Things To Do
in Billings
Billings is the largest city in Montana known for its stunning natural beauty, with the Yellowstone River flowing through the heart of the city and the scenic Beartooth Mountains in the distance. The city offers a mix of outdoor adventures, from hiking and fly fishing to skiing and wildlife watching in nearby Yellowstone National Park. Billings is also a cultural hub, with art galleries, museums, and a vibrant music and food scene showcasing the best of the region.
Residents and visitors alike enjoy the friendly community atmosphere and the wide range of activities and attractions Billings has to offer.
Prices
- 🏠 Accommodation (per night): $70 - $150
- 🍽️ Meal at a Restaurant: $10 - $25
- ☕ Coffee: $3 - $5
- 🚌 Public transport ticket (single journey): $2 - $3
- 🛒 Grocery shopping (per week): $50 - $100
- 🏋️♂️ Gym Membership: $30 - $60
Day Trips
Spend a day exploring around
Start your day with breakfast at a local café like the Country Pride. Afterward, visit the Billings Depot for a glimpse into the city's history.
Enjoy a picnic at the Riverfront Park while overlooking the Yellowstone River. Spend the afternoon exploring the Montana Audubon Society’s nature trails.
Have dinner at a downtown restaurant, savoring some local cuisine. Wrap up your day with a stroll through the vibrant arts district.
Begin your day with breakfast and then head to the Yellowstone Wildlife Sanctuary to see local animals. Experience close encounters with various wildlife in a natural setting.
Visit the Pictograph Cave State Park to learn about ancient Native American history. Enjoy hiking the trails while taking in the stunning views.
Dine at a restaurant that offers traditional Montana fare. Spend your evening at the Alberta Bair Theater for a live performance.
Strengths and Weaknesses
- Low cost of living compared to national averages.
- Beautiful natural scenery and proximity to outdoor recreational activities, including hiking, fishing, and skiing.
- Friendly and welcoming community atmosphere.
- A growing local economy with opportunities in various sectors, including healthcare and education.
- Rich history and cultural attractions, including museums, historic sites, and local events.
- Limited job market in certain specialized fields.
- Harsh winters with heavy snowfall and cold temperatures.
- Limited public transportation options, making a car necessary for most residents.
- Potential for isolation due to the geographic location and distance from larger urban centers.
- Fewer entertainment and dining options compared to larger cities.
Best Activities in Billings
Outdoor fun you shouldn't miss!
A 70-acre wildlife park featuring a variety of animals and interactive exhibits, as well as walking trails and a picnic area.
A historic park with ancient rock paintings, interpretive trails, and opportunities for hiking and wildlife viewing.
A natural rock formation with hiking trails and historical significance, offering scenic views of the Yellowstone River.
Tours
Uncover the best of Billings with these unforgettable tours.
Places to Visit in Billings
Visit one of these nice places.
Offers panoramic views of the city and surrounding landscapes
Cliff formations with stunning views overlooking the city
Scenic overlook with picturesque views of the Yellowstone River and the city
Historical site with scenic walking trails and views of the Pictograph Cave and the surrounding area
Food in Billings
Billings Famous Food
Signature dishes, delicacies and famous food
A must-try local dish, the bison burger is a juicy and flavorful alternative to a traditional beef burger. Visit The Burger Dive for their famous bison burger.
Must-Try!
Indulge in the unique and delicious huckleberry ice cream, a local favorite. Swanky's Scoop Shop is a great spot to sample this delightful treat.
Savor the exquisite Montana Wagyu steak, known for its exceptional tenderness and rich flavor. Walkers American Grill & Tapas Bar is a popular place to enjoy this specialty.
Food Markets
Explore local food markets
Explore a variety of locally grown produce, artisanal goods, and food vendors offering delicious street food at the Farmers' Market at West End. Open on weekends, it's a great place to savor the local flavors.
Visit the Food Truck Park to experience an array of cuisines including tacos, BBQ, gourmet hot dogs, and more served from quirky and vibrant food trucks.
Weather
How to Behave
Tips on cultural norms and respectful behavior
In Billings, it is important to respect personal space and maintain a comfortable distance when interacting with others, especially when meeting someone for the first time.
Politeness and courtesy are highly valued in Billings. It is important to use 'please' and 'thank you' when interacting with others, and to show respect towards people of all ages and backgrounds.
