Things to Do in Billings Montana: Best Attractions, Restaurants & Day Trips
Billings, Montana — can I just hug you?! You may be known as Montana’s Trailhead, but you’ve got everything going on in your own right. A trailhead is where a trail begins, which means Billings makes a phenomenal home base for adventures elsewhere in Montana — but after my visit to this charming, wildly underrated city, I say: stay awhile.
Trust me, there are so many things to do in Billings, Montana, that I am going to knock your socks off.
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When I posted a photo to Instagram for another project and geotagged it as Billings, I didn’t even mention the city in my caption. But you can’t fool the travel community. I immediately got comments about how awesome Billings is, how underrated it was, and how much people had loved exploring it. I have to say — I completely agree.
I spent 48 hours in Billings, and it was more than enough to fall in love. Billings has a genuinely great food and beverage scene (the most important thing, in my book), plus art, live music, outdoor adventures, incredible farmer’s markets, and a French baker — a real French baker! — right in the heart of Montana.
My time was mainly anchored in historic downtown, which is impossibly walkable and endlessly photogenic. I quickly hit my 10,000 steps just exploring block after beautiful block — which I absolutely needed after all the eating I did.
Here’s everything you need to know about things to do in Billings, MT, from someone who showed up knowing almost nothing and left completely smitten.
Table of Contents
Best Time to Visit Billings
Billings is a year-round destination, but honestly? Summer (June through August) is the sweet spot. That’s when the Yellowstone Valley Farmers Market is in full swing, outdoor events like Alive After 5 pack downtown every week, hiking trails are at their most beautiful, and day trips to Yellowstone and the Beartooth Highway are fully accessible.
Spring (April–May) is lovely if you don’t mind occasional rain — wildflowers are out, the crowds are smaller, and the Rimrocks glow in a way that makes you feel like you’re in a painting.
Fall (September–October) is my personal runner-up. The cottonwoods turn gold along the Yellowstone River, temperatures cool down to perfect hiking weather, and the restaurant scene is going strong.
Winter brings a quieter, more local side of Billings — cross-country skiing, cozy coffee shops, and zero tourist crowds. If that’s your speed, go for it.
Whatever season you visit, budget at least 2 full days to scratch the surface. I’d argue 3–4 days lets you actually exhale and do the day trips justice.
How to Get to Billings
- By air: Billings Logan International Airport (BIL) is served by Delta, United, Alaska, and American. It’s small, easy, and exactly 2.2 miles from downtown. The Northern Hotel runs a complimentary airport shuttle — one of those old-school hotel perks I absolutely love and rarely experience anymore. Within 5 minutes of landing, I was in a shuttle, and 7 minutes later, I was at the hotel. In this era of airport chaos, that felt like a miracle.
- By car: Billings sits right on I-90, which makes it a natural stop on a Montana or Wyoming road trip. From Bozeman, it’s about 2.5 hours; from Cody, Wyoming, it’s 1.5 hours.
- Parking: Downtown Billings has plenty of affordable street parking and garages. If you’re staying downtown, you likely won’t need your car at all for the in-city portions of your trip.
Art & Culture in Billings
I know what you’re thinking: “Andi? Art? That’s something new!” But honestly, I love museums, street art, murals, and artisanal crafts. I might not write a dissertation on Toulouse-Lautrec, but I know a vibrant art scene when I see one — and Billings has one.
Yellowstone Art Museum
401 N 27th St, Billings, MT | Tue–Sat 10 am–5 pm, Thu until 8 pm | 💲 ~$15 adults
I walked to the Yellowstone Art Museum from the Northern Hotel on my first afternoon. Two hours before closing, but that was plenty of time to take in the permanent collections plus two standout temporary exhibits: the thing itself and America the Beautiful: Clyde Butcher.
The thing itself is exactly the kind of exhibit I love — everyday objects (cereal boxes, garbage, found materials) recombined into genuinely arresting artwork. I once saw something similar at The Leeum Samsung Museum of Art in Seoul, and this held its own.
The Clyde Butcher photography exhibit was the real showstopper for me. Black-and-white landscape photography of places I’ve actually been — which meant I had a personal connection to each image. His notes alongside the prints were revelatory. I had some major realizations about Mr. Misadventures’ photography habits after reading them.
The Yellowstone Art Museum punches well above its weight for a mid-sized Montana city. Give it 2–3 hours.
ArtWalk Downtown Billings
On the first Friday of every month, downtown Billings transforms into an open art festival — galleries extend their hours, artists take to the streets, and the whole thing takes on a festive, community feel. ArtWalk recently celebrated its 25th anniversary, which tells you everything about how deeply it’s woven into this city’s DNA.
I wasn’t there for an ArtWalk evening, but I did get to explore Toucan, a shop stocked with work from local artisans, where I wanted to buy absolutely everything my carry-on luggage would allow (it allowed nothing, which was devastating).
Traffic Signal Box Art
As you walk around downtown, keep your eyes open for the painted traffic signal boxes scattered throughout the streets — they’re part of an ongoing public art project, and within a 4–5 block radius of the Northern Hotel, I spotted a dozen of them. It’s the kind of thing that makes a city feel alive and cared-for.
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Street Art & Murals
Beyond the official public art, Billings has a thriving unofficial street art scene, mainly concentrated in the alleys off First Avenue North and 30th Street South. Not city-sanctioned, but full of bright colors, bold designs, and a real artistic voice. Wander slowly. Worth it.
