Want to experience the best Montana has to offer? It will likely take an entire lifetime to do that. There’s so much to do and see in the Treasure State, especially when you take different hobbies and tastes into consideration. But if you manage to do these 30 things, you can feel pretty good about your Big Sky bucket list.
It’s hard to believe any Montanan could reach adulthood without visiting Glacier, but it happens. This is one place you’ll want to prioritize.
We may share most of Yellowstone with Wyoming, but it’s definitely part of a Montanan’s rite of passage to see it. Besides, the entrance towns like Gardiner and West Yellowstone are really fun.
It’s a fairly easy path, and you won’t find better views of the city anywhere.
Just trust us on this one.
It may not be the best steak you’ve ever had (though it should be in the top 5), but you can’t top the atmosphere at the legendary steakhouse.
Montana has hundreds of beautiful lakes, but there’s really something special about Flathead.
It’s interesting, beautiful, and just plain cool.
Try to go during summer, when costumed characters wander the streets and there are plenty of fun events.
If nothing else, at least make it a point to visit the Museum of the Rockies.
Yum!
Almost every city and town in Montana celebrates the 4th in style, from parades (this one is from Livingston’s) to fireworks displays.
A lot of people visit Havre without ever knowing that an underground tour is available. But exploring the underground city is a great way to learn about the area’s history.
Visit the World Museum of Mining, check out the Dumas Brothel Museum and have a meal at the Pekin Noodle Parlor, Montana’s oldest restaurant.
Bonus points if you have a huckleberry bear claw.
This is possible in other parts of the world, of course, but can you think of a better place to enjoy them than Big Sky Country?
In a state filled with mouthwatering burgers, this one still has a reputation as one of the best.
One of our oldest general stores has become a charming antique shop with rooms and cabins available for rent.
This celebration is the oldest traditional pow‑wow in Montana. Even if you’re not Native American, it’s nice to learn more about (and respect) the culture.
Whether that means pitching a tent under the stars or hooking up your RV at a campground, finding your ideal way to be close to nature will help you enjoy Montana even more.
Once the home of Mr. Marcus Daly and his family, this mansion has been purchased and preserved by the state of Montana.
This is a bucket list item you’ll want to complete many times.
Take a boat ride through the Gates of the Mountains, located about 20 miles north of Helena.
… if you dare.
It’s important to learn from our history.
Every September, the good people of Hobson and Utica gather for “What the Hay,” the Montana Bale Trail. The creativity that goes into each display is so impressive.
It’s an experience like no other.
This list is a small fraction of all the beautiful experiences you can have in Montana, but it’s definitely a great start. Here’s some more information on Havre Beneath the Streets and Montana’s oldest restaurant.
source onlyinyourstate.com