Victoria Lupascu 
Can you already smell the fresh air? Oh.. what I wouldn’t give to be on a plane trip to Montana, the 4th largest state by area in the US! Also known as the Big Sky Country and The Treasure State, this unique place will have you say “wow” at every little thing you see!
If you like adventures, running into cute animals, and engaging in different activities like fly fishing, skiing, and hiking, you’ll want to move here! So come with me, and let’s discover the best places to stay in Montana!
It’s hard to decide which town to choose when all of them are simply stunning, but I’ve made a list that will help you think of each place’s pros and cons. In this post, you will also find a carefully curated list of hotels that includes luxury accommodations with hot tubs, a full-service spa, and some of the best resorts in Montana!
I highly recommend booking your hotels and lodge rooms in advance. Montana is super popular among tourists, plus it’s home to Glacier and Yellowstone National Parks, 2 of the best parks ones in the country!
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
I hope you’re ready to experience the adventure of a lifetime! Are you traveling to Montana for the first time? Then there’s no better place to look for hotels than Missoula, also known as the “Garden City” for its lush green landscape!
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 in Montana, and of course, enjoy all sorts of outdoor adventures.
The city’s location is perfect. If you stay here, you’ll be close enough to Glacier National Park and Yellowstone National Park! So you can take day trips anytime you want, although I would make sure I explore around this university city before hitting the road.
Missoula is set at the base of Mount Sentinel, which means you’ll have access to many hiking trails and scenic views. Back in the town center, you can also visit some museums or go kayaking. The list of activities is super diverse!
As for the hotels in Missoula, there’s a wide range of accommodations from luxury to budget! I’ve made a list of the best ones, but I highly recommend booking them in advance. This city in the Big Sky Country gets so many tourists no matter the season!
After a fun day spent in Missoula, you can get a cup of tea and relax on the terrace by the firepit! 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 and start your day right!
Other accommodation options in Missoula
Relax in the hot tub or in the swimming pool at this hotel that has a fitness center and free parking
A great place to stay in Missoula that has a swimming pool, a hot tub, and a picnic area
Such a cozy apartment! It has all the facilities you need, including an indoor fireplace and a backyard
Things to do in Missoula
- Visit the Missoula Art Museum
- Take the kids to the Missoula Carousel
- Explore the hiking trails near Mount Sentinel
- Learn new things at the Montana Natural History Center
- Spend a fun day at Splash Montana Waterpark
- Relax near the creek in Greenough Park
- Try kayaking at Brennan’s Wave
- Go on a trip to visit Clark Fork River
2. Bozeman – the best place to stay in Montana on a budget
Located a 3-hour drive away from Missoula, this city in Western Montana wears the name of the person who helped found the town. John M. Bozeman also established the Bozeman Trail, a historic overland route that ends in Virginia City, Montana.
A long time has passed since then. Now, the city is a popular travel destination, especially for people who want to visit Yellowstone National Park, situated only a 2-hour drive away.
Bozeman is one of the top college towns in the USA, so most of the area is filled with students. That’s why I recommend finding accommodations in Bozeman if you’re looking for cheap places to stay in Montana. Most hotels and restaurants will be cheaper than in other parts to stay in the Big Sky Country.
You’ll find many museums around, but the Bozeman Hot Springs is the star of the show! Many travelers from all over the county come here to relax in one of the 12 indoor and outdoor pools. Or, if you’re feeling adventurous, you can try fly-fishing along the Gallatin River located right outside Bozeman.
I think history enthusiasts will also like the city. The historic downtown area is pretty exciting for anyone interested in this subject. Who doesn’t enjoy admiring unique and old architecture? I’m up for it anytime!
This pet-friendly hotel offers many activities like live music shows, hiking, and 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 borrowed from this hotel that has a hot tub and a fitness center
A budget 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
- Try fishing or rowing at the Gallatin River
- Learn new things at the Gallatin Museum
- Go for a hike in Burke Park
- Catch an exhibition at the Emerson Center for the Arts & Culture
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3. Glacier National Park – coolest places to stay near nature
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!
Listed as a UNESCO World Heritage Park, this place has gathered adventure junkies from all over the world! It’s hard to say no to a trip to this place. Just look at some pictures of the mountains and crystalline lakes, and you’ll book your ticket ASAP!
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.
But I guess the 1 activity you can’t miss here is driving the Going-To-The-Sun Road. This scenic drive is the best way to admire the mountain views and check as many attractions on your to-do list!
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 option 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 in Glacier National Park
A great hotel that’s situated 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
- Go mountain biking in Glacier National Park
4. Billings – where 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.
What’s great about Billings is that it offers all the modern facilities that you may need during your trip while at the same time providing access to natural wonders and historic places. Which is the best of both worlds if you ask me!