Museums in Billings
- Yellowstone County Museum — right at the airport. Artifacts from Northern Plains Indian tribes, western expansion, mining, cattle herding, textiles, and a steam engine. Free to enter. Address: Billings Logan International Airport
- The Moss Mansion — a stunning 1903 Redstone mansion designed by the same architect who did the Waldorf Astoria. Guided tours available. Address: 914 Division St
- Western Heritage Center — a Smithsonian affiliate dedicated to the history of the Yellowstone River Valley and Northern Plains, located in the beautifully restored Carnegie Library building downtown. Address: 2822 Montana Ave
Outdoor Activities in Billings
Billings was made for people who want to kill a couple of thousand calories before noon. It’s an outdoor mecca, and the surrounding landscape — rimrocks, river valleys, ponderosa pines, high desert — is genuinely spectacular.
My 48 hours leaned more toward food and culture, while my travel partner Emily absolutely demolished the outdoor portion of the itinerary. She is a rock star.
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Horseback Riding
Emily headed out with Bitter Creek Outfitters for a horseback ride through parts of their family’s 7,000-acre, 100-year-old ranch about 8 miles from downtown. Small groups (6 or fewer), a second-generation rancher who knows every inch of that land, and a route that takes you through gorgeous plains, rimrocks, ponderosa pines, and wildflowers. You might even get to ride with Bo, the ranch dog. Riders of all levels are welcome. It’s one of the best things to do near Billings, full stop.
Bitter Creek Outfitters | ~8 miles from downtown Billings
Hiking & Walking
I got all my steps in just walking downtown — but on my next trip, these are the trails I’m targeting:
- Swords Rimrock Park (Swords Park): 60 acres right on the edge of town, with trails that follow the rim above the city and deliver some of the best views in Billings. Also home to the Yellowstone Kelly Interpretive Site. Rock climbing available. Free.
- Four Dances Recreation Area: Designated BLM land, day use only. Sagebrush, ponderosa pine, cottonwood riparian habitat, wildlife, and photography gold. Free.
- Pictograph Cave State Park: A National Historic Landmark — three caves in a 23-acre area with Native American rock paintings dating back thousands of years. One of those places that genuinely stops you in your tracks. Address: 3401 Coburn Rd | 💲 ~$8/vehicle
- Two Moon Park: A peaceful loop through meadows and woods along the Yellowstone River. Great for an easy morning walk. Free.
- Zimmerman Park: Just on the outskirts of town with sweeping views back over the city. Hiking and biking trails. Cinematic views. Free.
Mountain Biking in Billings
Emily hit both the Acton Recreation Area and the Phipps Park Mountain Bike Trail — and was immediately adopted by some of the guys who help maintain Acton, who offered to ride with her through the area. Acton is actively being developed into a full mountain bike destination, so it’s only going to get better. Phipps Park has a more mellow rhythm: climb the butte, loop around the top, and enjoy the downhill. Zimmerman Park also has gentler looping trails if you want something easier.
ZooMontana
2100 S Shiloh Rd, Billings, MT | Daily 10 am–4 pm (seasonal hours vary) | 💲 ~$10 adults, ~$7 kids
Here’s something I wish I’d made time for on my trip: ZooMontana, the only true zoological and botanical park in the entire state of Montana.
It’s gone through a major transformation over the last few years and is now genuinely spectacular. Across about 70 acres, you’ll find Amur tigers, grizzly bears, a pack of gray wolves, a lynx, red pandas, and plenty more — all in naturalistic habitats that feel a world away from old-school zoo setups.
ZooMontana has recently earned national recognition, and for good reason. If you’re visiting with kids (or if you just really love wildlife — same), this is a must. Plan 2–3 hours minimum.
Live Events & Entertainment
One of the things that surprised me most about Billings is how culturally alive it is. This isn’t a city where you have to drive for hours to catch live music or a world-class performance. It’s all right here.
Alive After 5
Every Wednesday evening throughout the summer, downtown Billings becomes the place to be. Alive After 5 is a free outdoor street festival with live local bands, food vendors, local beers, and basically the entire city showing up to hang out. Every local I met on my trip had been there — it’s one of those community events that tells you everything about the pride people have in their city. If you’re visiting between May and September, a Wednesday evening here is non-negotiable.
Alberta Bair Theater
The largest fully equipped performing arts center in the region — a 1,400-seat theater that hosts theatrical, musical, and dance performances throughout the year. Broadway touring productions, ballet, symphony, and more.
Address: 2801 3rd Ave N | albertabairtheater.org
Symphony in the Park
This is one of those events where you see how much Billings loves Billings. A hillside park, hundreds of families and people of all ages, the city symphony playing everything from classical pieces to Disney scores under the open sky. Pure Montana magic.
NOVA Center for the Performing Arts
Smaller-scale theater and special events right downtown.
Address: 2317 Montana Ave | novabillings.org
Day Trips from Billings: The Trailhead Life
This is where the “Montana’s Trailhead” nickname really earns its keep. Billings is positioned perfectly for some of the most spectacular day trips in the American West.
Little Bighorn Battlefield National Monument – Don’t Miss!
