Explore Glacier National Park
Visit in summer for hiking and scenic drives, or in winter for snowshoeing and peaceful vistas free of crowds.
Take a Scenic Ride on the Going-to-the-Sun Road
Open seasonally, but parts of this iconic road are accessible for biking and walking even in shoulder seasons.
Stay at a Working Guest Ranch
Many Montana ranches offer family stays with horseback riding, animal encounters, and cozy meals year-round.
Visit the Museum of the Rockies (Bozeman)
A must-stop for dinosaur lovers, with indoor exhibits perfect for a rainy day or cold-weather afternoon.
Go Wildlife Watching in Yellowstone’s Northern Range
Lamar Valley is often called America’s Serengeti—and winter brings better chances of spotting wolves, bison, and elk.
Soak in Natural Hot Springs
Spas like Chico Hot Springs or Quinn’s offer warm pools with mountain views, open in every season.
Try Dog Sledding or Sleigh Rides
Wintertime in Montana means cozy sleigh rides and thrilling dog sledding adventures for older kids and teens.
Take a Family Float Trip on the Yellowstone or Flathead River
Gentle rafting or tubing in summer, or scenic snow-covered riverbanks to admire in colder months.
Explore Lewis & Clark Caverns State Park
Underground cave tours offer adventure even when the weather outside is unpredictable.
Go Stargazing at Big Sky or near Flathead Lake
Montana’s dark skies are ideal for seeing constellations and meteor showers—year-round.
Hike the Trails Around Missoula or Helena
From beginner loops to more advanced treks, trails are accessible for snowshoeing or hiking depending on the season.
Pan for Sapphires in Philipsburg
Kids can sift for real gems in summer, or check out the town’s old-school charm any time of year.
Ride the Great Northern Carousel (Helena)
This indoor carousel is beautifully crafted and fun no matter the weather outside.
Attend a Rodeo or County Fair
Spring and summer bring festivals, but even in fall you’ll find harvest-themed events that are fun for the whole family.
Visit the Grizzly & Wolf Discovery Center (West Yellowstone)
Open 365 days a year, this nonprofit center lets families get close-up views of wildlife in safe, educational settings.
Go Snow Tubing or Skiing at Whitefish Mountain Resort
Winter sports are big in Montana, but tubing hills are great for beginners and kids of all ages.
Explore Glacier National Park
Glacier National Park welcomes families with a tapestry of trails and breathtaking views. Hike in summer among wildflowers or snowshoe in winter’s serene embrace. The park’s beauty transcends seasons, offering endless opportunities for exploration. Your senses awaken to nature’s symphony, from rushing waterfalls to the whispering winds.
Each visit unveils new wonders, invigorating both young and old. Guided tours provide insights into the park’s diverse flora and fauna, enriching your adventure. Let the tranquility and majesty of this natural wonderland captivate your family’s hearts. A true haven for adventurers, Glacier National Park never disappoints.
Take a Scenic Ride on the Going-to-the-Sun Road
Embark on a journey along the legendary Going-to-the-Sun Road, where every turn reveals a postcard-worthy vista. Though seasonally open for vehicles, parts remain accessible for biking or walking year-round. Feel the thrill as you weave through nature’s splendor, with panoramic views that stretch endlessly.
The road is a marvel of engineering, showcasing Montana’s rugged beauty in all its glory. Families can embrace the shoulder seasons, enjoying quieter paths and intimate moments with nature. This is more than just a road; it’s an adventure that beckons exploration and cherishing shared memories.
Stay at a Working Guest Ranch
Immerse your family in authentic Western life at a working guest ranch, where the spirit of adventure meets homely comforts. Experience horseback rides, animal encounters, and hearty meals that nourish body and soul. Home-cooked meals warm the heart, offering a taste of ranch life.
