river is particularly a fly fisherman’s dream spot. If you’re new to fishing but want to give it a try, hiring a local guide can make it a fun and rewarding experience.
For a historical day trip, head over to Bannack State Park – a fascinating Montana ghost town. You can also explore north along the Beaverhead-Deerlodge National Forest for hiking, camping, and the relaxing fun of natural hot springs.
The first time we visited this area, we were genuinely surprised by the stunning beauty of this remote part of the state. Dillon offers a unique and authentic Montana experience, making it one of the genuinely fun places to visit in Montana for a different pace.
10. Whitefish: Lakeside Relaxation & Mountain Thrills
Whitefish is a fantastic town to visit, offering easy access to both the wonders of Glacier National Park and the slopes of Whitefish Mountain Resort, ensuring year-round fun. The downtown area is quaint and enjoyable to explore, filled with unique shops, restaurants, and bars. You can also take a historical tour of the Whitefish Depot.
One of the most exciting times to visit Whitefish is in the winter for the fantastic skiing or snowboarding at Whitefish Mountain Resort. This resort boasts some of the best views in Montana and is a great place for both beginners and experienced skiers/snowboarders to have fun on the slopes.
In the summer, you can still enjoy the breathtaking mountain views by taking the gondola ride to the summit of Big Mountain. If you’re up for an adventure, you can hike or mountain bike back down, which is a great challenge and lots of fun!
If you’d prefer to stay closer to town, there are also plenty of options for hiking and biking fun nearby. The Whitefish Trail system is an excellent place to start, offering over 50 miles of trails to explore.
Alternatively, you can simply take a day to relax and have fun lounging by beautiful Whitefish Lake. One of my favorite memories is staying at a lodge right on the lake – I highly recommend this if you can make it work! The Lodge at Whitefish Lake is a particularly stunning option.
Whitefish is undoubtedly one of the most fun places to visit in Montana, whether you prefer summer activities on the lake or winter adventures on the mountain.
11. Hamilton, MT: Bitterroot Valley Charm & Outdoor Pursuits
Located in the scenic Bitterroot Valley, Hamilton is a great town to visit for its easy access to nature and its classic small-town charm. The downtown area is lined with inviting shops, tasty restaurants, and local bars. Be sure to check out the Copper King Mansion for a fascinating peek into the past – it adds a touch of historical fun.
There are ample opportunities for hiking and biking adventures in the surrounding Bitterroot Mountains and Sapphire Mountains. Fishing enthusiasts will also find plenty of fun casting a line in the area’s rivers and streams.
In the winter, you can find skiing or snowboarding fun at nearby resorts like Lost Trail Powder Mountain – a lesser-known gem celebrated for having some of the best powder snow in the state and offering a more laid-back experience. And regardless of the season, you can always enjoy visiting one of Hamilton’s local breweries or distilleries. Hamilton provides a perfect blend of relaxation and outdoor fun among the fun places to visit in Montana.
12. Hot Springs: Relaxing & Rejuvenating Fun
Especially if you’re visiting Montana during the cooler winter months or shoulder seasons, finding a natural hot spring is a wonderfully relaxing way to have fun and rejuvenate. Here are a few of my personal favorite hot springs spots:
- Norris Hot Springs: A very low-key, developed hot pool located about 40 minutes outside of Bozeman. This is my personal favorite developed hot spring experience. You can often enjoy local and organic food here, and they sometimes even have live music on Saturday nights for added fun.
- Chico Hot Springs: This developed pool offers an all-inclusive visit option with an on-site hotel and restaurant, or it can be a convenient stop on your way to or from Yellowstone. It provides a more resort-like hot springs experience.
- White Sulphur Hot Springs: This developed pool is a bit more off the beaten path, truly in the “middle of nowhere” Montana, which is part of its charm and fun. Enjoy a relaxing soak, then grab some goodies from the local Hutterites and explore the nearby Belt Mountain Range.
- Jerry Johnson Hot Springs: This is an undeveloped natural hot spring area located just over an hour outside of Missoula. It requires a short, enjoyable hike that is absolutely worth it. In the fall, you can even soak right next to the beautiful river.
Exploring Montana’s hot springs offers a different kind of fun – one focused on relaxation and connecting with the natural thermal waters.
13. Off the Beaten Path Ski Resorts: Powder & Views Without the Crowds
Montana is widely known for the fantastic skiing at Big Sky Resort. However, that fame often comes with higher prices and significant crowds. If you’re looking for great skiing or snowboarding fun without the hustle, consider exploring some of Montana’s lesser-known, off-the-beaten-path ski resorts. These local favorites are generally easier on the wallet, offer beautiful views of the Montana landscape, and still provide terrain suitable for adventurers of all levels. They offer a more authentic and perhaps more relaxed kind of skiing fun.
