10 Main Streets Where Montana Comes Alive

Although Montana is synonymous with vast open spaces and rugged natural landscapes, there is more to Big Sky Country beyond its pristine parks, sweeping prairies, winding rivers, and majestic mountain ranges. Scattered throughout this expansive state are charming small towns where life flows along one central artery or main street. These corridors are quintessentially the cultural and social heart of each community, where locals gather, history is preserved, and visitors are welcomed with open arms.

From century-old structures in Kalispell and family-run diners to vibrant art galleries in Ennis, Montana’s downtown corridors offer a slice of authentic Americana with a touch of Western charm. Whether road-tripping through the state or planning to experience the local way of life, here are scenic main streets where Montana comes alive.

Philipsburg

An hour from Missoula, this tiny town in Granite County is home to an active historic district dating back to the 19th century, with the discovery of silver. This led to the construction of the state's first silver mill, making Philipsburg a major trading hub with a lively downtown core. The walkable Broadway Street welcomes first-timers to examine the curious history of Montana law at the Montana Law Enforcement Museum, as presented through a collection of old badges, guns, uniforms, and related memorabilia.

Illume Gallery West is one of the premier galleries in downtown Philipsburg, known for showcasing sophisticated creations by regional artists. Meanwhile, tourists with a sweet tooth can pass by The Sweet Palace for a taste of savory chocolates, fudges, taffies, and other treats, as craft beer lovers unwind with high-quality, handcrafted drafts inside a restored 19th-century bank building at the Philipsburg Brewing Company.

Kalispell

Kalispell is a popular gateway to Glacier National Park and is known for its supreme natural beauty, framed by the forested Wild Horse Island and Flathead Lake. However, it also harbors a rejuvenated downtown district that came up with the arrival of the Great Northern Railway in the late 1800s. This brought in tourists, pioneers, and businessmen, culminating in a vibrant industrial center. Visitors can start exploring the main drag at the Courthouse Historic District, where more than a dozen historic structures provide a window into the past. This includes the 1895 Conrad Mansion Museum, whose architectural opulence paints a picture of life for the prosperous in Kalispell during the pioneer period.

A thriving craft brewery culture guarantees tourists exquisite tasting and drinking opportunities at renowned downtown establishments, like Bias Brewing. This down-home venue serves a creative selection of local beers, ciders, wines, and seltzers. Main Street also offers access to the lush greens of Buffalo Hill Golf Club, whose 18-hole course is perfect for practicing your swing.

Whitefish

This hidden gem in the middle of the Rocky Mountains emerged as a railroad and logging center with the passing of the Great Northern Railway. It was founded at the turn of the 20th century and would later transition into a world-class skiing destination. Whitefish boasts a pedestrian-friendly downtown district with plenty of things to see and do. Along Central Avenue, you can immerse yourself in the world of performing arts by catching a musical or play at the Whitefish Theatre Company.

The neighborhood also comes alive during the weekly Whitefish Farmers' Market, which brings together vendors and buyers, resulting in an upbeat atmosphere. Foodies craving a taste of local flavors can take advantage of a fine dining opportunity at Tupelo Grille, whose selection of savory gourmet dishes ranges from shrimp and grits to gumbo and Cajun penne pasta. When full to the brim, you can take a breather on the green lawns of Depot Park and get lost in sweeping vistas of the surrounding mountains.

Anaconda

This historic mining town in Deer Lodge County has a short but site-rich Main Street that keeps visitors engaged with an array of points of interest. It was established in the 1880s with the discovery of copper, and the Anaconda Mining Company significantly fueled the local economy. Anaconda maintains several historic structures along its main thoroughfare that remind visitors of the old days, including the Deer Lodge County Courthouse. This grandiose 19th-century building dominates the skyline with its Neoclassical architecture, while the Art Deco Washoe Theatre is where the community gathers to watch new and vintage films in an iconic venue listed on the National Register of Historic Places.

After hours of exploring the town, you can link up with friends and locals for a hangout at Smelter City Brewing. This neighborhood pub serves an impressive selection of local beers in a comfortable atmosphere, accompanied by delicious tacos.

Bigfork

Bigfork is an upscale resort community in the heart of Montana's Rocky Mountains, known for golfing opportunities, stunning beauty, and a lively downtown district. It was founded by Everit Sliter at the turn of the 20th century, who later constructed the town's first hotel. Electric Avenue has an eclectic blend of high-end boutiques, trendy restaurants, and performance venues that keep the neighborhood abuzz. Locals gather at the Bigfork Summer Playhouse to watch engaging Broadway musicals by budding homegrown performers.

