Under the Big Sky in Billings
Three Days of Rimrocks, Riverfronts, and Montana Culture
Trip Overview
This itinerary explores Montana's largest city, where the Yellowstone River carves through sandstone cliffs. Feel the dry, sage-scented wind on the Rimrocks. Hear historic trolleys downtown. Taste local craft beers in repurposed warehouses. The pace is moderate. It blends outdoor exploration with museum visits and relaxed evenings. Walk along the dramatic cliffs above Billings. Discover ancient rock art in quiet caves. Experience the lively atmosphere of a revitalized downtown district.
Pace
Moderate
Daily Budget
120-180 per day
Best Seasons
Visit from late spring through early fall. You'll find pleasant temperatures and full access to outdoor sites.
Ideal For
First-time visitors to Montana, Outdoor enthusiasts, Road trippers seeking a city stop, History and culture travelers
Day-by-Day Itinerary
A complete plan for every day of your trip
1
Cliffs, Caves, and Craft Brews
Billings Rimrocks and Downtown
Survey the city from its well-known cliffs. Explore ancient pictographs. Settle into the downtown scene.
Morning
Walk the Billings Rimrocks
Start your day with expansive views from the sandstone cliffs that frame the city. See the winding Yellowstone River far below. Feel the sun-warmed rock underfoot. Follow the trail at Swords Park. The scent of juniper and sagebrush fills the crisp air. Look for hawks circling overhead against the vast blue sky.
Lunch
The Burger Dive
Afternoon
Pictograph Cave State Park
Drive to this quiet park east of Billings. See the soot-darkened ceilings of caves adorned with ancient rock paintings. Hear your footsteps echo in the dry, cool air of the main cavern. See red and yellow pigments depicting animals and hunters. The site feels remote and contemplative. It is a stark contrast to the modern city.
Check the park website for seasonal opening hours before you go.
Evening
Dinner and drinks in the Brewery District
Grab a table at Uberbrew for wood-fired pizza and a flight of their locally crafted beers. The space is industrial-chic. It is filled with the hum of conversation and the rich, malty aroma from the brewing tanks.
Where to Stay Tonight
Downtown Billings (The Northern Hotel)
Its central location puts you within easy walking distance of dinner spots and next morning's activities.
See all Billings accommodation options →For the best light on the pictographs, visit the caves in the early afternoon. The sun angles into the openings then.
Day 1 Budget: 140
2
Culture, Trains, and Trolleys
Downtown Billings and South Side
Dive into regional history and art. Enjoy a nostalgic ride and an evening of local performance.
Morning
Western Heritage Center
Spend the morning in this beautifully restored historic building. Touch worn leather saddles. Listen to recorded stories from Montana's past. Exhibits show Northern Plains life. Detailed dioramas can be seen up close. The quiet galleries hold the faint, clean smell of preserved artifacts.
Lunch
Jake's Downtown
Afternoon
ZooMontana and the Billings Trolley
Head to ZooMontana. Hear the chatter of river otters. See grizzly bears in a naturalistic habitat. Then, catch the historic red trolley from near the zoo entrance. Enjoy a breezy, clanging ride back toward downtown. It has a moving view of the city's neighborhoods and the distant Rimrocks.
Confirm the trolley's current schedule and fare online, as it can vary.
Evening
Dinner and a show at the Alberta Bair Theater
Enjoy a pre-theater meal at Ten, known for its imaginative small plates. Then walk to the ornate Alberta Bair Theater. Hear a symphony or see a touring Broadway production in the grand, velvet-lined auditorium.
Where to Stay Tonight
Downtown Billings (The Northern Hotel)
Staying downtown allows for an easy walk to the theater. It avoids the need for evening transportation.
See all Billings accommodation options →If the trolley isn't running, the Riverfront Park trail has a pleasant walk or bike ride back toward downtown along the water.
Day 2 Budget: 160
3
Markets, Art, and a Final View
Billings South Side and Rimrocks
Browse a lively farmers market. Discover local art. Cap the trip with a memorable farewell dinner.
Morning
Billings Farmers Market
Spend time in the Saturday market at the fairgrounds. Smell fresh-baked pastries. Hear live folk music mingling with vendor calls. Sample tangy local huckleberry jam. Feel the rough texture of handmade pottery. See tables piled high with just-picked produce under the bright Montana sun.
Only operates on Saturdays. Check for seasonal dates.
Lunch
The Fieldhouse
Afternoon
Yellowstone Art Museum
Explore contemporary art of the region in this dynamic museum. See bold, colorful paintings depicting the big sky landscape. Walk through thought-provoking installation pieces. The light-filled spaces feel modern and engaging. They offer a cool respite from the afternoon heat.
Evening
Sunset dinner at the Granary
Drive up to the Rimrocks for a final dinner at The Granary. Request a window table. Watch the sunset paint the sky in oranges and purples over the city lights of Billings twinkling below. Enjoy a well seared steak.
Where to Stay Tonight
Downtown Billings (The Northern Hotel)
Staying centrally allows for easy packing and departure the next morning.
See all Billings accommodation options →If the farmers market isn't on, visit the Moss Mansion. Take a tour of the opulent, early 20th-century home, filled with the scent of polished wood.
Day 3 Budget: 150
Practical Information
Everything you need to know before you go
Getting Around
Having your own car is highly recommended for getting around Billings. This is true for reaching Pictograph Cave, the zoo, and the Rimrocks overlooks. Downtown is very walkable. A trolley offers seasonal service between some attractions. Ride-sharing services are readily available for shorter trips within the city.
Book Ahead
Reserve your hotel well ahead. This is key during summer events or rodeo season. Book tickets in advance for popular performances at the Alberta Bair Theater. Confirm opening days for Pictograph Cave State Park, as they can be limited.
Packing Essentials
Pack sturdy walking shoes for trails and cobblestone streets. Bring layers for temperature swings between warm days and cool evenings. Don't forget sunscreen and a wide-brimmed hat for intense sun. Carry a reusable water bottle.
Total Budget
Budget 420-500 for the three days. This excludes accommodations and major transportation to/from Billings.
Customize Your Trip
Adapt this itinerary to your travel style
Budget Version
Swap the Northern Hotel for a well-reviewed chain motel on the city's outskirts. Enjoy picnic lunches from the farmers market or grocery stores. Focus on free activities. These include the Rimrocks trails, Riverfront Park, and window-shopping downtown. Many museums offer reduced admission on certain days.
Luxury Upgrade
Upgrade to a suite at the Northern Hotel with a Rimrocks view. Book a private guided tour of Pictograph Cave. Dine at the exclusive Porterhouse steakhouse. Arrange for a chauffeured vintage car tour of the city's historic districts. Consider a hot air balloon ride over the Yellowstone Valley.
Family-Friendly
Replace the art museum with a visit to the Reef Indoor Water Park on a cooler day. The ZooMontana and the hands-on exhibits at the Wise Wonders Children's Museum are big hits. For dinner, choose a casual spot like the Montana Brewing Company. Its varied menu will please all ages.
Book Activities for Your Trip
Tours, tickets, and experiences in Billings
Didn't see anything interesting yet?
Browse Viator's full catalog of tours, day trips, food experiences, and private guides in Billings.
See All Billings Tours on Viator