Victoria Lupascu 
Skiing, hiking and exploring the great outdoors! Who’s ready to learn all about this incredible state in this guide on where to stay in Montana?
I did thorough research and picked the top towns in the state for tourists, plus included a short list of the best hotels in each of those places (for all budgets).
In short, Missoula is the best area to stay in Montana! This exciting town offers something for everyone, but if you’d prefer something different make sure you check the other 5 areas and the bonus with unique lodges and glamping sites in Montana.
This is a super popular holiday destination so no matter where you go, make sure you book your hotels here in advance!
Quick Picks for Your Stay
For anyone who wants to book their hotel right now I’ve made a list of the best ones, all located in Missoula:
Here’s a map that will help you visualize all the places to stay in Montana that I will be talking about in this post:
- Missoula: for first-timers
- Bozeman: for budget
- Glacier National Park: for nature
- Billings: for families
- Kalispell: for relaxation
- West Yellowstone: near Yellowstone National Park
1. Missoula – where to stay in Montana for the first time
Also known as the “Garden City” Missoula is one of the best places to stay in Montana
Located in the Northern part of the Rocky Mountains, Missoula is the second-largest city in the state, and a cultural hub, where you can visit historical places, dine in the best restaurants and of course, enjoy all sorts of outdoor adventures.
The city is even home to a regional airport (map) so if you’re coming from somewhere in the US check if there are any flights from your town.
NOTE: You can get around Missoula by bus and there are also buses that connect the main towns in Montana, however renting a car would definitely be more convenient for this state as you’ll get to admire the stunning scenery and reach more remote stops that otherwise you couldn’t.
When it comes to attractions and things to do, Missoula doesn’t disappoint! While here you’ll have plenty of places to see like the Missoula Art Museum, the spectrUM Discovery Area which is a great spot to visit with kids, as is the Carousel for Missoula (map) where they often hold community events.
As I mentioned the city is surrounded by green areas and parks, with trails that you can do like the Mt Jumbo Trailhead (map) and Waterworks West Trailhead (map).
Back in the town center you’ll find plenty of fab restaurants like the Pie Hole (map) and Market on Front (map).
After a fun day spent in Missoula, you can get a cup of tea and relax on the terrace by the fire pit of this accommodation! The hotel has family rooms, a fitness center, and it offers a continental breakfast. Go for a dip in the swimming pool in the morning to start your day right!
Other accommodation options in Missoula
Relax in the hot tub or in the swimming pool at this hotel that offers a fitness center and free parking
An affordable hotel that offers spacious rooms, an outdoor fire pit and a free airport shuttle
Things to do in Missoula
- Visit the Missoula Art Museum
- Take the kids to the Missoula Carousel
- Explore the hiking trails near Mount Sentinel (map)
- Learn new things at the Montana Natural History Center
- Spend a fun day at Splash Montana Water Park (map)
- Relax near the creek in Greenough Park (map)
- Visit Great Falls town on a day trip
- Check out if there are any events on in Caras Park (map)
2. Bozeman – best place to stay in Montana on a budget
Set a 3h drive away from Missoula, Bozeman is one of the top college towns in the USA and it’s packed with incredible attractions, outdoor activities and a fun nightlife.
This city has something for everyone, including some really affordable hotels (thanks to the student population), so if you’re traveling on a budget, this may be the spot for you!
The best place to start your adventures here is Downtown Bozeman, that’s where you’ll find the town’s main sights like the Gallatin History Museum and the Emerson Center for the Arts & Culture.
Near Downtown, you’ll also find Peets Hill/Burke Park (map), where you can go for a hike, and in the winter you can go sledding with the kids!
As I said earlier, Bozeman, MT has a pretty lively nightlife and if you want a taste of that you can head to Midtown, where there are lots of bars and clubs like Cat’s Paw (map) and the Last Best Place Brewing Company (map).
This pet-friendly hotel offers many activities like live music shows, hiking, and you can even go horse riding! But if you just want to relax, don’t worry, you’ll find plenty of facilities here to help with that as well. Grab your swimsuit and go for a dip in the swimming pool, or just chill in the hot tub!
