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.

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

Avalanche Lake

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

Avalanche Lake is a 6-mile family friendly hike! Pack a lunch and enjoy a hike through the dense forest to a high alpine lake tucked in a basin with jagged peaks and rushing waterfalls. ...
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Pine Grove Pond

Fishing, Outdoor Recreation, Places to Go

Pine Grove Pond is a family-friendly 5-acre pond that is 3 miles northeast of Kalispell. It has three accessible fishing piers and a picnic shelter, as well as a paved path around the pond. Fish species include rainbow trout and cutthroat trout. ...
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Harbor Grille

Flathead Lake, Food & Drink, Local Fare, Places to Go, Restaurants

The Harbor Grille offers waterfront dining on Flathead Lake. Enjoy casual American cuisine, cocktails, live music and the best views on the large patio and indoor seating area. ...
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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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Lawrence Park

Outdoor Recreation, Parks & Gardens, Places to Go

Lawrence Park boasts a community recreational space equipped with amenities such as soccer fields, disc golf, climbing boulders, horseshoe pits, a spacious playground, and a nature trail. Additionally, it offers two pavilions available for rent. Accessible from the park are walking and biking trails leading to the scenic Stillwater River. ...
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Conrad Mansion Museum

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

The Conrad Mansion is one of the most outstanding examples of luxurious pioneer living and period architecture in the Pacific Northwest. The building itself remains unchanged since Spokane, WA architect Kirtland Cutter designed and built the home in 1895 for Charles E. and Alicia Conrad. Visiting the Conrad Mansion today provides an extraordinary glimpse into the life of this wealthy pioneer famil...
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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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Flathead Lake

Fishing, Flathead Lake, Water Sports

Thousands of years ago, the glaciers that carved the stunning landscapes of Glacier National Park pushed their way down into the modern-day Flathead Valley and sculpted Flathead Lake. The largest natural freshwater lake in the West, Flathead Lake sits in northwest Montana and is a sprawling blue jewel at the base of the Swan and Mission mountain ranges. Encompassing nearly 200 square miles, the la...
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Wild Trout Adventures

Fishing, Flathead National Forest, Outdoor Recreation, Outfitters and Guides, Places to Go, Tours & Sightseeing

Wild Trout Adventures is your source for fly fishing around Glacier National Park. We’re located in the middle of some of North America’s finest fly fishing rivers with the famous Flathead River and Swan River just minutes away. Wild Trout Adventures offers guiding fly fishing services on these incredible rivers along with numerous permit-only mountain lakes. ...
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Sea Me Paddle Kayaking Tours

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

SMP offers an extremely unique paddling experience on glorious Flathead Lake!!! Take advantage of the existing guided trips, rental kayaks or create your own trip. ...
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