Montana is a fantastic playground for families, offering adventures that engage kids and adults alike. From stunning natural parks like Glacier to unique museums and quirky attractions, this state has something for everyone.
Thought leaders share their personal experiences at some of the top family-friendly destinations in Montana, highlighting the diverse activities that cater to all ages.
Whether you’re seeking outdoor thrills, historical insights, or interactive learning opportunities, Montana’s offerings blend nature, education, and fun to create lasting memories for the whole family.
From breathtaking national parks to fascinating museums, experts share their favorite spots that delight both kids and adults. Let’s dive into some of the best adventures Montana has to offer!
Explore the World Museum of Mining
Kids and adults will love to explore the World Museum of Mining in Butte, Montana. The museum preserves the old copper-mining history of the American West.
Dubbed the richest hill on Earth, it is the home of Orphan Girl Mine, which produced silver, lead, and zinc instead of copper. The museum sits on this now-closed mine, making it a unique place to visit.
Presently, the museum boasts numerous artifacts related to mining and cultural heritage. You can enjoy the Underground Tour, which takes you 100 feet below the ground to see the original mining tower.
Guided and self-guided tours are available, and there is a gift shop to buy souvenirs. There is also a Remembering Garden that keeps the memories of 2,500 men who lost their lives in the underground mines.
Soubhik Chakrabarti, CEO, Canada Hustle
Discover Lewis & Clark Caverns
I highly recommend the Lewis & Clark Caverns State Park. This unique attraction features beautiful limestone caves that appeal to all ages.
My own kids loved exploring the caverns on ranger-guided tours, spotting unique rock formations like stalactites, stalagmites, and ribbon formations. Adults will appreciate learning about the cavern’s fascinating geologic history dating back millions of years. Outside the caves, the park offers scenic hiking and camping with gorgeous views of the Jefferson River and surrounding mountains.
Another highlight is the park’s outdoor paradise for kids, including a giant chessboard, playgrounds, and picnic areas by a scenic pond. Families could easily spend a whole weekend enjoying the park’s many activities. The caverns stay at a comfortable 50-60 degrees F year-round, making this an ideal summer destination to escape the heat.
The Lewis & Clark Caverns strike the perfect balance of fun and learning for both kids and adults. The rangers do an excellent job of explaining the caverns’ unique features and history engagingly for all ages.
Lisa Wark, Director, Marketing and Operations, Champion Distinctive Landscaping Design and Care
Visit Glacier National Park
If you’re looking for a family-friendly attraction in Montana that captivates both kids and adults, I’d recommend visiting Glacier National Park. The park offers a mix of adventure, stunning natural beauty, and wildlife that appeals to all ages. Whether it’s hiking scenic trails or simply driving through the Going-to-the-Sun Road, Glacier provides a blend of serenity and excitement that creates unforgettable memories for the whole family.
I remember visiting Glacier National Park with my family a few summers ago. The kids were mesmerized by the chance to see mountain goats and waterfalls, while we adults were equally taken by the panoramic views and peacefulness of the lakes. We hiked a kid-friendly trail that led us to a hidden lake, and I could see the excitement in their eyes, which matched our sense of awe. It was the kind of experience where you realize nature itself is the perfect playground for all ages.
The strategy for making the most of a family trip here is to plan around what everyone can enjoy. For the kids, pick trails that aren’t too long but still offer rewards like waterfalls or wildlife spotting. For the adults, the park’s ranger-led programs or the sheer majesty of the views make it a refreshing experience. Plus, there’s plenty of flexibility—you can take it slow or get adventurous, depending on your group’s energy.
What sets Glacier National Park apart is how it bridges generations through shared experiences in nature. Research shows that spending time outdoors can boost both cognitive function and mood, and this park offers the perfect environment to bond as a family. It’s a place where every turn feels like an adventure, and that’s something both kids and adults can appreciate.
