Billings Travel Guide: Things to Do, Best Time to Visit & Itinerary
Nestled beneath the majestic Rimrocks and along the Yellowstone River, Billings offers a vibrant mix of urban culture, deep western history, and rugged natural beauty. As Montana's largest city, it serves as the perfect gateway to Yellowstone National Park while boasting its own thriving brewery scene and outdoor recreation.
Billings is more than just a waypoint on the map; it is a place where the rugged spirit of the American West meets the convenience of a modern city. Known as “Montana’s Trailhead,” the city sits in the shadow of the Rimrocks, massive sandstone cliffs that carve through the landscape, offering a dramatic backdrop to daily life. Here, the Yellowstone River winds through the valley, providing a lifeline of greenery and recreation in the high desert environment.
Visitors are often surprised by the depth of culture found here. From the historic downtown district, where brick buildings house trendy breweries and art galleries, to the sacred silence of ancient caves painted by prehistoric inhabitants, Billings offers a layered experience. Whether you are looking to trace the steps of Lewis and Clark or simply enjoy a world-class steak after a day of hiking, this city delivers an authentic Montana experience without the pretense.
Seasonal Weather Guide
Plan your perfect getaway with our detailed seasonal forecast.
Where the Wild West Meets Urban Flair
What makes Billings truly special is its unpolished authenticity. Unlike some of the more resort-heavy towns in the Rockies, Billings is a working city with a deep connection to the land and history. It is the site of the legend of the “skookum” spirits in the sandstone cliffs and the bustling hub of the region’s agriculture and energy sectors. This blend creates a unique atmosphere where cowboys, artists, and entrepreneurs share the same coffee shops.
The city’s “Walkable Brewery District” is a testament to its modern evolution. Located in the heart of downtown, this 1.5-mile loop features a concentration of breweries, distilleries, and cider houses that is unrivaled in the state. It’s not just about the drink; it’s about the community gathering spaces created within these restored historic warehouses, making it the social heartbeat of the city.
Things to Do
Unforgettable experiences await you.
Hike the Rimrocks
Explore the massive sandstone formations that border the city, offering panoramic views of Billings and the distant mountain ranges. Swords Rimrock Park provides paved trails and sheer cliff edges perfect for sunset photography.
Pictograph Cave State Park
Walk the loop trail to view three caves containing rock art left by prehistoric hunters over 2,000 years ago. The site provides a profound connection to the region's ancient human history.
Downtown Brewery Tour
Billings boasts Montana's only walkable brewery district, featuring award-winning spots like Uberbrew and Thirsty Street Brewing. Sample local craft beers and huckleberry-infused drinks in historic renovated buildings.
Moss Mansion Museum
Step back into 1903 at this red-stoned architectural marvel designed by Henry Janeway Hardenbergh. The guided tours reveal the affluent lifestyle of the Moss family and early Billings development.
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The Icons You’ll Want to See
The Rimrocks - These geological wonders define the city’s skyline. Swords Rimrock Park, located just 2 miles from downtown, offers paved trails and unbeatable views of five mountain ranges. Free to access.
ZooMontana - A 70-acre wildlife park and botanical garden located 7 miles west of downtown. It focuses on ecosystem-specific habitats for animals like Amur tigers, grizzlies, and red pandas. Admission is approx. $16 USD.
Little Bighorn Battlefield - Located 60 miles southeast, this National Monument memorializes the Battle of the Greasy Grass. It features a museum, cemetery, and self-guided driving tours. Entry is $25 USD per vehicle.
Moss Mansion - A stunning 1903 historic home museum located 1 mile from the city center. It has been featured in several films and offers a glimpse into the turn-of-the-century luxury of Billings’ founders. Tours cost around $12 USD.
Essential Guide
Everything you need to know.
Must-Visit Spots
Local Cuisine
Where to Stay
Travel Tips
Insider Tips
Planning Your Visit
Billings is best explored by car. While the downtown core is walkable and bike-friendly, many of the premier natural attractions like the Rimrocks, the Yellowstone River parks, and ZooMontana are spread out across the valley. Car rentals are readily available at Billings Logan International Airport (BIL). Keep in mind that cell service can be spotty once you drive 15-20 minutes outside of the city limits, so downloading offline maps is a smart move.
When packing, remember that Billings is in the high desert. The air is dry, and the sun is intense, so sunscreen and water bottles are non-negotiable. Even in summer, evenings can cool down significantly, so always bring a light jacket or fleece. If you plan on hiking the Rims, sturdy footwear is essential as the sandstone can be loose and uneven.
When to Visit
Choose the perfect time for your adventure.
