Activities for the Whole Family in Kalispell
When it comes to family-friendly travel, Kalispell is one of the best destinations in the West. From swimming pools to parks and kids activities to trails, the options of things to do for families are almost endless. In northwest Montana, family activities include museums, fishing, fun in the snow and more. Kalispell also has a variety of lodging for families of all sizes; see an overview of lodging here.
1. Kids Get in Free at The Northwest Montana History Museum
Explore the history and culture of this corner of Big Sky Country with a visit to the Northwest Montana History Museum. Tour the American Indians of Northwest Montana exhibit and peek inside a tipi and marvel at a buffalo headdress and beaded clothing. Stroll the history of the museum building itself at the History of Central School and Flathead Valley History exhibits.
2. Fish at Pine Grove Pond
Stocked with rainbow and cutthroat trout, the 5-acre Pine Grove Pond is just northeast of Kalispell and is an ideal spot for families to work on the basics of angling. Montana fishing regulations allow children 14 years of age or younger to keep one fish per day, while everyone else must practice catch-and-release fishing. It’s also ADA-accessible and is a prime location for multi-generational family outings.
3. Norm’s Soda Fountain
Swing by the Kalispell Visitor Center to claim your coupon for a free ice cream cone or order of fries at Norm’s Soda Fountain. Warning, when at Norm’s your taste buds will crave a Huckleberry milkshake or some of the 800+ types of candy.
4. Swim in Foy’s Lake
A 10-minute drive from downtown Kalispell, the waters of Foy’s Lake are cool, clear and perfect for taking a dip. It also has a boat launch, public dock for sunbathing and a picnic area. Plus, it happens to be one of the prettiest lakes in the area.
5. Climb at Lawrence Park
Rock climbing enthusiasts of all ages can test their skills by scrambling up the craggy routes of the climbing wall in Lawrence Park. It’s also home to 18 holes of disc golf and a playground area.
6. Summer in Downtown Kalispell
Soak up Montana’s long summer days and nights with live music, refreshing beverages (and local-brewed beer), food trucks and family-friendly fun. Picnic in the Park is a free concert held Tuesday evenings and at Noon on Wednesdays in Depot Park. Kalispell’s Parkline Trail runs through the heart of downtown. A paved trail perfect for walks or bike rides. Or enjoy the playground, duck pond and walking trails at Woodland Park.
7. Foy’s to Blacktail Trails
Take the family trail for an easy walk through the forest or hike all the way up for mountain-top views. And if you’re traveling with your pup? Even better, as dogs are welcome on a leash.
8. ImagineIF Libraries
This library is more than just a place for books, music and movies. It’s an idea machine for all kinds of activities: learn survival skills, how to fix your bike, do art projects and test your knowledge in trivia contests. Check out ImagineIF’s current activities.
