The Ultimate Montana Bucket List for Residents and Tourists Alike

Did you know that there’s a whole day dedicated to celebrating the great state of Montana?! Even though I’m pretty sure every state has their own national day, I like to think that Montana is one of the special ones. 🤣

May 3rd is National Montana Day and though I couldn’t tell you who or why they chose this date to recognize my home sweet home, I’m glad they did! 

Montana really is one of the best places on earth (yes, I’m biased, but also I think many would agree!) and though you don’t need a dedicated day to have an excuse to explore all of its greatness, it sure doesn’t hurt. 

Whether you’re a Montana native, someone that’s recently relocated here, or someone that simply loves to travel, this blog post can serve as your ultimate Montana Bucket List full of fun experiences across the state to help you plan your exploration and adventures. 

Your Ultimate Montana Bucket List (featuring 20 unforgettable experiences that showcase the beauty, adventure, and unique spirit of Montana!)

✔️ Drive the Beartooth Highway – often called “America’s most beautiful drive,” this scenic highway from Red Lodge to Yellowstone climbs to nearly 11,000 feet and offers panoramic alpine views. 🚗

✔️ Soak in Chico Hot Springs – located near Pray, MT, Chico is a beloved resort with natural hot springs, fine dining, and mountain views, all wrapped up in a charming historic setting that’s definitely worth the visit. ♨︎

✔️ Visit Glacier National Park

You can’t visit Montana and not visit Glacier! The national park has over 700 miles of trails you can choose to explore, snap pictures at scenic overlooks, and drive the stunning Going-to-the-Sun Road. 🏞️

✔️ Float the Yellowstone River

If you’re in Billings, this is one of the most notable things to do during the warmer months! You can rent a kayak or raft and float one of the last free-flowing rivers in the lower 48. 🚣🏼

✔️ Attend the MontanaFair in Billings – our massive annual fair is a summer tradition like no other that features concerts, rodeos, carnival rides, and of course deep-fried everything. 🎡

✔️ Stroll Through Downtown Missoula – filled with breweries, local shops, and artsy flair, Missoula’s downtown is ideal for a day of exploring, eating, and people-watching. 🛍️

✔️ Tour a Ghost Town – step back in time at Bannack or Virginia City, well-preserved gold rush towns, where you can explore historic buildings and hear tales of the Wild West. 👻

✔️ See Wildlife in Lamar Valley, Yellowstone – Montana’s side of Yellowstone is rich with bison, wolves, bears, and elk, especially in the Lamar Valley, often referred to as “America’s Serengeti” due to its abundant and diverse wildlife 🦬

✔️Explore Makoshika State Park – located near Glendive, Montana’s largest state park features badland formations and the fossil remains of Tyrannosaurus Rex, Triceratops, and other prehistoric life. 🦕

✔️ Go Fly Fishing – world-renowned for its fly fishing, Montan has countless pristine rivers and streams filled with trout. Whether you're a seasoned angler or trying it for the first time, you can find incredible spots all across the state to cast a line. 🎣

✔️ Visit a Local Brewery (or multiple!) – Montana has one of the highest breweries-per-capita in the U.S. and you’re sure to find a local spot in most of the popular cities, like Bozeman and Billings. 🍻

If you’re in Billings, you can do the self guided Billings Brew Trail! 

✔️ Watch the Northern Lights at Glacier or Fort Peck – head north during the winter for a chance to see the aurora borealis 🌌

✔️ Go camping (or glamping!)

Whether you're pitching a tent in a national forest or booking a luxury glamping tent with all the amenities, Montana is packed with incredible places to camp! 🏕️

For a full outdoor experience, look into outfitters like Flying Pig Adventures, which offer multi-day packages that can include camping, horseback riding, kayaking, and more.

If you’re looking for camping destinations near Billings specifically, click here! And if you’re in need of a unique weekend getaway, here’s an itinerary for a fun glamping experience in Gardiner, MT, featuring horseback riding and rafting through a local outfitter like mentioned above. 

✔️Take a Scenic Train Ride on the Empire Builder – Amtrak’s Empire Builder cuts through northern Montana, offering epic views of Glacier National Park and remote plains towns. 🚞

✔️ Attend a local rodeo – experience Montana's Western roots up close by attending a local rodeo. From the famous NILE Stock Show and Rodeo in October in Billings to smaller hometown events throughout the summer, rodeos are a true Montana tradition and a fun way to get a taste of cowboy culture. 🤠

✔️ Explore the Lewis and Clark Caverns – Montana’s first state park, this limestone cave system near Three Forks features guided tours with awe-inspiring formations. 🪨

✔️ Visit Pictograph Cave State Park – just minutes from Billings, this park features ancient rock art dating back over 2,000 years, with more than 100 pictographs still visible today. With easy hiking trails, interpretive signage, and sweeping views, it’s a perfect spot for history lovers and outdoor enthusiasts. 🌄

✔️ Stay at a luxury resort

Although Montana is primarily known for its outdoor adventure, there’s also so many luxurious resorts, like Sage Lodge and Paws Up, across the state that offer so many additional amenities that give you some true R & R. 🧖🏼‍♀️

✔️ Hit the slopes – Montana is full of outdoor adventure all year round. In the winter, head to Red Lodge Mountain for skiing and snowboarding with breathtaking views and a laid-back vibe. ⛷️

✔️ Bike or hike a local trail – with thousands of miles of scenic trails ranging from easy strolls to challenging climbs, Montana is a hiker and biker’s dream. Across the state, you’ll find everything from alpine paths in Glacier National Park to riverside routes near Missoula. Whether on two feet or two wheels, there's no better way to explore Big Sky Country. 🥾🚵🏼‍♀️

Here’s a roundup of some of the best hiking and biking trails near Billings specifically!

As you can see, Montana is FULL of ways to adventure and explore and my hope is that this list gives you a starting point when planning your vacation, a weekend getaway, or even just a day trip as a local. 

And if you ever find yourself dreaming of calling this beautiful state home, I’d love to help you make that happen!