It is important to show respect for the local customs and traditions in Billings. This includes being mindful of cultural practices and being open to learning about and participating in local traditions.
Safety
Tipping in Billings
Ensure a smooth experience
In Billings, United States, tipping is a common practice in restaurants, bars, hotels, and other service industries. It is customary to tip between 15-20% of the total bill for good service. However, tipping practices may vary depending on the establishment and the nature of the service provided.
Payment in Billings, United States, is commonly done using credit/debit cards, cash, or digital payment methods like mobile payment apps. Most businesses accept major credit cards, and contactless payment options are becoming increasingly popular. It's also common for businesses to provide the option of adding a tip when paying with a card or through a mobile payment app.
Best Time to Visit
And what to expect in different seasons...
Spring is a great time to visit Billings as the weather starts to warm up, the flowers bloom, and the city comes alive with various outdoor events and activities.
Summer is peak tourist season in Billings, offering plenty of sunshine and outdoor activities such as hiking, fishing, and attending music festivals and fairs.
Fall in Billings brings stunning foliage, cooler temperatures, and opportunities for outdoor adventures like wildlife viewing and visiting local farms and orchards.
Winter in Billings is cold but picturesque, with opportunities for winter sports like skiing and snowshoeing, as well as festive holiday events and celebrations.
Billings at Night
Hiking in Billings
Immerse in an unforgettable hike.
A scenic trail that offers stunning views of the Billings skyline and the surrounding natural landscape. Ideal for hiking, running, and biking.
A beautiful park featuring several trails that wind through the hills and offer panoramic views of Billings. Great for family hikes and dog walks.
An accessible park with short hiking trails perfect for beginners and families. Offers nice views and a picnic area.
Includes several trails that are great for hiking, biking, and walking. A large park that caters to various outdoor activities.
A unique hiking experience where you can explore remnants of old towns, with various trail lengths suitable for all skill levels.
Aiports
How to reach Billings by plane.
The primary airport serving Billings, Montana, offering domestic flights.
The largest airport in Colorado and a major hub for domestic and international flights; approximately 600 miles from Billings.
A major international airport serving the Seattle metropolitan area; about 900 miles from Billings.
A key airport in the Twin Cities, serving both domestic and international flights; approximately 700 miles northeast of Billings.
A significant airport located in Salt Lake City, Utah, providing numerous domestic and international routes; about 550 miles south of Billings.
Walkability
Demographics
Explore demographics in this area.
The largest demographic group in Billings, primarily of European descent.
A significant community with roots in various Latin American countries.
Includes individuals from various Tribes, particularly the Crow and Northern Cheyenne.
A smaller yet vibrant community contributing to the cultural diversity.
Includes individuals of East Asian, South Asian, and Southeast Asian descent.
Individuals identifying with two or more racial backgrounds.
A small percentage of residents identifying with various other racial/ethnic backgrounds.
Popular Sports
Explore popular sports in region.
Football is a prominent sport in Billings, with high school teams and local clubs competing in various leagues throughout the season.
Basketball enjoys significant popularity in Billings, with many youth leagues, high school competitions, and city recreational teams.
Baseball is a cherished summer pastime in Billings, featuring local leagues and youth teams that foster community engagement.
Ice hockey has a dedicated following in Billings, with youth programs and adult leagues, as well as competitive teams in the area.
Soccer is growing in popularity among youth and adults in Billings, with various leagues and clubs promoting participation.
Running is a common recreational activity in Billings, with numerous trails and community events such as races and fun runs.
Rodeo is an integral part of Montana culture and is celebrated in Billings, hosting events that showcase equestrian skills and western traditions.
Golf is a popular sport in the Billings area, with several courses available for both casual and competitive play.
Traffic
Accomodations
Find the best place to stay when visiting Billings.
Dietary Restrictions
Tips for restricted diets.
Many restaurants in Billings offer a range of vegetarian and vegan options, such as plant-based burgers, salads, and creative vegetable-based entrees. Some recommended places include The Burger Dive, Ten, and Lilac.
For those with gluten restrictions, several eateries in Billings provide gluten-free menu items or can accommodate special requests. Check out Harper & Madison for delectable gluten-free baked goods and brunch options.