6 Standout Main Streets In Montana

As the eighth least populated state in the country, Montana might not be the first place that comes to mind when thinking about exciting downtown areas. But who says a downtown needs a large population to be exciting? Despite being largely rural, Montana has some pretty incredible downtowns and Main Streets, featuring local theaters, breweries, book stores, art galleries, parks, and farmers' markets that show that Montana is about more than its natural attractions. The following six towns are great examples of that exciting variety.

Anaconda

Originating as a mining settlement in the late 19th century, Anaconda received immigrants from around the world in its early days, transforming it into one of the most ethnically diverse towns in the state. Today, its downtown area continues to reflect its diversity, home to a wide array of culinary and cultural establishments. Travelers interested in seeing some of its early architecture can visit landmarks like the Hearst Free Library, which was built in 1898 and continues to operate as a public library today. The Washoe Theatre is another architectural gem to check out, first opened in 1936 and exemplifying the era’s art deco design.

For a good brew, travelers can grab a drink at Smelter City Brewing, which proudly produces its own craft beers in Anaconda. Travelers who will be visiting near the end of November can also attend the Christmas Stroll, which features a Christmas light parade down Main Street!

Whitefish

Although Whitefish is largely known for its proximity to ​​Glacier National Park, the town also has a notable downtown district, much of which is concentrated along or near Central Avenue. In the northernmost sector of the avenue, travelers will find Whitefish Theatre Company, a beloved community theater group that has been putting on productions since the late 20th century. Just south of the theater, you will find Blackstar BrewPub, where you can enjoy a cold beer and warm pizza after the show. Other dishes on the menu at the pub include smash burgers, Bavarian pretzels, chicken tenders, and salads, as well.

For some art, stop by the Dick Idol Signature Gallery, which showcases work from renowned Western artists. Although it is already over for this season, visitors can keep the Whitefish Farmers Market in mind for next year. This local farmers' market takes place on Central Avenue between June and September, giving local farmers and artisans the chance to share their food and goods with the community.

Red Lodge

Surrounded by the Beartooths, Red Lodge is a popular pit stop for travelers along the Beartooth Highway, with several downtown attractions you will want to keep on your radar. Broadway Avenue has a variety of accommodation options for those needing a place to stay, including The Pollard Hotel, housed in a historic building that dates back to 1893. If the town’s history intrigues you, consider stopping by the Carbon County Historical Society and Museum, which contains Native American artifacts, hard rock and coal exhibits, displays about the Greenough and Linderman families, who are some of the region’s biggest rodeo legends, and more.

You won’t be far from a delicious bite on Broadway Avenue, either. Red Lodge Pizza Co. is a town favorite, serving scratch-made pizzas with homemade sauce! Visitors also may want to check out the calendar at the Roosevelt Center, which hosts periodic community events and performances throughout the year.

Kalispell

Lined with numerous long-running businesses, Kalispell’s Main Street often evokes a sense of nostalgia in visitors. Visitors can travel back in time a few decades at Norm's Soda Fountain, which is home to Flathead Valley’s only old-fashioned soda fountain, also serving burgers, fries, and 800 kinds of candy!

Moose’s Saloon is another Main Street staple, operating in the community for over six decades and serving some of the town’s most legendary pizza. For a historic place to stay, look no further than the Kalispell Grand Hotel, established over a century ago in 1912. In the summer, meanwhile, you will likely spot a crowd at Depot Park, which hosts the beloved Picnic in the Park Summer Concert Series.

Livingston

Livingston’s Main Street is short and sweet, with the majority of its shops and boutiques concentrated within a five-block stretch. Travelers have several options of restaurants on Main, including The Fainting Goat Pub, which has live music four nights a week, along with an extensive menu of burgers, sandwiches, mac n cheese, shepherd's pie, biscuits and gravy, country fried chicken, and more.

For some local art, stop by the Medicine Bird Gallery, whose art is largely inspired by the Greater Yellowstone Ecosystem. Wheatgrass Books is another business on Main that is worth supporting, a local bookstore that has been operating in Livingston for 14 years. For gifts, home décor, or apparel, Wolf’s Mercantile has a bit of everything, much of it western-inspired.

Bigfork

Bigfork has a rich art scene, much of which is centered on Electric Avenue. This street is home to numerous art galleries, including the Eric Thorsen Gallery, a 6,500-square-foot studio and gallery that is filled with bronze sculptures, paintings, and prints. The Bigfork Art Cultural Center hosts an array of workshops and lectures throughout the year, giving visitors the chance to expand their art skills and knowledge.

Hoping to catch a live show while in town? The Bigfork Summer Playhouse has been a community favorite for decades and will be hosting its 67th season next year. Regarding the culinary scene, you will find plenty of gems like Pocketstone Cafe, a breakfast spot that specializes in dishes like egg scrambles, eggs Benedict, pancakes, and biscuits and gravy.

Montana's Downtowns Offer It All

If you ever get tired of exploring Montana’s many national and state parks, don’t forget that there are plenty of beautiful downtown areas to explore as well. Not only are they all filled with countless mouthwatering restaurants, but they also host exciting art scenes and cultural events like summer concerts and holiday events. By the end of your main street tour, you will likely have a whole new appreciation for what the state’s many downtowns have to offer!