Fun Things to Do in Montana
You’ll love these places if you’re looking for fun things to do in Montana. Check out Glacier National Park, Lewis and Clark Caverns State Park, Great Falls Original Farmer’s Market, and Castle City Ghost Town! There’s so much to do in Montana, so it’s hard to know where to begin! If you’re unsure what to do first, consider taking a driving tour!
Glacier National Park
You’ll want to visit Glacier National Park in Montana if you love wildlife. This natural park contains a variety of plants and animals, including a grizzly bear, black bear, moose, and more than 200 species of birds and mammals. Known as a Biosphere Reserve, Glacier National Park in Montana is also home to several kinds of animals, including elk, bighorn sheep, mule deer, whitetail, and moose.
The cultural resources in Glacier National Park are fascinating and provide an interesting look into human history. In addition to the spectacular scenery, Glacier National Park also contains historic structures that symbolise early twentieth-century Western park experiences. The spiritual value of the park is universal, and Waterton-Glacier is the world’s first international peace park. It’s easy to reach Glacier National Park by car through Highways 2 and 89.
A recent archaeological survey found evidence of the human presence in Glacier National Park dating back over 10,000 years. It’s possible that the people living there were the ancestors of modern tribes. European explorers encountered several Native American tribes in the region. The Blackfeet, for example, occupied the vast prairies east of the mountains. The Pend d’Oreille, on the other hand, hunted buffalo east of the mountains.
The Going-to-the-Sun Road is one of the most iconic ways to experience Glacier National Park. This road, completed in 1932, runs through the park’s central section, which is more than four hundred square kilometers. You’ll pass along the road many native plant and animal species. During your drive, don’t forget to take photos! The scenery will blow you away.
Glacier National Park is an outdoor lover’s paradise. From scenic drives to a half-mile walk on the Trail of the Cedars, you’ll never run out of things to do. According to the National Geographic Traveler, a trip to Glacier National Park is incomplete without exploring the Park’s 700 miles of trails. You can also take a guided hiking tour, camp in the backcountry, or take wildlife photos.
Lewis & Clark Caverns State Park
If you’re traveling to the area, don’t miss out on Lewis & Clark Caverns State Recreation Area, a 3,000-acre public recreation and nature preservation area twelve miles east of Whitehall in Jefferson County, Montana. Highlights of the park include ten miles of hiking trails and two visitor centers. You can also camp here. Explore the limestone caverns and spend the night in a campground.
Located just forty minutes south of Butte, MT, this limestone cavern is an amazing attraction. Visitors can explore the caverns and take in the amazing natural air conditioning that is emitted underground. There is a self-guided nature trail for visitors, and toilets are either vault or flush. In the summer, interpretive events are held here as well.
The Lewis & Clark Caverns State Recreation Area is open year-round. The caves are accessible year-round, but they are closed during the winter. However, there are special candlelight tours during the Christmas season. Regardless of the time of year, there are many activities and things to do in Montana to get the most out of your vacation. If you plan to visit the park in the winter, you can enjoy a snowshoe hike in the park or spend the night camping in a campground.
In addition to the cave, you can hike around the park to view hundreds of different types of birds. Among them are mountain bluebirds and raptors. The trails offer varying levels of difficulty. At over 10 miles long, you’ll have a chance to hike more than 1000 feet above ground. You can even stay in one of the cabins if you want to spend a night.
Visitors should dress appropriately for a cave tour. It’s 48 degrees Fahrenheit, but don’t forget to pack a light jacket in case it’s too cold. Cave tours in Montana are breezy and can get chilly, so be sure to dress appropriately for the weather. It’s a great idea to check the weather forecast before going! If you are in the area, wear comfortable clothing and shoes to avoid getting lost.
Great Falls Original Farmer’s Market
The Great Falls Original Farmers’ Market has been operating in Downtown since 1982. In its early years, the market was located in Hutterite colonies, where the members sold their produce door-to-door. Then local farmers set up shop by the Civic Center, which became the unofficial Great Falls Farmers’ Market. Today, the market has grown to include approximately 135 to 160 vendors every Saturday. In addition to fresh produce and local goods, the market features live entertainment, music, and special events.
To start selling at the market, you will need to complete an application. You must get approval from the local health department and list all of your products. All packaged products will require product labels. The 2021 DPHHS Farmers’ Market Guidelines detail the types of food and label requirements. Obtaining the necessary approval from the DPHHS is an important first step in promoting your products at the market. You can find additional information regarding the application process here.
The Great Falls Original Farmers’ Market will continue to grow this summer, with plans to expand into Central Avenue in downtown Great Falls. The market will now take up the entire first block of Central Avenue, from the Civic Center to 2nd Street South. This expansion will accommodate extra vendor requests. During the summer, additional vendors will continue to sell their products in the parks south of the Civic Center and in Park Manor. Those interested in exhibiting at the market should visit the new website to learn more.
While farmers markets are not the easiest places for people to shop, they still have an enormous benefit to local residents. Farmers markets provide a social time during the week. The community can benefit from a farmers market, which is why it is a great idea to hold one in your city. In addition to providing fresh produce and baked goods, many farmers markets also host special events or host cooking demos. If possible, set up a seating area for attendees. Senior citizens value the time they spend at the farmers’ market, so be sure to make this a part of the program.
Castle City Ghost Town
If you’re looking for a unique and fun vacation, you can go on a road trip through the historic Ghost Town of Castle City. The town, also called Castle, was established in 1891 and once had more than 2,000 residents. It was the birthplace of the famous Wild West heroine Calamity Jane. In the past, it was a thriving mining town, but it has fallen on hard times since the 1893 Silver Panic.
The silver rush in the late 1800s created several mining towns, including Castle City. Castle had 2,000 residents at its peak, a jail and seven brothels. The town had no public transportation and never recovered from the Silver Panic of 1893. The town’s population shrank after the silver demonetization. But visitors can still tour the town and take in the history of this abandoned mining town. While visiting Castle, consider staying at Bannack State Park.
You’ll find an interesting story behind Castle City’s decline. In 1897, the U.S. government repealed the Sherman Silver Purchase Act, devaluing silver to the point that the city’s population dropped to 200 overnight. In 1897, the railroads reached the town. But the railway station opened four years later. By the mid-’30s, the town had only two residents, and a yearly election always ended in a tie. The Meagher County office alternated making the decision.
In the same county, you can visit the Elkhorn State Park. This state park is the smallest state park in Montana and has just two buildings and less than an acre of land. Visitors from out of state will need to pay a non-resident vehicle entrance fee. In addition to this, you can also visit Boulder Hot Springs, which is located nearby. There are many opportunities for hiking, exploring, and taking photographs in the surrounding areas.
Despite being in a ghost town, some mining still occurs in this former mining community. In 1883, a prospector named Hanson H. Barnes found silver and lead deposits in the area. His discoveries were recorded and eventually became the Princess and Maverick mines. Today, some of the buildings in the town are listed on the National Historic Register, including the church and a baseball field. The town’s architecture is fascinating, and you’ll be inspired by its colorful history.
Best Sightseeing in Montana
If you’re looking for the best sightseeing in Montana, there are many places you can visit. This western state is home to diverse landscapes, such as the Glacier National Park. This vast wilderness preserve extends into Canada and is filled with snow-capped peaks, alpine hiking trails, and the famous Going-to-the-Sun Road. This road stretches 50 miles and provides a unique view of the state’s diverse terrain.
Pictograph Cave State Park
If you love to see old things in their original state, Pictograph Cave State Park is the place for you. This park preserves the three caves in Billings. You can take guided tours of these caves. You will learn more about their history and how they came to be. Once you’ve been there, you will understand why Pictograph Cave is one of the best sightseeing in Montana.
Visiting this park is a great way to see the pictographs and cave paintings in an unusual location. You can walk through a series of three caves, but the main one is the only one with pictographs. There is a walking trail through the park that begins under a roofed information panel. The trail is about a quarter mile long and paved throughout.
There are many reasons to visit Pictograph Cave State Park. First of all, it’s a national historic landmark. Prehistoric hunters lived in this cave thousands of years ago. You’ll see over a hundred different pictographs in this park. It is estimated that these caves were used as camping sites by the ancient inhabitants of the area. And the caves are home to the world’s oldest rock art.
