Montana is one of those places that truly feels like a getaway from the everyday. When I visited, I was amazed by its wide-open spaces, beautiful mountains, and peaceful small towns. Whether you love hiking, exploring history, or just relaxing by a lake, Montana has something for everyone.
In this guide, I’ll share some of the best things to do in Montana—from famous national parks to hidden local gems. If you’re planning a trip or just curious about what this amazing state offers, I hope my experiences help you find the perfect spots to explore.
Explore Glacier National Park
One of the highlights of my trip to Montana was visiting Glacier National Park. This park is truly a natural wonder, with towering mountains, crystal-clear lakes, and plenty of wildlife to spot. I spent hours hiking some of the many trails, each offering breathtaking views.
One of my favorite spots was the Going-to-the-Sun Road. Driving this scenic route gave me a chance to see the park’s beauty from my car, stopping at overlooks to take pictures and enjoy the fresh mountain air. If you like hiking, the Hidden Lake Trail is a must-visit — it’s challenging but the views at the end are so worth it.
I also loved spotting animals like mountain goats and marmots along the trails. The park felt peaceful yet full of life, and it’s a perfect place to connect with nature. Whether you’re up for adventure or just want to soak in the scenery, Glacier National Park is one of the best things to do in Montana.
Visit Yellowstone National Park (Montana Side)
While most people think of Yellowstone as being in Wyoming, a good part of this amazing park actually stretches into Montana. Visiting the Montana side of Yellowstone National Park gave me a quieter and just as beautiful experience.
I loved exploring the geothermal features like hot springs and geysers. Seeing those colorful pools up close was something I won’t forget. The park also has lots of wildlife — I saw bison, deer, and even some elk roaming freely in their natural habitat.
One thing I really enjoyed was taking my time on the less crowded trails on the Montana side. It felt peaceful to hike and explore without big crowds around. If you visit, be sure to check out the Lamar Valley — it’s known as one of the best places to spot wildlife, especially early in the morning.
Yellowstone is huge, and the Montana side offers a great way to see the park’s wonders with a bit more calm and space. It’s definitely one of the top things to do in Montana for anyone who loves nature and adventure.
Discover Bozeman – A Gateway City
Bozeman is a lively city that surprised me with its mix of outdoor adventure and friendly small-town charm. It’s often called the gateway to Montana’s wilderness because it’s close to some of the best hiking, skiing, and fishing spots.
When I was in Bozeman, I enjoyed wandering around the downtown area. There are plenty of cute shops, cozy cafes, and local restaurants where I tried delicious food made with fresh, local ingredients. The vibe is relaxed but energetic, and it felt like a great place to rest after outdoor activities.
I also visited the Museum of the Rockies, which was fascinating. They have amazing dinosaur exhibits and lots of history about the region. It was fun and educational—something I recommend to anyone visiting Bozeman.
Whether you’re using Bozeman as your base for exploring Montana’s wild side or just want to enjoy a vibrant town with great food and culture, it’s definitely worth a visit.
Experience Big Sky – Skiing and Summer Adventures
Big Sky is one of those places that really caught my heart. Whether you visit in winter or summer, there’s always something exciting to do. In the winter, Big Sky turns into a skier’s paradise with some of the best slopes I’ve ever seen. The snow was perfect, and the views from the top of the mountain made every run unforgettable.
But don’t think Big Sky is just for winter. When the snow melts, the area transforms into a playground for hikers, mountain bikers, and zip-liners. I spent a sunny afternoon exploring the trails and even tried zip-lining for the first time—it was thrilling and gave me a new way to enjoy Montana’s beautiful landscape.
Big Sky really offers the best of both worlds. If you love outdoor adventures, it’s a must-visit spot that you can enjoy no matter the season.
Tour Historic Virginia City
One of the most unforgettable parts of my Montana trip was visiting Virginia City, a perfectly preserved gold rush town that feels like a real-life time machine. Walking through Virginia City’s wooden streets, you can almost hear the echoes of the past — the clinking of gold pans, the creaking of old saloon doors, and the chatter of miners hoping for a big strike.
Virginia City was once a booming mining town during Montana’s gold rush in the 1860s. Today, it’s like stepping back into the Wild West, with its original buildings still standing strong. I loved exploring the old saloons where cowboys once gathered, browsing through unique shops filled with antiques and local crafts, and even catching a show at the vintage opera house. Everything here tells a story.
The town offers several museums that dive deep into the history of the area. I found the mining exhibits especially interesting — seeing the tools and learning how tough life was for the early settlers gave me a new appreciation for Montana’s history. Plus, the guided walking tours were a great way to hear fascinating stories from local guides who really know their stuff.
Virginia City also hosts fun events like old-fashioned gunfight re-enactments and gold panning demonstrations, which add an extra layer of excitement to the visit. It’s a wonderful place to slow down, enjoy the peaceful surroundings, and soak up the authentic small-town atmosphere.