756 Battlefield Tour Rd, Crow Agency, MT | 💲 ~$20/vehicle | 1 hour east on I-90
Road trip! One of my favorite days of the whole trip was my solo drive out to the Little Bighorn. It’s exactly 1 hour east on I-90 — a beautiful drive through rolling hills and enormous skies that makes you feel like you’re inside a painting.
This battlefield is where the Cheyenne, Lakota, and Sioux fought against the 7th Cavalry of the U.S. Army under General Custer in 1876. I was genuinely impressed with how the park handles a complicated and painful history — with fairness to all sides and real depth.
I visited the cemetery outside the visitor’s center, drove the tour road, stopped at headstones and historical markers, and — the unexpected highlight — spotted a small group of wild horses close enough to see but not close enough to photograph properly (Mr. Misadventures, I needed you!).
After the monument, stop at the Last Stand Trading Post just outside the park. It’s enormous, crammed with fascinating things to look at and buy, has teepees and dramatic skulls on display, and serves Indian fry bread with honey. I bought a t-shirt. No regrets.
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Beartooth Highway
Let me be clear: the Beartooth Highway might be the most beautiful stretch of road in America. Running along Route 212 between Red Lodge, Montana, and the Northeast Entrance of Yellowstone National Park, it climbs from the high plains all the way to 10,947 feet at Beartooth Pass — passing glacial lakes, alpine meadows, and views that don’t feel real.
From Billings: Drive 60 miles south to Red Lodge (about 1 hour), then hop on the highway. Or build it into a full Yellowstone loop. The highway is typically open late May through mid-October, weather permitting. Worth the drive in any vehicle.
Pryor Mountain Wild Horse Tour
This one is a more recent discovery that’s become one of the most talked-about experiences in the Billings area. Elk River Outfitters runs UTV tours up into the Pryor Mountains — a remote, rugged plateau where a herd of wild horses roams completely free. Your guide knows the terrain deeply, both the history and the landscape. You’ll navigate serious terrain and come out the other side with views of wild horses on the plateau that are unlike anything you can get elsewhere in the Lower 48.
Elk River Outfitters | Pryor Mountains, ~1.5 hours from Billings | Book in advance — tours fill fast
Pompey’s Pillar National Monument
3039 US-312, Pompeys Pillar, MT | 💲 ~$10/vehicle | 30 minutes east
This one goes back to Lewis and Clark. In 1806, Captain William Clark carved his name into a sandstone butte as he traveled through the Yellowstone Valley — and it’s still there. It’s the only physical evidence of the Lewis and Clark expedition remaining anywhere along their route. (Bad form, Mr. Clark, but thank goodness.) The visitor center is excellent, and the walk up to the pillar itself is short but rewarding.
Tippet Rise Art Center
Fishtail, MT (about 1 hour from Billings) | Reservations required
I know — art in the middle of a 12,000-acre working sheep and cattle ranch in Fishtail, Montana, with the Beartooth Mountains as the backdrop. But that’s exactly what Tippet Rise is: a world-class outdoor sculpture park that also hosts classical chamber music and recitals. The large-scale exhibits are seasonal and change regularly, so you can keep coming back.
The Rimrocks
You can’t talk about Billings without talking about the Rimrocks — the dramatic sandstone formations that rise 300–500 feet above the city and form a natural northern boundary. The Billings airport actually sits up on the Rim. Swords Rimrock Park is the best way to explore them on foot, and rock climbing is available there, too. They glow during golden hour in a way that makes the whole city feel cinematic.
Where to Stay in Billings
The Northern Hotel – My Pick
19 N Broadway, Billings, MT
My home base was the historic Northern Hotel, and I cannot say enough good things about its location. It was my guiding beacon the entire trip — visible from nearly every point downtown. The staff is impeccable, the rooms are beautiful, the bar is a perfect spot for an after-dinner nightcap, and the airport shuttle is free and immediate. I was at the hotel 7 minutes after landing. From the Northern Hotel, I walked to almost everything I visited in Billings. That’s how central it is.
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Other options: For different budgets and styles, Billings also has the Hilton Garden Inn downtown and the DoubleTree by Hilton near the airport. But if it’s your first time, plant yourself downtown and walk everywhere — you’ll thank yourself.
Eating & Drinking in Billings
Ah. Here we go. No 48-hour trip would be complete without me sampling as much of the food scene as humanly possible. Billings, I was not prepared for you. Any city with a restaurant week has earned my respect, and Billings has a genuinely thriving, sophisticated food scene. I did not have one bad meal. Let me walk you through all of it.
Coffee & Non-Alcoholic Drinks
My airport shuttle had picked me up at 3:00 AM to get me to Billings by afternoon, so coffee was my first and most urgent priority upon landing.
Rock Creek Coffee Roasters was my first stop — a cold brew that hit exactly right (not at 112°F like Phoenix, but a respectable 90°F, which felt like winter to me). I was dangerously tempted by their cold brew and Coca-Cola combination, but showed restraint. For about 10 minutes. Address: 124 N Broadway
Ebon Coffee Collective was my next discovery — I tried their cortado and strongly considered the avocado toast before being reasonable and saving room for actual meals. Address: 204 N 29th
MōAV Coffee was where I settled in for some quiet time with a macchiato. If you need to work, read, or just decompress, MōAV is your spot: comfortable seating sections, window bars, and a nice outdoor terrace. Great digital nomad setup, and genuinely excellent espresso. There are 3 locations. The one downtown is: 819 Grand Ave
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Breakfast: The Sassy Biscuit
223 N 24th St, Billings, MT | Mon–Sat 7 am–2 pm, Sun 8 am–2 pm
The Johnsons have my heart. Two weeks after I left Billings, I was still thinking about this place. My waistline is deeply grateful I don’t live there.