The Pictograph Cave Visitor’s Center contains exhibits about ancient artifacts and the evolution of materials used for tool building. The exhibits show the progression from flint to chert to iron. The artifacts date back almost 10,000 years, far before the first Europeans arrived in North America. The caves are a great place for viewing the ancient past and learning about its inhabitants.
Makoshika State Park
Located in eastern Montana, Makoshika State Park is one of its most unique attractions. The area boasts spectacular rock formations, hiking trails, and fossil hunting. It is Montana’s largest state park, with over 11,500 acres of land. Visitors can enjoy a wide range of activities while exploring the park, from fishing to hiking. In addition, there are campgrounds, wildlife viewing, and disc golf.
Visitors can learn about the area’s dinosaur history at the visitor center, which opened in the 1990s. The center features a multimedia presentation and interpretive exhibits on different aspects of the park’s geological past. There’s also a Triceratops skull in the center of the park’s visitor center. Other displays explain the history of the area, and a recent unearthed triceratops skull is on display.
While visiting Makoshika State Park, be sure to bring plenty of water. A hike through the park is a great way to see the area’s abundant wildlife. Rattlesnakes, bobcats, and coyotes live in the 8,832-acre park. You can also watch birds, sage lizards, and bull snakes. The park also plays host to a number of outdoor sporting events and marathons.
Makoshika State Park offers unique photo opportunities. With gully-filled slopes and boulders on weather-weakened perches, this location is ideal for taking photos. It also has interesting geology and a range of hiking trails. If you are looking for something different, this park is the right place for you. In addition to taking photos, visitors can also enjoy educational materials and activities.
Lewis and Clark Caverns State Park
If you’re looking for some of the best sightseeing in Montana, you might want to consider a trip to Lewis and Clark Caverns State Park. Located twelve miles east of Whitehall in Jefferson County, this 3,000-acre nature preserve and public recreation area features limestone caverns, two visitor centers, ten miles of hiking trails, a campground, and more.
The park is also famous for its hundreds of species of birds, including raptors and mountain bluebirds. Hiking the park’s trails is the best way to catch these birds. The park’s trail system features several routes with different difficulty levels and over 1000 feet of elevation change. There are plenty of opportunities for a family-friendly hike, so anyone can find one that suits their abilities.
The park offers guided tours and hiking tours for those with less physical stamina or claustrophobia. Guided tours of the caverns last about two hours and include a hike up to the entrance of the caverns. Although this hike is steep, benches are available to sit and rest on the way up and down. However, be sure to bring a good pair of sneakers if you are unsure about hiking through the caverns.
You can see bats in the caves at Lewis and Clark Caverns State Park. While you can’t guarantee that you’ll see any bats, you might find some that you’re curious about. The Townsend big-eared bat is particularly noteworthy in the park, as it was previously considered endangered. You can even see this rare animal during a tour of the caves.
Earthquake Lake
If you’re looking for the best sightseeing in Montana, try visiting Earthquake Lake. This scenic lake was formed by a massive landslide in August 1959. The landslide caused 80 tons of earth to slide down the mountain, blocking the river and destroying everything in its path. Within a month, a brand new lake had formed. The landslide moved soil at speeds of 100 MpH and buried 28 people. As the landslide was moving soil at such fast speed, it generated winds that could toss cars.
This scenic attraction has great views of Big Sky Country. The area is renowned for its big skies, but there are also plenty of wildlife sightings to make it a perfect place for summer vacations. You can also learn about the effects of earthquakes as you explore the area’s geology. The Madison River is the largest river in Montana, with plenty of public fishing areas. Whether you’re interested in nature or science, you’ll find this site to be an eye-opening experience.
The Earthquake Lake Visitor Center opened its doors in 1967 and provides interpretive services. More than 50,000 people visit the Earthquake Lake area each year. Quake Lake is about 25 miles northwest of West Yellowstone. To get there, take US-191 north. Turn left on US-287 and drive along Hebgen Lake to Quake Lake. You’ll find the Visitors Center on the eastern side of the lake.
The visitor center offers an impressive panoramic view of the mountain that fell. There are interactive displays about earthquakes, a working seismograph, and scheduled movies to help you learn more about the Hebgen Lake Earthquake. In addition, you’ll find restrooms, picnic areas, and a walking trail to the memorial boulder. For your convenience, the Earthquake Lake Visitors Center is also equipped with visitor guides and interpretive displays.
