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Montana is a beautiful state with plenty of outdoor activities for families to enjoy. If you’re looking for the best places to take kids in Montana, you’ve come to the right place. In this article, we’ll highlight 10 of the top destinations that offer fun and educational experiences for children of all ages.
One of the most popular destinations in Montana is Glacier National Park, which is known for its stunning landscapes and diverse wildlife. Families can take a scenic raft trip, go hiking, or even take a guided tour to learn more about the park’s history and geology.
Another great option is the Children’s Museum of Montana in Great Falls, which offers hands-on exhibits and interactive displays that are perfect for kids.
If you’re looking for a more laid-back vacation, Montana has plenty of small towns that offer a taste of the state’s unique culture and history. From the historic mining town of Butte to the charming community of Kalispell, there’s something for everyone.
Whether you’re interested in outdoor adventures or cultural experiences, Montana is the perfect destination for a family vacation.
Yellowstone National Park
Yellowstone National Park is one of the most popular destinations in Montana, and for good reason. With over 2 million acres of land, this park is home to a variety of wildlife, geothermal features, and breathtaking landscapes. It’s the perfect place to take your kids on an adventure that they’ll never forget.
Geothermal Features
Yellowstone is known for its geothermal features, including geysers, hot springs, and mud pots. Old Faithful is one of the most famous geysers in the park, erupting every 90 minutes or so. Kids will love watching the water shoot up into the air.
The Grand Prismatic Spring is another must-see attraction, with its rainbow-colored waters and boardwalks that allow visitors to get up close and personal with the hot spring.
Hiking Trails
Yellowstone has over 900 miles of hiking trails, so there’s something for everyone. If you’re traveling with kids, there are plenty of easy hikes that offer stunning views. The Fairy Falls Trail is a great option, with a waterfall at the end that’s sure to impress. The Uncle Tom’s Trail is another popular hike, with a series of stairs that lead down to the Lower Falls of the Yellowstone River.
Wildlife Watching
Yellowstone is home to a variety of wildlife, including bison, elk, bears, and wolves. Kids will love spotting these animals in their natural habitats. The Lamar Valley is a great place to go wildlife watching, as it’s known as the “Serengeti of North America.” Be sure to bring binoculars and a camera to capture the sights.
Junior Ranger Program
If you’re traveling with kids, be sure to check out the Junior Ranger Program. This program is designed for kids ages 5-12 and allows them to learn about the park’s history, geology, and wildlife. Kids can earn a badge by completing activities and attending ranger-led programs.
Tips for Visiting Yellowstone with Kids
- Bring plenty of snacks and water, as there are limited options for food and drinks in the park.
- Dress in layers, as the weather can be unpredictable.
- Be prepared for crowds, especially during peak season.
- Respect the wildlife and keep a safe distance.
- Have fun and enjoy the natural beauty of Yellowstone National Park!
Glacier National Park
Glacier National Park is one of the most stunning places in Montana and a perfect destination for families with kids. The park is home to over 700 miles of hiking trails, 130 lakes, and numerous glaciers. Here are some of the best things to do in Glacier National Park with kids.
Hiking
Hiking in Glacier National Park is a must-do activity, and there are plenty of trails suitable for families with kids.
Trail of the Cedars: This easy, half-mile loop trail is wheelchair accessible and perfect for strollers. It takes you through a lush forest of giant cedar trees and along the banks of the crystal-clear Avalanche Creek.
Hidden Lake Overlook: This 3-mile round-trip hike starts at Logan Pass and takes you to a stunning overlook of Hidden Lake. The trail is moderately challenging, but the views are worth it.
Avalanche Lake Trail: This 4.5-mile round-trip hike takes you through a beautiful forest and along the shores of Avalanche Lake. The trail is moderately challenging, but the scenery is breathtaking.
Boat Tours
Glacier National Park offers several boat tours that are perfect for families with kids.
St. Mary Lake at Rising Sun Boat Tour: This 1-hour boat tour takes you on a scenic journey across the stunning St. Mary Lake. You’ll see towering mountains, crystal-clear water, and abundant wildlife.
Two Medicine Lake Boat Tour: This 1-hour boat tour takes you on a journey across the stunning Two Medicine Lake. You’ll see towering peaks, crystal-clear water, and abundant wildlife.
Wildlife Watching
Glacier National Park is home to a wide variety of wildlife, including grizzly bears, mountain goats, bighorn sheep, coyotes, beavers, and pikas. Wildlife watching is a popular activity in the park, and there are several places where you’re likely to spot animals.
Many Glacier: This area of the park is known for its abundant wildlife, including grizzly bears, moose, and bighorn sheep.
Logan Pass: This area of the park is known for its mountain goats and bighorn sheep.
Lake McDonald: This area of the park is known for its beavers and otters.
Montana Dinosaur Trail
If you are looking for an exciting and educational adventure for your kids, then the Montana Dinosaur Trail is a must-visit destination. This statewide trail features 14 locations, from the Montana Dinosaur Center in Bynum to the Carter County Museum in Ekalaka, each offering a glimpse at the historic discoveries in the state and a better understanding of the giants that once inhabited our planet.