Peak Season: Summer (June - August)
Pros
- Warmest weather for water activities
- Full access to all hiking trails and parks
- Vibrant downtown nightlife and patio dining
- Long daylight hours for exploration
Cons
- Hotel rates are at their highest
- Tourist crowds at popular sites
- Temperatures can exceed 90°F
- Wildfire smoke can occasionally impact views
Shoulder Season: Fall (September - October)
Pros
- Beautiful autumn foliage along the Yellowstone River
- Mild, comfortable temperatures for hiking
- Lower accommodation prices than summer
- Fewer crowds at major attractions
Cons
- Early snowstorms are possible in late October
- Days get shorter rapidly
- Some seasonal attractions begin to close
- Mornings can be quite frosty
Off-Peak: Winter (November - March)
Pros
- Lowest hotel rates of the year
- Great for winter sports enthusiasts
- Quiet atmosphere with zero crowds
- Cozy brewery hopping weather
Cons
- Some outdoor sites like Pictograph Cave may be inaccessible
- Driving conditions can be hazardous due to ice
- Limited daylight hours
- Bitterly cold wind chills
Billings offers a genuine slice of the American West, uncrowded and full of potential. Whether you are passing through on your way to Yellowstone or settling in for a weekend of history and hops, the magic of the Magic City is sure to leave a lasting impression.
Sample Itineraries
The Classic Billings Weekend
A well-rounded tour of the city's highlights, combining history, outdoor views, and the famous brewery district.
Day 1: History and Hops Downtown
- Morning: Start with a hearty breakfast at Stella’s Kitchen and Bakery for their famous giant cinnamon rolls, costing about $15 per person. Walk two blocks to the Moss Mansion Museum for a one-hour guided tour of the historic estate ($12 entry fee).
- Afternoon: Head to the Yellowstone Art Museum to see contemporary Western art, then enjoy a casual lunch at The Fieldhouse which focuses on local ingredients ($20-$30). Spend the rest of the afternoon browsing the boutiques along Broadway and Montana Avenue.
- Evening: Embark on a self-guided brewery tour in the walkable district, hitting Uberbrew and Carter’s Brewing with pints costing around $6. Finish with a nice dinner at Walkers Grill, budgeting approximately $80 for a meal with drinks.
Day 2: Rocks and Recreation
- Morning: Drive up to the Rimrocks at Swords Rimrock Park for a morning hike along the cliff edge; it is free and offers the best views of the city. Grab coffee and a quick bite at Black Dog Coffee House ($10) before heading out.
- Afternoon: Drive 15 minutes south to Pictograph Cave State Park ($8 per vehicle) to hike the loop and view ancient rock art. Bring a picnic lunch to eat at the park tables, or grab tacos at La Tinga ($12) on your way back into town.
- Evening: Drive up to Four Dances Recreation Area for a stunning sunset photography session overlooking the Yellowstone River. Conclude your trip with a classic steak dinner at Jake’s Downtown ($100 for two) to celebrate the Montana spirit.
Canyons and Culture Explorer
An expanded itinerary that includes regional day trips to significant historical sites and wildlife encounters.
Day 1: Wildlife and The West
- Morning: Arrive at ZooMontana right at opening (10 AM) to see the animals when they are most active; admission is roughly $16 per adult. Spend two hours walking the botanical gardens and observing the grizzly bears and wolves.
- Afternoon: Drive to the Western Heritage Center in downtown Billings (free admission/donation) to learn about the Yellowstone River Valley’s history. Grab a legendary burger at The Burger Dive ($18) for lunch, but be prepared for a short wait.
- Evening: Check into your hotel and relax before heading to Last Chance Pub & Cider Mill for dinner, where you can pair house-made ciders with upscale pub food ($60 for two).
Day 2: Little Bighorn Day Trip
- Morning: Rent a car and drive 60 miles east to the Little Bighorn Battlefield National Monument ($25 per vehicle). Spend the morning touring the museum and walking the Deep Ravine Trail where Custer’s forces made their last stand.
- Afternoon: On the return drive, stop at the Pompeys Pillar National Monument ($7 per vehicle) to see the signature of William Clark carved into the rock face in 1806. It is a quick but significant historical stop involving a staircase climb.
- Evening: Return to Billings and unwind at the Skyline Trail for a gentle evening walk. Have dinner at Bin 119, a cozy wine bar and bistro with excellent small plates ($90 for two).
Day 3: The River and The Rims
- Morning: Rent bikes or walk along the Dutcher Trail near the Yellowstone River to experience the riparian environment. Stop for brunch at The Sassy Biscuit, known for their pressed biscuits and creative toppings ($20 per person).
- Afternoon: Visit the Yellowstone County Museum near the airport (free admission) which houses an impressive collection of Native American artifacts and ghost dance relics. It offers a great view of the Rims from the log cabin porch.
- Evening: For your final night, drive up to The Windmill for a seafood and steak dinner ($80 for two). Afterward, take a final drive along Rimrock Road to see the city lights twinkling below the cliffs.
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