Planning a trip to explore the majestic landscapes of Glacier National Park? Before or after your outdoor adventures, make sure to discover the many Fun Things To Do In Whitefish Montana, a delightful mountain town nestled just 26 miles (about 30 minutes) from the park’s west entrance. This charming locale offers a perfect blend of delicious food, unique shops, and captivating experiences that showcase the heart of Montana. I spent a memorable day here and can’t wait to share my top picks for Fun Things To Do In Whitefish Montana.
Located approximately 130 miles (2.5 hours) from Missoula, Whitefish is an ideal stop to fuel up on local goodies like coffee, tea, or the quintessential Montana huckleberry treats before venturing into the wilderness. Whether you’re a foodie, a shopper, or an outdoor enthusiast, exploring Whitefish is one of the absolute Fun Things To Do In Whitefish Montana. Let’s dive into the experiences that await you.
Savoring Local Flavors: Fun Things To Do In Whitefish Montana for Foodies
One of the most rewarding Fun Things To Do In Whitefish Montana is indulging in its vibrant food scene, especially when it comes to huckleberries. This small, tart berry, similar to a blueberry, is a regional star and appears in countless forms. As a culinary enthusiast, seeking out the best huckleberry delights was a top priority during my visit. My recommendations below will guide you to some unforgettable tastes in downtown Whitefish.
LouLa’s Café: A Must-Try for Pie Lovers
People rave about the huckleberry pies at LouLa’s Café, and for good reason. Their flaky crusts and mouthwatering fillings are legendary. I even made a dedicated trip from Missoula just to get my hands on one, and I can confirm that it was absolutely worth the drive. Getting a slice (or a whole pie!) is undoubtedly one of the most delicious Fun Things To Do In Whitefish Montana.
LouLa’s offers six delightful variations of their famous huckleberry pie: plain huckleberry, or mixes with peach, raspberry, blackberry, cherry, or mixed berries. Since huckleberries can be quite tart, combining them with other fruits adds a touch more sweetness, which many people prefer. My personal favorites are the huckleberry + mixed berry and the huckleberry + peach. On a recent visit, I was lucky enough to try a key lime pie with a huckleberry compote that was truly heavenly.
Loula’s Huckleberry PieLoula’s Huckleberry Pie
Top Tip: LouLa’s opens at 8 AM, but their huckleberry pies sell out quickly. To avoid disappointment, order your pie as soon as you arrive in Whitefish and pick it up later before they close at 2 PM. On my first visit, I made the mistake of waiting and only managed to snag the very last huckleberry + mixed berry pie! I would have been heartbroken to miss out on this anticipated treat.
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This family-owned café prides itself on using local ingredients for their “made from scratch” dishes. If you’re looking for something more substantial, their menu features savory options like eggs benedict, lemon-stuffed French toast, or a chicken Caesar wrap. Be prepared for a potential wait of 45-60 minutes for a table, as they don’t offer outdoor seating. They’ll text you when your table is ready, giving you time to explore nearby shops – another great aspect of the Fun Things To Do In Whitefish Montana scene. The restaurant is located in the historic Masonic Temple building, so take a moment to admire the architectural details both up close and from across the street.
Central Avenue Bakery and Deli: Bear Claw Bliss
If you’re a fan of bear claws – those delightful puff pastries that are a cross between a danish and a donut – you absolutely must stop by Central Avenue Bakery and Deli in downtown Whitefish. Their huckleberry bear claw is, in my opinion, the best I tasted during my time in Montana. Trying one of these is certainly one of the sweet Fun Things To Do In Whitefish Montana.
Top Tip: Just like the pies at LouLa’s, arrive early! I snagged the last bear claw at 11 AM on a weekday, so imagine how fast they go on weekends. Ask them to heat it up for an even more enhanced flavor experience.
Beyond bear claws, they offer other baked goods like strawberry and blueberry scones. Their savory selection includes sandwiches and wraps; the veggie wrap with homemade hummus and the breakfast burrito with potato, eggs, and veggies both sound intriguing for a future visit. To quench your thirst with a local twist, try an Arnold Palmer made with huckleberry lemonade and huckleberry iced tea.
Amazing Crepes: Savory and Sweet Creations
Craving a homemade crepe? Amazing Crepes offers both sweet and savory options that make for a satisfying meal or snack. Locating this spot for a tasty crepe is another item on the list of Fun Things To Do In Whitefish Montana. The roasted root veggies crepe, featuring potatoes, sweet potatoes, carrots, cheese, egg, and spinach, caught my eye. You can even add their homemade Thai green curry sauce for an extra kick of flavor.
