Things to Do in Billings in July
July weather, activities, events & insider tips
July Weather in Billings
Is July Right for You?
Advantages
- Peak summer weather means long daylight hours from 5:30am to 9pm, giving you 15+ hours to explore without rushing through attractions or feeling pressured by early sunsets
- MontanaFair runs July 31-August 9, 2026, bringing carnival rides, rodeo events, and live music right to MetraPark - one of the state's largest annual gatherings with over 200,000 attendees and a genuine slice of Montana culture
- Warm Yellowstone River temperatures around 18-21°C (64-70°F) make this the absolute best month for floating, paddleboarding, and kayaking without a wetsuit - locals hit the water after work throughout July
- Summer concert season peaks in July with free Music in the Parks series at Pioneer Park every Thursday evening, plus brewery live music schedules are fully loaded with touring acts passing through on I-90
Considerations
- Hotel rates jump 35-50% compared to shoulder season, and anything near the airport or downtown books solid during MontanaFair week - expect to pay USD 150-220 for mid-range properties that cost USD 95-130 in May
- Afternoon temperatures regularly hit 32-35°C (90-95°F) with that 70% humidity creating a sticky feeling that surprises people expecting dry mountain air - the heat lingers until 8pm most evenings
- Wildfire smoke from regional fires can drift into the Billings area unpredictably in July, occasionally creating hazy skies and air quality concerns that might force you to adjust outdoor plans on short notice
Best Activities in July
Yellowstone River Float Trips
July offers the warmest water temperatures of the year at 18-21°C (64-70°F), making this the one month you can comfortably float without a wetsuit. The river runs calmer than June's snowmelt rush but still moves at a pleasant pace. Popular put-in points include Norm's Island and Josephine Crossing with takeouts at Coulson Park or Blue Creek. The 3-hour float from Norm's to Coulson covers roughly 16 km (10 miles) and passes through cottonwood groves with occasional eagle sightings. Most locals do this on weekday evenings when temperatures peak, bringing coolers and floating until sunset around 9pm. Water levels typically stabilize by mid-July after spring runoff.
Pictograph Cave State Park Hiking
July mornings from 7am to 10am offer the best window before temperatures climb into the low 30s°C (high 80s°F). The main trail to all three caves covers 1.2 km (0.75 miles) with 46 m (150 ft) elevation gain on exposed terrain with minimal shade. The pictographs date back 2,000+ years and the site stays relatively uncrowded compared to tourist-heavy months. By arriving at opening time, you'll have the caves practically to yourself and finish before the real heat sets in. The sandstone formations photograph beautifully in morning light, and interpretive signs explain the significance of the rock art without needing a guided tour.
Brewery and Distillery Tours
Billings has 8+ craft breweries and 2 distilleries concentrated in the downtown and Heights areas, and July's heat makes air-conditioned tasting rooms particularly appealing during afternoon hours. The local scene focuses on Montana-grown ingredients with several breweries using barley from nearby farms. Most offer free tours on weekends with USD 5-8 tasting flights. The brewery district walkability means you can hit 3-4 spots in an afternoon without driving. Evening patio sessions are popular when temperatures drop after 7pm, and many host food trucks or allow outside food. July typically sees special summer releases and collaboration brews.
Pompeys Pillar National Monument Visit
Located 45 km (28 miles) east of Billings along I-94, this sandstone outcrop features William Clark's signature from 1806 - the only remaining physical evidence of the Lewis and Clark Expedition you can still see. July means extended hours until 6pm and ranger programs at 11am and 2pm daily. The boardwalk trail to the top covers 0.4 km (0.25 miles) with interpretive signs explaining the site's significance to Indigenous peoples and early explorers. Views from the 46 m (150 ft) summit overlook the Yellowstone River valley. The visitor center provides excellent context and air conditioning, making this a solid half-day trip when combined with a river float or small-town lunch in nearby Worden.
ZooMontana and Botanical Park Exploration
Montana's only zoo and botanical garden combination sits on 28 hectares (70 acres) in the Billings Heights with animals adapted to northern climates - Siberian tigers, red pandas, wolverines, and takin. July means active animals during morning feeding times around 9am before they seek shade. The sensory garden peaks in July bloom with native Montana plants and the wetland boardwalk offers bird watching opportunities. Indoor exhibits provide heat relief while still being educational. The zoo participates in species survival programs and focuses on conservation education rather than exotic collections. Less crowded than major city zoos but well-maintained with knowledgeable staff.
Rimrock Trail System Hiking
The sandstone cliffs ringing Billings' north side offer 19 km (12 miles) of interconnected trails with panoramic views across the city and Yellowstone Valley. July requires early morning starts by 6:30am before temperatures climb, but sunrise hikes reward you with golden light on the rimrocks and wildlife sightings including mule deer and various raptors. The trails range from easy 3 km (2 mile) loops to more challenging 8 km (5 mile) routes with 150 m (500 ft) elevation changes. Most trailheads have parking and basic facilities. The exposed terrain means no shade, but morning temps in the 15-18°C (60-65°F) range make it manageable. Locals use these trails year-round and you'll encounter runners, mountain bikers, and dog walkers.
July Events & Festivals
MontanaFair
Running July 31 through August 9, 2026, this is Montana's largest annual fair with carnival rides, rodeo competitions, demolition derbies, livestock exhibitions, and nightly concerts at MetraPark. Headliner acts typically include country music stars and classic rock bands. The midway features 40+ rides, and the food vendors serve everything from Indian tacos to deep-fried everything. Daily admission runs USD 10-15, with concert tickets additional at USD 35-75 depending on the act. Parking can be challenging, arrive early or use rideshare services. Genuinely represents Montana culture with 4-H exhibits, agricultural competitions, and a strong local community presence.
Music in the Parks
Free Thursday evening concerts at Pioneer Park throughout July from 6:30pm to 8pm featuring local and regional bands covering rock, country, blues, and folk. Bring blankets or lawn chairs, and food trucks typically set up around the pavilion. The crowd skews local families and the atmosphere stays relaxed. Beer and wine sales support the parks department. This is how Billings residents actually spend summer evenings, making it a genuine cultural experience rather than a tourist production. Shows continue regardless of heat, though occasional thunderstorms cause cancellations.