26 Exciting Things to Do in Montana in 2026 (You’ll Want to Save This List)

Each year brings new opportunities, growth, change, and adventure, and there's still plenty of time left in 2026. I believe it's the perfect time for me to sit down and create a bucket list for this year. Whether I'm looking for hidden gems or iconic Montana attractions 2026 has to offer, hopefully, I'll fit 26 adventures, places to visit, and some of the best things to do in Montana into this list. I thought I’d share this list with you as a mini Montana travel guide to inspire you for the rest of 2026 and finish out the year with a bang. Let's dive in!

1. Enjoy Water Adventures on Flathead Lake

Could any Montana bucket list be complete without mention of Flathead Lake? I don’t think so. This is one of the clearest and most significant freshwater lakes in the world, and we are blessed that it is in the Treasure State. Boating, sailing, swimming, and paddling are popular activities here, but make sure that you keep your eyes out for the Flathead Lake Monster, nicknamed Flossie. This creature is believed to be the size of a school bus, and people have reported seeing it since the 1880s.  

There are numerous launch points and paddle spots around Flathead Lake. These include the Bigfork, Wild Horse Island, and the West Shore State Park. When you visit the West Shore State Park, you can find boat rentals available via Sea Me Paddle. However, if you need some well-cooked food to fill your stomach, head to Somers or Bigfork, and you will find various cafes and restaurants.

2. Hear the Ringing Rocks Sing in Montana

I’ll be honest, a visit to Ringing Rocks near Butte has been on my bucket list for many years. However, in 2025, a visit to this hidden gem is a priority. Ringing Rocks is one of Montana's most unique natural wonders. When you visit, grab a hammer and start tapping on the rocks. You’ll begin to hear them sing – seriously!

Although you can ride most of the trail to this Montana attraction without any difficulties, it is an excellent choice to use a 4x4 truck or an All-Terrain Vehicle. The trail can be pretty rough and rocky.

3. Spot the Iconic 27-Foot Penguin in Cut Bank

For one pretty extraordinary sight, head to the town of Cut Bank, where you can view the world’s largest penguin statue. Standing at 27 feet tall, or approximately the same size as a three-story building, you’ll find this impressive masterpiece. This concrete bird weighs five tons.

This penguin statue is closer to the Glacier Gateway Inn in Montana’s Cut Bank. You can access the statue through U.S. Highway 2. Although the statue poses no real safety concerns for the public, it is vital to understand that the area often experiences extreme cold and wind chill, particularly during the winter months.

4. Discover History at Fort Benton National Historic Landmark

Fort Benton, known as the Birthplace of Montana, is one of the best day-trip destinations in Montana. There is so much to do at this national historic landmark that your visit will pass by quickly. Make plans to walk along the steamboat levee, visit the museum, explore Historic Old Fort Benton, and more.

The hours of operation often depend on the season. You can expect it to be open Monday to Saturday, and on Sunday afternoons for other related attractions or sites. To access multiple locations within the Heritage Complex, you only need a single ticket.

5. Explore the Best of Missoula, Montana

The city of Missoula is so much more than one of the best college towns in Montana; it is also a nature lover’s paradise. The town is filled with museums, parks, trails, locally owned restaurants, and so much more. If some of your favorite things to do in Montana are in Missoula, let me know so I can add them to my itinerary.

6. Soak and Relax at Chico Hot Springs in Montana

Approximately 30 miles from Yellowstone National Park, you'll find a place filled with relaxation and beauty – Chico Hot Springs. This unique destination is on the National Register of Historic Places and features two pools fed with natural geothermal water. You’ll want to come and stay for a while in one of the cozy accommodations offered at this resort and enjoy some delicious food at one of the on-site dining options. I particularly love Chico Hot Springs in the winter, but any time of year is wonderful to visit.

If you are a guest in this resort, you can access the pool daily, from 7:00 a.m. to 11 at night. However, if you are a day guest, you can only access the pool from 8:00 a.m. In terms of cost, visitors over 7 years old pay around $14, while seniors and children ages 3 to 6 pay around $8.