Jim’s Horn House
One of the most unique things to do in Montana is to visit Jim’s Horn House. While this is an interesting natural history museum, it is also a private home and visitors must contact Jim to schedule a visit. For the best skiing in the Rocky Mountains, head to Whitefish Mountain Resort, which is located near the airport and offers plenty of amenities and events. It is an unforgettable experience that will take you back in time.
In his shed, you can see more than just antlers. This unique museum also features a huge collection of taxidermy, including bison skulls and deer antlers. Philips also has a knack for retelling the history behind these antlers. A stop here will definitely provide a laugh, and you may even be pleasantly surprised. In the case of a child, Jim Phillips’ antler collection may not be the most fascinating exhibit, but it is an unforgettable experience that will have you awed.
Places to Visit in Montana
Located in the Western United States, Montana has a wide variety of places to visit and explore. The state’s wilderness preserve, which crosses into Canada, contains a variety of animals, including bison, big grizzlies, elk, and bighorn sheep. The peaks are often dusted with delicate layers of snow. Montana’s natural attractions and outdoor activities are unparalleled, and a visit to these places is sure to be an unforgettable experience.
Glacier National Park
If you’re looking for some adventure, consider a trip to Glacier National Park in Montana. This national park has over a million acres, seventy-six lakes, and 700 miles of hiking trails. You can explore the park’s vast wilderness, hike among the glaciers, or relax in a historic lodge. Whether you’re a first-time visitor or a seasoned traveler, there’s something for everyone at Glacier National Park.
The park offers several hiking trails and offers a number of outdoor activities, including boat rides on Lake McDonald and kayaking on Swiftcurrent Lake. For those who prefer to spend more time in the park, there are many activities you can take, including a day at the ice-cold water of Lake McDonald. If you have a little more time, you can take a scenic drive down the Going-to-the-Sun Road and kayak on Swiftcurrent Lake. To access the park, you will need to buy a timed entry ticket, which expires in 2022.
After hiking up the Trail of Cedars, you’ll find the Saint Mary Lake trail, which climbs along Avalanche Creek before leveling off at Saint Mary Lake. This lake is 10 miles long and covers 4,000 acres. It’s one of the most popular destinations in Glacier National Park. Boat tours around Saint Mary Lake are available for $35 per adult, and $17 for children.
Bozeman
There are many places to visit in Bozeman, Montana. You can enjoy the town’s quaint downtown, which is lined with historic buildings. Visiting downtown Bozeman feels like entering another era. You can find the best restaurants in Montana, as well as unique boutique shops. The town has an active arts and cultural scene, and you’re likely to see several famous Hollywood actors or actresses on Main Street.
The town offers a wide variety of places to stay, from vacation homes to chain hotels and bed and breakfasts. There are also a variety of special events held throughout the year. If you are visiting for a long weekend, you can stay at a hotel near the downtown area. However, if you’re visiting for a week or more, you should consider booking a vacation rental downtown. There are many nice homes, condos, and vacation rentals available.
The city has plenty of museums for history buffs. Museums include the Museum of the Rockies, which deals with the natural and prehistoric history of the region. You can also take your kids to the Children’s Museum of Bozeman, which is housed in an old building. Likewise, you can check out the Gallatin Museum, a public building, and the Emerson Cultural Centre, which showcases the artistic evolution of the town.
Butte
If you’re looking for Butte, Montana places to visit, you’re in luck! The city is the county seat of Silver Bow County. In 1977, Butte and Silver Bow County merged, becoming Butte-Silver Bow. The population of the two counties combined is 34,494.
If you’re a theater fan, butte has plenty to offer. The city’s Mother Lode Theatre is home to many local, regional and national touring productions. The theatre even hosts symphony and concert performances. The Orphan Girl Theatre is a unique experience that enhances your Butte trip. There’s a lot to see and do in Butte, Montana, so be sure to plan your visit accordingly!
Butte has an interesting history. While you’re in town, take a walk through downtown to see the town’s history. You’ll be able to see over 5,000 historical buildings and sites, from 19th century buildings to mining era mines. You can even opt to take a decade-specific tour to learn more about Butte’s past. These tours are family-friendly and equally interesting for adults.