Spencer Christian, Founder, Christian Companion App
Other Unique Family-Friendly Destinations in Montana
Aside from its well-known parks, the World Museum of Mining, and the Lewis & Clark Caverns, here are other one-of-a-kind destinations in Montana that are great for both adults and children:
| Destination | Location | Description | What Makes It Unique |
|---|---|---|---|
| Virginia City | Virginia City | A historic ghost town that offers a glimpse into Montana’s gold rush era. Visitors can explore preserved buildings, ride on a steam train, and participate in interactive experiences. | One of the best-preserved ghost towns in the West, allowing visitors to experience the Old West atmosphere firsthand. |
| Grizzly & Wolf Discovery Center | West Yellowstone | This wildlife park is home to rescued bears, wolves, and other animals. It provides educational programs about wildlife conservation and animal behavior. | Focuses on rehabilitation and education, offering a chance to see these magnificent animals up close. |
| Museum of the Rockies | Bozeman | A Smithsonian-affiliated museum featuring one of the largest collections of dinosaur fossils in North America, along with exhibits on regional history and culture. | The extensive dinosaur exhibit, including a T-Rex skeleton, is one of the best in the country. |
| Hiawatha Trail | Near Lookout Pass | A scenic bike trail that spans 15 miles through beautiful landscapes, featuring trestle bridges and tunnels. The trail is mostly downhill, making it accessible for all ages. | Runs along the historic route of the Milwaukee Road railroad, providing a unique biking experience. |
| Caras Park | Missoula | A vibrant park along the Clark Fork River featuring a carousel, playgrounds, and picnic areas. It hosts various community events throughout the year. | Features a charming carousel built in 1995 that adds a whimsical touch to family outings. |
| Bannack State Park | Bannack | A preserved ghost town that was once Montana’s first territorial capital. Visitors can explore historic buildings and learn about life during the gold rush. | Offers an authentic glimpse into frontier life with over 60 preserved structures for exploration. |
| Northwest Montana History Museum | Kalispell | This museum showcases local history through exhibits on Native American culture, pioneer life, and more. | Features interactive displays and artifacts that engage visitors of all ages in the region’s cultural heritage. |
| Alpine Coaster at Flathead Lake | Flathead Lake | An exciting alpine coaster ride that winds through the trees at Flathead Lake, offering thrilling views as you descend. | Combines natural beauty with an adrenaline rush, allowing riders to control their speed. |
| Splash Montana | Missoula | An affordable water park featuring slides, pools, a lazy river, and floating play structures. | Offers a variety of water attractions suitable for all ages in a family-friendly environment. |
What Makes Montana a Great Destination for Kids and Adults?
Montana is a fantastic destination for both kids and adults, offering a variety of experiences. Here are some reasons why families love visiting:
1. Diverse Outdoor Activities
- Adventure Opportunities – Montana’s vast landscapes provide many options for outdoor fun, including hiking, biking, fishing, and skiing. Families can enjoy whitewater rafting in the summer and skiing at resorts like Big Sky and Whitefish in the winter.
- National Parks – Iconic parks like Yellowstone and Glacier let families explore breathtaking natural wonders, go wildlife watching, and join ranger-led programs.
2. Educational Experiences
- Museums and Historical Sites – Montana has several educational attractions, such as the Museum of the Rockies, which features dinosaur fossils and planetarium shows. Historical sites like Virginia City offer kids an engaging look at Wild West history.
- Interactive Learning – Programs like the Junior Ranger program in Yellowstone help kids learn about nature and conservation in a fun way.
3. Unique Attractions
- Quirky Stops – Families can visit interesting places like the Grizzly & Wolf Discovery Center and the Montana Vortex, which provide memorable experiences.
- Ghost Towns – Exploring ghost towns like Bannack allows families to step back in time and discover Montana’s mining history.
4. Family-Friendly Resorts
- Accommodations with Activities – Resorts like The Resort at Paws Up offer family-friendly activities such as horseback riding, river rafting, and educational programs for children. This helps families bond while having fun.
5. Natural Beauty
- Scenic Landscapes – The stunning views of mountains, lakes, and rivers create a beautiful setting for family activities. Flathead Lake, for example, offers swimming, kayaking, and picnicking.
- Wildlife Watching – Montana is home to diverse wildlife, giving families the chance to see animals like bison, elk, and bears in their natural habitats. Learn more about children and wildlife safety in Montana.
6. Community Events and Festivals
- Local Celebrations – Throughout the year, Montana hosts family-friendly festivals and events that often include live music, local food vendors, and activities for children.
7. Accessibility of Nature
- Easy Access to Trails – Many parks and recreational areas have well-maintained trails that are suitable for all ages, making it easy for families to explore together without strenuous hikes.
- Camping Opportunities – Numerous campgrounds allow families to enjoy nature while engaging in activities like fishing and stargazing.
Discover more family-friendly attractions awaiting you in Montana in the following articles:
