8 Towns in Montana Have The Best Main Streets
When you think of a quintessential small town Main Street, images of tree-lined avenues with quaint local shops, bustling activity and friendly people come to mind. Montana has some of the most beautiful main streets in America. From Whitefish to Belgrade, there are street after street filled with unique boutiques and eateries that transport you back in time while still being up to date with modern amenities.
From historic architecture to unique local attractions and quaint shops, these eight towns in Montana have some of the most stunning and vibrant main streets in America. Read on for more information about each place so you can plan your next getaway!
Whitefish – Gateway Town to Glacier National Park
Whitefish is a beautiful gateway town to Glacier National Park. Boasting a vibrant downtown area, Whitefish offers visitors an array of activities and attractions. The main street is lined with restaurants, bars, galleries, and boutiques, offering something for everyone to do before heading out into the wilderness.
The local eateries are some of the best in town. Try the unique flavors at Boudoir Bar Café or visit the award-winning Tupelo Grille for some delicious seafood dishes. You can also explore the many eclectic shops on 2nd Street -- ranging from cowboy boots and art pieces to souvenirs and apparel. Whitefish doesn't just offer its visitors great food and shopping, there's plenty of outdoor activities for those looking for an adventure. Take a stroll through the downtown area, which is full of art galleries, theaters, and other cultural attractions. Or venture out further to explore some of Montana's stunning landscapes -- from beautiful snow-covered mountains to serene lakes and river valleys.
Livingston – Enchanting Old West Charm
Montana towns are known for their small-town charm, and Livingston is no exception. This enchanting Old West gem sits in the heart of the Yellowstone Valley and boasts one of the best main streets you'll find in the state. The main street consists of quaint shops, restaurants, cafes and more; all contributing to a unique atmosphere that's perfect for a relaxing getaway.
The locals pride themselves on keeping Livingston's downtown area up-to-date but still maintaining its historical charm. Visitors can experience this through the buildings' beautiful architecture and local events such as Brewfest. From cozy coffee shops like Paradise Perk Espresso to traditional eateries like Montana Rib & Chop House, Livingston's main street offers something for everyone. For those looking to soak up the town's history and culture, there are plenty of historical buildings and attractions such as the historic Murray Hotel.
Ennis – Hangout Spot for Fly Fishermen
Ennis is often called the quintessential fly fishermen's hangout spot. It has a wonderfully quaint main street that offers everything from restaurants and pubs to specialty outdoor gear shops. The Sportsman's Lodge and Casino is a popular restaurant along the main street of Ennis and serves up dinner with some great views. Tavern 287 is another great place to grab a bite while exploring all that Ennis has to offer.
If you're looking for some new outdoor hunting gear, Shedhorn Sports located on Main Street has been serving up the best selection around since 1979! After a long day of fishing and exploring, head to one of the many pubs around town for a cold beer or other beverage.
Butte – Historic Mining Town
Located in the heart of a historic mining town, Butte's vibrant and bustling main street offers plenty for locals and visitors alike. Restaurants such as MacKenzie River Pizza, Grill & Pub provide excellent dining options, while Cooper King Convention Center and Hotel provides luxurious accommodations for those looking for an extended stay. And if you're looking for something more educational during your visit, there are several museums around town to explore.
The history of Butte is rich with stories of its rise from a small gold and silver-mining camp to one of the most prosperous cities in Montana. Its fortunes waxed and waned through the years due to both economic booms and busts. But even during the difficult times, its main street maintained a certain charm that attracted locals and visitors alike.
Red Lodge – Artsy Mountain Paradise
Red Lodge is an artsy mountain paradise tucked away in Montana's Beartooth Mountains. Its main street is the perfect place to explore, with plenty of options to suit any taste. Visit Beartooth Gallery and browse its stunning collection of local artworks and paintings. Or, try delicious traditional Mexican food at Palmita Mexican Restaurant. If you're feeling active, take advantage of all the outdoor activities nearby -- ski down Red Lodge Mountain Resort's slopes or go mountain biking while taking in the breathtaking views. If a slower pace is more your speed, there are plenty of peaceful trails to stroll through during a leisurely hike, too.
The town has something for everyone, from nature lovers to adventurers and culture buffs. Red Lodge is a great place to come if you're looking for an artsy mountain escape from everyday life -- its main street will give you just that!
Helena – Capital of Montana with Unique Culture
Located in the shadows of Mount Helena, the capital city of Helena is an ideal destination for tourists for something out of the ordinary. With an array of restaurants and museums, there's something to everyone.
Jalisco Mexican Grill serves some delicious local flavors, while White Knight Games & Hobbies provides a one-of-a-kind shopping experience with collectibles ranging from vintage toys to comic books. If you're looking for something more educational, take a trip to Exploration Works Museum, which houses interactive exhibits about science and technology. History buffs can also enjoy trips to places like The Reeder's Alley or Last Chance Gulch, which preserves artifacts from the area's gold rush era. Helena also has a variety of nightlife options to choose from.
Kalispell – Fishing, Hiking, and Stellar Views
Main streets in Montana are some of the best in the country. Kalispell, for example, has a thriving main street that is full of activity and charm. Located just north of Flathead Lake, Kalispell's main street is bustling with businesses ranging from restaurants, like Frugals, to clothing stores and gift shops. Especially during the summer months, visitors can find plenty of activities on Main Street, such as live music performances, farmers' markets, and art festivals.
Kalispell also offers unique shopping experiences -- while one can find all sorts of great items at the local retailers found along Main Street, those who venture off the beaten path may discover treasures like an antique store, or an artist co-op nestled away in one of the city's side streets.
Belgrade - All Season Exploration
Located in Gallatin County, Belgrade offers stunning views and plenty of outdoor activities. However, it's not just the scenery that makes this town so special -- it's also the incredible Main Street. The Main Street in Belgrade runs along the I-90 and is lined with unique shops, restaurants like The Buzz Coffee Bar, galleries, and more. It's a great place to stroll through on an afternoon, whether you're looking for something specific or just want to take in the sights and sounds. The downtown area also includes several historic buildings.
In addition to being a great place to explore, Belgrade also has plenty of activities for all seasons. During the warmer months, visitors can take a self-guided tour of the historic Main Street or spend an afternoon gazing at the stellar views. In the winter, you can enjoy cross-country skiing and snowshoeing along some of the trails in town.
In Summary
These cities all offer something unique and special that can be enjoyed by visitors looking to explore Montana's great outdoors. Whether you're looking for a relaxing stay in small-town America or an adventurous journey into nature, these destinations have something to offer everyone. So come and explore the wild beauty of Montana's main streets. You won't be disappointed!