Great Falls
If you love the natural beauty of the West, consider visiting Great Falls, Montana. The city is home to the C.M. Russell Museum, featuring the work of renowned artist C.M. Russell, a popular figure in the art world for his depictions of the American West. There are also several museums to explore in the city, including the Gibson Square Museum of Art, which showcases contemporary art in a historic building. In addition, the Lewis and Clark National Historic Trail Interpretation Center houses exhibits about the explorers’ route. Giant Springs State Park is another exciting place to visit, containing a zoo and other wildlife.
As the third largest city in Montana, Great Falls is also a popular base camp for exploring the northern part of the state. With a population of around 60,000, the city is well-connected to many parts of the state. In addition to the scenic riverfront, the city is home to abundant gardens and freshwater springs. Great Falls is also a great place to visit if you love history. Besides that, it also has a number of famous museums.
Belgrade
Traveling to Montana with your family is easy when you book cheap hotels in Belgrade. You can stay in a downtown hotel and still be minutes from restaurants, bars, and the airport. You can also find a hotel with free parking near the airport if you drive. Belgrade is in the Gallatin Valley, which means it is located near Big Sky National Park and the famous Gallatin River. You can find an affordable hotel by booking through a travel website.
Located just 10 miles from Bozeman, Belgrade is a great base for outdoor activities and adventure. The town’s location makes it convenient for many visitors, as it is cheaper than Bozeman. Despite the cost difference, Belgrade offers a more suburban feel than Bozeman. Many of its residents also work in nearby Bozeman, which makes it more affordable to stay in this charming town. You can also easily access Yellowstone National Park and the Bridger Bowl from Belgrade.
Makoshika State Park
Makoshika State Park is an incredible natural preserve and public recreation area southeast of Glendive in Dawson County. It features badlands, dinosaur fossils, and rocks from the Hell Creek Formation. The park is one of the largest in Montana, spanning more than 11,000 acres. It is a must-see for anyone visiting the state. For more information, read on!
The name Makoshika comes from the native Lakota word makoshika sica, which means “birnt hills.” The badlands of Makoshika are a beautiful place to visit and explore, and the park is home to many activities for people of all ages. Visitors will enjoy a stop at the Frontier Gateway Museum, which provides an insight into the early days of eastern Montana.
The Makoshika State Park campground is pet-friendly, and you can reserve a spot here two days before your visit. It is open year-round, and there are a total of 16 campsites available. Visitors are welcome to camp on the grounds, which are suitable for large RVs and tents. To get the most out of your stay, you can also take advantage of the campground’s disc golf course.
Red Lodge
Red Lodge is the county seat of Carbon County, Montana. The city is part of the Billings Metropolitan Statistical Area and has an estimated population of 2,257 as of the 2020 census. Located near the Canadian border, Red Lodge is a great place to visit in the fall. There are many things to do in Red Lodge, Montana, and a trip to this town is sure to make your vacation an unforgettable experience. Learn more about Red Lodge and its surrounding areas below!
The climate in Red Lodge is Continental, with cold, dry winters and warm summers. The town’s high elevation means that the winters are moderate compared to areas further east. The chinook winds also influence the climate. It’s an excellent place to go snowmobiling, mountain biking, or simply enjoying the great outdoors. When planning a vacation to Red Lodge, Montana, keep the Coivd-19 guidelines in mind to avoid damaging your vehicle.
Helena
If you are planning to visit Montana, you may want to check out Helena, Montana. This is the state’s capital, as well as the county seat of Lewis and Clark County. This picturesque city has a lot to offer visitors. In addition to being the state capital, Helena is home to the University of Montana Hospital. You can learn more about the history of this city by visiting its museum. Here are some fun facts about this city:
The Old Fire Tower is a 25-foot icon and can be viewed from the top of the city. Located on Cruse Avenue, the tower overlooks the Last Chance Gulch walking mall. The top floor of the tower has a small park. Nearby, you can also visit the free Holter Museum of Art. This museum showcases the works of local artists. However, it is closed on Mondays. There are many places to see and experience in Helena, so be sure to plan ahead!
