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Nothing beats a summer under the Big Sky! Especially when the sun is shining, there is no shortage of amazing experiences to enjoy right here in the Billings city limits.
Whether you’re looking to entertain family and friends, or simply enjoy a relaxing afternoon to yourself, our Magic City offers something for everyone. To get you started on that summer adventure, I’ve collected my Top Ten Summer Experiences in Billings, MT!
#1 Drive the Beartooth Highway
Technically, the Beartooths are an hour outside of Billings. But you can see their impressive peaks from basically anywhere in town, so I will include the Highway anyway!
Driving the Beartooth Highway is a life-changing experience; many locals make the pilgrimage on an annual basis. This “most scenic drive in America” cuts through the heart of Montana’s tallest mountain range, offering breathtaking views of glaciers and sweeping alpine valleys. Folks from Europe are even known to import their motorcycles to enjoy the breathtaking views found here. Best of all, by entering the Beartooth Highway via Red Lodge, you can support a Montana community devastated by the recent Yellowstone River floods. Their economy relies largely on tourism, making a trip through the Beartooths is an ethical as well as an aesthetic experience!
#2 Watch Mustangs Baseball at Dehler Park
Set against our city’s famous Rimrocks, Dehler Park is one of America’s most scenic minor league ballparks. This sunny stadium is conveniently located in our city’s downtown, at the northern end of N 27th Street. In addition to Dehler’s premiere setting, the baseball action is great. The Mustangs have long been a victorious team in the Pioneer League. With tickets starting at $6 and the beers clocking in even cheaper, Mustangs games are also one of the greatest deals in town!
#3 Hike and fish at Riverfront Park
Looking to enjoy some iconic Montana nature in a matter of minutes? This quiet city park is perfect for a midday escape from the bustle of Billings. Riverfront, our city’s largest waterside park, boasts impressive views of the Yellowstone River as it cuts through the south side of town. This nature preserve encompasses great pond fishing in Lake Josephine, in addition to several miles of walking trails which wind through the groves of cottonwood in the sandy river soils.
#4 Go wild at ZooMontana
Billings is home to the largest zoo in the Treasure State. ZooMontana, located off the West End, hosts informative exhibits on 56 different species ranging from amur tigers to grizzly bears. Adding to its unique charm, the facility only features critters which naturally live along the Earth’s 45th parallel. This keeps their animals healthy, happy, and all the more energetic for your visit! Keep an eye out for special events at the zoo throughout the summer; they often host educational events where you can get up close and personal with the residents.
#5 Celebrate the West at the MontanaFair
Billings prides itself as the biggest destination in the state. Every August, Montana’s largest city also plays host to the state’s largest annual fair. Fairgrounds and rodeos are the historic lifeblood of Western culture, and the MontanaFair pays homage to these traditions. With quilting exhibitions, country concerts, horsemanship events, and crafts markets galore, MontanaFair is a great opportunity to savor the Western lifestyle which still defines the Billings culture. For the younger audience, the fair also includes a pop-up amusement park with rides and games to entertain the entire family.
#6 Catch a Blockbuster at the Babcock Theater
The downtown Babcock Theater is one of Billing’s most beautiful historic buildings. It is also an amazing place to catch a summer flick. The proceeds from your tickets go towards the non-profit Arthouse Cinema Foundation, the local group responsible for refurbishing the Art Deco interior of this downtown landmark. In addition to new releases, the Babcock regularly show cinema classics – be sure to check out their website for the latest schedules!
#7 Enjoy some local summer ales on the Billings Brewery Trail
With leading harvests of wheat, barley, and hops, Montana is basically where America grows its beer. Thanks to our amazing community of local brewers, Billings is also where it’s turned into the good stuff! The best way to sample these local treats is by embarking on the Billings Brewery Trail, which leads you to the finest ciders, IPAs, and amber ales in the Northern Rockies. With nine stops along the way, you and your crew are sure to find something cold and delicious!
#8 Dan Walt Gardens
This pastoral enclave brands itself as “Billings Best Kept Secret,” which isn’t too far of a stretch. Nestled on the southeast edge of town, Dan Walt blossoms each summer into a colorful paradise of sights and scents. It’s a great place to visit on your own, but the gardens truly shine as a venue for group events. Looking to plan a summer wedding in Billings, MT? Take a long look at the Dan Walt Gardens!
#9 Hit the links at a Billings golf course
Billings is one of the best golfers’ cities Montana. Right within the city limits you can find half a dozen golf clubs, driving ranges, and par-three courses. Whether you’re trying to class up a Montana summer vacation or simply enjoy some afternoon beers with a neighbor, these courses are a great place to enjoy the best of Big Sky golf. The Yegen Golf Club is a great place to start, offering 9-holes and a cart for under $30 per player.
#10 Cool off at a Billings’ waterpark
This list would not be complete without some mention of the watery adventures in the Magic City. If you’re looking to get soaked this summer, I encourage you to check out my full post with the top water activities near Billings. However, if you aren’t interested in departing the city limits, you can still have a great time galivanting about our city’s several water parks. Whether you’re six or sixty, are you seriously going to pass on a chance to ride the water slide?
