10 Best Places for Weekend Trips From Billings, MT

19 Jun 2026

Weekend Trips From Billings, MT Overview

This collection of weekend trips from Billings offers a great mix of scenery, history, outdoor adventure, and cultural experiences. If you want iconic landscapes, Yellowstone National Park delivers unforgettable geysers, wildlife, waterfalls, and scenic drives, while Beartooth Highway adds one of the most breathtaking mountain road trips in the country. Red Lodge Mountain is ideal for travelers who enjoy alpine recreation and a welcoming mountain-town atmosphere.

For history-focused travelers, Little Bighorn Battlefield National Monument and Pompeys Pillar National Monument provide meaningful connections to the American West, Native history, and the Lewis and Clark era. Pictograph Cave State Park adds an archaeological dimension with ancient rock art and accessible trails. If you prefer canyons, boating, fishing, and quieter outdoor escapes, Bighorn Canyon National Recreation Area is a standout choice.

The trip list also includes excellent museum and badlands experiences. Buffalo Bill Center of the West and Museum of the Rockies are strong choices for world-class exhibits on Western heritage, dinosaurs, science, and regional history. Makoshika State Park rounds out the itinerary with rugged badlands views, fossil discoveries, and a landscape very different from the mountains and forests closer to Billings. Together, these destinations create a varied and memorable set of easy weekend getaway options.


Recommended Activities

  • 1

    Yellowstone National Park

    Visit for world-famous geothermal features like Old Faithful and colorful hot springs, abundant wildlife including bison and elk, and dramatic landscapes with waterfalls, canyons, and scenic drives that make it an unforgettable weekend adventure.
  • 2

    Little Bighorn Battlefield National Monument

    Visit to experience one of the most significant historic sites in the American West, where you can learn about the 1876 battle, understand both U.S. Army and Plains Tribal perspectives, and explore a powerful landscape filled with memorials and history.
  • 3

    Beartooth Highway

    Visit for one of the most spectacular scenic drives in the United States, with high alpine vistas, switchbacks, mountain lakes, hiking access, and incredible photo opportunities that make the journey itself the main attraction.
  • 4

    Red Lodge Mountain

    Visit for a classic mountain getaway with excellent skiing and snowboarding in winter, scenic chairlift views and hiking in warmer months, and easy access to the charming town of Red Lodge for dining, shopping, and relaxing after outdoor adventures.
  • 5

    Bighorn Canyon National Recreation Area

    Visit for striking canyon scenery, quiet boating and fishing waters, dramatic overlooks, wildlife viewing, and a less-crowded outdoor experience that is ideal for hiking, camping, and peaceful weekend exploration.
  • 6

    Pompeys Pillar National Monument

    Visit to see a unique and accessible historic landmark featuring William Clark’s famous 1806 signature, impressive sandstone formations, Yellowstone River views, and exhibits that connect the site to the Lewis and Clark expedition and regional history.
  • 7

    Pictograph Cave State Park

    Visit to see one of Montana’s most important archaeological sites, with ancient rock paintings, short scenic trails, and exhibits that reveal thousands of years of human history in a compact and easy-to-explore setting.
  • 8

    Buffalo Bill Center of the West

    Visit for an outstanding museum complex that brings the American West to life through world-class art, Plains Indian history, natural history, firearms collections, and Buffalo Bill’s legacy, making it a rewarding cultural stop for all interests.
  • 9

    Makoshika State Park

    Visit for dramatic badlands scenery, dinosaur fossils, unique rock formations, and peaceful hiking opportunities in Montana’s largest state park, offering a striking landscape that feels very different from the mountains near Billings.
  • 10

    Museum of the Rockies

    Visit for one of the top natural history museums in the region, especially renowned for its exceptional dinosaur exhibits, impressive paleontology collections, engaging Rocky Mountain history displays, and family-friendly planetarium programs.

