Things to Do in Billings in December

December Weather in Billings

35°C (96°F) High Temp

19°C (66°F) Low Temp

0.0 mm (0.0 inches) Rainfall

70% Humidity

Is December Right for You?

Advantages

December is Billings' warmest month, perfect for outdoor activities like hiking the Rims or exploring ZooMontana - temperatures reach 35°C (96°F) during midday, ideal for visitors escaping winter elsewhere
Holiday season brings exceptional community events including the Christmas Stroll downtown and Winter Farmers Market, plus locals are in festive spirits making cultural interactions more memorable
Clear winter air provides exceptional visibility for Yellowstone River Valley views and distant mountain ranges - photographers get crystal-clear shots of the Beartooth Mountains 97 km (60 miles) south
Hotel rates drop 30-40% after December 15th as business travel slows, making luxury accommodations like the Northern Hotel significantly more affordable for the rest of the month

Considerations

December weather is highly unpredictable - you might experience 35°C (96°F) one day followed by sudden temperature drops to 19°C (66°F), making packing challenging and outdoor plans risky
Wind speeds frequently exceed 50 km/h (31 mph) especially on the Rims, making outdoor dining uncomfortable and some hiking trails genuinely dangerous - locals avoid exposed areas during afternoon wind peaks
Many seasonal attractions like Pictograph Cave State Park have reduced winter hours (9am-4pm only) and some trails close entirely due to ice conditions, limiting your sightseeing options significantly

Best Activities in December

Yellowstone River Winter Wildlife Viewing

December offers exceptional wildlife spotting along the Yellowstone River as animals concentrate near unfrozen water sources. Temperatures in the 19-35°C (66-96°F) range mean comfortable early morning viewing sessions. Bald eagles, white-tail deer, and occasional elk are most active during the 7-10am window when temperatures are coolest. The variable weather actually works in your favor - animals are more visible and active.

Booking Tip: Half-day guided tours typically cost $80-120 USD and should be booked 7-10 days ahead. Look for operators with heated vehicles and wildlife guarantee policies. Book morning slots (7-11am) for best animal activity and comfortable temperatures. See current tour options in booking section below.

Downtown Billings Historical Walking Tours

December's variable weather makes covered downtown walking tours perfect - duck into historic buildings when wind picks up or temperatures spike. The 70% humidity is actually comfortable for walking compared to summer's dry heat. Holiday decorations add photogenic elements to historic facades along Montana Avenue. Morning tours (9-11am) avoid afternoon wind peaks that can exceed 50 km/h (31 mph).

Booking Tip: Self-guided audio tours cost $15-25 USD, guided group tours run $35-50 USD per person. Book guided tours 5-7 days ahead as December groups are smaller and more intimate. Choose morning departures to avoid wind and heat. Current tour availability in booking widget below.

Rimrock Drive Scenic Photography Tours

December's clear air and dramatic temperature variations create exceptional lighting conditions for landscape photography. The 500m (1,640 ft) elevation gain provides panoramic views of snow-capped mountains 160 km (100 miles) away. Wind can be intense at rim level, but creates dramatic cloud formations. Golden hour occurs around 4:30pm in December - perfect timing to avoid midday heat of 35°C (96°F).

Booking Tip: Photography workshops cost $90-150 USD for 4-hour sessions. Book 10-14 days ahead as December light conditions are sought after by serious photographers. Operators provide wind-resistant equipment. Afternoon sessions (2-6pm) capture best light. Check current specialized tours in booking section.

Indoor Cultural Center Tours

December's unpredictable weather makes indoor cultural attractions essential backup plans. The Yellowstone Art Museum and Western Heritage Center offer climate-controlled environments when outside temperatures swing wildly. Native American cultural programs are particularly active in December, coinciding with winter storytelling traditions. Perfect for the 10 days when weather becomes genuinely unpleasant.

Booking Tip: Museum combo passes cost $25-35 USD and include multiple venues. Cultural programs require 3-5 days advance booking and cost $40-70 USD per person. Schedule these for afternoon backup when wind typically peaks. Book flexible cancellation options due to weather variability. See museum tour options below.

