The treasure state, aka Montana, United States, is 147,042 square miles, making it the 4th largest state in the U.S. With such an expansive area to cover, each of the cities and towns around Montana have their own charm. Whether you want to embark on outdoor adventure, immerse yourself in some history, or embrace cultural attractions, there is a place for you to visit. In this guide, we highlight some of the best cities for you to visit in Montana.
Helena, MT
If we want to truly represent ourselves as Montanans, we must start in Helena, our beautiful capital city. Long ago, Native Americans recognized Helena as a significant crossing point for the Salish, Crow, Bannock, and Blackfeet tribes. In 1864, the city gained prominence when Congress established the Montana territory, coinciding with four miners striking it rich in "Last Chance Gulch."
Today, Helena stands as a vibrant blend of history, culture, and outdoor activities. For a dose of history and culture, visit the Montana Heritage Center, which is set to open in 2025, or the Helena Fire Tower, built in 1869 to help detect fires. If you’re looking to explore the area, there are over 100 hiking trails, 70 miles of biking trails, and year-round fishing opportunities along the Missouri River.
With a lively downtown filled with local breweries, restaurants, and boutiques, Helena is a must-visit destination for anyone wishing to experience Montana’s heritage and natural beauty.
Bozeman, MT
Bozeman is often referred to as "the most livable place" because of its wide range of outdoor activities and vibrant downtown scene. Nestled among stunning mountain ranges, it serves as a year-round playground for outdoor enthusiasts. In the summer, you can enjoy activities such as hiking, biking, horseback riding, and fly fishing. During the winter months, opportunities abound for cross-country skiing, ice skating, downhill skiing, snowboarding, and snowmobiling.
Downtown Bozeman is a thriving hub for Western artwork, craft breweries, and boutique shops. Whether you're looking to explore the breathtaking Montana mountain ranges or immerse yourself in Western culture, Bozeman is one of the best cities to visit in Montana.
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Billings, MT
Another great city to visit in Montana is Billings, also known as the Magic City. Billings is one of the largest cities in the state and is rich in history, culture, and natural beauty. You can enjoy stunning views of the scenic Rimrocks, which are beautiful sandstone formations offering panoramic vistas and hiking trails.
Explore nearby historical sites like Pompey Pillar National Monument, the last physical evidence of the Lewis and Clark Expedition, and Pictograph Cave State Park, which features caves with habitation evidence from 2,000 years ago.
After a day of exploration, be sure to check out the Billings Brew Trail. This trail features eleven breweries, three distilleries, a cider mill, and a winery, all conveniently located within walking distance of each other. It’s a fantastic way to experience the city and savor some local flavors.
Livingston, MT
Livingston, Montana, is located on the banks of the Yellowstone River and is surrounded by beautiful mountains. Throughout the year, there are countless opportunities for outdoor recreation, including fly fishing in the Yellowstone River and miles of trails for biking, hiking, and horseback riding.
For those interested in culture and history, the area offers several galleries and museums to explore. In downtown Livingston, you can visit the Livingston Center for Art and the Livingston Gallery Association to view a variety of artwork created by local artists. Additionally, the Museum of the Rockies showcases the history of Montana, including an impressive dinosaur exhibit.
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Big Sky, MT
Big Sky, Montana, is a top destination for outdoor enthusiasts. The city's main attraction is Big Sky Resort, which has over 5,800 acres of skiable terrain, making it one of the largest ski resorts in North America. While skiing is the resort's primary draw, it also offers summer activities such as golf, mountain biking, ziplining, disc golf, hiking, and much more.
Beyond the resort, visitors can explore a variety of dining and shopping options. The town features numerous boutiques, outdoor gear shops, and rustic decor stores. For dining, there is a wide range of choices, from family-friendly restaurants and cozy cafes to high-end romantic dining experiences.
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West Yellowstone, MT
Known as the gateway to Yellowstone National Park, West Yellowstone, Montana, is a rustic western town that has been the busiest gateway community since 1920. Just a short drive away, this is the prime entrance to iconic sights like Old Faithful, Grand Prismatic Spring, and wildlife viewing.
Before or after you adventures in the park, be sure to hit oup one of the many restaurants in the area. Enjoy breakfast at the Running Bear Pancake House or grab dinner at the Wild West Pizzeria. No matter where you decided to grab a bite, you'll be leaving with a belly full of delicious food.
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Getting to Montana
Getting to Montana is easy, whether you’re flying or driving. The state has several major airports, including Bozeman Yellowstone International Airport and Billings Logan International Airport, offering flights from major U.S. cities. Those who choose to drive can access Montana via Interstate 90 from the west and east or Interstate 15 from the north and south, with scenic highways leading to breathtaking landscapes.
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While a lot of the cities have a lot in common, each one is special in its way. No matter which city to decide to visit, you'll get an amazing taste of Montana and all it has to offer. To fully embrace Montana and it's culture, consider booking a vacation rental to be your home away from home. Start planning your amazing vacation in Montana today by finding your perfect Montana vacation rental.