14. Georgetown Lake: Summer Water Sports & Winter Wonderland Fun
This beautiful lake, nestled amongst three mountain ranges, is a fantastic place to visit for fun in both summer and winter. In the summer, it’s perfect for swimming, boating, and fishing. When winter arrives, the lake transforms into a great spot for cross-country skiing or snowshoeing fun.
There are several campgrounds around the lake, as well as options for renting apartments or cabins for a cozy stay. Consider staying in the nearby town of Anaconda, which offers amenities and is a short drive away.
To explore the surrounding area, grab lunch and a local brew in Phillipsburg – a charming small town – before or after exploring the scenic dirt road leading to Skalkaho Falls. Georgetown Lake offers year-round natural recreation, making it one of the diverse fun places to visit in Montana.
15. Flathead Lake: Big Sky Lake Living & Cherry Delights
This list of fun places to visit in Montana wouldn’t be complete without mentioning one of the biggest lakes in the state: Flathead Lake. Spanning 27 miles long and 15 miles wide, it’s an inland sea offering endless recreational fun.
There are many charming small towns located around the lake’s perimeter where you can find restaurants, shops, and bars to explore. You can also find various accommodation options, including cabins, hotels, and resorts, if you’re looking for a place to stay right by the water.
In the summer, the lake is a hive of activity and fun, perfect for swimming, boating, fishing, and hiking in the surrounding areas. It truly is a local boater’s paradise. In the winter, you can enjoy cross-country skiing or snowmobiling in the areas around the lake.
If you happen to visit Flathead Lake during its famous cherry season in the summer, be sure to stop and grab some of these renowned local cherries that grow only in this microclimate. You’ll see vendors selling them along the roadside – a delicious and unique Montana experience! Flathead Lake offers quintessential lakeside fun and beautiful scenery, solidifying its place among the top fun places to visit in Montana.
FAQs About Fun Places To Visit In Montana
Let’s answer some common questions people have when planning a trip to the beautiful and fun places in Montana.
What is the most beautiful part of Montana?
Choosing just one “most beautiful” place in Montana is incredibly difficult because the state boasts so much stunning natural beauty. However, many of the most popular and arguably most visually spectacular places are clustered on the Western side. Since many visitors come specifically for the mountains, seeing the majestic Rockies in Glacier National Park is often cited as one of the most beautiful experiences Montana offers.
What are the best places to visit in Montana in winter for fun?
Many people flock to Montana in winter for skiing and snowboarding fun. You can find great ski resorts virtually anywhere in the Western half of the state, including renowned spots like Big Sky. However, if skiing isn’t your passion, there are plenty of other enjoyable winter activities available, such as soaking in hot springs, snowmobiling through fresh powder, cross-country skiing on groomed trails, or trying your hand at ice fishing on a frozen lake.
What are the best places to visit in Montana in summer for fun?
Whitefish and Glacier National Park are absolutely fantastic places to be in Montana during the summer. The warm months open up a huge range of outdoor fun: hiking, camping, fishing, swimming, boating – essentially any outdoor activity you can imagine! Many people come to Montana in the summer to escape the heat of lower elevations and enjoy the cooler mountain temperatures. Whitefish, with its charming town atmosphere and beautiful lake, is a prime summer destination. Glacier National Park is unparalleled for its spectacular mountain scenery and trails. Other favorites for summer fun include the vibrant cities of Helena, Missoula, Bozeman, and the historic allure of Virginia City.
What is the number one fun attraction in Montana?
Glacier National Park is consistently ranked as one of the top attractions and most fun places to visit in Montana, with the stunning Going-To-The-Sun Road often highlighted as a key feature. Yellowstone National Park, easily accessible from Montana, is also a major draw and a world-class attraction offering incredible geothermal and wildlife viewing fun.
Is Montana worth visiting for fun?
Absolutely! Montana is incredibly worth visiting for its pristine natural beauty, charming mountain towns, and seemingly endless opportunities for fun and adventure – whether you visit in summer or winter. If you love hiking, fishing, skiing, swimming, camping, or simply want to get away from it all and enjoy some wide-open spaces, Montana is an ideal destination promising a truly fun and memorable experience.
How many days should you spend in Montana to have fun?
To truly experience the breadth of fun Montana offers, I recommend spending at least a week. This timeframe allows you to visit iconic spots like Glacier National Park and Yellowstone National Park, explore vibrant cities like Whitefish, Bozeman, and Missoula, and still have time to relax in one of the natural hot springs. As the fourth-largest state in the USA by area, there’s a lot of ground to cover in Montana, so more time allows for deeper exploration and more varied fun.
In Conclusion
I hope you enjoyed learning about some of the most fun places to go in Montana! My home state has so much incredible variety to offer in terms of natural beauty, thrilling outdoor adventures, and delightful small-town charm.
There truly is a little bit of something fun here for everyone, with a fantastic mix of history, breathtaking views, and exciting outdoor activities. Give yourself enough time to fully soak in all that Montana has to offer – you won’t regret it!
Beautiful mountain scenery near a lake in Montana, one of the most fun places to visit in the state