Montana's 7 Most Underrated Towns to Visit in 2024
Not many in the modern-day era can envision what it would look like to stare across an open expanse of grassland with a looming snowcapped mountain range as the backdrop. But those who have visited Montana know exactly what that looks like.
Hidden amongst the majestic Rockies and the tail end of the Great Plains, small-town Montana promises adventure, natural wilderness, and tales of the past. So, in 2024, whether you want to plan a scenic hike up through the mountains, fly fish knee-deep in soothing glacial rivers, or discover the many attractions within the underrated towns, a trip to Montana will have you captivated and wanting more of America.
Lewistown
The perfect place to start your exploration is the Lewistown Art Centre. The Gallery is home to various exhibits, and the best part is you never know what’s around the corner. The exhibits range from Native American artistic works to pieces from the Renaissance era. Afterward, head over to the Judith Theatre, a historic theatre right on the main street that displays everything from the latest box office hits to classic films.
To see some of Montana’s vast outdoor expanses, book your ticket on the Charlie Russell Chew Choo, which is a 56-mile train ride right through the mountains and valleys of this untouched land. For history, hike up to the Bear Gulch Pictographs, which are some of the oldest cave paintings in all of America, and see what the earliest ancestors had to say.
Butte
Often referred to as the “richest hill on Earth” due to the abundance of natural resources hidden beneath the surface, Butte’s legacy is tied to legendary tales of the gold rush, miners, and ghost towns.
Butte’s surroundings outdoors are one of the main attractions, situated in the heart of the Rockies, the great expanse of the wilderness is right on the town’s doorstep. Butte has proven to be a popular destination for anglers, hunters, and hikers. Many local outfitters such as Tom and Chris Fishing Guides, and Montana Outfitters, offer personalized experiences for those wanting to explore Butte’s great outdoors.
If you want to stay in the comfort of town, schedule a tour with Butte’s historical adventures which will walk you through the town's earliest days to where it is now. Explore local attractions such as the City’s underground tunnel system, which was used quite often during the prohibition era. Since the town is closely tied to the mining industry, stop by the World Mining Museum to learn about the mining history of Butte.
Helena
A fair warning to those who visit, Helena tends to make people extend their stay during their visit to the state capital of Montana. There is no shortage of activities ranging from scenic hikes throughout the surrounding foothills or exploring Montana’s unique history throughout the town, you are sure to be left with a full itinerary regardless of your interests.
Start by taking a tour of the Montana State Capitol building located in the town’s center. Schedule a tour through the building itself, or simply wander the well-manicured grounds. Numerous museums can be explored as well. Take your pick from the Montana Military Museum, the Montana Historical Museum, or the Holter Museum of Art. Regardless of your choice, you are sure to be left impressed.
If hiking is your forte, then begin planning your ascent of nearby Mount Helena. Follow along the 1906 trail which will take you atop the summit and give you with one of the best views in the entire state.
Kalispell
Surrounded by the nearby Rocky Mountain range, this small Montana town is home to beautiful scenery. The nearby snowcapped peaks are a picture-perfect backdrop until the spring, then the snow gives way to shimmering blue lakes and lush forests.
Just a stone throw away from the town are the breathtaking landscapes of Glacier National Park. The park is a natural wonder and provides a great spot for hiking excursions or camping in the vast meadows of the mountains. To continue your outdoor excursion, try booking a local outfitter and attempting to flyfish in the waters of Flathead River.
Head back into civilization and explore unique attractions right in the heart of the town. Visit the Conrad Mansion Museum to learn about one of the most influential figures in the town’s legacy. Take a deeper dive into the region's history by visiting the grand Northwest Montana History Museum which tells the stories of those who fought, survived, and lived on the soil of Kalispell.
Whitefish
Just up the road from Kalispell, this town has long been a haven for winter sports enthusiasts as it averages over 300 inches of snow each year. Fortunately, Whitefish’s exciting attractions don’t go away as the snow melts. The town has plenty to see and do regardless of the season.
During the warmer months, the same mountains that prove high-quality skiing, give way to premier mountain biking trails. Visit Whitefish Outfitters to browse the variety of tours offered. So whether your desire is road biking or off-road biking, they have you covered. Additionally, nearby Whitefish Lake has amazing excursions as the temperature begins to climb. Spend an afternoon soaking up some sun at Whitefish City Beach.
During the winter, shred the slopes at Whitefish Mountain Resort which is home to plenty of runs tailoring to all skill levels. So regardless of if you’re a beginner or an expert, there is something for you.
Belgrade
Located just above one of Montana’s biggest cities, Belgrade lies just north of Bozeman meaning that the town has long been overlooked by those who prefer an urban atmosphere over the small-town feel of this frontier town.
But don’t sleep in this quaint little town as it has experiences that can’t be replicated elsewhere. The town is home to Lewis and Clark Park, which is dedicated to one of the most famous ventures in the history of America. The park also is the perfect place to enjoy sunshine, take a walk, or simply relax. The town’s proximity to the great outdoors is ideal for a hike, or march along the Valley trails which slice through Belgrade.
If you have ever wondered what it feels like to soar through the air and take in the scenery from a bird’s eye view, then schedule an elevated experience with Rocky Mountain Rotors which offers helicopter tours departing from Belgrade.
As the snow begins to fall, the excitement doesn’t stop. Visit during the chillier months for world-class skiing opportunities at Bridger Bowl Ski Area and shred your way to the bottom.
Anaconda
Despite boasting a name like Anaconda, visitors need not worry as no gigantic snakes are looming about. The oddly named town was founded in 1883 and has managed to preserve its Wild West heritage while giving way to more modern attractions.
Anaconda was also home to an early mining boom in the late 1800s which attracted people from around the globe to chase their fortune. As the mines dried up so did the towns. Visit the nearby Granite ghost town for an eerie experience as you walk through the streets that were once bustling but now lay still. To dig deeper into the town’s mining history, head over to the Copper Village Museum which is in the town’s elaborate city hall complex. The museum features everything from the town's storied past to more modern art exhibits incorporating the regional Native American influences that the town celebrates.
Don’t fall victim to the tourist traps and bright lights of major cities for your 2024 vacations. Take a stride down the road less traveled and consider these overlooked towns for your next vacation destination. Montana has long been hiding from the spotlight and has been able to preserve its Wild West heritage. So get out and explore America by heading into these historical, adventurous, and exciting towns.
