Things To Do
in Kalispell
Kalispell is a charming town located in northwest Montana, surrounded by stunning mountains and scenic beauty. It serves as a gateway to Glacier National Park, attracting outdoor enthusiasts and nature lovers year-round. The historic downtown area features a mix of quaint shops, art galleries, and local eateries.
With a vibrant community spirit and easy access to outdoor adventures, Kalispell offers a unique blend of small-town charm and natural wonders.
Prices
- 🏠 Accommodation (per night): $100 - $250
- 🍽️ Meal at a Restaurant: $12 - $30
- ☕ Coffee: $3 - $5
- 🚌 Public transport ticket (single journey): $2 - $5
- 🛒 Grocery shopping (per week): $50 - $100
- 🏋️♂️ Gym Membership: $30 - $70
Day Trips
Spend a day exploring around
Start your day early by heading to Glacier National Park. Enjoy a scenic drive along the Going-to-the-Sun Road, stopping for breathtaking views and photo opportunities.
After lunch, hike one of the many trails, such as the Hidden Lake Trail. Marvel at the stunning vistas and possibly spot wildlife along the way.
Wrap up your day with a picnic dinner at one of the park's designated spots. As the sun sets, enjoy the peaceful surroundings.
Begin with a visit to Flathead Lake State Park for a refreshing morning walk along the shore. Take in the calm waters and beautiful mountain views.
Enjoy a lakeside lunch followed by water activities like kayaking or paddle boarding. The clear waters and stunning scenery make for a perfect afternoon.
Finish the day with dinner at a local restaurant overlooking the lake. Catch a spectacular sunset as you reflect on your day.
Strengths and Weaknesses
- Beautiful natural surroundings, including proximity to Glacier National Park
- A family-friendly community with a variety of recreational activities
- Growing economy with opportunities in tourism, healthcare, and education
- Strong community engagement and local events
- Relatively low crime rates compared to urban areas
- Cold winters with significant snowfall
- Limited job market in certain industries
- Higher cost of living compared to other areas in Montana
- Limited access to amenities and entertainment compared to larger cities
- Potential for rapid growth may lead to increased traffic and infrastructure strain
Best Activities in Kalispell
Outdoor fun you shouldn't miss!
Explore the stunning scenery of Glacier National Park by hiking on its many trails, such as the popular Highline Trail or Iceberg Lake Trail.
Enjoy outdoor activities such as zip-lining, alpine slides, and scenic lift rides at Whitefish Mountain Resort, located just a short drive from Kalispell.
Spend a day fishing at Flathead Lake, the largest natural freshwater lake west of the Mississippi, known for its scenic beauty and abundant fish species.
Experience the beauty of the Whitefish area by biking on the Whitefish Trail, which offers a variety of terrain and stunning views of the surrounding landscapes.
Tours
Uncover the best of Kalispell with these unforgettable tours.
Places to Visit in Kalispell
Visit one of these nice places.
Offers stunning panoramic views of Flathead Valley and abundant photo opportunities.
Historic site with picturesque gardens and architecture, perfect for photography.
Scenic lake with beautiful views, ideal for photography and nature enthusiasts.
Food in Kalispell
Kalispell Famous Food
Signature dishes, delicacies and famous food
A regional specialty, huckleberry pie features a sweet-tart filling made from wild huckleberries, nestled in a flaky crust. Visit the Huckleberry Patch for a classic rendition of this iconic dessert.
Must-Try!
Indulge in the rich flavors of the American West with a bison burger. The Desoto Grill serves up a mouthwatering version of this local favorite, crafted from lean, succulent bison meat.
Savor the taste of summer with creamy, indulgent flathead cherry ice cream. Sweet Peaks Ice Cream offers a delectable rendition of this treat, featuring ripe cherries sourced from local orchards.
Unique Experiences
Get to know Kalispell better with these unique experiences.
Food Markets
Explore local food markets
Explore a vibrant tapestry of fresh produce, artisanal goods, and local delicacies at the Kalispell Farmers' Market. Sample homemade jams, pickles, and freshly baked bread, and immerse yourself in the lively atmosphere.
Embark on a culinary adventure at the Food Truck Frenzy, where you can relish diverse cuisines ranging from gourmet tacos to wood-fired pizza. This lively gathering is a haven for street food aficionados.
Weather
How to Behave
Tips on cultural norms and respectful behavior
In Kalispell, it's customary to greet people with a friendly smile and a firm handshake, especially in formal or business settings.
It's important to respect the personal space of others in Kalispell. Be mindful of maintaining an appropriate distance during conversations and interactions.
Kalispell is known for its natural beauty, and it's important to show respect for the environment. Littering and harming the natural surroundings is considered disrespectful.
Hidden Gems
Discover the hidden gems of Kalispell with these exclusive activities.