Other accommodation options in Bozeman
Explore the town on a bike rented from this hotel that has a hot tub and a fitness center
A cheap hotel that offers family rooms, barbecue facilities, and a children’s playground
This house is located within walking distance from downtown, and it has a kitchen and a balcony
Things to do in Bozeman
- Visit the Museum of the Rockies
- Shop until your drop in the downtown area
- Learn new things at the Gallatin Museum
- Go for a hike in Burke Park
- Relax in the Bozeman Hot Springs (map)
- Catch an exhibition at the Emerson Center for the Arts & Culture
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3. Glacier National Park – coolest places to stay in Montana
If you’re a fan of outdoor adventures, like mountain biking, hiking, and other fun activities, then you have to visit the beautiful Glacier National Park, which is for sure the best place to visit in Montana!
Listed as a UNESCO World Heritage Park, this Glacier is a favorite spot of adventure junkies from all over the world who want to spend their days hiking, fishing and mountain biking.
And don’t worry, if you’re visiting during the colder months you can still have an amazing experience and see the whole park under snow and ice, plus you’ll get to try some winter sports like cross-country skiing.
PRO TIP: If you are visiting the park and Montana during winter I’d recommend preparing as road conditions can be difficult. Make sure your car is equipped with everything you need for winter driving and also take into consideration that you might get stuck because of the heavy snows even in towns.
Whether you’re planning a family vacation or maybe a fun trip with your friends, the list of things to see and do here is endless! I mean, you can even chill at the beach if you want, right near Lake McDonald (map).
But I guess the 1 activity you can’t miss here is driving the Going-To-The-Sun Road (map). This scenic drive is the best way to admire the mountain views and check as many attractions on your to-do list!
NOTE: In order to access the park with your car you will need a permit which is valid for 7 days. It usually costs around US$35 and you can get from this website.
Below you will find a list of hotels located near Whitefish Lake and Columbia Falls. I always recommend staying in towns near the national parks. You’ll find a broader range of places to stay that can accommodate more people and many more facilities than at the lodges inside the park!
If you have your mindset on staying inside the park, check our latest post on where to stay in Glacier National Park. Otherwise, here are your best options in the towns nearby:
Kandahar Lodge at Whitefish Mountain Resort
Located just a 10-minute drive away from Whitefish Lake, this is one of the best resorts in Montana, and it offers a full-service spa and ski-to-door access. They also have a ski school on-site in case you want to learn. The Whitefish Mountain Resort is located only a 50 min drive from West Glacier Entrance.
Other accommodation options in Glacier National Park
A great hotel that’s set near Whitefish Lake and which has family rooms, and a picnic area
This Columbia Falls accommodation has a restaurant on-site, a hot tub, and an outdoor fireplace
Located half an hour away from the West Glacier entrance, this place has a backyard and a kitchen
Things to do in Glacier National Park
- Admire the views while driving Going-to-the-Sun Road
- Chill on the beach near Lake McDonald
- Try cross-country skiing in Glacier National Park
- Explore Glacier National Park and its hiking trails
- Visit the Grinnell Glacier (map)
- Hit the slopes at Whitefish Montana Mountain ski resort (map)
- Go mountain biking in Glacier National Park
4. Billings – best town to stay in Montana for families
Planning a fun road trip with your family around the Big Sky country?
Then stop scrolling for a minute and look at all the cool things you can try out in Billings, the largest city in Montana, and my top option where to stay in Montana with the kids.
Home to an international airport (map), Billings is packed with fun attractions that all family members will love from the Wise Wonders Science and Discovery Museum to the Moss Mansion Museum and the Yellowstone Art Museum.
There are also lots of parks where you can enjoy some walks with the fam like the Pioneer Park (map) and Terry Park (map).
But those are set more centrally, you’ll also find plenty of green areas and hiking trails near the outskirts of Billings. If you’re set on spending some time in the great outdoors, definitely check out the Four Dances hiking area (map) which offers some incredible views and the Mystic Park (map).