You can go to the city center area and visit tons of museums, learn about the city’s past and take the kids to the zoo or a wildlife park. Check out the restaurants and the shops around as well if you’re in the mood. If you’re looking for more places to visit where you can experience the great outdoors, I recommend heading to Boise. It’s such a lovely place!
For families who can’t wait to try all the outdoor activities, you can head straight to visit Pictograph Cave State Park, a stunning area filled with caves and historic sites. But I would also make sure not to miss the chance to kayak or paddle on Yellowstone River. The views are so beautiful!
Relax with the kids in front of the fireplace in your rooms after a full day of fun activities 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
A budget hotel that is equipped with all the facilities you need including a fitness center and free wifi
Chill in front of the tv in this pet-friendly apartment that has a kitchen, free wifi, and a bathtub
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
- Learn new things at Moss Mansion Museum
- Take the kids and explore the Riverfront Park
- See the unique caves at Pictograph Cave State Park
- Have fun while mountain biking at Zimmerman Park
5. Kalispell – the best place 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 30 miles (50 km) from Glacier National Park, so in case you’re in the mood for some adventure, you can go there. If not, I recommend leaving your hotel in the morning and exploring around Kalispell.
Featuring Victorian houses, which were turned into museums and a few parks, the city center offers visitors many activities and restaurants. I would also go a bit further away and check out the Lone Pine State Park located right outside Kalispell, which offers trails for mountain biking, hiking, and horseback riding!
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 head to the pool for a quick swim.
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 wifi for guests
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
- Play all day at Buffalo Hill Golf Club
- Catch a sunset in Woodland Park
- Take the kids to the Woodland Water Park
- Learn new things at the Northwest Montana History Museum
- Go on a trip to Flathead Lake and explore around Seeley Swan Valley
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, in case you’re not coming by car.
I highly recommend booking your hotels here in advance, as the West Entrance 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 as 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 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 yet elegant 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 Yellostone
- Spot some cute animals at Grizzly & Wolf Discovery Center
- Hit the ski slopes at Rendezvous Ski Trails
- Spend a fun day in Yellowstone National Park
- Learn new things at the Museum of the Yellowstone
- Check out the Yellowstone Giant Screen Theatre
- Go horseback riding and whitewater rafting at Yellowstone Aerial Adventures
| 👑 Luxury price: | $300 |
| 💵 Mid Range: | $150 |
| 🛏️ Budget: | $100 |
| 🏠 Airbnb: | $200 |
| 💰 Accommodation prices: | Medium |
| 📍 Best area: | Missoula |
| 👪 Best area for families: | Billings |
| 🛎️ Best luxury hotel: | Residence Inn by Marriott |
| 💵 Best mid-range hotel: | Best Western Plus |
| 👛 Best budget hotel: | La Quinta Inn |
BONUS: The best lodges to stay in Montana
I have to admit, as much as I love fancy hotels that have a fine dining restaurant or super elegant decor, I would switch that anytime for a rustic lodge or cabin! But hey, that’s just me! However, I thought that since Montana is filled with so many natural spots, some of you might share my thinking and want to stay in a lodge somewhere near a forest!
So come along, and let’s discover the best ones in Montana:
Luxury: Grouse Mountain Lodge – Just look at the views of the mountain ranges! The Grouse Mountain Lodge has located nearby the Whitefish Lake State Park and it offers a free shuttle service to downtown Whitefish! Spend late summer night outside near the firepit and the cold winter days in front of the indoor fireplace.
Mid Range: Yellowstone River Lodge – Located in Columbus, near Yellowstone River, this lodge offers cozy and comfortable rooms for your stay in Montana. The accommodation has all the facilities you need including a kitchen, heating, and air-conditioning. Guests will also have access to a picnic area and barbecue facilities.
Budget: Judith Mountain Lodge – Tucked away between the trees, this great lodge has a rustic design and room with a balcony! The accommodation has a restaurant on-site, a fire pit outside, and guests can go horseback riding nearby the lodge.
Frequently asked questions about Hotels 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 often choose these places to stay at.
📅 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.
Conclusion
Now you get my fascination with Montana? How can you not love a place that’s filled with so much nature! I hope that this post helped you decide which are the best places to stay in Montana.
If you’re having a hard time deciding which hotel to pick because let’s face it, there are so many options in this post, I’ll offer you my top 2 favorite ones both located in Missoula:
- Residence Inn by Marriott – A great hotel that has an indoor pool
- Best Western Plus – This place offers family rooms and hot tubs sessions
Although it’s a whole state, you’d be surprised how fast the hotels sell out in most of these towns. I highly recommend booking yours in advance so you can get the best deals and prices!
Have the best time in this beautiful place! Hike, swim, go skiing, take advantage of the boat rentals near Whitefish Lake and Flathead Lake, and explore these stunning sites! I’m sure you’ll love it! Let me know in the comments if you have any questions about Montana or any of the hotels, I’ll make sure I’ll answer them ASAP!
Safe travels,
Victoria
