9 Best Montana Towns For A Weekend Trip

Weekends spent in Montana’s small towns have a way of leaving a lasting impression. Framed by the Beartooths, the Yellowstone River, and wide-open skies, these towns below strike the perfect balance of rugged outdoor adventure and rich culture. From artsy lakeside villages like Bigfork and historic mining towns like Philipsburg, to gateways to iconic national parks, each of these nine destinations offers visitors a look into its distinct personality. There are plenty of reasons to enjoy a fun, adventure-filled weekend away in Montana, be it with family, friends, or on a solo trip!

Red Lodge

Known as the gateway to the beautiful Yellowstone National Park via the Beartooth Highway (one of America's most scenic drives), Red Lodge is a classic Rocky Mountain town just waiting to be explored. Known for its lively, historic downtown, a mix of outdoor adventure and cultural amenities, and unique, quirky festivals, this small town is perfect for a weekend away. Although small, this town is brimming with year-round activity, including music festivals, rodeos, art walks, horseback riding, hiking, biking, camping, and skiing. Seeking to learn more about the town's mining history? Check out the Carbon County Historical Museum, a small yet highly informative space that showcases the historical significance of Red Lodge. Has seeing a bison in real life always been on your bucket list? Lucky for you, if you don't want to make the drive to Yellowstone National Park, the Yellowstone Wildlife Sanctuary is only a short drive away, allowing visitors to get up close and personal with animals unique to the Greater Yellowstone Ecosystem. For a comfortable stay, the Pollard Hotel offers a historic boutique experience right in the heart of town.

Whitefish

Set along Whitefish Lake, this beloved mountain town offers a fantastic mix of adventure and culture. With its proximity to Glacier National Park, Whitefish is a great year-round town, offering countless opportunities for outdoor exploration. Spend time on the slopes at Whitefish Mountain Resort, fish, kayak, or raft at one of the nearby lakes or rivers, or go for a hike or bike ride through the 47 miles of trails along the Whitefish Trail. During the summer months, the town is packed with fun festivals like Huckleberry Days and the Whitefish Arts Festival, each offering tasty treats and one-of-a-kind art. Back in its historic downtown, art lovers can also find pieces at the Cawdrey Gallery or the Dick Idol Signature Gallery. For a luxurious stay, The Lodge at Whitefish Lake sits right on the water, providing beautiful views and easy access to recreation.

Bigfork

Set along the shores of Flathead Lake, Bigfork is a scenic and artsy village with a strong cultural and outdoor scene. It’s famous for its art galleries like FoR Fine Arts and the Eric Thornsen Gallery. The Bigfork Center for the Performing Arts, the Bigfork Summer Playhouse, and the Bigfork Art & Cultural Center are all great places to see performances and new art exhibitions. Nature enthusiasts will enjoy exploring the 67 acres of natural landscape at Flathead Lake State Park, ideal for hiking, biking, and camping. For golf lovers, Bigfork is only a short drive away from one of the United States' most beautiful courses, Eagle Bend Golf Course. Those looking for a luxurious stay to complete their weekend can find a room at the Flathead Lake Lodge, an all-inclusive retreat with lake access and guided adventures.

Gardiner

Gardiner is another charming gateway town to Yellowstone National Park, which combines rustic Montana appeal with access to world-famous natural wonders. The town itself is a haven for outdoor enthusiasts. Visitors can try their hand at fly-fishing along the Yellowstone River or lake fishing at nearby Dailey Lake. Hikers can explore scenic trails just minutes from town, including the Beaver Ponds Loop, a moderate trail that takes visitors through meadows and wetlands and is a great option for those on the lookout for wildlife, and the Eagle Creek Campground Trail, which offers stunning views of the Yellowstone River Valley. For those looking to relax, Yellowstone Hot Springs is the perfect spot to unwind. From Gardiner, visitors can also access the iconic Roosevelt Arch, a beautiful structure at the entrance to Yellowstone. Near the arch, the Roosevelt Hotel offers classic lodging with beautiful river views.

Ennis

Strap on your cowboy boots, boys and girls, because Ennis is one of the quintessential Western towns that takes visitors straight back into the time of sassporila and saloons. It's historic, it's quaint, and above all, it's the perfect place to take in that fresh mountain air. Its small-town culture features cowboy heritage, local breweries and distilleries (like the famed moonshine distillery, Willie's), and outdoor art that can't be found anywhere else. Considered a blue-ribbon fly fishing destination, this town is best known for its close relationship with the legendary Madison River, widely regarded as one of the finest trout streams in the country. Continuing time in the outdoors, Ennis offers access to Bear Trap Canyon, where explorers can enjoy hiking, white water rafting, and fishing. Those interested in the history of the area and its railroading past can learn more at the Madison Valley History Museum. For accommodations, book a stay at El Western Cabins & Lodges, where you can choose from mountain or creekside cabins fit for every cowboy.