Meanwhile, visual art enthusiasts can head to the Eric Thorsen Fine Art Gallery to admire his award-winning creations, highlighted by elaborate bronze sculptures of various wildlife. Those who want to sample Bigfork's nightlife can wait until after hours to relax and unwind at Kelly's Casino and Bar Bigfork. This lively establishment in the middle of downtown offers a mix of casual dining, drinking, and gaming until late in the night.

West Yellowstone

Despite its small population, West Yellowstone has one of those Main Streets where Montana comes alive, thanks to its location at the western entry point of Yellowstone National Park. Like so many other towns in Montana, it owes its existence to the construction of the Union Pacific Railway, leading to a growth in the tourism industry. First-timers can start discovering the area with a visit to the West Yellowstone Visitor Information Center, which provides diverse information to help curate a perfect itinerary.

Busy Yellowstone Avenue is lined with museums, bars, restaurants, and other local businesses. It is also home to the Museum of the Yellowstone, which documents the region's history by displaying artifacts inside a 1900s train depot. Furthermore, ardent adventurers craving outdoor exploration can book a trip with Yellowstone Vacation Tours, which takes guests on unforgettable excursions in the national park with stops at waterfalls, canyons, and the Old Faithful geyser.

Hamilton

This laid-back village in Ravalli County boasts an active downtown area that serves as a regional trade hub for surrounding farms, orchards, and ranches. Hamilton was established by Marcus Daly in the late 19th century, one of Montana's "Copper Kings." Every Saturday, the Hamilton Farmers Market breathes life into the neighborhood as the streets are lined with baked goods, agricultural products, handmade crafts, jewelry, knives, and other wares for willing buyers to inspect.

Main Street celebrates its lively arts community with a number of galleries, and if you appreciate the creative process, you can pop into Art City to browse locally-made art and craft works. And whenever you feel like sitting down for a drink or a treat, Big Creek Coffee Roasters has just what you need. This family-friendly downtown diner serves world-class beverages, from coffees and cappuccinos to lattes prepared by seasoned baristas.

Lewistown

Lewistown is a former mining settlement in Fergus County, situated smack dab in Montana's geographical center. It has a gold rush heritage from the 1880s and served as a critical railway destination. Its lovely downtown reflects different aspects of the region's heritage through a combination of historical, cultural, and contemporary attractions.

While walking down Main Street, you can explore the community's artistic side at the Lewistown Art Center. The venue promotes local arts through exhibitions, classes, and performances. Movie lovers can watch newly released films at Judith Cinema, which has the perfect atmosphere for indoor entertainment. Meanwhile, culinary aficionados can expect a fun dining experience when they visit Central Feed Grilling Company. This trendy steakhouse and bar boasts a diverse menu that features everything from fish and chips to chicken wings, craft beers, and wine.

Red Lodge

Red Lodge welcomes travelers across the four seasons and manages to maintain its allure thanks to a vibrant downtown shadowed by the picturesque peaks of Beartooth Mountain and its proximity to Billings. It came to prominence when the Rocky Ford Coal Company started the region's first mine in 1887, attracting a barrage of immigrants. History buffs can get familiar with the region's dynamic heritage by touring the Carbon County Historical Society & Museum on Broadway Avenue.

Further along the street, you will come across Beartooth Gallery Fine Art, where connoisseurs can examine a curated collection of sculptures, paintings, pottery, and glass works by renowned artists. The town also welcomes food enthusiasts, treating them to mouth-watering steaks in the modern Western ambience of Carbon County Steakhouse. Alternatively, you can opt for Bogart's Restaurant, which serves authentic Mexican cuisine, featuring burritos, tacos, and margaritas.

Ennis

Ennis might seem sleepy to the uninitiated, but this small village in Madison County was once a bustling center with the discovery of gold in Alder Gulch, experiencing a rush of ranchers and travelers in the late 1800s. A string of galleries, shops, pubs, and other homegrown businesses along Main Street makes for a vibrant hub for tourists. Those with spare change can stop by Shedhorn Sports to browse an array of shopping goods, including fishing and hunting equipment. Art is a quintessential part of the Ennis community as well, and visitors can peruse a collection of beautiful creations by local talent at RiverStone Gallery.

Meanwhile, travelers who enjoy hanging out after hours can check out Gravel Bar and take advantage of their tasty cocktails. Even better, Sportsman's Lodge Restaurant and Casino offers an opportunity to make easy money on the slot machines before spending a cozy night in its comfortable guest rooms.

Discover Main Street Montana

Montana’s downtown strips are more than commercial hubs; they’re the living, breathing centers of the communities that define Big Sky Country. Each one offers a unique blend of history, culture, and small-town warmth, inviting you to slow down and soak it all in when you are in this corner of the United States. Whether you're grabbing a cup of coffee in Hamilton or chatting with friendly locals at a pub in Anaconda, these are only a fraction of the main streets where Montana comes alive.