The Sassy Biscuit is the creation of Jilan Hall-Johnson, who traveled the country with her military family, picked up recipes and cooking styles along the way, and created the signature “sassy biscuit” — pressed shortcakes in a waffle maker. The menu goes far beyond that, though.
My first morning: fried chicken and waffles and the Johnson-style spoon cake with sage-sausage white gravy, rice, and a fried egg. Reader, I ordered two items at breakfast. No apologies. Then I went back a second time. Because that spoon cake. Mrs. Johnson, you go, girl.
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Lunch: The Burger Dive
2249 Grand Ave, Billings, MT | Mon–Sat 11 am–9 pm
The Burger Dive is exactly what it sounds like — but elevated. World Food Championship “Burger Champion” winning burgers. I ordered the “Best of the Bash” burger: blackened seasoning, goat cheese, bacon, onion ring, arugula, Sriracha sauce, and garlic basil mayo. Emily had the “I’m Your Huckleberry” with huckleberry barbecue sauce, bacon, goat cheese, arugula, and roasted red pepper mayo. Both extraordinary. The skin-on, fresh-cut fries are excellent, and I’m not even a fry person.
Dinner Night 1: Walkers
2700 1st Ave N, Billings, MT | Reservations recommended
I walked into Walkers expecting steak and potatoes. What I got was burrata with stone fruit, compressed cucumbers, and bulgogi-style beef. Hello, Billings. We have a winner.
Everything was cooked to perfection, every element complemented the others, and our waiter was so enthusiastic about the menu that he looked personally invested in our happiness. Then Chef Nick Steen came to our table and told us the story behind his Korean beef bowl — an homage to his mother, who raised him on very little but learned to make bulgogi from a Korean roommate’s mother during time spent in San Francisco. She’d make it on New Year’s Day and tell the kids: if you eat a great meal on the first day of the year, the rest of the year has to be a good one. His mother sounds like a wonderful woman. And she clearly passed down serious talent.
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Dinner Night 2: The Fieldhouse
2601 Minnesota Ave, Billings, MT
Leave it to two carnivores to go to a vegetable-forward restaurant and promptly order all the meat. We started with honey-chèvre cucumbers (goat cheese with honey incorporated into the cheese, which is now my favorite way to eat it forever), then moved to pork ribs with Vietnamese-style sauce and pickled cucumber, and topped it all off with vegan ramen — to which we added pork belly, because we are who we are.
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Highly recommend.
Dessert: The Big Dipper
2 N Broadway, Billings, MT | Seasonal hours, typically noon–9 pm
I stood in a very long line with Emily at The Big Dipper Ice Cream. I watched her get ice cream. I did not get ice cream myself because I was being “responsible.” I have regretted this ever since. The Big Dipper makes small-batch ice creams, sorbets, and frozen treats that are deeply beloved by Billings locals — the line tells you everything. On my next trip, I am skipping a dinner course to make room. Non-negotiable.
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Le Fournil: A Real French Baker in Billings
2814 2nd Ave N, Billings, MT | Tue–Sat, early morning — sell out fast!
I walked past Le Fournil multiple times on my way to other stops, always peeking through the window, hoping to confirm it was the real thing. On our last morning, Emily and I finally went in after chatting with the baker’s wife outside.
Here’s the story: she’s a Billings local who left to travel, met a French man in Singapore, married him, and brought him home. He is Billings’s only authentic French baker. They have real baguettes, croissants, épi (the wheat-shaped bread I learned to make in Paris!), and proper pastries. They sell out fast — especially on Saturdays when the farmer’s market is running. Plan ahead. Allez vite!
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More Great Spots to Eat
Casual & Montana Comfort
- Montana Brewing Company — Montana's original brew pub, open since 1994 and still going strong right in the heart of downtown. Great burgers, flatbread pizzas, a full bar, and a rotating lineup of house-brewed beers. Perfect casual dinner or post-hike pint. ($$)
- Jake's Downtown — A Billings institution since 1979, housed in the historic Grand Building. Locally owned and operated, with two bars and both casual and fine dining options. Known for prime rib, hand-cut steaks, and classics done right. ($$ – $$$)
- The Marble Table — Elegant comfort food on Montana Ave. The kind of place where everything feels homemade, and the room feels special. Great for a sit-down dinner when you want something elevated but not fussy. ($$ – $$$)
- Stacked: A Montana Grill — Exactly what it sounds like — hearty, satisfying Montana-style cooking. A solid local favorite for a no-frills great meal. ($$)
International
- Spitz — Mediterranean street food done fast and done well: döner, falafel, fresh-built bowls, and local craft beer on tap. Right on Broadway downtown. A locals' favorite for a quick, flavorful lunch. ($)
- Ciao Mambo — “Immigrant-style Italian” on Montana Ave: flowing wine, decadent pasta, and classics playing in the background. Relaxed, art-filled, and consistently well-loved. ($$)
- NISHA Thai Kitchen — Downtown Thai spot where every dish is prepared with care. Solid option when you want something different from Montana's meat-and-potatoes comfort zone. ($$)
- Tup Tim Thai — Brings the flavors of Northern Thailand to Billings. A local favorite for authentic Thai cooking, a step above the usual. ($$)
- Curry Bar & Grill — Indian and Nepalese food right in downtown Billings. A welcome and genuinely good addition to the city's growing international food scene. ($$)
- The Athenian — Greek food, beer, and wine with full service and takeout. Simple, satisfying, and one of the more unique spots downtown. ($$)
- Mediterranean Soul — Turkish and Mediterranean cuisine made from homemade recipes. Small, soulful, and the real deal. ($$)
Breakfast & Bakeries
- Stella's Kitchen & Bakery — Self-described as “best breakfast in Billings for 12 years and running,” and the locals agree. A downtown staple for morning meals. ($)
- Rollhouse Bakery — Scratch-made everything: hot breakfast, lunch options, and baked goods. Cozy downtown spot with a community feel. ($)
- The Sourdough Bagel — Traditionally handcrafted, slow-fermented bagels made right here in Yellowstone County. Worth the detour if you're a bagel person (and you should be). ($)
The Billings Brewery District
Billings has an unofficial Walking Brewery District downtown that includes six breweries, two distilleries, and a cider mill — all walkable, all excellent.