7. Hit the Slopes at Montage Big Sky Luxury Resort

For a winter getaway that you deserve, you’ll love your visit to Montage Big Sky Luxury Resort, which is approximately 45 minutes from Yellowstone National Park. Not only are there beautiful guest rooms where you can spend the night, a spa, and delicious dining options, but this luxury resort also offers ski-in and out access, making this the perfect winter getaway in Montana.

You will need to get your tickets directly from the Big Sky Resort. You should make early bookings to benefit from more pocket-friendly rates. While in this resort, you can still go for different spa options, including the signature services, an indoor pool, or treatment rooms.

8. Dive into a Steak at Lolo Creek Steakhouse in Montana

You can dine with a view when you visit Lolo Creek Steakhouse in the small town of Lolo. Inside, this restaurant boasts a rustic yet elegant vibe, and the menu is packed with delicious options, including red meat, seafood, pork, and chicken. Just make sure you save room for dessert – you can thank me later.

It serves dinner only and on a first-come, first-served basis. Since it does not take reservations, you may need to wait to be served, which can take up to an hour. Likewise, note that the steakhouse sources its meat locally, offering a taste of the farm-to-table. You will find there is enough space for parking your vehicle.

9. Enjoy a Scenic Picnic at Giant Springs State Park

You can spend the day next to one of the largest freshwater springs in the U.S. at Giant Springs State Park in Great Falls. This unique destination dates back to 1805 when Lewis and Clark discovered it. Today, there is plenty to see and do here, from short trails and overlooks to a visitor center and picnic areas. I suggest a day trip here – it’s delightful.

You should go to this location in Montana for a picnic, ideally from spring to fall, which typically is from March to October. At this time, the weather will be pleasant. Still, you can go to a picnic year-round, and on weekdays to avoid the risk of encountering large crowds. You will find parking near the picnic areas, trails, and the fish hatchery.

10. Drive the Scenic Beartooth Highway This Fall

I love a good road trip, and it is hard to beat the views and attractions along the Beartooth Highway, also known as an “All American Road.” This 68-mile highway connects Montana to Wyoming, and the landscapes are sure to leave you impressed. Keep in mind that the highway is closed during the winter months, so you’ll want to plan this adventure accordingly.

Find your way to the Beartooth Pass, which is the summit or the highest point of the Beartooth Highway. At this point, you will enjoy more extensive views of the surrounding areas. You can also get excellent views from Rock Creek Vista, which is adjacent to the Red Lodge.

11. Stay in a Secluded Dome Amid Montana’s Forests

Stare at the stars while lying in a geodesic dome vacation rental in Whitefish, Montana, in 2026. This unique place to stay in Montana is perfect for a couple’s getaway or even a solo adventure, as there is plenty of space for up to two guests, a central building with a kitchen to use, and the forest where you can bathe all of your senses. I can't wait for a bit of nature therapy at this Montana Airbnb.

Regarding check-in, please note that it is self-service after 3:00 PM. Still, you need to talk to the property management 2 days before you arrive to find out the specific code or key location.  The number of people allowed will depend on the dome's size.

12. Celebrate Oktoberfest at Whitefish’s Great Northwest Festival

Celebrate the fall season at the Great Northwest Oktoberfest in Whitefish. This popular autumn festival in Montana takes place over two weekends in October. It features a long list of activities, including family-friendly fun like a kids' chicken dance contest, as well as classics like stein-holding and keg-throwing. You'll want to make this Oktoberfest celebration an annual tradition if you haven't already.

For 2026, expect the event to take place around September 26-27 and October 3-4 or 5. Ensure you confirm the actual date through their website. Also, regarding tickets, they are usually priced at $10, but children under 12 receive free entry. You will buy the tickets at the gate.

13. Admire Kootenai Falls and the Swinging Bridge in Montana

I have a confession to make: I have never seen Kootenai Falls in person. This is one of the most popular waterfalls in Montana, and the view from the nearby swinging bridge is worth the drive. This is the type of place that will make you fall in love with Montana all over again.

