Montana has an inexhaustible list of things to do. While Montana is an outdoor paradise for hikers, bikers, hunters, skiers, and climbers, the great people and charming western towns are the real reason this is called the treasure state. Here at Montana Gift Corral, we want to share some of our favorite unique Montana attractions with you.

Livingston Museums

Livingston was the original gateway to Yellowstone when people would move from train car to a stagecoach led by a team of horses. A three-story schoolhouse from 1906 is the home of the Yellowstone Gateway Museum where you can learn about the history of the town, the early peoples of this area, our nation’s first national park, and how railroads shaped American expansion. Learn more about the railroads at the Depot Center Museum--the restored rail station that brought so many to the wonders of Yellowstone. Next, head to the International Federation of Fly Fishers, home to an array of angling artifacts, literature, and art. You don’t have to be an agler to appreciate all that’s offered here. Finish the day walking around this truly special western town.

Tippet Rise

Photo Courtesy of Erik Peterson on Tippet Rise Art Center Facebook page

Like much of what Montana has to offer, Tippet Rise Art Center is off the beaten path. Located in Fishtail, Montana, Tippet Rise has 13 miles of biking trails, 9 miles of hiking trails, and van tours that connect a series of outdoor art installations. In addition to the work of world renowned artists, Tippet Rise hosts musical events, theater productions, and film screenings. A seamless blending of adventure and culture in the rolling hills of the Montana countryside. 

Museum of the Rockies

In Bozeman, Montana the Museum of the Rockies (MOR) is home to the Siebel Dinosaur Complex, one of the largest collections of dinosaur fossils in the world. In addition to the Dinosaur Complex, MOR has daily planetary shows, a living history farm, and a number of visiting exhibitions. Museum of the Rockies always has something cool going on, so check out their website for upcoming events. 

The Beartooth Highway

Ready for a drive? One of the most beautiful drives in the world, this 68 mile National Scenic Byway winds through the highest mountains in Montana and Wyoming. There’s something exciting around every turn whether you’re looking for wildlife or simply in awe of the 12,000 foot peaks surrounding you. This is the perfect place to keep the ski season going well into summer. Live your very own luxury car commercial with this drive connecting Red Lodge, Montana to Yellowstone’s northeast entrance.

Lewis and Clark Caverns State Park

Geology and American history combine at Lewis and Clark Caverns State Park. Named a national monument by president Theodore Roosevelt, the caverns later became Montana’s first state park. Named after Meriwether Lewis and William Clark, the leaders of The Corps of Discovery who explored the west. Lewis and Clark’s expedition traveled within the parks boundaries, though never explored the caverns. Today you can enjoy hiking, camping, and guided tours through the caverns. As you plan for the holiday season, consider a candlelight tour of the caverns offered December 20th-22nd and December 27th-29th.

This great state has something for everyone every day of every season. We hope the attractions we highlighted pique your interest and remind you of your favorite experiences in Montana!

Written by: Stephen McNeal