Emily and I spent a pre-dinner hour at Asylum Distillery, which is everything I want in a bar: a historic building, drinks made with locally-sourced and seasonal ingredients (including fruit from the farmer’s market), and a whole story behind it. When they renovated the building, the owners took elevator parts and built an “electric chair” in the corner of the bar. Silly photos ensued. The blackberry martinis were spectacular.
The broader Billings Brew Trail is worth dedicating an entire evening to — casual atmosphere, award-winning beers and ciders, walkable, and the kind of thing that ends with you befriending locals you’d never have met otherwise. Wine lover? Yellowstone Cellars and Winery does tastings of local and regional wines.
A few suggestions:
- Last Chance Pub & Cider Mill — Billings's only cidery, on historic Montana Ave. Sister company to Red Lodge Ales, with a full pub menu and a distinctly Montanan atmosphere. Great if you want something beyond beer. ($$)
- Thirsty Street Brewing Co. — Downtown craft brewery with 16+ styles on offer, from light ales to hoppy beers to gluten-reduced options and sours. A standout on the Billings Brew Trail. ($$)
- Doc Harper's Tavern — A proper cocktail bar on N. Broadway where your mixologist takes their craft seriously. Great pour sizes and serious attention to quality. ($$)
Yellowstone Valley Farmers Market
Saturdays, mid-June through October | North Broadway & 1st Ave N, downtown Billings
OMG. I have been seriously deprived of real farmer’s markets since leaving San Francisco (Phoenix has “markets” that are mostly arts and crafts; I’m always asking, “Where are the vegetables?!”).
The Yellowstone Valley Farmers Market sets up right outside the Northern Hotel, at the corner of North Broadway and 1st Avenue North, and spills out for several blocks. Emily and I went after breakfast, and I was oohing and aahing at everything as we walked through. She bought a mixed crate of six fruits for $20 that tasted so good I nearly cried. I, constrained by carry-on life, bought nothing and was bitter about it the entire flight home.
Pro tip: Le Fournil sells out early at the market on Saturdays. Go to the bakery first, then hit the market. Thank me later.
More Things to Do in Billings
Still not sure what to do in Billings? It’s the largest city in Montana — the list keeps going.
- Pioneer Park: 32 acres of green space, perfect for a picnic or afternoon stroll
- Lake Elmo State Park: Paddleboard, kayak, or just sit by the water. Picnic tables, swimming, and that Montana sky above you. Address: 2000 Lake Elmo Dr
- Lake Josephine at Riverfront Park: A calmer, slower option right in the city
- The Reef Indoor Water Park: Montana’s largest indoor water park — wave pool, slides, splash zones. Great with kids.
- DanWalt Gardens: Billing's beautiful botanical garden.
- Daisy Dukes Saloon and Dance Hall: Two-step with live music. Just do it.
- Billings Scavenger Hunt: A fun way to explore downtown, especially with a group. Book through Viator.
- Winter in Billings: Cross-country skiing in the surrounding hills is genuinely excellent. Fewer crowds, beautiful landscapes.
- Take part in a scavenger hunt.
FAQs about Billings
Is Billings worth visiting?
Absolutely — and this is genuinely one of the most underrated cities in the American West. Billings has a sophisticated food scene, vibrant arts and music culture, incredible outdoor access, and serves as the perfect launch pad for some of the most spectacular day trips in the country. It’s the kind of city that regularly surprises people who expected very little.
How many days do you need in Billings?
I fell in love in 48 hours, but I’d recommend 3–4 days to do it properly. Two days cover downtown thoroughly — food, art, nightlife, a museum or two. Days three and four let you fit in a day trip to Little Bighorn or the Beartooth Highway without feeling rushed.
What is Billings known for?
Billings is Montana’s largest city and is often called “Montana’s Trailhead” because of its central position near Yellowstone National Park, the Beartooth Highway, Little Bighorn Battlefield, and Pompey’s Pillar. It’s also increasingly known for its food and brewery scene, outdoor recreation, and the Rimrock sandstone formations that ring the city.
How far is Yellowstone National Park from Billings?
The Northeast Entrance of Yellowstone National Park is 2 hours and 45 minutes away from Billings.
What is the best time to visit Billings?