The bridge is only about one mile long and offers easy to moderate hiking difficulty. That is because it features several stairs, an uneven ground with rocks, and even an overpass. In addition, although parking is offered, it may fill up quickly, so you need to arrive very early or very late to avoid being around a lot of people. Remember, the Swinging Bridge may not be for you if you have a fear of heights.

14. Grab a slice of pie at LouLa’s Café in Whitefish

There is so much to love about LouLa’s Café in Whitefish. This bucket-list-worthy restaurant is located in a historic Masonic temple and specializes in made-from-scratch dishes, using locally sourced ingredients whenever possible. There are many incredible breakfast and lunch dishes on the menu, but many people stop for the pie. In fact, LouLa’s Café produces such delicious pies that it makes between 3,000 and 4,000 fruit pies each year. You can find the cafe open from 7:00 A.M. to around 2:00 P.M.

15. Experience a Candlelight Concert for a Cozy Evening

For a delightful night out, there’s nothing quite like a Candlelight Concert. Here, you’ll enjoy a beautiful performance from musicians while surrounded by candlelight. The atmosphere, music, and overall vibe will be a night to remember – the perfect night out in 2026.

Tickets are exclusively available for you and others to purchase via the Fever online platform or app. If you are part of a group of 30 or more people, you can also make a group reservation. The concern may be held at Missoula Children's Theatre, the Petro Theatre, or the Billings Depot.

16. View Ancient Pictographs at Pictograph Cave State Park

The 23-acre Pictograph Cave State Park is where you can not only find three caves, but more than 100 pictographs, some of which are older than 2,000 years. If this is your first visit to this Montana state park, make sure to start in the visitor center and take the loop trail to view the pictographs and learn more about the history of the area.

The visitor center offers an interpretive panel or display, a shop to buy gifts, and museum exhibits. The cave’s trail is about three-quarters of a mile long and rated moderate. A paved path leads to the main gate. However, you may encounter inclined, rocky sections. Also, it's worth remembering that the park usually opens from Wednesdays to Sundays, from 9:00 A.M. to 5:00 P.M.

17. Stay at Gibson Mansion Bed and Breakfast in Montana

One of the most unique places to spend the night in 2026 is the Gibson Mansion Bed and Breakfast in Missoula. This restored Victorian mansion features several rooms with cozy, elegant amenities. You’ll start your day off right with a delicious breakfast, and then you can spend a few minutes walking around the gorgeous gardens that surround the mansion. Plus, you'll enjoy a long list of amenities like my personal favorite – the 24/7 cereal and snack bar.

You will be required to check in at this mansion after 3:00 P.M. and check out by 11:00 A.M. Also, note that accessing the rooms on the building’s second floor may be difficult, as there are no elevators; you have to use stairs instead.

18. Visit Philipsburg’s Sweet Palace for a Treat-Filled Experience

In the tiny town of Philipsburg, you will find one of the best candy stores in Montana – the Sweet Palace. Here, you’ll find shelves of nostalgic candy items, fresh fudge, and sweet treats you’ve never heard of before. This candy store is massive – with hundreds of products to choose from. Your inner child will certainly be released at this Montana candy store.

The Sweet Palace is often open year-round, from 9:00 A.M. to 5:00 P.M. on Sundays, and remains closed on Saturdays. You can make reservations and call to ask about any changes to opening hours.

19. Explore Avalanche Lake on a Scenic Montana Hike

Avalanche Lake is one sight that you need to see in person. Dramatic, rugged mountain peaks, forests, waterfalls, and more surround this lake in Glacier National Park. However, to enjoy this view, you’ll have to lace up your hiking boots, as you’ll have to tackle a nearly 6-mile hike with up to 800 feet of elevation gain. The trail is about 3 miles one way and 6 miles round-trip. Moreover, the trail is moderately complex to navigate

20. Attend the Townsend Fall Fest in Montana

There’s no better way to feel the fall spirit than to attend the 3-day Townsend Fall Fest. It takes place in the small town of Townsend over the first weekend in October each year, and you’ll find a long list of activities to keep you busy, from live music to vendors to incredible food. You also won’t want to miss the car show, one of the largest in Montana.