Seasonal activities ensure year-round fun, whether you’re learning to lasso or gathering around a campfire. Kids delight in feeding animals, while parents enjoy the calm of wide-open spaces. With personalized hospitality, every visit feels unique, turning simple moments into cherished memories. Montana’s ranches invite families to create unforgettable stories.
Visit the Museum of the Rockies
Step into a world where dinosaurs roam and discoveries abound at the Museum of the Rockies. Perfect for rainy days or chilly afternoons, this museum offers a treasure trove of knowledge. Young paleontologists marvel at the impressive fossil collections, including the awe-inspiring T. rex.
Interactive exhibits engage curious minds, sparking a love for science and history. The museum’s welcoming atmosphere makes learning an adventure, inviting families to explore together. Located in Bozeman, it’s a rainy-day sanctuary full of mystery and wonder. The Museum of the Rockies is a must-visit for families seeking fun and education.
Go Wildlife Watching in Yellowstone’s Northern Range
Lamar Valley, often called America’s Serengeti, offers unparalleled wildlife viewing in Yellowstone’s Northern Range. In winter, the landscape transforms into a wonderland where wolves, bison, and elk roam freely. Families can witness nature’s drama unfold, creating memories that last a lifetime.
Guided tours provide insights into the ecosystem, fostering appreciation for nature’s intricacies. Bundle up and venture into the wild, where every sighting is a story waiting to be told. The valley’s serene beauty and abundant wildlife captivate visitors, making it an essential stop for outdoor enthusiasts. Embrace the magic of Yellowstone’s untouched wilderness.
Soak in Natural Hot Springs
Chico Hot Springs invites families to unwind in natural thermal pools amid stunning mountain vistas. Open year-round, this retreat offers relaxation and rejuvenation in nature’s embrace. Imagine soaking in warm waters while snow falls gently around, creating a serene escape from daily life.
The resort’s charming accommodations enhance the experience, providing a cozy haven after a day of exploration. Enjoy dining with locally-sourced, hearty meals that delight the palate. Families bask in the tranquil atmosphere, finding joy in simple pleasures. Chico Hot Springs is a place where memories are made, and spirits are refreshed.
Try Dog Sledding or Sleigh Rides
Embrace the thrill of winter with a dog sledding or sleigh ride adventure, perfect for older kids and teens. Feel the rush as huskies pull you through snow-covered landscapes, their energy contagious. Sleigh rides offer a more leisurely pace, allowing families to soak in the scenery.
Both experiences provide a connection to Montana’s winter wonderland, creating moments of laughter and excitement. Professional guides share stories and traditions, enriching the journey. These activities celebrate the season, turning cold days into warm memories. Whether racing through the snow or gliding under starlit skies, adventure awaits.
Take a Family Float Trip on the Yellowstone or Flathead River
Set sail on a family float trip along the Yellowstone or Flathead River, where scenic beauty meets adventure. In summer, gentle rafting or tubing offers refreshing fun, while winter reveals snow-dusted riverbanks. It’s an experience that adapts to the seasons, promising joy year-round.
Families bond over shared exploration, navigating calm waters and marveling at the surrounding landscapes. Guides enhance the trip with insights into local flora and fauna, deepening the connection to nature. Whether soaked in sun or wrapped in winter’s embrace, these rivers invite families to discover Montana’s heart.
Explore Lewis & Clark Caverns State Park
Venture underground at Lewis & Clark Caverns State Park, where history and geology intertwine. Guided cave tours reveal stunning formations, offering adventure regardless of the weather above. Descend into a realm of stalactites and stalagmites, where every twist and turn tells a story.
The park invites exploration, igniting curiosity in young minds eager to learn. Comfortable pathways ensure safety, allowing families to focus on discovery. This subterranean wonderland provides a unique perspective on nature’s artistry, leaving a lasting impression. Above ground, trails and picnic areas complement the adventure, offering a full day of family fun.
Go Stargazing at Big Sky or near Flathead Lake
The night sky in Montana is a canvas of stars, inviting families to explore its celestial wonders. Big Sky and areas near Flathead Lake offer prime stargazing locations, where constellations and meteor showers dazzle. Far from city lights, the universe unfolds in breathtaking clarity.