Safety
Tipping in Kalispell
Ensure a smooth experience
Tipping is a common practice in Kalispell, United States, where it is customary to tip service workers such as restaurant servers, hotel staff, taxi drivers, and tour guides. The typical amount for a tip is around 15-20% of the total bill, although this may vary based on the quality of service provided.
Payment in Kalispell, United States, is primarily done using cash, credit/debit cards, and mobile payment methods. Most businesses and vendors accept major credit cards, and contactless payment options are becoming increasingly popular. It is important to note that some smaller establishments may only accept cash, so it's advisable to carry cash for transactions in such places.
Top Things To Do
Engage in these activities to dive deeper into Kalispell.
Best Time to Visit
And what to expect in different seasons...
Spring is a beautiful time to visit Kalispell when the weather begins to warm up, and the wildflowers start blooming. It's a great time for outdoor activities like hiking and biking in the surrounding areas.
Summer is the peak tourist season in Kalispell when the weather is warm and ideal for exploring the nearby Glacier National Park. Visitors can enjoy various outdoor activities such as fishing, kayaking, and wildlife watching.
Fall brings stunning foliage colors to Kalispell, making it an ideal time for scenic drives through the countryside. The crisp weather also makes it a pleasant time for outdoor adventures and exploring local wineries.
Winter in Kalispell brings opportunities for skiing, snowboarding, and snowshoeing in the nearby mountain resorts. Visitors can experience a winter wonderland and enjoy cozy indoor activities during this season.
Kalispell at Night
Hiking in Kalispell
Immerse in an unforgettable hike.
A stunning national park known for its breathtaking views, diverse wildlife, and over 700 miles of hiking trails, suitable for all skill levels.
A vast area of wilderness offering numerous hiking trails that lead to scenic vistas, waterfalls, and opportunities for wildlife viewing.
A park that offers a network of trails with panoramic views overlooking Flathead Lake and the surrounding mountains, ideal for family hikes.
A popular local hiking trail that provides a moderately challenging experience with beautiful views of the surrounding landscape.
In the summer, the resort offers a variety of hiking trails with stunning views and access to alpine lakes, perfect for outdoor enthusiasts.
Nearby trails that offer beautiful views of the Flathead River and opportunities for hiking in a lush forest environment.
Unforgettable Journeys
Delve deeper into Kalispell through these rare and unique activities.
Aiports
How to reach Kalispell by plane.
The primary airport serving Kalispell, Montana, offering domestic flights and a gateway to Glacier National Park.
Located in Spokane, Washington, this airport is approximately 275 miles from Kalispell and serves as a major transportation hub in the region.
Seattle-Tacoma International Airport, located about 500 miles from Kalispell, is a major international airport serving the Pacific Northwest.
Located approximately 350 miles southeast of Kalispell, this is the largest airport in Montana outside of the state's western region.
Located about 200 miles south of Kalispell, this airport serves as a gateway to Yellowstone National Park and offers both domestic and limited international flights.
Walkability
Demographics
Explore demographics in this area.
The largest demographic group, making up a significant majority of the population.
A growing demographic group, contributing to the cultural diversity of the area.
Representing a notable portion of the population, with historical roots in the region.
A smaller but increasing demographic group, adding to the multicultural aspects of Kalispell.
A minority demographic group in Kalispell, contributing to the community.
Includes individuals identifying with various racial and ethnic backgrounds beyond the primary groups.
The Soul of Kalispell
Discover the essence of Kalispell through these truly unique experiences.
Popular Sports
Explore popular sports in region.
Basketball is a popular sport in Kalispell, with many schools having competitive teams and community leagues available for different age groups.
Football enjoys a strong presence in Kalispell, particularly at the high school level, where local teams compete vigorously.
Soccer is widely played among the youth in Kalispell, with organized leagues and clubs promoting the sport.
Ice hockey is a favored winter sport, with local teams offering programs for various skill levels and ages.
Running events, including marathons and fun runs, are popular in Kalispell, taking advantage of the beautiful outdoor scenery.
Fishing is a beloved recreational activity in Kalispell, with numerous lakes and rivers offering excellent fishing opportunities.
Skiing is a popular winter sport due to nearby ski resorts, attracting both locals and tourists alike.
Traffic
Accomodations
Find the best place to stay when visiting Kalispell.
Dietary Restrictions
Tips for restricted diets.
Many restaurants in Kalispell offer diverse vegetarian and vegan options, from plant-based burgers to inventive salads. The Montana Coffee Traders presents an array of vegetarian wraps and vegan baked goods to cater to plant-based diets.
Visitors with gluten sensitivities can find a wealth of gluten-free choices in Kalispell. From gluten-free pizza at Moose's Saloon to celiac-friendly baked goods at Sweetgrass Bakery, the city ensures that gluten-free diners can savor a range of culinary delights.