According to the schedule, this festival should take place from October 2nd to Sunday, October 4th in 2026, which should be the first weekend of October.

21. Celebrate Christmas in Bigfork, Montana

Bigfork, Montana, is an excellent destination year-round, but it is especially magical around Christmas. The entire town transforms as streets and buildings are adorned in Christmas décor and colorful holiday lights. There is also a long list of activities to enjoy throughout December, including a Parade of Lights and Santa's arrival.

While in Bigfork, you can enjoy Christmas decorations throughout December. Furthermore, expect a local bingo night on Christmas Day from 5:30 P.M. at the Bigfork VFW Bar & Grill. There are spaces for parking around the downtown area.

22. Stay at the Stargazer Tube for Stylish Glamping in Coram

Visiting Glacier National Park should be an item on every bucket list, but to take this adventure to the next level, I can’t wait to spend the night in this Stargazer Tube tent. This tube “tent” is a unique glamping cabin, complete with amenities like a plush mattress and large windows where you can gaze at the stars as you fall asleep each night. The tent usually can only accommodate one or two people. In addition, you need to check in and check out at 3:00 P.M. and 11:00 A.M., respectively.

23. Hike to Grotto Falls Near Bozeman, Montana

One of the best hikes in Montana is also one of the best things to do in 2025 – hike to Grotto Falls. This easy, family-friendly trail near Bozeman is less than 2.5 miles round-trip and offers views of the river, forest, and waterfall. Once you reach the breathtaking Grotto Falls, sit and stay for a while. This is some of Montana’s natural beauty at its best.

The hike to the falls is only about 1.2 to 1.5 miles, and you have plenty of parking spots at the trailhead. The trail is easy to walk on, making it suitable for families and beginner hikers. However, be aware that after rain, some sections of the path to the Grotto Falls may be muddy or slippery.

24. Tour the Underground Caves at Lewis and Clark Caverns

If you want to explore one of the most incredible, highly decorated limestone caverns in North America, Lewis and Clark Caverns State Park is an absolute must. The caves are a highlight of the visit, but be aware that you'll need to navigate stairs and tight spaces. If that sounds too strenuous, you’ll still want to explore the many miles of hiking trails above ground.

During the summer, you can often start exploring the cave from 9:00 A.M., and the closing time should be around 4:30 P.M. The caves are usually narrow and thus may be harder to access, especially if you have movement issues. Tickets are available on a first-come, first-served basis, though you can sometimes make a reservation.

25. Cross-Country Ski the Scenic Bannock Ski Trail

I love a winter adventure, and while there are many trails in Montana to explore, there’s none quite as spectacular as the Bannock Ski Trail in Yellowstone National Park. Strap on some cross-country skis and explore this beautiful trail, just shy of five miles long with an elevation gain of approximately 200 feet. On this winter adventure in Montana, you’ll be surrounded by some of the state’s most remarkable creations. Don't forget your America the Beautiful Pass to save on the entry fee. You can purchase the pass online or in person at federal recreation sites.

For a round-trip, the trail is about 5 miles and is excellent for hiking or running. You can access parking year-round.  

26. See Montana’s Wild Horses at Pryor Mountain

There's no better experience than watching the wild mustangs of the Pryor Mountains when you visit Lovell in Montana. These horses roam freely in high desert landscapes, and spotting them truly creates unforgettable memories. The best seasons to visit are in late summer or early fall. I stayed after the rain, and it really felt like stepping back in time. I intend to visit again this year, and I'd recommend you include it on your 2026 Montana adventure bucket list.

What are you excited to do during what's left of 2026 in Montana? What do you think are some of the best things to do in Montana? Let me know by filling out this nomination form. And, if you need a little more inspiration to fill up your bucket list this year, check out our ultimate Montana bucket list and some of our favorite hiking trails to keep you outdoors and busy. Remember to plan your adventure with our itinerary planner.