Nestled against the Yellowstone River and tucked beneath the picturesque Rimrocks, Billings is the largest city in Montana. With its friendly locals, vibrant art scene, and access to the great outdoors, Billings has something for everyone. Whether you’re looking for family fun, nightlife entertainment, or outdoor adventures, this scenic city is a treasure trove of activities and attractions waiting to be explored. In this blog post, we’ll highlight 10 of the top things to do in Billings that you won’t want to miss.
10 Things to Do in Billings, Montana
Explore Downtown Billings
Downtown Billings is the vibrant heart of the city. Start your visit with a stroll down the pedestrian-friendly Montana Avenue, which is lined with locally owned shops, galleries, restaurants and breweries. Don’t miss the Western Heritage Center, which offers interactive exhibits detailing the history and culture of the Yellowstone River Valley.
Hike the Rimrocks
The sandstone Rimrocks surrounding Billings offer miles of scenic hiking trails with panoramic views. Don’t miss the Swords Rimrock Park’s four-mile loop trail that takes you above the city with views of the Beartooth Mountains. For an easier hike, check out Phipps Park with access to the Rimrocks just minutes from downtown.
Visit ZooMontana
ZooMontana is home to over 80 animal species, including endangered red pandas, playful river otters, and majestic grizzly bears. Walk through the zoo’s botanical gardens, check out educational wildlife presentations, and hand-feed lettuce to the friendly giraffes. It’s fun for all ages.
Tour the Moss Mansion
Step back in time with a tour of the historic Moss Mansion. Built in 1903, this sprawling Billings landmark exemplifies turn-of-the-century architecture with original stained glass, ornate woodwork, and antique furnishings. Learn about Billings’ early days on a guided tour.
Float the Yellowstone River
Grab a tube, kayak or raft and float along the Yellowstone River as it winds through the heart of Billings. Several outfitters in town offer rentals and shuttles. Or, simply relax on the banks of Riverfront Park and take in views of the sleepy waterway.
See the Birds of Prey
The Audubon Conservation Education Center is home to one of the largest collections of non-releasable raptors, like bald eagles, owls, falcons and hawks. Attend a live bird of prey demonstration to see these magnificent birds up close and learn about their unique traits.
Explore Pictograph Cave State Park
Located minutes from downtown, this state park protects over 100 cave pictographs left behind by Native Americans up to 2,000 years ago. Hike the short interpretive trail to view this ancient artwork up close in one of the largest pictograph sites in Montana.
Catch a Baseball Game
Cheer for the Billings Mustangs, a minor league affiliate of the Cincinnati Reds playing at Dehler Park in the heart of downtown. Enjoy an evening of America’s favorite pastime with baseball action and family fun.
See the Billings Depot
Listed on the National Register of Historic Places, the Billings Depot is one of the city’s most iconic landmarks. The ornate stone building now houses the Billings Chamber of Commerce and Visitor Center. Don’t miss the mural spanning the building’s interior archways depicting Crow Indian culture and history.
Drive the Beartooth Scenic Byway
Just an hour outside Billings lies the jaw-dropping Beartooth Scenic Byway. Named “the most beautiful drive in America” by late CBS correspondent Charles Kuralt, this route climbs to an elevation of nearly 11,000 feet with alpine lakes, wildflowers and breathtaking mountain vistas.
Conclusion
With its unique blend of outdoor adventure, exciting attractions and small-town charm, Billings has so much for visitors to experience. Take a scenic hike, learn about Montana history, cheer at a baseball game or spot majestic raptors – this Western city will delight. Any time of year, Billings offers the perfect home base for exploring the natural wonders of southern Montana and northern Wyoming.