If you want a break from Montana’s outdoor adventures, Virginia City offers a unique mix of history, culture, and charm. It’s one of those places that stays with you long after you leave.
Relax by Flathead Lake
One of my favorite spots in Montana to just unwind was Flathead Lake. It’s the largest natural freshwater lake west of the Mississippi, and the views are absolutely stunning. The water is clear and calm, perfect for a relaxing day away from the hustle and bustle.
I spent hours just sitting by the shore, watching the sunlight dance on the water, and breathing in the fresh, pine-scented air. If you’re into water activities, Flathead Lake offers plenty—kayaking, paddleboarding, and even boating are popular ways to enjoy the lake. I rented a kayak and paddled around the quiet coves, which felt like my own private escape.
There are also charming little towns around the lake, like Bigfork, where I found cute shops, art galleries, and cozy cafes. After a day by the water, I enjoyed some local food and watched a beautiful sunset that painted the sky in pinks and oranges.
Flathead Lake is perfect for anyone who wants to slow down, relax, and take in Montana’s natural beauty. Whether you’re visiting in summer or fall, it’s a peaceful place that recharges your soul.
Explore Small Towns and Local Culture
One of the best ways I got to know Montana was by visiting its small towns. Each one has its own unique charm and local culture that made my trip feel even more special. From friendly faces to handcrafted goods, these towns show a different side of Montana beyond the big parks and cities.
I loved stopping by places like Whitefish, where the mountain views are amazing and the downtown is full of cozy shops and art galleries. The vibe there was so welcoming, and I enjoyed chatting with locals who were happy to share stories about the area.
Another great spot was Livingston, a small town with a rich history and lively arts scene. I found some wonderful local restaurants serving hearty meals made with fresh ingredients. Exploring these towns gave me a true taste of Montana’s culture — from cowboy traditions to creative crafts.
What really stood out was how connected people are to the land and their community. Whether it was a farmers market, a local festival, or just a quiet coffee shop, I felt the genuine warmth and pride in Montana’s heritage.
If you want to see the heart of Montana, don’t miss the chance to explore its small towns. They offer a perfect mix of culture, history, and friendly faces that made my trip unforgettable.
Enjoy Seasonal Festivals and Outdoor Events
One of the coolest things about visiting Montana was experiencing the many seasonal festivals and outdoor events. No matter what time of year I went, there was always something fun happening that showed off Montana’s lively culture and love for the outdoors.
In the summer, I joined a local rodeo and got to see skilled cowboys showing off their best moves. It was exciting and gave me a real taste of Montana’s western heritage. There are also music festivals featuring country, folk, and bluegrass, where I enjoyed great live music under the open sky.
Fall brought colorful harvest festivals with local food, crafts, and plenty of friendly faces. I especially loved the chance to try fresh apples and homemade pies. Plus, the autumn colors made every event feel even more magical.
Winter in Montana is a snowy playground with events like winter carnivals and ice fishing tournaments. I tried ice skating on a frozen lake and enjoyed the cozy vibe of the winter festivals, complete with warm drinks and good company.
No matter when you visit, Montana’s festivals and outdoor events add an extra layer of fun and help you connect with the local community. I highly recommend checking the calendar before your trip — you might find something amazing to join!
Family-Friendly Activities in Montana
Traveling with family? Montana has so many great options to keep kids and adults happy. When I visited with my family, we found plenty of fun things that everyone could enjoy together.
One of our favorite spots was Glacier National Park. The easy hiking trails were perfect for little legs, and the views kept us all amazed. We also loved spotting wildlife like deer and birds — it was a real adventure for the kids.
In Bozeman, we checked out the Museum of the Rockies, which was a big hit with the whole family. The dinosaur exhibits fascinated the kids, and the interactive displays kept them interested for hours.
Flathead Lake offered a perfect place for family fun too. We spent time swimming, kayaking, and having picnics by the shore. The calm water made it safe and relaxing for the kids to play.
Montana’s small towns also surprised us with their family-friendly activities, from local fairs to parks and playgrounds. And don’t forget about the winter! Ski resorts like Big Sky offer beginner slopes and ski schools that are great for kids learning to ski or snowboard.
Overall, Montana is a fantastic destination for families. There’s a perfect mix of outdoor fun, learning, and relaxation that made our trip memorable for everyone.
Conclusion
My trip to Montana was full of amazing experiences, from exploring Glacier National Park to relaxing by Flathead Lake and discovering charming small towns. There’s truly something here for everyone — whether you love outdoor adventures, history, or just want to unwind in nature’s beauty.
Montana’s wide-open spaces and friendly communities made me feel welcome and inspired. If you’re planning a trip, I highly recommend taking the time to explore both the popular spots and the hidden gems. You won’t regret it.
So pack your bags, bring your sense of adventure, and get ready to enjoy all the incredible things to do in Montana. It’s a place that stays with you long after the trip is over.
