This Weekend Itinerary Is Perfect For Exploring Philipsburg in Montana

When was the last time you spend a weekend exploring one of Montana's many small tourist towns? These charming spots are meant for us to enjoy, and everyone knows you don't even have to leave the Treasure State to have a fantastic vacation. Philipsburg has quietly become one of our favorite spots for a local escape, and it seems to get better by the year. Here's how to have a wonderful weekend in this delightful town.

Located in Granite County, Philipsburg got its start in 1866 as a trading post and mining camp. It was named after the famous mining engineer Philip Deidesheimer, who designed the Hope Smelter.

This region was booming during the late 1800s, and thanks to the beautifully renovated National Historic Business District, you can still see plenty of evidence of its thriving past.

You can have a perfectly relaxing, pleasant weekend wandering around Philipsburg and ducking into its shops, museums, and cafes.

However, while you're here, there are a few spots we highly recommend checking out.

First, book a visit to the Gem Mountain Sapphire Mine if you go when they're open for the season.

Typically, the mine is open from Memorial Day weekend through Labor Day weekend.

Here, you can have a hands-on gem hunting experience as you look for treasures.

You never know what you might find!

When it's time for a cold one, head to the always charming Philipsburg Brewing Company.

Located in the former Sayrs Bank building, which was erected during the silver boom of the late 1880s, this place is always a fun hangout.

Philipsburg Brewing uses Montana malt and mountain spring water, which creates some crisp, clean ales.

The craft beers here have won numerous awards. If you're not a beer drinker, you can still go enjoy the live music on most weekends.

Hungry? Look no further than UpNSmokin Bbq House.

Get your order to-go and enjoy it at your hotel or, weather permitting, at a local park.

UpNSmokin Bbq House is home to delicious ribs, brisket tri-tip, and other BBQ delicacies.

And you really can't go wrong with the pulled pork nachos... you just might want to share them.

When the day is done, enjoy a relaxing night at the Broadway Hotel.

The building dates back to 1890, but it was completely restored in 2003. It's right in the heart of downtown Philipsburg.

The next day, as you're wandering around and exploring, don't forget to duck into Doe Brothers Restaurant for lunch and a sweet treat.

This classic soda fountain is a beloved local treasure.

Before you leave town, don't forget to stop by Granite Ghost Town State Park.

In the 1890s, this was a bustling silver mining town. In the silver panic of 1893, the mine was shut down and deserted for years. But thanks to its certification as a state park, it's now perfectly preserved for us to enjoy.

When was the last time you enjoyed a weekend in Philipsburg? With events and activities taking place in every season, there's truly never a bad time to visit.