7 Charming Montana Towns For The Perfect Getaway

Montana is nicknamed the Treasure State, and for good reason. Its history is heavily intertwined with mining, hence the state motto, “Oro y Plata,” Spanish for Gold and Silver. It was part of Lewis and Clark’s expedition route and still provides many natural open expanses for modern explorers to enjoy today. Amongst the mountain ranges to the west and prairies to the east, you will find many charming small towns presenting the perfect spot for a fun-filled adventure of your own. So pack your bags and gear up because these getaway destinations are seven hidden gems you won’t want to miss.

Whitefish

Whitefish is located in northwest Montana at the edge of Glacier National Park. This rugged landscape offers visitors many scenic activities to indulge in. Over at Whitefish Mountain Resort, you will find a world-class ski and snowboarding destination. This ski resort is a winter paradise, boasting over 110 runs spread over 3,000 acres, with instructors on hand for beginners and experts alike. During the summer months, it is home to hiking trails, fly-fishing, and horseback riding adventures. The resort also offers lodging options ranging from condos and homes to hotel rooms to ensure you will find something for every size group and budget.

If you are looking to camp during your visit, head to Whitefish Lake State Park. In addition to the 25 campsites, the park is a great place to enjoy swimming, fishing, hiking, biking trails, and boating. At the park's boat launch, you will find "Sea Me Paddle," which provides guests with tour options and the opportunity to rent kayaks and paddleboards. Golf enthusiasts can visit the nearby Whitefish Lake Golf Club. With two 18-hole courses to choose from, lessons from the Pro Shop, and an onsite restaurant, you will have everything you need to enjoy your day on the greens. Back in town, grab a bite and enjoy some live music and billiards at the Great Northern Bar and Grill.

Red Lodge

This little mountain town serves up a lot of charm and hospitality. Skiers can make use of the mountainous terrain over at Red Lodge Mountain. The ski hill has 70 runs with a combined 2,400 feet of vertical drop. If you are looking to relax after a day in the mountains, Rock Creek Resort is the perfect destination. With the option to stay in majestic wooden lodges or creekside rooms, this paradise is surrounded by the scenic beauty of the Beartooth Mountains. Relax in one of the resort's saunas or take a dip in the pool before trying your hand at fly-fishing in the Rock Creek waters.

Alternatively, you can stay at The Pollard Hotel in Downtown Red Lodge if you want the feeling of stepping back in time. This historic hotel was established in 1893, and the decor throughout the building gives you the impression that not much has changed since it first opened its doors. If you are in town for breakfast, locals recommend the ample portions served over at The Red Lodge Cafe and Casino. For beer enthusiasts, Red Lodge Ales allows guests to tour their brewery, sample beers in the tap room, or enjoy a meal in the rural setting of their beer garden.

Livingston

Located north of Yellowstone National Park, Livingston is situated on the Yellowstone River. In town, you will find the Yellowstone Gateway Museum. The indoor exhibits showcase the local Indigenous culture, early pioneer life, and the importance of the railway to the area. Outside, you will find a period-accurate schoolhouse, a blacksmith shop, and various vehicles used throughout the years. Train enthusiasts can continue their visit at the Livingston Depot Center. The depot was constructed in 1902 and built as the starting point for train journeys into Yellowstone National Park.

Today, the building hosts events, weddings, and exhibits. Music lovers should time their stay to catch a live performance of bluegrass or country at the Pine Creek Lodge. This outdoor music venue also offers rustic accommodation options such as converted shipping containers or canvas tents. Alternatively, you can stay at the Murray Hotel. This historic downtown building is themed with decor inspired by the National Park, Indigenous culture, and the Northern Pacific Railroad. Anthony Bourdain noted the hotel as one of his top ten favorite places to stay.

Kalispell

The town of Kalispell is surrounded by two state parks, Flathead Lake and Lone Pine. Flathead Lake offers camping, boating, and fishing opportunities, while Lone Pine State Park’s focus is on scenic trails dedicated to hiking, mountain biking, and horseback riding. In town, visitors can tour the Conrad Mansion. Built in 1895, this estate tells the story of Charles Conrad and showcases pioneer life in Montana. Exhibits show the house as it would have been at the time, with period-accurate furniture and artifacts.

Nearby, the old town library has been converted into the Glacier Art Museum, featuring rotating exhibits in addition to its permanent collection. Visitors can stay at the Kalispell Grand Hotel, which is located just a few blocks away. Established in 1912, this small historic hotel’s central location makes it a great jumping-off spot for further adventures.

Dillon

Lewis and Clark passed through this region in 1805. While visiting the town of Dillon, you can hike through Clark’s Lookout State Park to get a sense of the same views and wildlife they would have seen during their historic expedition. If you are in need of some new gear to outfit your own adventures, be sure to stop at the Patagonia Outlet in town to get great deals on past-season clothing and equipment. You can continue your historic tour at the Beaverhead County Museum, which pays tribute to the pioneers who helped shape the local land and culture. A variety of exhibits and artifacts help tell the story of the local area and the history of the town of Dillon.

The town was home to the Beaverhead Brewing Company in the late 1800s. Though the brewery shut down many decades ago, its legacy was brought back when Brett Maki decided to open a new brewery in the town operating under the same name. In addition to beer, the brewery makes handcrafted gluten-free soda for the town's younger residents. When visiting, consider staying at the Andrus boutique hotel. The original incarnation of the hotel opened its doors to the public in 1918, and much like the brewery, it has been brought back to life many years later by new owners. The hotel has various-sized suites, all renovated with a more modern aesthetic.

Bigfork

Bigfork is situated on Flathead Lake beside Wayfarers / Flat Lake State Park. In addition to the boating and swimming opportunities provided at the lake, the town has quite a lot to keep you busy. Bigfork Summer Playhouse is a venue for live theatre, with their season running from June to August. The community’s dedication to the arts can also be seen at the Bigfork Art and Cultural Center. The Center is home to a Gallery, exhibits, and a history museum.

If you are looking for a full meal, check out the Echo Lake Cafe, a family-owned restaurant since 1960. Serving breakfast and lunch only, this cafe is equal parts rustic and retro in decor. If you are looking for a place to stay during your visit, Mountain Lake Lodge has 30 suites with scenic views of the neighboring lake.

Deer Lodge

Deer Lodge is a small town steeped in railroad and cattle ranching history. The Grant-Kohrs Ranch is a National Historic Site honoring the significance of Cattlemen in the shaping of the West. The site boasts 88 historic buildings, which you can explore, along with Park Rangers to help you with any questions you may have during your visit. In town, the Powell County Museum and Arts Foundation operates multiple museums, including the Old Prison Museum. Here, you can experience what prison life would have been like in the late 1800s as you roam the prison alone or with a guided tour. The Prison is thought to be a hotspot for the paranormal and attracts ghost hunters from across the country.

In the same complex, guests can visit the Montana Auto Collection, which has over 200 classic cars on display. Deer Lodge Golf Club, located in front of Mount Powell, has a 9-hole course, pro shop, lounge, and rental shop. For an overnight visit, head to the Old Montana Inn. Though the rooms have modern amenities, they are themed with Western and prison-inspired accents to compliment the overall atmosphere of the town.

Hidden Treasures in Montana

Montaña del Norte, or Northern Mountain, was how Spanish explorers first referred to the region and how the state got its name. With glacier-carved mountains, lakes, and the Lewis and Clark National Historic Trail, Montana is the perfect destination for those with the heart of an explorer. Nestled in its mountains and spread across its rivers, you will find charming towns rich with history and opportunities for adventure. Perhaps now is the time to take a break from your routine and set out on your own exploratory getaway.