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 Hockaday Museum of Art 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.

READ MORE

Visiting Montana’s Glacier National Park in 2024? 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 […]

READ MORE

FLATHEAD LAKE: Meet the Largest Natural Freshwater Lake in the West

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.

READ MORE
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.

READ MORE

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 […]

READ MORE
Discovery Starts Here

Northwest Montana History Museum

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

Northwest Montana’s premium history museum, featuring exhibitions on American Indian Culture, Flathead Valley History, Demersville, timber industry, and the School Bell Books & Gifts Store. Elegant rooms available for community events. ...
More

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. ...
More

Glacier Outfitters

Biking, Fishing, Glacier National Park, Hiking, Outdoor Recreation, Outfitters and Guides, Places to Go, Tours & Sightseeing, Water Sports

Glacier Outfitters is located inside the airport and inside Glacier National Park at Apgar Village. We Rent Bikes, Boats, Bear Spray, Fishing + Camping/Hiking Gear. ...
More

Wachholz College Center

Arts & Culture, Performing Arts, Places to Go

Check out the lineup of the Glacier Symphony Orchestra and touring musicians. The Wachholz College Center is newly opened on the campus of Flathead Valley Community College. This uniquely designed 58,000 square-foot facility combines two distinct venues into one stunning building. A 1,000 seat performance and lecture hall with superb acoustics will serve as a performance venue for speakers, concer...
More

Somers Fishing Access Site

Fishing, Outdoor Recreation, Places to Go

Somers Fishing Access Site is a family-friendly site that is 9 miles south of Kalispell on Flathead Lake. It has an ADA Fishing Pier and ramp. Fish species include lake trout and whitefish. ...
More

Depot Park

Outdoor Recreation, Parks & Gardens, Places to Go

A great spot in downtown Kalispell for a picnic lunch, to catch some live music, and to stop by the Visitor Center for a variety of local information and maps. ...
More

The Sitting Duck

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

Looking for a place to relax and refuel during your Flathead Lake adventure? Stop by The Sitting Duck, a must-visit bar and grill located in charming Woods Bay along the east shore. With incredible lakefront views, 2 decks, and 2 docks with pet friendly beach access, it offers the perfect spot to relax and dip your toes in the water. Relax with an award winning bloody mary or enjoy lunch on the ...
More

ImagineIF Libraries

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

ImagineIF Libraries provides free and equitable access to educational and recreational materials, programs and resources to promote literacy, and inspires lifelong learning to enrich the community. ...
More

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. ...
More

The Clubhouse Lounge

Food & Drink, Golf, Local Fare, Places to Go, Restaurants

The Clubhouse Lounge offering 4 indoor Trackman golf simulator bays with lounge seating, beer, wine and food. ...
More

Let’s Stay in Touch

From seasonal travel itineraries to insider tips, we’ve got what you need.

"*" indicates required fields