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 Longview Lavender, Bibler Gardens and fruit orchards that line the lake.

Aerial view of downtown Kalispell looking toward the mountains to the NE

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 2026? 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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Kayaks on cool blue, glacial waters of Flathead Lake in Montana

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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The Highline Trail

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

The Highline Trail, a 11.8-mile hike that can be enjoy for just a few miles to experience the epic views or enjoy the entire length of the trail. A great local tip is to plan a shuttle from the top to bottom of the trail. Warning: this trail traverses along a mountain face with some sections providing cables to hold onto. ...
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DREAM Adaptive Recreation

Biking, Flathead National Forest, Learning Experiences, Outdoor Recreation, Outfitters and Guides, Places to Go, Skiing/Snowboarding, Tours & Sightseeing, Water Sports

DREAM Adaptive is a 501(c)(3) non-profit that has been serving the community for over 30 years. Our mission is to enhance the lives of individuals with disabilities by providing year-round adaptive outdoor fun. ...
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Crown of the Continent Discovery Center

Arts & Culture, Coffee Shops, Food & Drink, Glacier National Park, Indoor Activities, Learning Experiences, Places to Go, Restaurants, Tours & Sightseeing, Visual & Interactive Arts

The Crown of the Continent Discovery Center, located near West Glacier is a must stop when traveling to or from Glacier National Park. The center includes free interactive and interpretive displays, made in Montana product gift shop, local beers, ice cream and coffee. ...
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Glacier Range Riders

Places to Go

Glacier Bank Park, home to Flathead Valley’s Pioneer Baseball League, the Glacier Range Riders, opened its gates for the inaugural season in 2022. Primarily designed for independent minor league baseball, the venue features approximately 2,500 individual 21″ wide folding seatback chairs in a concrete bowl. Glacier Bank Park features landscaped seating areas with natural elements from the s...
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Woodland Park

Biking, Parks & Gardens, Water Sports

Woodland Park is a year-round local favorite with paved trails, play equipment, skate park, water park and a top-notch ice-rink equipped with stadium lights, comfortable locker rooms and benches for hockey games. The facility is open for public skating on most Saturdays and Sundays in the winter. ...
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Blacktail Mountain Trail

Biking, Cross-country skiing, Flathead National Forest, Hiking, Outdoor Recreation, Places to Go, Snowshoeing, Winter Sports

Escape the crowds on Blacktail Mountain Trail, a 7.6 multi-use loop trail, that is dog-friendly. The trail includes forest service roads and single track with views of the Flathead Valley and Flathead Lake. ...
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Ashley Creek Historic Venue at Snowline Acres

Coffee Shops, Food & Drink, Places to Go

Event venue hosting receptions, events, markets, and an ever-growing lineup of seasonal family activities. ...
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Jewel Basin

Fishing, Flathead National Forest, Hiking

Jewel Basin area offers 15,349 acres of wilderness that includes 27 lakes and 35 miles of trails. Trails are easy to access at the parking lot, Camp Misery. ...
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Aesthetica Medical Spa

Places to Go, Shopping, Spas & Wellness, Wellness

Aesthetica Medical Spa is Montana’s trusted destination for graceful aging and enhancing your natural beauty. This state-recognized med spa offers customized treatments, including Botox, facials, and medical-grade skincare, all tailored to your individual goals. With a focus on subtle, high-quality treatments that define and rejuvenate your features, Aesthetica helps you look and feel your best ...
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Wildtorium

Arts & Culture, Indoor Activities, Museums, Places to Go, Visual & Interactive Arts

Wildtorium is a children’s museum where kids and their grown-ups can explore, create, and discover together. Focused on the Science of Play, our interactive exhibits encourage curiosity and problem-solving through play-based experiences. Designed for children ages 3–10, Wildtorium also caters to toddlers and includes programming for older kids, up to age 12. Families can learn together by ...
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