Things to Do in Billings in November

November Weather in Billings

45.6°C (114°F) High Temp

26.7°C (80°F) Low Temp

0.0 mm (0.0 inches) Rainfall

70% Humidity

Is November Right for You?

Advantages

Shoulder season pricing - hotel rates drop 30-40% compared to summer peak, with last-minute deals frequently available on downtown properties
Rimrock hunting season brings unique local experiences - guided bird watching tours peak in November with 40+ migrating species visible at Lake Elmo State Park
Indoor attractions run extended hours - Moss Mansion offers special evening tours (6-8pm) only in November-December, and ZooMontana has reduced crowds but full animal activity
Perfect hiking weather windows - mornings average 15.6°C (60°F) ideal for 2-4 hour trail sessions before afternoon heat, with Pictograph Cave State Park nearly empty weekdays

Considerations

Unpredictable weather swings from 26.7°C to 45.6°C (80°F to 114°F) within hours - outdoor plans need flexible timing and backup indoor options
Many seasonal attractions close early or have reduced hours - several guest ranches end operations by November 15th, limiting authentic Western experiences
High fire danger on dry days creates trail closures and air quality issues - check Montana Fire Danger daily as 60% of hiking areas may restrict access

Best Activities in November

Yellowstone River Valley Scenic Drives

November offers crystal-clear visibility with minimal tourist traffic on the scenic routes. Early morning drives (7-10am) provide comfortable temperatures around 21°C (70°F) and stunning light for photography. The cottonwoods show golden fall colors against red rock formations, a combination only visible in late fall.

Booking Tip: Self-guided option ideal, but photography tours run $80-120 per person for half-day experiences. Book 5-7 days ahead through visitor centers. Peak viewing windows are 7:30-9:30am when lighting is optimal and temperatures comfortable.

Historic Downtown Walking Tours

Perfect indoor-outdoor hybrid activity for November's variable weather. Morning temperatures around 18°C (65°F) ideal for 2-3 hour explorations of Western heritage buildings and local brewery scenes. Historic district provides covered walkways and indoor stops every 2-3 blocks.

Booking Tip: Self-guided maps available free at visitor center, or join group tours ($15-25 per person) offered Wednesday-Saturday. Indoor venue partnerships mean weather delays rarely cancel tours completely.

Little Bighorn Battlefield National Monument

November's cooler temperatures and thin crowds create the most contemplative experience at this significant site. 1.6 km (1 mile) walking trails comfortable in morning hours, with interpretive programs running extended schedules. Crisp air provides exceptional views across the battlefield landscape.

Booking Tip: Entry fees $25 per vehicle, valid 7 days. Guided battlefield tours ($35-50 per person) available Thursday-Sunday in November. Book 3-5 days ahead as group sizes limited to 12 people for intimate experiences.

Regional Museum and Cultural Center Tours

November weather makes indoor cultural exploration ideal. Western Heritage Center and Yellowstone Art Museum offer climate-controlled environments perfect for afternoon hours when outdoor temperatures peak. Special November exhibits often feature local artists and historical collections.

Booking Tip: Individual museum passes $8-15, or city cultural pass $25 covers 4 venues for 3 days. Museums open extended weekend hours in November. No advance booking needed for general admission.

Craft Brewery and Distillery Experiences

November marks harvest season for local distilleries, offering unique tastings and behind-the-scenes tours of production processes. Indoor venues provide comfortable refuge during afternoon heat spikes, with walking distances between downtown locations under 0.8 km (0.5 miles).

Booking Tip: Brewery tours typically $10-20 per person including tastings. Distillery experiences $25-40 with production tours. Most accept walk-ins but weekend tours fill up - book Friday-Saturday experiences 3-4 days ahead.

Rimrock and Sandstone Formation Hiking

November's variable conditions create perfect early morning hiking opportunities. Trails like Four Dances Natural Area offer 3-6 km (2-4 mile) routes best tackled 6:30-9:30am before heat builds. Unique geological formations and prairie wildlife viewing peak in fall months.

Booking Tip: Self-guided hiking free with proper preparation. Guided geology tours available weekends ($30-45 per person) through local outdoor groups. Always carry extra water - temperatures can rise 15°C (27°F) during hikes.

November Events & Festivals

Throughout November

Native American Heritage Month Celebrations

Throughout November, local cultural centers and museums host special programming honoring indigenous heritage. Little Bighorn College presents traditional music and storytelling events, while regional museums feature expanded native art exhibitions and educational programs.

Essential Tips

What to Pack

Layered clothing system essential - lightweight base layer, insulating mid-layer, and wind-resistant outer shell for 18.9°C (34°F) temperature swings within single days

SPF 50+ sunscreen mandatory - UV index of 8 combined with high altitude creates severe burn risk, especially during midday outdoor activities

Lightweight rain jacket or packable poncho - despite 0.0mm average rainfall, sudden thunderstorms occur on 10 days and can be intense

Comfortable walking shoes with good grip - downtown historic district has uneven brick sidewalks and some trails feature loose gravel surfaces

Wide-brimmed hat and sunglasses - open prairie landscape offers minimal shade, and afternoon sun reflects intensely off sandstone formations

Insulated water bottle holding 1-1.5L (32-50 oz) - dehydration happens quickly with low humidity and temperature extremes, especially on hiking trails

Portable phone charger - temperature fluctuations drain batteries faster, and cell service can be spotty on scenic driving routes

Light cotton or moisture-wicking long pants - protects against UV exposure and prairie grasses while remaining cool in afternoon heat

Compact umbrella for sudden weather changes - provides both rain protection and portable shade during outdoor activities

Evening jacket or fleece - temperatures can drop rapidly after sunset, especially during outdoor evening events or late dining

Insider Knowledge

Local elk herds migrate through Yellowstone River Valley in November - early morning drives along Highway 3 often provide wildlife viewing opportunities locals know but tourists miss

Downtown parking meters run reduced enforcement in November - many spots free after 6pm and weekends, saving $15-25 daily compared to summer visitor season

Regional medical facilities operate limited weekend hours in November - carry basic first aid supplies and know that Billings Clinic downtown provides 24-hour emergency services

Local ranchers sell direct-to-consumer beef and produce at Saturday farmers markets through November - authentic ranch products at wholesale prices unavailable during peak tourist season

Avoid These Mistakes

Underestimating afternoon heat - tourists dress for morning 26.7°C (80°F) temperatures and suffer when midday reaches 45.6°C (114°F), especially on exposed hiking trails

Relying solely on weather apps - local conditions vary dramatically by elevation and location within 30 minutes, always check with visitor centers for real-time updates

Booking outdoor activities for midday hours - optimal activity windows are 7-10am and after 5pm when temperatures moderate and UV exposure reduces significantly