Places to Go Archives | Page 2 of 9 | 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

* June 29, 2026: Glacier Park announces multiple temporary closures due to weather and flooding. Recent heavy rainfall has prompted temporary closures in the Many Glacier Valley. Heavy rainfall has also impacted access along the Going-to-the-Sun Road. Get up-to-date information HERE. These closures are temporary, check the Glacier National Park website for further updates. Kalispell’s […]

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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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Flathead Running Company

Downtown, Downtown, Places to Go, Shopping

Discover the Flathead Valley’s leading locally owned running specialty store, dedicated to exceptional service, expert knowledge, and a strong sense of community. Experience a perfect fit with our personalized shoe fitting services. Stop by today and improve your running game! ...
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Glacier Institute

Glacier National Park, Hiking, Learning Experiences, Outdoor Recreation, Outfitters and Guides, Places to Go, Snowshoeing, Tours & Sightseeing

Don’t risk wasting your trip to Glacier National Park and not making the most of every moment. The potential is there to make lifelong memories, let us provide those experiences. The Glacier Institute. ...
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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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Columbia Mountain

Biking, Flathead National Forest, Hiking, Horseback Riding, Outdoor Recreation, Places to Go

Columbia Mountain Trail is a multi-use trail. Good for shorter hikers with a few waterfalls along the first 4 miles, or an all day 12-mile adventure to the top of the peak over looking the Flathead Valley and Hungry Horse Reservoir. Enjoy hiking through lush forest to the high alpine. ...
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Flathead National Forest

Biking, Cross-country skiing, Fishing, Flathead National Forest, Hiking, Horseback Riding, Outdoor Recreation, Places to Go, Services, Skiing/Snowboarding, Snowmobiling, Snowshoeing

Located in the Rocky Mountains of Northwest Montana, surrounding Kalispell, lies the expansive 2.4-million acre Flathead National Forest. Boasting a wealth of lakes, rugged wilderness, wild rivers, and over 2,000 miles of trails, this forest is a quintessential natural gem of the American West. From campgrounds to ski areas, the Flathead National Forest offers year-round beauty and abundant recrea...
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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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Wild Horse Island State Park

Fishing, Flathead Lake, Hiking, MT State Parks, Outdoor Recreation, Places to Go, Water Sports

Wild Horse Island is a day-use only island on Flathead Lake. Option to kayak, paddleboard or take a boat tour to the island. ...
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Kalispell Visitor Information Center

Downtown, Downtown, Indoor Activities, Learning Experiences, Places to Go, Tours & Sightseeing

We want you to make the most of your time and have a memorable, engaging and enjoyable experience in Kalispell. The Discover Kalispell team is ready to help make that happen with our great collection of resources and information from maps, brochures and stickers. The Visitor Information Center is located at 2 South Main Street, Suite 205. Hours are 9am – 5pm Monday through Friday. Our VIC is...
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Glacier Symphony and Chorale

Arts & Culture, Indoor Activities, Performing Arts

The Glacier Symphony and Chorale is located in Montana’s beautiful Flathead Valley and produces a yearly season of concerts at the Wachholz College Center, educational programming, the family-friendly outdoor Symphony Night at Rebecca Farm, and exclusive special events.  Explore the finest in classical music, jazz, opera, pops, and so much more! ...
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Swan Mountain Outfitters

Fishing, Flathead National Forest, Hiking, Horseback Riding, Learning Experiences, Outdoor Recreation, Outfitters and Guides, Places to Go, Scenic Drives & Rides, Snowmobiling, Tours & Sightseeing, Winter Sports

Swan Mountain Outfitters is a premier, full service outfitter. We offer guided hunts, fishing/float trips, horseback rides, pack trips, llama treks, moped rentals & snowmobile tours in northwest MT. ...
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