Relax with the kids in front of the fireplace in your rooms after a full day of fun activities in the town, while staying at this hotel that offers breakfast and free parking. Guests will have access to tennis courts, an indoor pool, and a hot tub.
Other accommodation options in Billings
A great hotel that offers an indoor play area for the kids, and family rooms with en suite bathrooms
This hotel is equipped with all the facilities you need including a fitness center and free Wi-Fi
Such a cute place that has a kitchen, a small patio and a free parking space
Things to do in Billings
- Spend a fun day with the kids at Zoo Montana
- Visit the Yellowstone Art Museum
- Go on scenic boat cruises at Lake Elmo State Park (map)
- Learn new things at Moss Mansion Museum
- Explore the Four Dances hiking area
- See the unique caves at Pictograph Cave State Park (map)
- Have fun while mountain biking at Zimmerman Park (map)
5. Kalispell – best city to stay in Montana for relaxation
If you want to spend most of your holiday in Montana, relaxing and taking some time for yourself, then I think Kalispell may be the best place!
Here you can enjoy Western hospitality, learn all about Montana’s history in the museums and spend your afternoons golfing!
Yep, that sounds like a successful holiday to me! The Rocky Mountains surround the town so you’ll also be able to explore some forests and maybe even spot a wild animal!
The city is located only a 40 min drive away from Glacier National Park, so in case you’re in the mood for some adventure, you can get there pretty quickly.
Kalispell will definitely put a spell on you once you head to its Downtown area, which is packed with gorgeous Victorian houses! If you’re a history enthusiast I definitely recommend checking the Conrad Mansion Museum and the Northwest Montana History Museum.
If you’re coming with the kids make sure you also head to the Woodland Water Park (map) which is set right near the Conrad Museum.
You’ll also find plenty of places to eat here, most of them set near Main Street (map) like Norm’s Soda Fountain (map) and Mercantile Steak (map).
Enjoy a quiet night by the firepit at this amazing hotel that even has rooms with mountain views! Grab a quick breakfast and then head out to explore the town or change into your swimsuit and go for a quick swim in the pool.
Other accommodation options in Kalispell
Chill on the terrace at this hotel that offers free breakfast, a hot tub, and an indoor pool
A budget accommodation that has a business center on-site, a shared lounge, and free Wi-Fi
After a full day of fly fishing and hiking, relax in the private hot tub at this place that has a backyard
Things to do in Kalispell
- Visit the Hockaday Museum of Art
- Go for a walk in Lone Pine State Park (map)
- Play all day at Buffalo Hill Golf Club
- Take the kids to the Woodland Water Park
- Learn new things at the Northwest Montana History Museum
- Go on a trip to Flathead Lake (map) and visit Bigfork town & Wild Horse Island
6. West Yellowstone – near Yellowstone National Park
This is a great town for people who want to spend as much time in Yellowstone National Park as possible!
Located only a mile away from the park’s West Entrance, this mountain town offers an excellent base for your trip. It even has an airport (map), in case you’re not coming by car.
If you’re visiting the park, make sure you check out our guide on the best places to stay in and around Yellowstone NP.
I highly recommend booking your hotels here in advance, as the West Entrance of the park is one of the busiest ones, and most tourists choose to stay in this town. Luckily there’s a wide range of accommodations, from private cabins to luxury resorts.
Before you start your adventure in one of the most popular parks in the country, make sure you try all the activities in West Yellowstone. Trust me, there are so many, including fly-fishing, whitewater rafting, horseback riding, skiing, and snowmobiling during wintertime.
The town has a great atmosphere, and I highly recommend exploring the central area and visiting small business shops, restaurants, and museums. There is a cool one called the Museum of Yellowstone which you should check out. The staff can help you with information on the park’s history and give you tips on how to make the best out of your time there!
I’d also recommend checking out Yellowstone Aerial Adventures- Zipline Adventure Park (map) where you can have some fun up in the air!
I love this place. It looks so cozy! After a full day spent in the park, you can gather up by the firepit, burn marshmallows and drink hot cocoa! The accommodation has family rooms, a swimming pool and it offers free parking for its guests.