Philipsburg

Philipsburg is a historic 1890s mining town full of charm and character, and one Montana town everyone should visit at least once. Its Victorian storefronts, antique shops, and small-town streets create a welcoming atmosphere for visitors looking to step back in time. In town, pay a visit to the unique Sapphire Gallery, an indoor space where travelers can take a whack at mining for gemstones, or to the Granite County Museum and Mine Exhibit, an educational space where visitors can learn about early pioneer and mining life. A short distance from town sits Georgetown Lake, the perfect escape for those who love camping, fishing, hiking, or boating. Ready for something spooky? Granite Ghost Town State Park is the perfect place to pull out your camera and try capturing a ghost or two at this now deserted mining town, complete with remnants of a once-booming era. Those looking for a cozy place to lay their heads (away from any grin-grinning ghosts) should book a stay at the Broadway Hotel, a historic but renovated space right in the heart of downtown Philipsburg.

Livingston

Near Yellowstone, right along the Yellowstone River, sits another small town with a thriving art scene and abundant opportunities for outdoor exploration. For those interested in experiencing Livingston's bustling art community, spend time perusing one of the many art galleries in downtown, such as the Blue Door Gallery, adorned with an array of western-themed art. Also in downtown, visitors can explore the Livingston Mural Trail and witness the town's famed bronze statue of Sacagawea, along with beautiful statues of local wildlife. Beyond the galleries, Livingston offers a rich cultural lineup, including the Livingston Depot Center, a restored historic train station that now hosts rotating art exhibitions, cultural events, and performances. History buffs can explore the Yellowstone Gateway Museum, which dives into the area’s railroad, Native American, and ranching heritage. Outdoor enthusiasts can walk or bike along the Yellowstone River, float the river in warmer months, or hike nearby trails like Passage Falls or Elephant Head Mountain. For a place to rest your cowboy spurs, try the Murray Hotel, rated by Anthony Bourdain in 2015 as one of his Top Ten Worldwide Favorite Hotels.

West Yellowstone

Just outside the western entrance of Yellowstone National Park, West Yellowstone is a lively mountain town that blends small-town charm with nonstop access to some of the most famous natural wonders in the country. While many visitors pass through on their way into the park, the town itself offers plenty to explore, making it well worth slowing down for a weekend escape. For those interested in history and wildlife, the Yellowstone Historic Center and the Grizzly & Wolf Discovery Center offer fascinating insights into the park's past and the species that call the region home. Outside of the obvious Yellowstone, those looking to explore the outdoors can find plenty of hiking, biking, and fishing opportunities, including along Rendezvous Ski Trails or at the Madison River. The town itself has a deep history that can easily be explored at the Museum of Yellowstone, which showcases the town's history through transportation. For a rustic stay within walking distance to pretty much everything, check out the Hibernation Station, a row of log cabins with modern comforts.

Choteau

Although a bit quieter than the other towns, Choteau is the perfect weekend getaway for those who enjoy wildlife viewing, dramatic landscapes, and paleontological attractions. Visitors can spend time exploring part of the Montana Dinosaur Trail at the Old Trail Museum, which houses dinosaur fossils and hands-on experiences for all ages. Those who enjoy bird watching should make their way to nearby Freezout Lake Wildlife Management Area, where visitors can experience magical instances like the snow goose migration. Looking to hike? Outside of a walk around Freezout Lake, travelers can head to Pine Butte Swamp Preserve to hike the A.B. Guthrie Trail, which offers stunning views of the preserve and the Rock Mountain Front. You might even see a grizzly bear or two. Individuals interested in spending a day on the slopes can find action at the Teton Pass, an hour away, offering the exciting chance for alpine and backcountry skiing. After a long day of adventure, rest easy at the Stage Stop Inn, which offers welcoming accommodations with easy access to these attractions.

Now, if all of the aforementioned activities and attractions do not entice you to head to Montana, who knows what will! These nine Montana towns reflect not only the state's outstanding geographical beauty but also its uniqueness. Perhaps your weekend plans are to visit a national park, yet you stumble upon a lovely art festival, or decide you want to learn how to fly fish! The best part about these towns is that, although they are small, they pack a punch with outdoor exploration, fabulous art scenes, and unique historical museums, all of which are perfect for filling your weekend in Big Sky Country.