For those with dietary needs, they offer buckwheat batter for gluten-free options. Meat lovers might enjoy the Darth Bacon crepe, packed with jalapeno-infused bacon, cheddar cheese, and egg. Pair your crepe with a refreshing drink like ginger lemonade or, available seasonally in the summer months, huckleberry lemonade – a true taste of Montana.
Enjoying Local Brews and Beverages: Fun Things To Do In Whitefish Montana for Drink Lovers
Whitefish isn’t just about food; it also boasts some excellent spots for unique beverages, from craft coffee to artisanal teas. Exploring these local drink destinations adds another layer to the Fun Things To Do In Whitefish Montana.
Le Marche by NP and the Boudoir Bar: Tea, Coffee, and Macarons
After grabbing a treat, head across the street to Le Marche by NP and the Boudoir Bar. This spot is perfect for interesting teas (or coffees) and is the only place I found huckleberry macarons during my many Montana visits. Enjoy your drink and macaron either on the bar stools inside the welcoming interior or at the outdoor tables. Finding these unique treats is one of the unexpectedly delightful Fun Things To Do In Whitefish Montana.
Le Marche by NP InteriorLe Marche by NP Interior
Top Tip: If you love macarons, definitely get a huckleberry one here. They also offer classic flavors like lemon, raspberry, and vanilla bean. As a non-coffee drinker, I’m always on the lookout for unique teas. I particularly enjoyed their London Fog, a creative twist on Earl Grey with lavender and French vanilla. The butterfly pea latte, made with butterfly pea flower, jasmine green tea, and honey, also sounded intriguing.
A huckleberry macaron is a must-try here – it’s simply divine! I learned that the butterfly pea flower imparts a beautiful blue color to the tea and is known for its antioxidant properties. I appreciated the barista’s knowledge and willingness to make my tea in my reusable travel cup, which is a great way to reduce waste while exploring the Fun Things To Do In Whitefish Montana.
Montana Coffee Traders: Coffee with a Conscience
For coffee enthusiasts or those seeking a spicy hot chocolate, Montana Coffee Traders is just a block away. Their Mayan Mocha, featuring cinnamon spice chocolate, sounds utterly delicious, as does the Chai Chiller, a chai Frappé. Visiting this local favorite is another easy addition to your list of Fun Things To Do In Whitefish Montana.
I admire their dedication to “offering certified organic and fair trade coffees with a focus on quality and social responsibility.” It’s great to support businesses with such values while enjoying your morning (or afternoon) pick-me-up.
Steeps Tea at the Village Shop: A Tea Lover’s Paradise
Discovering Steeps Tea at the Village Shop was unexpectedly the highlight of my Whitefish visit. Perusing their extensive and varied selection of ethically sourced, organic teas is a truly sensory experience, making it one of the must-do Fun Things To Do In Whitefish Montana for tea aficionados.
Steeps Tea SelectionSteeps Tea Selection
While browsing, the owner’s son, Owen, showed me their small tins with tea samples, allowing you to inhale the enchanting aromas before deciding. Top Tip: Sample one of their teas brewed fresh in the store. I highly recommend the White Sakura, a delicate white tea blended with rosehips, rose petals, hibiscus, cherry, and almond.
It reminded me of a tea I adored in Germany years ago and have been searching for ever since. Everyone I’ve shared it with has loved it! Steeps Tea uses compostable cups and straws, which is a big plus for eco-conscious travelers enjoying the Fun Things To Do In Whitefish Montana. Their gift sets, featuring three packets of two-ounce teas (mint, chai, good morning, and health & wellness), are perfect for sampling different flavors or as gifts.
Steeps Tea Gift SetsSteeps Tea Gift Sets
I purchased the mint set, which includes Green Chai Mint, Big Mountain Mint, and Velvet. The Velvet tea, a pu-erh tea with peppermint, cinnamon, vanilla bean, and licorice root, is one of the most divine teas I’ve ever tasted. Pu-erh tea is a fermented tea originating from Yunnan, China. I also bought their Vanilla Earl Grey and Rooibos Chai, a decaffeinated chai perfect for evening enjoyment. You can purchase teas in two, three, or four-ounce bags. Top Tip: If you fall in love with their teas, you can easily reorder online.
Sweet Peaks Ice Cream: A Cool Treat
When in Whitefish, a visit to Sweet Peaks is essential. Founded in Whitefish in 2010, this handcrafted ice cream shop offers a rotating selection of classic and specialty flavors. Treating yourself to a scoop (or two!) is a delightful way to cool down, especially in the summer, and is certainly one of the sweetest Fun Things To Do In Whitefish Montana.