At the Blaine County Museum in Chinook, visitors can not only look at but also touch and handle a variety of fossils. Meanwhile, the Great Plains Dinosaur Museum and Field Station in Malta houses some of the world’s best-preserved dinosaur fossils.
In Bozeman, the Museum of the Rockies is probably the best-known dinosaur museum in Montana, mainly for the incredible T-Rex specimen known as “Big Al” Allosaurus. Apart from the T-Rex specimen, there are also one-of-a-kind exhibits and dinosaur pieces that are worth seeing.
If your kids can’t get enough of “Jurassic Park,” they’ll love going on a real-life dinosaur dig in Bynum, Montana, just outside Glacier National Park. The Montana Dinosaur Center offers a chance to participate in a real dinosaur dig and learn about the history of these fascinating creatures.
The Montana Dinosaur Trail is a fantastic opportunity for kids to learn about the prehistoric past and see some incredible fossils up close. With so many locations to choose from, you’re sure to find something that will captivate your child’s imagination and spark their curiosity about science and history.
Lewis and Clark Caverns State Park
Lewis and Clark Caverns State Park is a must-visit attraction in Montana, especially if you have kids. The park is located near Three Forks, Montana, and is home to one of the most highly decorated limestone caverns in North America. The park offers a variety of activities for visitors, including camping, hiking, and cave tours.
Before entering the park, you have to pay an entrance fee of $10-$15 per person. Children under five years old can enter for free. Once you enter the park, you can visit the visitor center near the campground, where you can learn more about the park’s history and geology. From there, you can take a drive up to the upper visitor center and cave tour entrance.
The park offers guided tours of the caverns, which are led by knowledgeable park rangers. The cave tour is one of the best value activities you can do in Montana, with tickets costing $15 for adults and $10 for children between the ages of 5-14. Children under four are not recommended for the tour due to the complicated cave route.
The park has several hiking trails that range from easy to difficult. The trails offer stunning views of the surrounding mountains and valleys. If you’re camping in the park, you can enjoy campfire programs and ranger-led activities.
Lewis and Clark Caverns State Park is one of many great places to take your kids in Montana. With its stunning natural beauty, fascinating history, and fun activities, the park is sure to be a hit with the whole family.
Museum of the Rockies
If you’re looking for a family-friendly attraction in Montana, the Museum of the Rockies is a must-visit destination. Located in Bozeman, Montana, this museum is renowned for its extensive collection of dinosaur fossils, including a T. Rex skeleton!
The Museum of the Rockies is recognized as one of the world’s finest research and history museums, and is a Smithsonian Affiliate. It features impressive regional and natural history exhibits that are sure to delight visitors of all ages.
One of the main attractions of the museum is the dinosaur exhibit, which includes a variety of fossils and interactive displays. You can even watch workers clean dinosaur bones through the picture window in the dinosaur play area.
In addition to the dinosaur exhibit, the Museum of the Rockies has a range of other exhibits that are sure to captivate kids and adults alike. These include exhibits on Montana’s Native American history, regional wildlife, and more.
The museum also offers a range of programs and events throughout the year, including summer camps, workshops, and special exhibits.
The Museum of the Rockies is one of the most perfect places to take kids in Montana. With its impressive collection of dinosaur fossils and engaging exhibits, it’s sure to be a hit with visitors of all ages.
Grizzly and Wolf Discovery Center
If you’re looking for a unique wildlife experience to share with your kids, the Grizzly and Wolf Discovery Center in West Yellowstone is a must-visit destination. This non-profit wildlife park is dedicated to educating visitors about these animals and their habitats, so you can feel good about supporting a good cause while having fun with your family.
One of the highlights of the Grizzly and Wolf Discovery Center is the bear habitat, where you can watch these majestic animals forage for food, play in their ponds, and interact with each other. You can also observe the gray wolves and river otters in their habitats, and learn about the important roles they play in the ecosystem.
The center offers a variety of programs and activities for kids of all ages, including ranger talks, live animal demonstrations, and interactive exhibits. You can even take a behind-the-scenes tour to learn more about the animals and how they are cared for.
Admission prices are reasonable, with discounts available for children and seniors. Keep in mind that the center is open daily from 9 am to 7 pm, so plan your visit accordingly. The Grizzly and Wolf Discovery Center is one of the great places to take your kids for an educational and fun wildlife experience in Montana.
Big Sky Waterpark
If you’re looking for a fun family activity in Montana, Big Sky Waterpark is worth a visit. As Montana’s largest waterpark, it offers a variety of exciting attractions for all ages.
Located in the heart of the Rockies, Big Sky Waterpark has 10 thrilling water slides, including the popular “Big Kahuna” and “Cyclone” slides. There’s also a huge whirlpool, a kid’s activity pool, bumper cars, mini golf, and more.
One of the highlights of Big Sky Waterpark is the “Lazy River,” where you can relax and float along the gentle current. For those seeking a bit more adventure, try the “White Water Rapids” or the “Wave Pool.”
If you’re planning to visit the waterpark multiple times throughout the season, consider purchasing a season pass. This will give you unlimited access to all the rides and attractions, as well as discounts on food and merchandise.