Families gather under the night sky, sharing stories and dreams while gazing upward. Telescopes bring distant planets into focus, sparking imagination and wonder in young minds. These moments remind us of our place in the cosmos, creating connections that transcend time. Stargazing in Montana is an adventure where dreams take flight.
Hike the Trails Around Missoula or Helena
Montana’s trails near Missoula and Helena offer year-round hiking adventures for families, from beginner loops to advanced treks. In winter, snowshoeing adds a layer of fun, while summer brings lush greenery and vibrant wildflowers. Each hike promises a unique experience, inviting exploration and discovery.
Families set out on trails that wind through forests and hills, uncovering nature’s hidden treasures. The joy of hiking lies in the journey, where each step leads to new vistas and bonding moments. Whether it’s a gentle stroll or a challenging climb, these trails inspire a love for the great outdoors.
Pan for Sapphires in Philipsburg
Philipsburg offers a gem of an adventure for families seeking fun and fortune. Panning for sapphires in this charming town is an activity that delights young prospectors and adults alike. As families sift through gravel, anticipation grows with every find.
The thrill of discovery is matched by the town’s old-school charm, inviting exploration of its historic streets and shops. Philipsburg’s sapphire mines promise adventure year-round, with guides sharing tales of treasure hunts. Whether you find a gem or simply enjoy the quest, this activity creates stories and memories to cherish. It’s a sparkly Montana adventure.
Ride the Great Northern Carousel
Step into a world of whimsy at the Great Northern Carousel, where riders of all ages find delight. This beautifully crafted indoor carousel in Helena spins tales of joy, regardless of the weather outside. Each ride is a journey into a vibrant world of color and laughter.
Children choose from an array of hand-carved animals, each with its own personality. The carousel’s enchanting atmosphere captures hearts, making it a favorite family destination. A sweet shop nearby tempts with ice cream, adding a delicious finale to the ride. The Great Northern Carousel is a timeless treasure of fun and nostalgia.
Attend a Rodeo or County Fair
Experience the thrill and tradition of a Montana rodeo or county fair, where every event is a spectacle of skill and excitement. Spring and summer bring lively festivals, while fall offers harvest-themed celebrations. Families immerse themselves in the vibrant atmosphere, with attractions for all ages.
From thrilling rodeo events to funfair rides and games, there’s something for everyone. Local vendors offer a taste of Montana’s culinary delights, adding flavor to the festivities. These events celebrate community spirit, creating connections and lasting memories. For a true taste of Montana, a rodeo or county fair is a must-see adventure.
Visit the Grizzly & Wolf Discovery Center
Discover the wild side of Montana at the Grizzly & Wolf Discovery Center, where families come face-to-face with nature’s majestic predators. Open year-round, this nonprofit center offers educational insights into wildlife conservation. Children marvel at the close-up views of grizzly bears and wolves in naturalistic habitats.
Interactive exhibits and programs engage visitors, fostering a deeper understanding of these magnificent creatures. The center’s mission is to inspire love and respect for wildlife, creating a lasting impact on young minds. It’s a journey into the wild, where stories of conservation and coexistence unfold. A must-visit for wildlife enthusiasts.
Go Snow Tubing or Skiing at Whitefish Mountain Resort
Whitefish Mountain Resort transforms winter into a playground for families seeking snowy fun. Snow tubing offers exhilarating thrills, with hills perfect for beginners and kids of all ages. For those craving more, skiing and snowboarding adventures await.
The resort’s welcoming atmosphere makes it easy for families to embrace the joys of winter sports. Lessons and rentals ensure that everyone can join in the fun, regardless of skill level. After a day on the slopes, cozy lodges offer relaxation and warmth. Whitefish Mountain Resort is where winter dreams come true, promising memories filled with laughter and excitement.