Top Tip: Don’t hesitate to sample flavors! They offer compostable wooden tasting spoons so you can try as many as you like before making your decision.
You can’t go wrong with their signature Huckleberry, Salty Caramel, or Mountain Mint. Specialty flavors change seasonally; during my visit, summer options included Flathead Cherry Chocolate (made with local flathead cherries) and Griz Tracks (caramel ice cream with cookie dough). Trying the Huckleberry ice cream is a must – you’ll thank me later! Sweet Peaks has expanded and now has locations in Kalispell, Missoula, Bozeman, and Spokane, so you might find their delicious ice cream in other Montana towns you visit.
Shopping for Unique Gifts: More Fun Things To Do In Whitefish Montana
Beyond food and drinks, exploring the local shops for unique gifts and souvenirs is another rewarding aspect of the Fun Things To Do In Whitefish Montana. You’ll find locally made products and charming items that reflect the spirit of the area.
Sage and Cedar: Nourishing Bath and Body
If you appreciate natural bath and skin care products, pop into Sage and Cedar. Browsing their colorful and aromatic selection of face and body scrubs, lotions, and body washes is a pleasant experience. Shopping here for local products is one of the relaxing Fun Things To Do In Whitefish Montana.
Sage and Cedar StorefrontSage and Cedar Storefront
Look for their Montana-inspired line, featuring scents like Glacier Spring, Wild Huckleberry, Montana Morning, and Mountain Sagebrush. Their Lemongrass Sage scent was a personal favorite. They also carry PJ Salvage pajamas, known for their comfortable fabrics perfect for lounging.
Copperleaf Chocolat & Voyageur Booksellers: Chocolate Treasures
Don’t miss the hidden gem that is Copperleaf Chocolat, tucked away in the back of Voyageur Booksellers. If you’re a chocolate lover, finding this artisan chocolatier is one of the most delightful Fun Things To Do In Whitefish Montana.
Top Tip: For huckleberry fans, a bag of dark chocolate huckleberry cordials is essential. The burst of huckleberry filling as you bite into the rich chocolate is an incredible sensation. These make fantastic gifts, but you’ll likely want to keep them for yourself! I also highly recommend their huckleberry caramel in dark chocolate, huckleberry cheesecake truffles, and cherry cordials in dark chocolate.
Montana Shirt Company: Soft and Stylish Apparel
Finding comfortable and stylish t-shirts is always on my travel agenda. Montana Shirt Company fits the bill perfectly, offering super soft, fitted t-shirts and hoodies. Browsing their collection for that perfect Montana souvenir is one of the casual Fun Things To Do In Whitefish Montana.
Montana Shirt Company StorefrontMontana Shirt Company Storefront
They carry apparel for both men and women from manufacturers like District, known for incredibly soft fabrics. On my last visit, I found the exact teal t-shirt with the Montana logo I’d been searching for. Making a stop here is definitely worthwhile if you’re looking for quality apparel.
Out West Trading Company: Whitefish Souvenirs
Out West Trading Company is your go-to spot for a wide selection of Whitefish-themed gifts. Their offerings include t-shirts, candles, huckleberry jams, games, bags, hats, and much more. Picking up a unique souvenir here is one of the fun ways to remember your trip filled with Fun Things To Do In Whitefish Montana.
Out West Trading Company GiftsOut West Trading Company Gifts
I purchased a Whitefish-branded candle scented with white birch and eucalyptus, and lighting it instantly transports me back to the mountain air.
The Farmers Stand: Local Food and Eco-Friendly Finds
Located just a mile (4 minutes) outside downtown Whitefish, The Farmers Stand is a must-stop on your way in or out. Finding locally sourced food and sustainable products here is one of the community-focused Fun Things To Do In Whitefish Montana. A friend from the Bay Area recommended it, and a local friend knows the owners, so I knew I had to check it out.
The Farmers Stand ExteriorThe Farmers Stand Exterior
I absolutely loved their Chicks Dig Grass egg salad sandwich – it was delicious and perfectly fueled me up before a hike. Their tagline, “your food has a story“, reflects their commitment to connecting you with where your food comes from. Many items feature QR codes providing background about their origins.
The Farmers Stand Eco-Friendly ProductsThe Farmers Stand Eco-Friendly Products
Beyond food, The Farmers Stand offers a variety of sustainable products, including compostable floss, bamboo toothbrushes, toothpaste bits, palm oil-free soaps, and refillable glass bottles for hand soap and laundry detergent. Shopping here is not only one of the Fun Things To Do In Whitefish Montana but also a great way to support eco-friendly practices.
