Things to Do in Billings

About Billings

Billings sits where the Great Plains crash into the Rocky Mountain foothills. The Yellowstone River cuts through high desert landscape, and those sandstone Rimrocks tower above the city—a natural amphitheater that has watched centuries unfold. Cowboy culture here isn't for tourists; you'll see it in the leather boots on Main Street and rodeo dust coating pickup trucks parked outside diners. Art galleries mix Native American work with contemporary Western pieces. Craft breweries have opened. Farm-to-table restaurants show what a younger crowd can do when they stay put instead of leaving. The sky goes on forever. It shifts from sage and amber to deep indigo, and you can't ignore it—nature runs the show here. This is Montana's Trailhead, and locals won't let you forget it.

Travel Tips

Transportation: Rent a car at Billings Logan International Airport for maximum flexibility exploring Montana. Downtown is walkable, but attractions like Pictograph Cave and ZooMontana require driving. Uber and Lyft operate but with limited availability outside downtown core.

Money: Most businesses accept cards, but carry cash for farmers markets, food trucks, and some local establishments. No state sales tax makes shopping attractive. Tipping 18-20% at restaurants is standard; round up for coffee shops and breweries.

Cultural Respect: Respect Native American heritage at sites like Pictograph Cave—no touching rock art. Dress appropriately for outdoor activities; locals appreciate practical over fashionable. Wave or nod to acknowledge others—friendly greetings are deeply ingrained in Montana culture.

Food Safety: Try local specialties like pork chop sandwiches and craft beer at breweries along Montana Avenue. Farmers markets offer safe, fresh produce May-October. Many restaurants source locally; ask about ranch-to-table options for authentic Montana flavors.

When to Visit

Summer (June-August) offers ideal weather with temperatures ranging 70-85°F and minimal rainfall (1-2 inches monthly), making it perfect for outdoor adventures and festivals like Montana Fair (mid-August). However, expect peak pricing with hotel rates 40-50% higher and crowded attractions. Spring (April-May) brings mild weather (55-70°F), blooming wildflowers, and moderate pricing, though occasional rain showers occur. Fall (September-October) delivers spectacular foliage, comfortable temperatures (60-75°F), and harvest season activities, with pricing dropping 20-30% after Labor Day. The Magic City Blues Festival occurs in late August, while ZooMontana's Boo at the Zoo happens in October. Winter (November-March) sees temperatures from 15-40°F with 6-10 inches monthly snowfall, offering 50-60% lower accommodation rates and authentic local experiences, though some attractions have limited hours. Photography ensoiasts should visit during golden hour year-round when the Rimrocks glow magnificently. Families prefer summer for hiking and zoo visits, while budget travelers find excellent value in shoulder seasons. Business travelers will find consistent amenities year-round, as Billings is Montana's economic hub regardless of season.