Montana

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Why visit Montana

Welcome to Big Sky Country, where the Great Plains hit the Rockies and just about anything seems possible. Wilderness areas rule out here, whether it's the pre-Yellowstone valleys of Montana's south to Absaroka Beartooth, Bob Marshall or the American Prairie Reserve and the horizons-without-end in Montana's rural heartland. Not far away, Missoula and Bozeman are hip urban centers rich in brewpubs, great restaurants and scenes of emerging culinary excellence. Montana is also home to Little Big Horn Battlefield and, the state's major drawcard, the sculpted peaks of Glacier National Park, one of the most dramatically beautiful corners of the continent.

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Top places to visit in Montana

Discover the best attractions in Montana from must-see sights to unexpected hidden gems.

Travel Guides

Montana travel tips from Lonely Planet experts

Find practical guidance from our team of contributors around the world who bring their decades of first-hand travel experience to your next trip.

Best Things to Do

Winter is a harsh but magical time to visit Montana. Here are the best things to do in the Big Sky Country in winter.


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Best Time to Visit

With so much wilderness right on the doorstep, there's always something to do in Montana at any time of year. Here are the best times to come.


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Transportation

From car to train, find your way around Montana with our guide to transportation across the state.


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Free Things to Do

Montana is the gateway to Yellowstone and Glacier National Park, but there's plenty to do that doesn’t cost a cent. Here are the top things to do for free.


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Best Road Trips

Wherever you drive in Big Sky Country, beautiful vistas await. From epic national park drives to tranquil byways, here are the best road trips in Montana.


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Money and Costs

Here are our top budget tips, along with a guide to daily costs, for a cost-effective trip to Montana.


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Traveling with Kids

Montana's supreme nature sets the stage for a family holiday full of unforgettable childhood experiences.


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Best Places to Visit

From stunning national parks to fascinating historic towns, here are the best places to visit in Montana.


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Montana and beyond