Outdoor Adventures: More Fun Things To Do In Whitefish Montana
While downtown Whitefish offers plenty to explore, the surrounding natural beauty provides opportunities for incredible outdoor experiences. Sailing on Flathead Lake is one of the truly memorable Fun Things To Do In Whitefish Montana and the surrounding area.
Sail to Wild Horse Island on Flathead Lake
If you have the opportunity and access to a boat (like a sailboat), sailing out to Wild Horse Island on Flathead Lake is an unforgettable summer activity near Whitefish, Montana. It’s one of the most scenic and exciting Fun Things To Do In Whitefish Montana.
Sailing to Wild Horse IslandSailing to Wild Horse Island
There are no public docks directly on the island, so once you sail close enough, you’ll need to swim, kayak, or stand up paddle board to reach the shore. Getting to the island adds an extra layer of adventure to the Fun Things To Do In Whitefish Montana.
Swimming/Kayaking to Wild Horse IslandSwimming/Kayaking to Wild Horse Island
Flathead Lake is the largest freshwater lake in the West, covering an impressive 200 square miles. It was formed by the same glaciers that carved Glacier National Park. Reaching the island offers a different perspective and unique Fun Things To Do In Whitefish Montana.
Panoramic Views from Wild Horse IslandPanoramic Views from Wild Horse Island
Once on the island, you can enjoy hiking, exploring old structures and paddocks, and if you’re lucky, sighting bighorn sheep or the five wild horses that call the island home. The expansive 360-degree views of the surrounding area and nearby islands with impressive mansions are truly mesmerizing. Hiking the island is another one of the rewarding Fun Things To Do In Whitefish Montana.
As my friend and I were hiking back from the highest peak, we heard from other visitors that the wild horses had been spotted! We continued on the trail and were rewarded by seeing the five wild horses sauntering into the trees. Sighting these majestic creatures in their natural habitat is a truly unforgettable moment and makes the trip to Wild Horse Island one of the most special Fun Things To Do In Whitefish Montana.
Flathead Lake SunsetFlathead Lake Sunset
We headed back just before sunset, docking the sailboat. The drive back along the lake offered stunning views of the enrapturing skies as the sun dipped below the horizon, capping off a day filled with Fun Things To Do In Whitefish Montana.
Frequently Asked Questions About Fun Things To Do In Whitefish Montana
Here are some common questions travelers have when planning their visit and looking for Fun Things To Do In Whitefish Montana.
What is the best time of year to visit Whitefish?
Whitefish is a year-round destination. Summer (June-August) is popular for hiking, lake activities, and exploring Glacier National Park. Fall offers beautiful foliage and fewer crowds. Winter is perfect for skiing and snowboarding at Whitefish Mountain Resort. Spring brings blooming wildflowers and melting snow, ideal for enjoying the town as things come alive.
How far is Whitefish from Glacier National Park?
Whitefish is very close to the west entrance of Glacier National Park, approximately 26 miles or about a 30-minute drive. This makes it a convenient base camp for park explorations, adding more Fun Things To Do In Whitefish Montana to your trip.
Are the huckleberry treats only available seasonally?
Huckleberry season is typically in late summer (July-September). While fresh huckleberries are seasonal, many bakeries and shops in Whitefish use frozen huckleberries or huckleberry products (like jams or compotes) year-round, so you can often find huckleberry treats regardless of when you visit. However, availability can vary.
Can I easily walk around downtown Whitefish?
Yes, downtown Whitefish is very walkable. The shops, bakeries, cafes, and restaurants mentioned are mostly located along Central Avenue and nearby streets, making it easy to explore on foot and discover the various Fun Things To Do In Whitefish Montana downtown.
Is Whitefish crowded?
Whitefish can get quite busy, especially during the peak summer months (July and August) due to its proximity to Glacier National Park and popularity as a vacation spot. Visiting in the shoulder seasons (spring and fall) can offer a less crowded experience while still providing access to many Fun Things To Do In Whitefish Montana.
Conclusion: Experience the Many Fun Things To Do In Whitefish Montana
Whitefish, Montana, is far more than just a gateway to Glacier National Park. It’s a vibrant town with a rich culinary scene, unique shops, and stunning natural surroundings offering countless adventures. From savoring famous huckleberry pies and artisan chocolates to exploring local tea shops and sailing on the vast Flathead Lake, the Fun Things To Do In Whitefish Montana cater to a wide range of interests. Whether you’re spending a day or a week, the experiences in Whitefish promise to be memorable. I loved my time exploring this town so much that I’m already planning my return trip to enjoy even more Fun Things To Do In Whitefish Montana!