Summer (June–August) for farmers' markets, outdoor events like Alive After 5, and access to all the day trips. Fall (September–October) for beautiful foliage, smaller crowds, and perfect hiking weather. Spring and winter are quieter and offer their own appeal.
Is Billings close to Yellowstone National Park?
The Northeast Entrance of Yellowstone is about 2 hours and 45 minutes from Billings — a very doable day trip, especially paired with a drive on the Beartooth Highway. The North Entrance (Gardiner) is about 2 hours.
What is there to do in Billings with kids?
Quite a bit! ZooMontana is the big one — the only full zoo in the state, with grizzly bears, wolves, tigers, and red pandas. The Reef Indoor Water Park has a wave pool and water slides. Pictograph Cave State Park has ancient rock paintings that kids find genuinely fascinating. And the Yellowstone Valley Farmers Market on Saturday mornings is a great family outing.
Does the Yellowstone River flow through Billings?
Yes! The Yellowstone River flows through eastern Billings across from Metra Park. Two Moon Park and Lake Josephine in Riverfront Park are both great spots to enjoy it.
Is Billings along the Beartooth Highway?
The Beartooth Highway (Route 212) runs between Red Lodge, Montana, and the Northeast Entrance of Yellowstone National Park — it doesn’t pass through Billings itself, but Red Lodge is only about an hour south of the city, making the Beartooth an extremely popular and very doable day trip from Billings.
Are there bears in Billings?
Bears are part of life in Montana. Billings sits well outside grizzly bear territory, so a grizzly encounter in or around the city is extremely unlikely. Black bears are a different matter — they do occasionally wander into neighborhoods on the edges of town, particularly near the foothills and rimrock areas.
Standard precautions apply: secure your garbage, don't leave food outside, and be aware of your surroundings on any trail in the greater Billings area. If you're planning backcountry hikes elsewhere in Montana, carrying bear spray is always recommended regardless of species.
Is Geyser Park Open?
Unfortunately, Geyser Park is now permanently closed.
Billings, Montana: More Than You Expected
I came to Billings as a gateway — a convenient stop on the way to somewhere else. I left wondering when I could come back. That's the thing about Billings: it keeps surprising you. The food goes deeper than you'd expect, the art scene is more vibrant, the outdoor access is more spectacular, and the people are genuinely, enthusiastically proud of their city (and rightfully so).
Whether you've got 48 hours or a full week, Billings delivers. Book the hotel downtown, walk everywhere, eat everything, and let it win you over. Trust me — it will.
How about you? Have you been to Billings, Montana? I’d love to know what you thought — or if there’s anything I missed that I should add to my list for next time. Drop it in the comments!
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I used to go to Billings all the time for work and was not a fan of it. Didn’t seem much to do but after reading this I realize there is a lot to do! I’ll have to plan another trip there one day!
@Vanessa, I have had that happen to me before for places I visited in business, then when I visited for pleasure, it was with completely new eyes! I hope you get to enjoy it again.
I love the fact that there really was art in everything you did. The art in the museum, on the walls, in the food arrangements, and even the places you ate look a bit art deco like. Then the ranch has the beautiful art that nature has to offer. Billings truly is lovely through your eyes!
@Cindy, that is a great way of looking at and it is absolutely true!
First of all, the food looks incredible! It looks like there’s so much to see and do in Billings. We’ll have to visit one day.
@Amber, the food is truly fantastic! And as you can see I ate a lot of it!
Oh fun! I like the sound of the art scene in the city. I would love to plan a little adventure there.
@Liz, the art is fantastic, music too! Something playing live every night!
I haven’t been to Billings since I was a teenager, but I do remember it being a cool city! We actually stayed there on our way to Little Big Horn, then Devil’s Tower, and finally Mt. Rushmore. It was such a memorable trip for me, and one that I can’t wait to replicate for my kids!
@Jamie, just imagine how much better it is now!!!!
What an amazing place I expect Montana to have great trails and horses but the art and restaurants look so great too. I will remember not to miss Billings.
@Melissa, it is a very underrated spot that is absolutely worth the stop!
I love how much food you managed to cram into this post! You have your priorities straight!! The fruit at that farmers market looks perfect. I guess that is why the restaurants can serve fantastic meals – they must have access to excellent produce.
To be honest, this is the kind of place that I would use as a base to get out hiking on the local trails. But now I’ve read this, I might have to ensure we head back most evenings to fill our bodies with the calories we may walk off during the day. 😉
@JosyA, you nailed it – that is the perfect plan!
You are speaking to my heart! We’ve been to Montana a few times now and we LOVE it! Billings in particular is a great city. Completely concur with Walker’s – it’s delicious. The pictures are gorgeous and, as always, I love reading your articles.
@Nicole, love to hear that you had similar great experiences!
Those noodles!! Those traffic boxes!! The art!! I had no idea about Billings and now it is on my list of places to go!
@Terri, you’ll love it!
I love learning about other cities in the USA. It’s amazing how many fun activities are available in Billings, Montana. I enjoyed looking at all the spectacular images. Thank you so much for sharing them!
Billings looks like a pretty cool place to visit. I love seeing museums and learning about the local history of places. The scenery here is lovely too. I’m glad you didn’t just eat, even though I agree that’s one of the best things to do anywhere.
Wow there are so many fun things to do in Billings. I’d love to visit MT and check out that art gallery!
