Montana Summer Staycation Series: Red Lodge, MT
Summer is a natural time to vacation, and while there are plenty of fun beach destinations and big-city adventures out there, sometimes the best getaways are the ones right in your own backyard.
You don’t have to drive hours and hours or hop on a plane to have a memorable summer escape, especially if you live in Montana.
Just under an hour and a half from Billings, Red Lodge, Montana is one of those towns that feels like a hidden gem – even though locals know it’s anything but secret.
With its charming downtown, stunning mountain backdrop, and endless opportunities for outdoor fun, Red Lodge makes for the perfect summer staycation destination.
Whether you're craving a weekend of hiking and biking, a little retail therapy on Broadway Ave, or just want to sip a coffee with mountain views, this blog post has you covered. Keep reading for everything you need to know to plan a summer escape to Red Lodge, MT!
Where to Stay in Red Lodge, MT
When planning a vacation or staycation of any kind, the first thing you have to do is find the perfect accommodations! And “perfect” is relative – some people love a more luxurious hotel stay, while others prefer cozy cabins or charming inns.
Whichever you prefer, Red Lodge has a mix of accommodations that are sure to make for the perfect stay while you’re in town.
Located in the heart of downtown Red Lodge, The Pollard is a historic hotel full of charm and character. It’s the perfect home base if you want to be walking distance from shops, restaurants, and evening entertainment!
With cozy rooms, a warm western feel, and modern amenities, it’s a great blend of past and present. Some rooms even offer views of the Beartooths!
Airbnb or Cabin Rental
Red Lodge has some incredible short-term rentals, including mountain cabins, modern townhomes, and charming cottages. If you’re traveling with a group or want a little more space and privacy, this is a great option.
Plus, when you choose this option, you’re often met with a few fun bonuses like patios, fire pits, and even hot tubs for the ultimate unwind.
Camping
If you really want to embrace the Montana roots and keep things adventurous, there are several nearby campgrounds worth checking out that are close to town and family-friendly, like Red Lodge KOA, or if you want a more scenic spot with easy access to hiking trails and creeks, Greenough Lake Campground and Limber Pine Campground are great options!
Where to Eat in Red Lodge, MT
Once you pick where you’ll be staying in Red Lodge, it’s time to load up your itinerary with where to eat while you’re visiting!
A few local recommended favorites include:
Grab coffee at Hidden Basin Coffee Post & Eatery ☕️
When you wake up in Red Lodge and are craving a cup of coffee right away, Hidden Basin is the place to go! The charming café offers locally roasted coffee and healthy grab‑and‑go fare, like breakfast wraps and salads. But don’t grab a bite to eat just yet… there’s a yummy diner for that! 👇🏼
Start your day the Red Lodge way at Prindy’s Place 🍳
Breakfast is the most important meal of the day and no one does breakfast better in Red Lodge than Prindy’s. This small-town diner is a local favorite for a reason! Think fluffy pancakes, eggs just how you like them, and hot coffee in a no-frills, friendly setting.
Get your health fix at Cafe Regis 🍓
If you’re craving something a little more modern, Cafe Regis serves fresh, organic fare in a charming greenhouse setting. Their breakfast burritos, smoothies, and veggie-packed scrambles are always a win. Grab a seat on the patio if the weather’s nice!
Have a casual lunch at Red Lodge Pizza Co. 🍕
This spot is perfect for lunch or a casual dinner, especially if you’re traveling with kids or want to fuel up after a day of hiking. They’ve got specialty pizzas, like the Beartooth Supreme, local beers, and a fun upstairs arcade.
Go on a date to Carbon County Steakhouse 🍽️
Treat yourself to a delicious dinner with a Montana twist at Carbon County Steakhouse where you can enjoy locally-sourced meats, a cozy atmosphere, and a great wine list. It’s a great date night option or perfect for celebrating a summer birthday or special occasion.
Treat yourself at Rock Creek Soda Hole 🥤
For a nostalgic treat with a twist, stop by Rock Creek Soda Hole in downtown Red Lodge. This vintage-style soda fountain offers hand-mixed sodas, creamy milkshakes, and classic ice cream sundaes that hit the spot on a warm summer day.
It’s a fun and unique stop for both kids and adults and a sweet way to cap off your Red Lodge adventures!
Unwind with a pint at Red Lodge Ales 🍻
If you’re looking for an adult-friendly wind-down after dinner, head over to Red Lodge Ales. Their locally brewed beer selection, laid-back atmosphere, and outdoor patio make it a great evening hangout. Keep an eye out for rotating food trucks and live music nights throughout the summer!
Things To Do In Red Lodge, MT
Beyond eating and drinking your way through Red Lodge, there are plenty of other things to do while you’re visiting!
Drive the Beartooth Highway 🛣️
Red Lodge is the starting point for one of the most scenic drives in the country: the Beartooth Highway. Open during the summer, this stretch of highway climbs to nearly 11,000 feet and offers jaw-dropping views of alpine lakes, rugged peaks, and endless sky.
Even a short drive along the route is worth it, but if you have time, pack a picnic and take it all the way to the summit!
Hiking in the Beartooths 🥾
There are tons of trail options for every experience level in Red Lodge! If you’re traveling with the whole family, opt for Lake Fork Trail or Wild Bill Lake, but if you’re more experienced and want something more adventurous, head up to Glacier Lake or Basin Lakes for a longer day hike with serious views.
Red Lodge Mountain Adventures 🌄
In the summer months, Red Lodge Mountain offers lift-accessed mountain biking, hiking trails, and special events like live music and it’s a great place to take in the views even if you’re not skiing.
Horseback Riding 🤠
Nothing says a Montana vacation quite like horseback riding and when you’re visiting Red Lodge, you have a few options for guided tours through the surrounding hills.
Elk River Outfitters and Whispering Winds are two local options that offer rides for all experience levels and it’s a great way to take in the landscape at a slower pace.
Explore Downtown Red Lodge 🛍️
If you want an escape from all of the mountainous adventure, opt for an afternoon browsing local shops, boutiques, and art galleries along Broadway Avenue. You’ll find everything from handcrafted jewelry and western gear to outdoor apparel and Montana-made gifts.
Visit the Red Lodge Farmers Market 💐
Held every Saturday morning during the summer, the Red Lodge Farmers Market brings fresh produce, local cheeses, artisan goods, and live music to Lions Park. It’s a community staple where you can taste seasonal flavors, support local vendors, and soak in small-town Montana charm.
Attend a local event or festival 🎶
Depending on when you visit, you might catch one of Red Lodge’s many summer events including The Red Lodge Music Festival (early June) and the Fourth of July rodeo, parade, and fireworks show.
There ya have it – your summer staycation itinerary picks for Red Lodge, MT.
Whether you're looking for a peaceful weekend of mountain views and patio dining or a more adventurous getaway packed with hiking, biking, and exploring, Red Lodge delivers the full Montana experience without the long road trip.
And trust me – it’s the kind of place you’ll want to visit again and again throughout all the different seasons!
So pack your bags (and your hiking boots) and head to Red Lodge for a fun summer getaway without all of the hustle and bustle that traveling typically brings.