Restaurants

  • Picture for Earthbound Cafe
    Trending now

    Earthbound Cafe

    207 N Broadway Atrium, Billings, MT 59101, USA
    A new Billings opening that local coverage says was generating buzz even before launch, with a mid-March 2025 opening plan and strong early excitement around the chefs behind it. It fits the “recently opened, getting talked about now” profile better than an established classic.
    4.9
  • Picture for The Windmill & Bar 51
    Trending now

    The Windmill & Bar 51

    3429 Transtech Wy, Billings, MT 59102, USA
    This Billings spot has recent 2026 restaurant-listing chatter and social mentions, suggesting it is currently surfacing in local food discovery circles. It is a newer, attention-getting choice rather than a long-settled staple.
    4.3
    $$$$
  • Picture for The Fieldhouse

    The Fieldhouse

    2515 Montana Ave, Billings, MT 59101, USA
    A strong stop in Billings for seasonal New American cooking, thoughtful cocktails, and a polished but relaxed atmosphere that makes it a dependable choice before or after regional road trips.
    4.8
  • Picture for Blackbird Kitchen

    Blackbird Kitchen

    140 E Main St, Bozeman, MT 59715, USA
    Worth visiting in Bozeman for its wood-fired pizzas, handmade pastas, and locally focused menu; it is a frequent favorite for travelers who want an upscale meal without feeling overly formal.
    4.6
    $$$$
  • Picture for MontAsia
    A popular Billings option for flavorful Thai cuisine, generous portions, and a cozy setting, making it a good pick if you want something different from classic Western fare.
  • Picture for Prerogative Kitchen

    Prerogative Kitchen

    104 Broadway Ave, Red Lodge, MT 59068, USA
    A standout in Red Lodge for creative comfort food, quality ingredients, and a mountain-town dining experience that pairs well with a Beartooth Highway or Red Lodge Mountain weekend.
    4.7
  • Picture for The Bread Board

    The Bread Board

    1725 17th St, Cody, WY 82414, USA
    A reliable Cody choice for hearty breakfasts, baked goods, sandwiches, and a casual local feel, ideal if your weekend trip includes Yellowstone or the Buffalo Bill Center of the West.
    4.6
    $$$$

Hotels

  • Northern Hotel

    19 N Broadway, Billings, MT 59101, United States

    A well-regarded historic stay in downtown Billings with stylish rooms, a central location, and an upscale yet comfortable atmosphere that works especially well for starting or ending your weekend trip.
  • The Pollard Hotel

    2 Broadway Ave N, Red Lodge, MT 59068, United States

    A classic and highly popular hotel in Red Lodge known for its historic character, walkable location, and easy access to Beartooth Highway and Red Lodge Mountain.
  • The Cody Hotel

    232 W Yellowstone Ave, Cody, WY 82414, USA

    A dependable and comfortable option in Cody with spacious rooms, convenient access to Yellowstone-area attractions, and amenities that make it a strong base for regional sightseeing.
  • Best Western Premier Ivy Inn & Suites

    A solid Bozeman stay valued for its comfortable accommodations, convenient location, and reliable quality, making it a practical choice if your trip includes the Museum of the Rockies.
  • Yellowstone Valley Lodge, Ascend Hotel Collection

    3840 US-89, Livingston, MT 59047, United States

    A scenic lodging option near Livingston that stands out for its river setting, mountain views, and peaceful atmosphere, ideal for travelers heading toward Yellowstone from Billings.

