When you think of Montana, you probably picture untouched wilderness. But even Big Sky Country has its share of vibrant cities, blending culture, history, and, of course, easy access to the outdoors.
These “urban giants” offer a fascinating glimpse into the state’s diverse character. So, let’s explore the heart of Montana’s largest cities, including:
- Billings
- Missoula
- Great Falls
- Bozeman
- Helena
- Kalispell
- Butte
- Havre
- Anaconda
Each of these large cities in Montana offers a unique perspective on the state’s history, economy, and natural beauty. We’ll also touch on the Bitterroot Mile Club, a unique example of Montana’s luxury tourism sector.
Billings: The Trailhead City
Billings isn’t just the largest city in Montana, it’s strategically located between the Great Plains and the Rocky Mountains. That location, along with its size, makes it an important economic and cultural hub for the region.
If you’re looking for outdoor adventures, Billings has plenty to offer. Check out the Four Dances Recreational Area for hiking and biking. Or explore the city’s 40 miles of paved and gravel paths.
And when you’re ready to relax and refuel, Billings boasts a thriving local dining scene. Start your day with a visit to Sassy Biscuit – a popular spot for breakfast.
Exploring Missoula’s Cultural Scene
Missoula is a vibrant college town with a distinct artsy feel. As the home of the University of Montana, it has a youthful and creative atmosphere.
Missoula has historical ties to mining and agriculture, but today, the city is known for its cultural attractions. You can explore Fort Missoula and learn about its history, or visit the Montana Museum of Art and Culture, which has over 12,000 pieces of art.
If you like beer, you can take a river tour with River City Brews. Montana ranks second in the nation for breweries per capita, and Missoula definitely plays a role in that!
What is there to do in Great Falls?
Great Falls sits in the heart of some seriously beautiful country. You can spend your time exploring the outdoors or diving into the area’s history.
For a relaxing afternoon, check out Gibson Park, with its walking paths, gardens, and ponds.
If you are interested in history, you can visit the Lewis and Clark Interpretive Center. This museum walks you through the famous expedition’s time in the area, showing you the landscapes they encountered and the challenges they faced. The area around Great Falls was hugely important to the Lewis and Clark expedition, as they had to portage around the Great Falls of the Missouri River.
Bozeman: Gateway to Adventure
Bozeman, Montana is often called “the most livable place” for good reason. This city is the perfect base camp for visitors planning to explore nearby Yellowstone National Park.
Outdoor enthusiasts find plenty to do in Bozeman, where hiking, skiing, fishing, and rock climbing are popular pursuits. The city is also home to Montana State University, a major research university.
Bozeman has seen a revitalization in recent years, with innovative businesses moving into the area. For example, Shaw Thompson’s Misco Mill Gallery is an art gallery, workshop space, and rental venue housed in a converted grain mill. Thompson Limanek’s Green Seam Designs focuses on eco-conscious upholstery.
Bozeman’s proximity to Yellowstone and its many outdoor recreation opportunities make it a popular destination for tourists and new residents alike. As a result, the city has seen significant growth in recent years, and it’s now one of the fastest-growing cities in the United States.
Helena’s history
Helena started as a gold rush town in the 1860s. It was just one of many boomtowns that sprang up in the American West almost overnight.
You can still get a feel for that era if you visit the historical district and see Last Chance Gulch, the site where gold was first discovered in the area.
Over the next seven years, miners extracted over $20 million in placer claims from Last Chance Gulch. That’s equivalent to nearly $450 million today.
Helena quickly became an important economic hub, and it continues to be a vital city in Montana.
Kalispell and the Flathead Valley Wonders
Nestled in the Flathead Valley, Kalispell provides access to some of Montana’s most beautiful scenery and outdoor activities. Flathead Lake is a popular spot for boating, swimming, and fishing. The surrounding mountains are full of hiking trails.
As of 2024, the median home sale price in Kalispell is $542,450. While not the largest city in Montana, Kalispell boasts a population of 24,558, providing a balance between small-town charm and access to amenities.
Butte’s mining heritage unearthed
Butte is a city with a complex history tied to mining. At one point, it was known as “the Richest Hill on Earth,” thanks to the area’s mineral wealth.
Unfortunately, all that mining came at a cost. As you explore Butte, it’s important to be aware of the environmental issues that have arisen from the area’s mining past.
One of the most visible examples of this is the Berkeley Pit, a giant Superfund site that’s roughly 900 feet deep. The pit is a stark reminder of the environmental consequences of mining, and it’s something to keep in mind as you explore the city and its surroundings.
Despite these challenges, Butte remains a fascinating place to visit, with a rich history and a unique character. Just be sure to approach your exploration with an awareness of the environmental issues that the city faces.
Havre Beneath the Prairie Sky
Havre is a historical agricultural hub under Montana’s wide-open sky, a place where nature and culture meet.
It’s home to the Wahkpa Chu’gn Buffalo Jump, one of the largest and best-preserved buffalo jumps in North America. For thousands of years, Native American tribes used the site to hunt bison, driving them over the cliff to their deaths.
Today, visitors can tour the site and learn about the history and culture of the tribes who once called this land home. Havre offers a unique blend of history and outdoor recreation.
Anaconda’s Smelter City Legacy
Anaconda may not be one of Montana’s largest cities today, but its history is inextricably linked to the copper smelting industry. For decades, Anaconda was a hub of smelting activity, processing ore from Butte’s famous mines.
Unfortunately, this industrial past came at a cost. The environmental damage caused by the smelter is well-documented. While acknowledging the harmful impact on the surrounding landscape, it’s important to remember that smelting was also central to Anaconda’s identity and its contribution to Montana’s economy.
Special Mention: The Bitterroot Mile Club
While not technically a city, the Bitterroot Mile Club deserves a mention for its unique Montana experience. This exclusive destination offers guests luxury cabins, personalized guided tours, and unparalleled fly fishing opportunities. It’s a true representation of Montana’s high-end tourism sector, drawing visitors seeking both adventure and relaxation in a stunning natural setting. If you’re looking for an upscale Montana getaway, the Bitterroot Mile Club should definitely be on your radar.
To Conclude
Montana’s cities each offer a unique slice of Big Sky Country, blending outdoor adventures with fascinating history and vibrant cultural scenes. From the bustling streets of Billings to the artistic spirit of Missoula and the state capital, Helena, there’s something for everyone to discover.
While these cities offer much to enjoy, it’s also important to acknowledge the challenges they face, like the environmental issues in Butte and Anaconda, a reminder of the state’s industrial past.
Montana’s urban landscape is unlike any other. So, if you’re planning a visit, be sure to explore these cities and experience Montana in a new light. And don’t forget to venture off the beaten path to discover the state’s smaller towns and hidden gems—they hold just as much charm and character.