I haven’t been to Montana before but it’s quite interesting to visit! This is really an incredible place, I love it.
I’ve only been to Montana once but am planning a trip back there next summer. I see so many of your posts that I just have to read! Pinning.
@Rena, thank you so much, that is so kind of you to say. Montana in the summer, all those berries – yes!
You obviously had a lot of exciting adventures to share. Horse back riding seems to be fun. I love your pictures.
I have told the Hubs that I want us to explore Montana. Hopefully, soon. The street art are amazing and the food looks delish! Bet you had a blast.
@Lynndee, I hope you and your hubs get there soon!
I loved visiting Billings! The burger at the Burger Dive is so good, right? I also had delicious garlic parmesan fries there, too. I certainly used Billings as a trailhead to set off for day trips to Red Lodge, which is an adorable town, and Yellowstone National Park. I wish I had made it to the art museum while I was in town, but I enjoyed going to a Billings Mustangs game one night and checking out the breweries in town. I’m so glad you enjoyed Billings as much as I did, Andi!
@Erin, yes, I needed to stay longer to visit more. I MISSED the garlic parmesan fries, I just got the regular, now I really have to go back!
I loved this post since I am heading to Billings soon and want to be sure I don’t miss anything. I’d debated whether or not to try to make it to Little Big Horn. Now I’m definitely going! The Fieldhouse and Sassy Biscuit were already on my list of must-do’s, but you cemented that for sure. Love the painted traffic signal boxes. It’s little surprises like this that make travel to a new city all the more fun.
@Juliann, was Walkers on your list too? I prefer it over The Fieldhouse (although both were good).
Wow, my desire of wanting to explore Montana just intensified with all of these things you did. I love horseback riding!
My sister in law lives in Montana. She is always trying to convince us to go visit.
@Rachel, you should definitely go!
I’ve never been to Billings, Montana before. Sounds like you had an awesome time!
Montana has never been on my to see list and I’ve never heard of the town of Billings before, but this is what I love about travel blogs – they allow you to find some place new! The art in this town looks awesome! As does the food
Sounds like you had a great time! I have never been to Billings but your pictures and description make it sound so fun! Plus I am also a foodie and your food pictures look amazing! Everything looks so delicious! Hopefully, i’dget to experience in person someday.
great info. I have been through there once, but it has been awhile. this was a great reminder.
I’ve always wanted to visit Montana. You captured some fantastic art scene, food and activities Billings has to offer! Your photos look amazing!
My husband wanted to move to Montana! It looks like a wonderful place, close to nature! I really have to visit Montana soon!
I love all the street art! Definitely a place I’d never heard of before so I’m glad I read this! Also loving all the photos in this post, really beautiful! And also love how happy you look! Put a smile on my face too 🙂
I have never heard of Billings prior to reading this post. I like the big number of fun activities to do. I love street arts so I can imagine myself wandering the streets and admiring the different frescoes. But more importantly, I would go horseback riding every day if I could.
PS: Can you send that box of fruit to London? It looks yummy!
Billing looks like really lovely place and so many things to do around! Especially the hiking and horse riding cought me in the eye! I hope to get there soon.
I haven’t heard about Billings before (only now because of TBEx), and I’m pleasantly surprised! You had me at distillery and farmer’s market. The city looks really interesting. I love when a place combines culture and nature. The city life looks so cool, and the countryside stunning! It helps a lot to see that you had a fantastic time 🙂
Andi, I think you have too much fun when you travel!! JK…I love your enthusiasm and how you find fun stuff to do whatever you go. You’ve sold me on the Sassy Biscuit and I guess I’m glad I don’t live there too, because I’m sure I would frequent it too much. Loved your photos, too!
Um The Sassy Biscuit sounds AMAZING haha. I didn’t get to Billings – but I DID fall in love with Bozeman (the food there was fantastic too!), so I’m pretty convinced that Montana has way more to offer than I realised! Great post, thanks for sharing!
Wow!! Montana look gorgeous!!
I LOVE Montana but still haven’t made it to Billings! Bummed I won’t be going to TBEX this year because it looks like such a fun city! Truly a little bit of everything for everyone.
Ok, first of all you are super cute and I love your photos! The FOOD alone looks amazing! This definitely makes me want to travel to Billings. We drove through Montana last year, but didn’t stop anywhere… now I think I need to go back!
Food, art and hiking- sounds like the ideal place for me! You’ve really captured the fun on the place in your photos too!
Billings looks like an interesting city! I would go for the street Art then stay for the French bakery and farmer’s market.
Didn’t know about this place!! It looks very interesting to visit and look at all the delicious things to eat!! I’ll keep it on my list!!!
Indeed Clark was not adhering to the leave no trace behind principal, ha! But I love those traffic signal boxes around town! And the landscape out there so dramatic and beautiful.
Now I’m really wishing I was going to TBEX! This looks like such a fun city break AND you get horseback riding in those iconic grassy prairie landscapes to boot! Thanks for sharing, next time I’m back in that area I’m adding Billings to the list 🙂
Billings really has so much to offer! Such an unsuspecting town but I think I really need to get there soon!
We passed through Billings in our RV and visited Little Big Horn NM and Pompeii’s Pillar but I didn’t know all that art existed: the traffic signal art boxes, street murals, and art museums. Should have stayed a while like you.
