12 Unforgettable Montana Day Trips, One for Each Month of the Year

Looking for some Montana day trips? Look no further than right here for some of the best day trips near me! Even if all you can spare is a single day, you'll still have plenty of time to enjoy a wide array of wonderful experiences. From charming small towns to picturesque trails, exciting events, and everything in between, you'll find something to suit your travel desires. So without further adieu, check out these awesome day trips in Montana--we've got one for every month! Make this the year you explore new things.

1. January: Big Sky Resort

There's never a bad time to visit Big Sky and the Big Sky Resort, but January is an especially magical (albeit cold) month here. Obviously, the skiing is fantastic ... but even if you don't do snow sports, you can enjoy the shopping, dining, and spa services at Big Sky Mountain Village. We definitely recommend coming for at least a few days, but if you can't, it is definitely one of the best day trips in Montana.

2. February: Whitefish Winter Carnival

This annual event, held in its namesake Whitefish, is always a blast, and each year there is a different theme. Whether you come for the day or for the entire three-day festival, you're sure to enjoy some of the best quirkiness you've ever seen! It is definitely an awesome Montana day trip. The 2025 dates for the Whitefish Winter Carnival are February 7-9, 2025. Learn more on the Whitefish Winter Carnival website.

3. March: Butte

We're not saying that Butte has the best St. Patrick's Day celebration in the country or anything ... but we're not claiming that it doesn't, either. If you've never experienced the fun for yourself, make this the year that you take that day trip in Butte. Read on to learn about the history of Butte, Montana and all of the fun things to do here.

4. April: Bozeman

Bozeman is without a doubt one of the best day trips in Montana! We suggest that you visit before the summer hits and the tourists flock to the city for the Sweet Pea Festival and other fun. While it might be colder and grayer than this photo would indicate, you can still visit your favorite restaurants, shops, and the Museum of the Rockies in peace. And don't forget to go for a spring soak at Bozeman Hot Springs!

5. May: The Garden Of One Thousand Buddhas

Located in Arlee, The Garden Of One Thousand Buddhas is a public garden and a place for people of all faiths to come enjoy some quiet contemplation. Sounds like a perfect Montana day trip. May is the perfect month for this day trip since the weather is nicer, and this is the perfect spot to sit outside and reflect.

6. June: Virginia City

When was the last time you visited Virginia City, Montana's most charming ghost town? Celebrate summer's arrival with a day trip if it's feasible. A great choice for a day trip in Montana, June is when this little town becomes more "spirited." Read on to discover why this charming little town is one of the most haunted areas in Montana.

7. July: Livingston

A parade, fireworks, family-friendly fun - oh, and Montana's most famous rodeo. All of this happens in the beautiful town of Livingston. One of the best day trips in Montana, we can't think of a better place to spend the 4th of July. Check out all of the best things to do in Livingston and start planning your own adventure.

8. August: Missoula

There's nothing like a Montana day trip and a beautiful summer day in Missoula. Treat yourself to some huckleberry ice cream from Big Dipper and walk the Riverfront Trail. And if you happen to be there on a Thursday, you can check out the free performances and food trucks at Downtown ToNight at Caras Park.

9. September: Montana Bale Trail (What The Hay)

Editor's Note: This event is no longer in operation.

If you live in central or eastern Montana, head to Hobson anytime after the first Sunday after Labor Day and check out this fascinating hay sculpture contest. This longtime tradition is a truly unique day trip near me in Montana and is sure to make you laugh.

Even if you can't partake in the festival anymore, there are still plenty of things to do in Hobson. One of our favorite restaurants in Hobson is the Tall Boys Tavern. This eatery has some of the best steaks in Montana! The building that the restaurant is in has a fascinating history, too.

10. October: Flathead Valley

Montana's fall foliage is highly underrated. And while a Montana day trip to Glacier National Park may not be possible, you can cruise through the Flathead Valley and see scenes like this.

11. November: Fairmont Hot Springs Resort

While it can snow in Montana anytime, November is when the winter weather starts getting real. Take a break and warm up in the piping-hot pools of the fabulous Fairmont Hot Springs Resort. It is one of the most popular resorts in the state and one of the best day trips in Montana.

12. December: Bigfork

Bigfork has become well-known as Montana's Christmas Village. The local chamber of commerce and some of the businesses are always hosting events that will help you get into the holiday spirit. Be sure to keep this in mind for day trips in Montana.

Interested in making any (or all!) of these into a road trip and needing transportation? Check out what RVshare has to offer.

Montana is an amazing place to explore in any season. Have you been to any of these places? What do you think are the best day trips in Montana? Share this article with someone you want to day a day trip in Montana with!

Another great idea for day trips in Montana? Small-town day trips in Montana! There are so many small towns in Montana that are deserving of a day trip. For example, have you ever visited Ennis?