ZooMontana Winter Experience

December's cool mornings and warm afternoons create ideal conditions for observing cold-climate animals who are most active when temperatures hit the daily low of 19°C (66°F). Animals seek shade during 35°C (96°F) peaks, making timing crucial. The 70-hectare (173-acre) facility requires 3-4 hours to explore properly. Winter feeding demonstrations happen at 10am and 2pm when animal activity is highest.

Booking Tip: Admission costs $12-18 USD for adults, annual passes are $45 USD. No advance booking required but arrive by 9am for optimal animal viewing before temperature peaks. Special winter programs cost additional $15-25 USD. Morning visits essential due to afternoon heat and wind. Check seasonal program schedules in booking section.

Brewery and Distillery Indoor Tours

December's climate-controlled brewery tours become essential when outdoor temperatures swing from 19-35°C (66-96°F) and winds exceed 50 km/h (31 mph). Local brewing scene is particularly active in winter months, with special holiday releases and extended tasting room hours. Perfect activity for unpredictable weather days. Most facilities offer food pairings to complement the experience.

Booking Tip: Brewery tours cost $20-35 USD including tastings, distillery experiences run $35-50 USD. Book 1-2 weeks ahead as December holiday parties reduce availability. Choose afternoon slots (2-6pm) to avoid morning crowds and use as weather backup. Many offer package deals combining multiple venues. Current brewery tour options in booking widget.

December Events & Festivals

Early December

Christmas Stroll Downtown Billings

Downtown businesses stay open late with special holiday displays, live music, and local artisan markets. Horse-drawn carriage rides and complimentary hot chocolate stations create authentic Montana holiday atmosphere. Street closures make the historic district pedestrian-friendly despite typical December winds.

Mid December

Winter Farmers Market

Indoor market featuring local producers, holiday crafts, and seasonal Montana specialties like huckleberry products and bison jerky. Held in heated venues to accommodate December's variable weather. Excellent opportunity to interact with local ranchers and artisans during slower winter season.

Essential Tips

What to Pack

Layering system essential - bring lightweight base layers plus warm outer shell for 16°C (29°F) temperature swings between daily highs and lows

Wind-resistant jacket mandatory - afternoon gusts regularly exceed 50 km/h (31 mph) especially at higher elevations like the Rims

SPF 50+ sunscreen and lip balm - UV index of 8 combined with reflective winter surfaces creates intense sun exposure

Sturdy walking boots with good tread for icy morning conditions, plus comfortable sneakers for warm afternoon temperatures

Wool or synthetic blend socks - avoid cotton which retains moisture in 70% humidity conditions

Lightweight moisture-wicking clothing for 35°C (96°F) afternoon peaks, avoid heavy cotton that traps heat and humidity

Insulated water bottle to keep drinks cold during hot spells and prevent freezing during temperature drops

Packable down vest or fleece - perfect for morning starts at 19°C (66°F) that can be easily stored when temperatures rise

Warm hat and lightweight cap - mornings require insulation, afternoons need sun protection with high UV exposure

Quality sunglasses essential - winter sun reflecting off snow and pavement is intense, especially during clear December days

Insider Knowledge

Locals start outdoor activities at 7am before winds pick up and temperatures soar - restaurants and coffee shops open early specifically for this pattern, with places like Stella's Kitchen and Bakery packed by 6:30am

December 15-31 offers the best hotel deals of the year as business travel stops for holidays - luxury properties like the Northern Hotel drop rates 40% but don't advertise this discount online, call directly

The Yellowstone River rarely freezes completely in December, creating a microclimate that's 3-5°C (5-9°F) warmer along the water - locals use riverside trails like the Riverfront Park path as wind breaks during gusty afternoons

Most tourists underdress for morning temperatures then suffer in afternoon heat - locals wear removable layers and always carry a light jacket even when starting the day feels warm, keeping extra clothing in vehicles or day packs

Avoid These Mistakes

Underestimating wind impact - visitors plan outdoor activities without checking wind forecasts, then find exposed areas like the Rims genuinely dangerous when gusts exceed 50 km/h (31 mph), forcing activity cancellations

Packing for only one temperature extreme - bringing either summer or winter clothing instead of versatile layers for 16°C (29°F) daily temperature swings, leading to discomfort during morning/evening transitions

Scheduling too many outdoor activities - December's 10 days of unpleasant weather can ruin rigid itineraries, smart visitors book indoor alternatives and maintain flexible schedules for weather-dependent plans