This is such a great post. I loved seeing Billings through your eyes and the juxtaposition that you showed between you and your travel partner was so funny. The food, art, and vibe of Billings looks great!
I’ve never been to Billings, but this blog post just made it move WAY up on my list of places to visit. I’ve driven through MT a million times but never spent any time there. I’m particularly in love with all that wide-open country and gorgeous blue sky! Can’t wait to visit – thanks for the rec, Andi.
I havent made it to Montana, but I’ve got a friend going in November and I’ve just shared this with her. Such a helpful post. Thanks for dharing.
Planning a trip to Montana in a couple of weeks, super excited to get there now. Love this post!
So I was all ready to talk to you about all these cool outdoor activities you mention or tried in Billings, Montana because they look awesome. Darcee is from Northern Wyoming so, though I hate the cold, I love coming up to this area of America to do all the fun outdoor backpacking, hiking, mountain biking and other fun things in this region.
But then you showcased the amazing food of Billings. Now I am from New Orleans…so we know food but dang that food in Billings looks slap you mamma good. I love the breakfast you ate at Sassy Biscuit. I love Fried Chicken & Waffles and biscuits and gravy. That all looks so good. Plus it doesn’t seem like just a one spot wonder. Who would have thought there would be a kickin Korean restaurant and an amazing Vietnamese restaurant in Montana?
Man we need to head up there during the warmer months.
Those noodles looked delicious! It is nice when there are so many great eateries to choose from. This sounds like such a neat place to visit, with plenty to do. The scenery is just amazing!
How wonderful! Billings seems to be an amazing place full of energy. I love the comparison of images between you and your friend cycling in nature. I think my recurring image would also be eating that burger at The Burger Dive! 😁 I also loved the whole street art scene. A place to visit without a doubt.
Sure does look delicious and fun. I love a walkable downtown but I’m with you and would love some hikes and trail adventures out in the countryside. It’s on my bucket list for sure.
You had me at fry bread. Definitely want to visit Billings, haven’t seen much of Montana except Big Sky and can’t make it to TBEX. Love the painted traffic boxes and street art, brightens up downtown.
Visiting a place for pleasure and not work gives a completely different perspective of it. So glad to see you enjoyed.
The Farmer’s Market is one place I would want to visit. Loved the box of fresh fruits.
Now you’ve written such a great, long article about all there is to see and I’m all ‘oooh, I’d like to see these traffic boxes’! And, of course, the yellostone art museum. Yes, I’m far too much into art. But on the other hand, that’s the reason why I appreciate your photos – especially those of food: very artsy. Those of you: very cute!
I love that you share both yours and Emily’s experiences in Billings! Personally, I think my travel style falls somewhere between the two. I love to EAT and explore downtowns, but I also crave getting outdoors for some hiking and adventure… although I’m not sure I would try the off road biking, that’s a little too adventurous even for me! It was great to read about the diverse things to do in Billings as you’re totally right – it’s a place travelers seem to love and it’s been pushing its way more and more onto my radar this year.
Montana has been on my list for some time now. There are so many active adventures to enjoy there, as you did, like horseback riding, mountain biking, hiking and of course, eating! Those biscuits at Sassy Biscuit look to-die-for delicious. Love seeing all the neat street artwork too, it’s so colorful and fun. Looks like you had a great time in Billings!
I have never been to Billings and to be honest if you had just shown me the photos I never would have guessed it was in the USA. Looks like you had a blast here.
I love those Traffic Signal Boxes! Every city should have these! So much nicer than the boring grey ones you usually see.
The street art in BIllings is on point but I want to talk more about the food! I can’t decide between fry bread or that delicious looking fruit. It all looks amazing.
I have to admit, I haven’t heard much about this city aside from seeing it occasionally as someone’s hometown. It looks pretty action-packed though with everything from museums to pretty horses! I’ll have to add it to my ever growing list of places to go!
Loved reading the post. Beautifully written. You must have covered everything a person can do in Billings and that too in great detail!
I wasn’t think “Oh Art” Andi, I was thinking how cool it would be to watch you catch air on a mountain bike. I would totally buy you a burger if you did that.
Jenn used to live in Montana and I am making my first trip there in about a month. I can’t wait to see everything that Billings has to offer.
Well don’t you just look sassy while having breakfast at Sassy Biscuit ;-). So many of Montana’s towns and cities — Bozeman a very clear exception — appear to be underrated and overlooked as simply places to pass through on the way to bigger things, like Glacier or Yellowstone. Great write up on Billings. I had no idea there was such a strong street art scene there. That alone is enough for me to make my way there. Was just in Helena and LOVED it.
Awww!… The way I see Billings here it is highly rated… The telephone box art is brilliant. I feel taking a walk around town in Billings is exciting with those art works. But I gotta try the food first!
Your photos are so fun! This looks like a fun place to visit, I’ve never heard of Billings before but definitely gonna add it to my list!
Well, now I’m in love with Billings and I’ve never been. Seriously, I’ve heard good things but I’ve only driven through Billings. I’d really like to remedy that soon. I love, love, love all the street art – it’s beautiful!
I noticed you did not stop at any authentic Asian food locations in your article. I encourage you to stop and check us out at Imperial Thai cuisine if you ever come out our way again. Dan
@Dan – hello there, I did not and Asian food is my favorite cuisine, in particular Thai 😉 Thank you for the recommendation and invitation to try it out on my next trip!