Drop Your Kickstand in Billings, MT

Montana sits atop every motorcyclist's bucket list of destinations with its vast, scenic terrain from Rocky Mountain peaks to sandstone bluffs. The picture-perfect routes winding their way through Big Sky Country are incentive enough to prioritize visiting Montana, but spending time between rides in the state’s largest city is what truly drives home that authentic experience.

Billings is known as Montana’s Trailhead for the many experiences visitors can connect to via the city. The famed Beartooth Highway, for example, is a pleasant ride from town, while historical landmarks, like Pompeys Pillar and Little Bighorn Battlefield national monuments, are convenient stops along the more spectacular loop routes of the region.

But the reality is, you can stay right in Billings and discover that authentic Montana experience that goes beyond the picturesque highways and byways. The city allows you to give the bike a break and nourish your soul on the local experience.

So, if Montana is on your short list of next stops, here are some reasons to drop your kickstand for a few days in Billings.

Outdoors to Explore

Billings’ landscape will tempt you with every type of terrain and countless ways to explore it.

The stretch of trail along the Rimrocks—sandstone bluffs estimated to be at least 70 million years old—is a must-see and perfect for gaining a bird’s eye vantage of the surrounding territory of mountain ranges and plains. For some of the best views, explore the Four Dances Recreation Area atop the Rimrocks. The hike from the parking area includes steep drop-offs along the trail that reach 500 feet over the Yellowstone River.

Speaking of the Yellowstone River, it’s a perfect waterway for leisurely raft floats, casting a line in the blue ribbon trout waters, or a waterside picnic. The wide turns the river makes through the Billings region lend to great swimming holes as well.

Another river, the Stillwater, begins in the Absaroka-Beartooth Wilderness and flows into the Yellowstone. Rafting trips down the Stillwater meander through a one-sided canyon with white water and views of Montana’s mountain peaks. They also offer a chance to spot wildlife, including jumping trout, bears, deer, and other species that call this wild river region home. It is highly recommended to hire a local guide if you’re planning a white water rafting trip on the Stillwater.

If you prefer calmer waters, check out the 64-acre reservoir at the Lake Elmo State Park, where you can enjoy non-motorized watersports. Stand-up paddle boarding, kayaking, and windsurfing are just a few of the options.

Culinary Comfort

You might not think of Montana as a destination for culinary exploration, but this is Billings. The city is home to three James Beard Awards-nominated establishments—Walkers Grill, The Marble Table and Veronika’s Pastry Shop—that are changing the flavor landscape of the region.

Chef Nick Steen has been with Walkers since 2017 and has since defined a culinary genre that is part meat-and-potatoes and part metropolitan chic. Meanwhile, Jason and Jen Marble opened The Marble Table in 2020 to such demand that they’ve already needed to expand their footprint in Billings and have completed a major expansion of The Marble Table. Veronika’s Pastry Shop is where tempting morsels of croissants, tarts, and Danishes are all made from scratch. Get there early—chef Veronika closes the doors as soon as the pastries are sold out, which is rarely any later than noon.

Between these three Billings locations, visitors can enjoy everything from braised beef Bolognese to apple-brined pork shank, with plenty of “safe,” sweet, and more adventurous plates in between.

To get the full sense of the food scene in Billings, download the Trailhead Treats app to embark on a self-guided foodie tour featuring mouth-watering creations, like colossal cinnamon rolls and triple-scoop sundaes.

The Billings Brew Trail

Put on your most comfortable hiking shoes and hop along the Billings Brew Trail. Sample fresh local creations from 11 breweries, three distilleries, a cider mill, and a winery. Many of the stops are along a 1.5-mile loop through the historical downtown neighborhood.

If you need a bite to eat to wash down those craft brews, many of the stops along the Billings Brew Trail offer either a full menu or small plates, while others routinely host local favorite food trucks.

You can also download a Billings Brew Trail Passport, which allows you to check in at each of your stops, learn about discounts and promotions, and even earn merchandise.

Entertainment and Events

Get acquainted with the local culture by attending one of the many spectacular events Billings holds each year or by visiting cherished local attractions. Year-round options include shows ranging from the Billings Symphony Orchestra to stand-up comedy at the historical Alberta Bair Theater. You can enjoy a visit to the Yellowstone Art Museum to observe the largest public collection of cowboy illustrator Will James, or simply stroll through downtown Billings admiring the historical architecture.

Be sure to make a visit to ZooMontana a priority to become new friends with some of Billings’ beloved wildlife, including Winston the sloth, Pabu the red panda, and even a bison named Bert.

Heading to Sturgis?

Every year, motorcyclists stop in Billings before and after the Sturgis Motorcycle Rally to enjoy all the city has to offer. Stretch out your legs on your trip this year and rumble into Montana’s Trailhead for more views, delicious brews, and some of the best cuisine in the region.

Begin planning your visit to Billings at VisitBillings.com.