Places to Go Archives | Kalispell

Places to Go

Things to Do

There is no shortage of things to do and places to explore in and around Kalispell. From our storybook downtown to Glacier National Park and everything in between, you can adventure, play and relax to your heart’s content.

When it comes to planning a trip to northwest Montana, the hardest part may be picking where to go and what to see. This corner of Big Sky Country is made for adventures of all kinds, with glacial-carved landscapes serving as the backdrop for jaw-dropping experiences and memory-making vacations. 

Kalispell sits in the center of it all, with its vibrant downtown perfectly complementing natural wonders like Glacier National Park, Flathead Lake and the Jewel Basin. A scenic 32-mile drive will have you at the west entrance of the Crown of the Continent, making it easy to access the Going-to-the-Sun Road. Meanwhile, the largest natural freshwater lake in the West Flathead Lake sits 10 minutes south of Kalispell. It’s ideal for sailing, boating, touring, fishing and kayaking. Be sure to check out the numerous state parks that dot its shoreline, as well as Wild Horse Island, a day-use state park that is also the largest island in the lake. 

While Glacier National Park tends to get most of the attention when it comes to places to go, there are abundant options outside the park, like Jewel Basin, Hungry Horse Reservoir and the Flathead National Forest. Venture beyond the park to explore some of the best destinations in the region. 

Round out any stay with indoor activities or other outdoor wonders, from incredible museums like the Conrad Mansion and the Glacier Art Museum to gardens and farms, including Purple Mountain Lavender, Bibler Gardens and fruit orchards that line the lake.

DOWNTOWN KALISPELL: Explore the Heart of Kalispell

Historic roots and vibrant culture beautifully collide in downtown Kalispell, creating a space that’s walkable, charming and welcoming. With local shops, restaurants, stores and more, come experience the heartbeat of Kalispell.

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Visiting Montana’s Glacier National Park in 2025? Here’s What You Need to Know

Kalispell’s backyard national park, Glacier National Park, is one of the state’s must-visit destinations. With 1 million acres of glacial-carved terrain, the park is open year-round and is home to some of the most stunning landscapes in the United States. From downtown Kalispell, Glacier National Park is a scenic 32 miles from the park’s west entrance […]

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Play on Flathead Lake

A 10-minute drive will take you to the shores of Flathead Lake. One of the most stunning lakes in the country, it combines on-the-water fun with shoreline adventures, including orchards, scenic drives and charming small towns.

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Waterfall at Logan Pass in Glacier National Park Montana with Reynolds Mountain in the background covered in snow

GLACIER NATIONAL PARK: The Crown of the Continent

A scenic 32 miles from Kalispell is Glacier National Park. Carved by ancient glaciers, the park’s 1 million acres are home to some of the most beautiful terrain in the world.

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THINGS TO DO OUTSIDE GLACIER NATIONAL PARK: Your Guide to Exploring Beyond the Park’s Boundaries

Chances are, if you’re planning a trip to northwest Montana, Kalispell’s backyard national park – Glacier – is likely high on your list of things to do. And while any trip to Kalispell should include at least a jaunt into the park, there are certain times of the year (like summer) that some areas of […]

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Discovery Starts Here

Bibler Gardens

Outdoor Recreation, Parks & Gardens, Places to Go, Tours & Sightseeing

Enjoy a colorful, guided or self-guided stroll at beautiful Bibler Gardens where hundreds of thousands of tulips and daffodils bloom each May as well as lush gardens into the fall. Designated for special events or by appointment. ...
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World Gym Kalispell

Indoor Activities, Places to Go, Spas & Wellness

World Class Facility offering strength and cardio equipment. WGA classes, group x classes, full service juice bar and Pro Shop. Kids club, tanning beds, hydro massage bed, & large steam rooms. ...
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Hungry Horse Dam Visitor Center

Flathead National Forest, Historic sites, Indoor Activities, Learning Experiences, Places to Go, Tours & Sightseeing

The Hungry Horse Dam Visitor Center has a variety of exhibits about the dam’s impact and hydroelectric generation. Outdoor guided tours are available for sign up at the visitor center front desk with set times throughout the day. Accessible accommodations are available by calling (406) 387-5241, extension 361. ...
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Trail of the Cedars

Glacier National Park, Hiking, Outdoor Recreation, Places to Go

One of Discover Kalispell’s all time favorite trails in Glacier National Park that is family and ADA friendly. This 0.9-mile trail shows off Glacier National Park’s oldest trees, a beautiful waterfall, wildflowers and views of the towering peaks of Glacier above you. ...
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Creston National Fish Hatchery

Hiking, Learning Experiences, Outdoor Recreation, Places to Go, Tours & Sightseeing

The Creston National Fish Hatchery works to improve recreational fishing and to restore aquatic species that are at risk. Visitors are welcome to visit the Hatchery to view the fish production process. Self-guided tours are welcomed and encouraged. Guided tours are available upon advanced request. Trails include interpretive signs and are handicap accessible. There is a handicap accessible trail t...
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Whitefish Mountain Resort

Biking, Flathead National Forest, Hiking, Outdoor Recreation, Places to Go, Skiing/Snowboarding

Whitefish Mountain Resort, formerly known as Big Mountain, is a world class resort with more than 3,000 acres of terrain. Visible from downtown Kalispell, the slopes beckon skiers and snowboarders of every skill level and interest. The mountain features 2,353 feet of vertical drop spread out over more than 3,000 acres of skiable terrain served by 14 lifts. During the summer months the resort offer...
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Glacier Art Museum

Arts & Culture, Arts and Artisans, Downtown, Historic sites, Indoor Activities, Museums, Places to Go, Shopping, Tours & Sightseeing, Visual & Interactive Arts

The Glacier Art Museum mission is to enrich the cultural life of our community and region, and preserve the artistic legacy of Montana and Glacier National Park. Find original handiwork by local and regional artists in gift shop. ...
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Rocky Mountain Glass Kayak Company

Flathead Lake, Outdoor Recreation, Outfitters and Guides, Places to Go, Tours & Sightseeing, Water Sports

Rocky Mountain Glass Kayak Company is the exclusive provider of tours featuring transparent and LED-lit kayaks, offering surreal views of Montana’s pristine waters. Located just outside the world-famous Glacier National Park, with the Rocky Mountains as the backdrop. ...
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Big Sky Fishing Charters: home of Howes, A-Able & MoFisch Charters

Fishing, Flathead Lake, Outdoor Recreation, Outfitters and Guides, Places to Go, Tours & Sightseeing, Water Sports

WATER RECREATION FLATHEAD LAKE: Big Sky Fishing Charters: home of Howes, A-Able, & MoFisch Charters has six boats available for fishing year round around the Flathead Valley. We offer Full and Half day fishing trips for groups 1 up to 15 people. All boats have covered areas, heat, enclosed cabins & restrooms. We also have a 4 hour tour Jun.-Sept. Big Sky Fishing Charters also offers a fou...
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Flathead River

Fishing, Flathead National Forest, Water Sports

The Flathead River is made up of the North Fork, Middle Fork and South Fork with beautiful views of Glacier National Park, the Bob Marshall Wilderness and Great Bear Wilderness. The river allows for a variety of recreation such as rafting, fishing and floating. ...
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