Billings, MT, USA
The historic Babcock Theater in Billings, Montana, USA.
About Billings:
Billings is the largest city in the state of Montana, located in the south-central region of the state. As of the 2020 census, the population of Billings was estimated to be around 110,263. The city has a total area of 45.79 square miles.
Billings is the county seat of Yellowstone County, and it is the principal city of the Billings Metropolitan Area, which has a population of around 170,498. Other cities in the area include Laurel, Lockwood, and Shepherd.
Billings is known for its beautiful parks, such as Pioneer Park and ZooMontana, as well as its historic downtown area, which features a variety of shops, restaurants, and art galleries. The city is also home to several cultural institutions, including the Western Heritage Center and the Moss Mansion.
There are many outdoor activities available in the area, including hiking, fishing, and skiing. The nearby Beartooth Mountains offer some of the best hiking and skiing in the state, while the nearby Yellowstone River is a popular spot for fishing and rafting.
Overall, Billings is a great destination for those looking for a mix of outdoor activities and cultural experiences. Whether you’re interested in history, art, or nature, there’s something for everyone in this charming city.
Things to do in Billings:
1. Visit ZooMontana
ZooMontana is a popular attraction in Billings, featuring a wide variety of animals from around the world. The zoo has over 90 species of animals, including tigers, bears, wolves, and primates. Visitors can also take part in behind-the-scenes tours and animal encounters. The zoo is located at 2100 South Shiloh Road, Billings, MT 59106.
2. Explore the Western Heritage Center
The Western Heritage Center is a museum that tells the story of the American West and the people who have shaped it. The museum features exhibits on the history of the region, including the Native American tribes, the fur trade, and the homesteaders. The Western Heritage Center is located at 2822 Montana Avenue, Billings, MT 59101.
3. Take a Tour of the Moss Mansion
The Moss Mansion is a historic home that was built in 1903 by one of Billings’ most prominent citizens, Preston Boyd Moss. The mansion is a beautiful example of Victorian-era architecture and is open for tours. Visitors can see the original furnishings and learn about the history of the home and its inhabitants. The Moss Mansion is located at 914 Division Street, Billings, MT 59101.
4. Hike the Beartooth Mountains
The Beartooth Mountains are located just outside of Billings and offer some of the best hiking and skiing in the state. The mountains are home to several trails, including the Beartooth Pass, which offers stunning views of the surrounding landscape. Visitors can also go fishing, camping, and horseback riding in the mountains.
5. Visit the Pictograph Cave State Park
The Pictograph Cave State Park is a unique attraction that features a series of caves that have been used by humans for over 6,000 years. The caves contain some of the oldest known rock art in North America, including pictographs and petroglyphs. The park also offers hiking trails, picnic areas, and a visitors center. The Pictograph Cave State Park is located at 3401 Coburn Road, Billings, MT 59101.
6. Explore the Rims
The Rims are a series of cliffs that offer spectacular views of the city of Billings and the surrounding area. The Rims are a popular spot for hiking, rock climbing, and picnicking. Visitors can also drive to the top of the Rims to take in the views.
7. Visit the Billings Depot
The Billings Depot is a historic train station that was built in 1920. The station is now a museum that tells the story of the city’s history through exhibits and artifacts. Visitors can also take a train ride on the Northern Pacific Railway, which departs from the depot. The Billings Depot is located at 2711 Montana Avenue, Billings, MT 59101.
8. Take a Stroll Through Pioneer Park
Pioneer Park is a beautiful park that features a lake, a playground, and a variety of walking trails. The park is also home to the Pioneer Museum, which tells the story of the area’s history through exhibits and artifacts. The park is a great spot for a picnic or a relaxing stroll. The Pioneer Park is located at 2300 1st Avenue N, Billings, MT 59101.
9. Visit the Yellowstone Art Museum
The Yellowstone Art Museum is a contemporary art museum that showcases a variety of exhibitions and programs. The museum also features a permanent collection of art from the region, including works by contemporary Native American artists. The museum is located at 401 North 27th Street, Billings, MT 59101.
10. Go Fishing on the Yellowstone River
The Yellowstone River is a popular spot for fishing, and it offers a wide variety of fish species, including rainbow trout, brown trout, and mountain whitefish. Visitors can hire a guide or rent equipment to fish on the river.
11. Enjoy the Nightlife in Billings
Billings has a vibrant nightlife scene, with a variety of bars, clubs, and live music venues to choose from. Visitors can enjoy a wide range of entertainment options, from live music to comedy shows.
12. Visit the Paddlehead Brewing Company
The Paddlehead Brewing Company is a local brewery that offers a variety of handcrafted beers. Visitors can take a tour of the brewery and sample some of their beers. The Paddlehead Brewing Company is located at 1517 Zimmerman Trail, Billings, MT 59102.
13. Go Skiing at Red Lodge Mountain
Red Lodge Mountain is a ski resort located about an hour from Billings. The resort offers a variety of ski runs for all skill levels, as well as a terrain park and a tubing hill. Visitors can also enjoy snowshoeing, cross-country skiing, and snowmobiling at the resort.
14. Take a Hot Air Balloon Ride
Take a hot air balloon ride over Billings and enjoy breathtaking views of the city and the surrounding area. Visitors can take a sunrise or sunset flight, or a special themed flight, like a romantic flight or a champagne flight.
15. Visit the Pompey’s Pillar National Monument
Pompey’s Pillar is a sandstone rock formation that is located about 25 miles east of Billings. The pillar is named after explorer William Clark, who passed by the pillar in 1806 and carved his name into the rock. Visitors can hike to the top of the pillar for a great view of the surrounding area.
16. Explore the Billings Food Scene
Billings has a thriving food scene, with a variety of restaurants and cafes to choose from. Visitors can enjoy everything from classic American fare to international cuisine.
17. Visit the Yellowstone County Museum
The Yellowstone County Museum is a history museum that tells the story of the area’s past through exhibits and artifacts. The museum also features a collection of vintage cars and other vehicles. The Yellowstone County Museum is located at 2822 Montana Avenue, Billings, MT 59101.
18. Go Rafting on the Stillwater River
The Stillwater River is a popular spot for rafting and kayaking, and it offers a variety of rapids for all skill levels. Visitors can hire a guide or rent equipment to raft on the river.
19. Visit the Dehler Park
Dehler Park is a baseball stadium that is home to the Billings Mustangs, a minor league baseball team. Visitors can watch a game and enjoy some classic ballpark food. The Dehler Park is located at 401 N. 23rd St, Billings, MT 59101.
20. Take a Drive on the Beartooth Scenic Byway
The Beartooth Scenic Byway is a beautiful drive that takes visitors through some of the most stunning scenery in the area. The byway passes through the Beartooth Mountains and offers spectacular views of glaciers, lakes, and wildflowers. Visitors can stop at several pull-offs along the way to take in the views and hike on the trails.
21. Babcock Theater
The Babcock Theater is a historic theater located in downtown Billings. Built in the 1920s, the theater has been fully restored to its original grandeur and features a variety of live performances and events. Visitors can enjoy plays, musicals, concerts and more at the Babcock Theater. The theater is located at 365 North Broadway, Billings, MT 59101.
