Montana’ towns blend natural beauty and preserved Western history with unique local experiences like antique shops or eateries, and each town has a distinct personality. Be sure to check out these ones this shoulder season:
Hamilton, MT: Situated in the Bitterroot Valley, Hamilton is home to the Daly Mansion — built in the late 1800s for Marcus Daly, one of Montana's colorful "Copper Kings." The Ravalli County Museum is located in the original Ravalli County Courthouse, which was built in 1900. If you’re looking for outdoor adventure, there is plenty of hiking in the valley (popular spots include Blodgett Canyon and Kootenai Creek), and there is fishing, kayaking or rafting on the Bitterroot River.
Lewistown, MT: Known as the “Heart of Montana” as a result of its being the geographical center of the state, Lewistown offers historical charm and outdoor recreation. From the Charlie Russell Chew Choo experience to checking out the Big Springs Trout Hatchery, hiking in the Judith Mountains and the annual Chokecherry festival, Lewistown has endless activities to enjoy.
Choteau, MT: Choteau is a small town serving as a gateway to the dramatic Rocky Mountain Front, Bob Marshall Wilderness and Sun River Canyon. Visitors can explore the Old Trail Museum, take horse-packing trips into the mountains or visit the nearby The Montana Dinosaur Center. For a laid-back, in-town experience, enjoy delicious local dining and catch a film at the historic Roxy Theater.
Red Lodge, MT: This year-round mountain destination town gives visitors access to the scenic Beartooth Highway and Yellowstone National Park. Activities include hiking, visiting the Yellowstone Wildlife Sanctuary, rodeo, checking out local art galleries and trying iconic restaurants such as Piccola Cucina at Ox Pasture.
Philipsburg, MT: In this historic town renowned for sapphire mining, visitors are able to hunt for their own sapphires, explore Granite Ghost Town State Park, visit the Sweet Palace candy store or catch a live performance at the Opera House Theatre.
Libby, MT: Located in the Kootenai National Forest, Libby offers premier outdoor recreation. Visitors can see the Kootenai Falls Swinging Bridge and the massive Libby Dam, hike one of the many trails in the nearby Cabinet Mountains and fish on the Kootenai River. In downtown Libby, visitors can explore local shops and even tour the Heritage Museum, which highlights the area’s mining and logging roots as well as other history.
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