Explore Billings, Montana: A Comprehensive Travel Guide

Discover the Best of Billings

Billings, Montana is a city that has something for everyone. Whether you’re an outdoor enthusiast, a history buff, a foodie, or a lover of the arts, you’ll find plenty of things to do and see in this vibrant city. In this travel guide, we’ll take you on a tour of Billings, highlighting the top attractions, hidden gems, and off-the-beaten-path experiences that make this city so special.

Top Attractions in Billings

One of the most popular attractions in Billings is the Yellowstone Art Museum, which features a collection of contemporary art from the American West. You can also explore the Western Heritage Center, which showcases the history and culture of the region through exhibits and artifacts. For a unique experience, head to Pictograph Cave State Park, where you can see ancient rock paintings that date back thousands of years.

Hidden Gems in Billings

If you’re looking for something a little off the beaten path, check out the Moss Mansion, a historic home that dates back to the early 1900s. The mansion is beautifully preserved and offers a glimpse into the lives of the city’s early residents. You can also visit the ZooMontana, a small but well-curated zoo that’s home to a variety of animals from around the world.

Food Scene in Billings

Billings has a thriving food scene, with plenty of restaurants that serve up delicious local cuisine. For a taste of the region’s famous beef, head to Montana Brewing Company, where you can enjoy a perfectly cooked steak and a cold beer. For something a little more upscale, check out the Fieldhouse, which offers farm-to-table dishes made with locally sourced ingredients.

Budget-Friendly Tips

If you’re traveling on a budget, don’t worry – there are plenty of ways to enjoy Billings without breaking the bank. Many of the city’s top attractions, like the Yellowstone Art Museum and the Western Heritage Center, offer free admission on certain days. You can also save money by taking advantage of happy hour specials at local bars and restaurants.

Outdoor Adventures in Billings

The Billings area is a paradise for outdoor enthusiasts, with plenty of opportunities for hiking, fishing, and camping. One of the most popular spots is the nearby Beartooth Mountains, which offer stunning views and challenging hikes. You can also explore the Yellowstone River, which runs through the heart of the city and is known for its excellent fishing.

Family-Friendly Activities

If you’re traveling with kids, there are plenty of activities in Billings that will keep them entertained. The ZooMontana is a great place to start, but you can also check out the Rimrock Mall, which has a variety of stores and restaurants, as well as an indoor playground for kids. For a unique experience, take the kids to the Western Heritage Center, where they can learn about the history and culture of the region through fun and interactive exhibits.

Natural Wonders

One of the most stunning natural wonders in Billings is the nearby Bighorn Canyon National Recreation Area, which offers breathtaking views of the canyon and plenty of opportunities for hiking and camping. You can also explore the nearby Pryor Mountains, which are home to wild horses and other wildlife.

Vibrant Nightlife

When the sun goes down, Billings comes alive with a vibrant nightlife scene. There are plenty of bars, clubs, and music venues where you can enjoy a night out on the town. Some of the most popular spots include the Pub Station, a live music venue that hosts concerts by local and national artists, and the Thirsty Street Brewing Company, a popular brewery that serves up delicious craft beers.

Local Markets

If you’re looking for a taste of the local culture, check out the farmers’ markets in Billings. The Yellowstone Valley Farmers’ Market is one of the most popular, offering a variety of fresh produce, baked goods, and other local products. You can also check out the Montana Market, which features handmade crafts and other unique items from local artisans.

Art and Music Scene

Billings has a thriving arts scene, with plenty of galleries, museums, and music venues to explore. In addition to the Yellowstone Art Museum, you can also check out the Toucan Gallery, which features contemporary art from around the world. For live music, head to the Alberta Bair Theater, a historic venue that hosts concerts and other performances throughout the year.

Walking Tours

One of the best ways to explore Billings is on foot. There are plenty of walking tours available, including the Historic Downtown Billings Walking Tour, which takes you through the city’s vibrant downtown area and past some of its most famous landmarks. You can also explore the nearby hiking trails, which offer stunning views of the city and the surrounding countryside.

Historical Sites

Billings has a rich history, and there are plenty of historical sites to explore. One of the most popular is the Little Bighorn Battlefield National Monument, which commemorates the famous battle that took place in 1876. You can also explore the nearby Pompeys Pillar National Monument, which features a 150-foot sandstone rock that’s covered in Native American petroglyphs.

Biking Routes

If you’re looking for a fun and active way to explore Billings, hop on a bike and hit the city’s many biking routes. The Billings Bike and Pedestrian Trail System is one of the most popular, offering over 30 miles of paved trails that wind through the city and the surrounding countryside. You can also explore the nearby Blue Creek Trail, which offers stunning views of the Beartooth Mountains.

Wellness Retreats

If you’re looking for a relaxing and rejuvenating vacation, there are plenty of wellness retreats in Billings that can help you unwind. The Stillwater Spa at the Grand Hotel is one of the most popular, offering a variety of treatments and services that will leave you feeling refreshed and renewed. You can also check out the Healing Hands Massage and Wellness Center, which offers a variety of holistic treatments and therapies.

Adventure Sports

For adrenaline junkies, Billings has plenty of adventure sports to offer. You can go whitewater rafting on the nearby Yellowstone River, or try your hand at rock climbing at the nearby Granite Peak Climbing Area. You can also explore the nearby Pryor Mountains on horseback, or take a hot air balloon ride over the city and the surrounding countryside.

Whether you’re looking for outdoor adventures, cultural immersion, or just a relaxing getaway, Billings has something to offer. We hope this travel guide has given you a taste of all the amazing things this city has to offer, and that you’ll be inspired to plan your own trip to Billings soon.