Other accommodation options in West Yellowstone
A rustic accommodation that offers free parking and coffee makers in each room
Enjoy a delicious breakfast before heading to the park at this fabulous inn that has family rooms and a hot tub
A modern studio perfect for 2 guests, that has a kitchen, air conditioning, and free parking for guests
Things to do in West Yellowstone
- Spot some cute animals at Grizzly & Wolf Discovery Center (map)
- Hit the ski slopes at Rendezvous Ski Trails (map)
- Spend a fun day in Yellowstone National Park
- Learn new things at the Museum of the Yellowstone
- Check out the Yellowstone Giant Screen Theatre (map)
- Go horseback riding and whitewater rafting at Yellowstone Aerial Adventures
| 🌳 Top city in Montana: | Missoula |
| 👪 Best place for families: | Billings |
| 🏔️ Most unique place: | Glacier National Park |
| 💰 Avg hotel price: | US$150 |
BONUS: Unique places to stay in Montana
Montana is absolutely packed with gorgeous lodges and glamping sites! Which are for sure some of the most unique spots to stay in the state!
Since I’m sure many of you will want to stay in a dreamy place like that, I made a short list with some incredible lodges and glamping sites below!
- Judith Mountain Lodge ($) – tucked away between the trees, this great lodge in Lewistown has a rustic design and rooms with a balcony! The accommodation also offers a restaurant, a fire pit outside, and even horseback riding activities.
- Dreamcatcher Tipi Hotel ($$$) – how amazing are these tents? They’re super comfy and cozy and they come with a seating area as well. This Gardiner hotel offers a shared lounge area and shared bathroom.
- Under Canvas Glacier ($$$) – located in Coram, this incredible resort is great for couples and offers luxurious tents with shared and private bathrooms that look so cool! They also offer evening entertainment by the fireplace and yoga classes!
- North Forty Resort ($$) – set in Columbia Falls, these amazing cabins come equipped with everything you need, including a kitchen, a living room, an outdoor patio and free parking.
- Grouse Mountain Lodge ($) – just look at those mountain views! This lodge is located nearby the Whitefish Lake State Park and it offers a free shuttle service to downtown Whitefish! You’ll also find an indoor pool, outdoor fire pits where you can chill and hot tubs!
FAQs about places to stay in Montana
🌲 Where is the prettiest place in Montana?
Some of the most stunning places in Montana are Missoula, Bozeman, and Glacier National Park. All of them also offer some great hotels like Residence Inn by Marriott and Best Western Plus.
🏞️ What is the most visited place in Montana?
Glacier National Park is the most visited place in Montana. Listed as a UNESCO World Heritage Park, this place brings tourists from all around the world.
🤩 Where do stars vacation in Montana?
Ranch at Rock Creek and Resort at Paws Up are 2 of the most famous resorts in Montana, celebrities like Gwyneth Paltrow, Gwen Stefani, and Blake Shelton have often been guests of these hotels.
📅 What is the best month to visit Montana?
The ideal months to visit Montana are July and August when the must-see attractions are up and running, the crowds are not overwhelming, and the temperature is perfect.
🤩 What are some other cool smaller towns to stay in Montana?
Nevada City and Philipsburg are two other amazing options to stay in Montana if you are looking for a unique Montana experience.
Final thoughts on places to stay in Montana
Well, we’ve reached the end of this guide on where to stay in Montana!
I hope that after reading this you’ve found your favorite town and hotel, or maybe you’ve decided to take a road trip and visit multiple sites.
I’d recommend booking your hotels in Montana in advance, this state gets lots of visitors thanks to its numerous outdoor activities and national parks.
If you’re still not sure, which hotels to pick, here are my 2 top-rated favorite ones, both set in Missoula:
- Residence Inn by Marriott – cozy hotel with the prettiest mountain views and an indoor pool
- Best Western Plus – a great hotel with an indoor pool and family rooms
Have the best time exploring the Big Sky Country and don’t hesitate to drop any questions or comments in the section below!
Safe travels,
Victoria
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