Local Events & Happenings

  • Picture for Max McNown

    Max McNown

    The Pub Station in Billings (19.15 mi)21 Jul 2026
    The event will take place at The Pub Station in Billings.
  • Picture for Goo Goo Dolls

    Goo Goo Dolls

    First Interstate Arena in Billings (19.15 mi)31 Jul 2026
    The event will take place at First Interstate Arena in Billings.
  • Picture for Luke Bryan: Word On The Street Tour

    Luke Bryan: Word On The Street Tour

    First Interstate Arena in Billings (19.15 mi)1 Aug 2026
    The event will take place at First Interstate Arena in Billings.
  • Picture for Yungblud

    Yungblud

    First Interstate Arena in Billings (19.15 mi)8 Aug 2026
    The event will take place at First Interstate Arena in Billings.
  • Picture for Hairball

    Hairball

    First Interstate Arena in Billings (19.15 mi)9 Aug 2026
    The event will take place at First Interstate Arena in Billings.
  • Picture for TobyMac

    TobyMac

    First Interstate Arena in Billings (19.15 mi)10 Aug 2026
    The event will take place at First Interstate Arena in Billings.
  • Picture for Shinedown: Dance, Kid, Dance Act II

    Shinedown: Dance, Kid, Dance Act II

    First Interstate Arena in Billings (19.15 mi)13 Aug 2026
    The event will take place at First Interstate Arena in Billings.

Travel Gems from Reddit

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    /r/Billings

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    /r/Montana

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    /r/nationalparks

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    /r/Montana

    Dont miss Virginia City/Nevada City. The Grizzly Encounter is great but if youre up for the drive to West Yellowstone, the Grizzly & Wolf Discovery Center is worth the trip. ....

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    /r/roadtrip

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    /r/yellowstone

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    /r/roadtrip

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    /r/yellowstone

    Enjoy!!! ... Make sure to head over the Beartooth Pass. You should probably look at modifying Day 5 to do this. It is one of the most spectacular drives in the United States. ...

  • Attractions in Billings, MT

    /r/yellowstone

    ... Pictograph state park is a 1-2 hour time filler. If youre a dam fan (I am) I would recommend the time to drive to Yellowtail Dam. Its taller than the Cody dam (525 ft vs 3...

  • Day trips from Yellowstone

    /r/yellowstone

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    /r/yellowstone

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  • First time visit

    /r/yellowstone

    Fly into Billings, drive over the Beartooth Pass, maybe stop in Red Lodge for breakfast or whatever. Phenomenally beautiful drive, pops you out right in Lamar Valley. Enjoy mo...

  • Roadtrip to Yellowstone from Madison

    /r/madisonwi

    I did that trip last fall - 7 days isnt much time, even 10 would be better. My highlights were Badlands, Devils Tower, Tetons, TenSleep Canyon, and hot springs at Thermopolis ...

  • First trip to Yellowstone

    /r/yellowstone

    ... Highly recommend driving the Beartooth Highway between Cooke City and Red Lodge, then taking the Chief Joseph Byway on the return to the park. Stunning views. ... Yellowst...

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    /r/yellowstone

    My wifes cousin just went out with their family and theyre having an amazing trip. They even got to see a grizzly bear chase down in elk calf in Yellowstone. I cant wait to go...

  • Just finished booking accomodation for this 12 day Yellowstone + Teton trip. Any must sees along the way?

    /r/roadtrip

    It's slightly out of the way as far as this loop goes, but the Beartooth Highway is one of the best drives in the US. Also the two towns that bookend it, Red Lodge and Co...

  • Yellowstone/ Grand Teton Trip May 2026

    /r/yellowstone

    Some day I would LOVE to lodge inside the parks, we thought about camping, but these days it feels a little risky for young women. Thank you so much for your insight! I apprec...

  • Is it worth going into Montana?

    /r/yellowstone

    I also love the person who recommended Beartooth Highway - just make sure it's opened by then. It's an incredibly long drive from Mammoth Hot Springs to Red Lodge, b...

  • Yellowstone Trip Advice

    /r/NationalPark

    Stopped at Theodore Roosevelt NP (really wish we had spent a full day there) then on to Red Lodge MT. We saw a few sights at Red Lodge, then took Beartooth Pass into Yellowsto...

  • Short trip to Yellowstone from Red Lodge

    /r/yellowstone

    Miner saloon in Cooke has good pizza and other bar food. the beartooth cafe is also a good option for food. If you are up for a full day of driving, you can take the Chief Jos...