Big Sky Waterpark is a great place to cool off and have fun with the family on a hot summer day. With so many attractions to choose from, there’s something for everyone to enjoy.
The World Museum of Mining
If you’re looking for a fun and educational experience for your kids, the World Museum of Mining in Butte, Montana is a great option. This museum offers exhibits and artifacts related to mining, as well as a recreation of an 1890s mine town and the Orphan Girl Mine. Here’s what you can expect from a visit to the World Museum of Mining:
Exhibits and Artifacts
The museum has more than 50 structures, including a 100-foot-high headframe and many buildings of Hell Roarin’ Gulch, a turn-of-the-century mining town. Displays and exhibits focus on mining and the related culture that made Butte, MT. You can see various mining equipment, ore samples, and other artifacts related to the mining industry.
Recreation of an 1890s Mine Town
The museum also has a recreation of an 1890s mine town, complete with a school, church, saloon, and other buildings. Your kids can see what life was like in a mining town during that time period. They can also participate in activities like panning for gold and gemstones.
Orphan Girl Mine
The Orphan Girl Mine was one of the most productive mines in the Butte area, producing more than $20 million worth of copper, silver, and gold. The mine is now part of the museum and visitors can take a guided tour to learn more about the mining process and the history of the mine.
The World Museum of Mining is a great place to take your kids if they’re interested in history, science, or mining. The exhibits and artifacts are informative and interesting, and the recreation of an 1890s mine town is a unique experience.
Giant Springs State Park
If you’re looking for a fun and relaxing place to take your kids, then Giant Springs State Park is a great option. With over 4,600 acres of front and backcountry to explore, there’s plenty to see and do here.
One of the main attractions of the park is the beautiful springs. These springs were first described by Lewis and Clark in 1805, and they continue to draw visitors from all over. The water is crystal clear and the surrounding scenery is breathtaking.
In addition to the springs, there are also 20 miles of trails to explore. These trails are great for hiking, walking, and even biking. Some of the trails are partially paved, making them wheelchair and stroller-friendly.
For families with young children, there’s a playground and picnic area near the springs. This is a great spot to relax and enjoy a meal while taking in the stunning views.
If you’re interested in history, Giant Springs is also a historic site on the Lewis and Clark National Historic Trail. There’s a lot to learn about the area’s rich history, and it’s a great opportunity to teach your kids about the past.
Giant Springs State Park is one of the most wonderful places to take your kids iin Montana. With its natural beauty, recreational opportunities, and historical significance, it’s sure to be a hit with the whole family.
ZooMontana
ZooMontana is a zoological and botanical garden located in Billings, Montana. It is dedicated to the conservation of wildlife throughout Montana and the 45th parallel of Earth. The zoo cares for over 100 animals of 51 different species, including wolves, grizzly bears, otters, eagles, and lynx, most of which are rescues.
Visiting the ZooMontana is an excellent opportunity to get up close and personal with Montana’s wildlife. It is a fun and educational experience for the whole family. With admission prices of $9 for adults and $6 for kids aged 3-15, it is an affordable option for families.
The zoo has a range of activities and exhibits for visitors of all ages.
- Animal Exhibits: ZooMontana has a range of animal exhibits that showcase Montana’s wildlife. Visitors can see grizzly bears, wolves, otters, and more up close.
- Botanical Gardens: The zoo has a range of botanical gardens that showcase Montana’s native plants. Visitors can take a stroll through the gardens and enjoy the beautiful scenery.
- Education Programs: ZooMontana offers a range of education programs for visitors of all ages. These programs include guided tours, animal encounters, and more.
- Events: The zoo hosts a range of events throughout the year, including Boo at the Zoo, ZooFari, and more. These events are a great way to experience the zoo in a fun and festive atmosphere.
ZooMontana is a must-visit place for kids and families visiting Montana. It is a fun and educational experience that will leave a lasting impression on visitors of all ages.
Final Thoughts on the 10 Best Places to Take Kids in Montana
Montana offers a plethora of fun and exciting activities for families with kids. From exploring national parks to visiting museums, there’s something for everyone.
We’ve highlighted some of the best places to take your kids in Montana. The Dreamcatcher Tipi Hotel is a unique and memorable experience for families, while the Best Western Desert Inn offers comfortable and affordable accommodations. Yellowstone Park Hotel is an excellent base for exploring the wonders of Yellowstone National Park, and Grouse Mountain Lodge offers a peaceful retreat in the heart of nature.
Missoula, Butte, Bozeman, Glacier National Park, and Kalispell are all worth visiting for their stunning scenery and family-friendly activities. The Lewis and Clark Trail offers a historical and educational experience, while Big Sky is perfect for adventure seekers.
The Children’s Museum of Montana in Great Falls and the Museum of the Rockies in Bozeman provide educational and interactive exhibits that are sure to entertain and inspire children of all ages.
When planning your family vacation in Montana, be sure to consider these top destinations. With so much to see and do, you’re sure to create lasting memories with your loved ones.
Frequently Asked Questions about the 10 Best Places to Take Kids in Montana
What are some family-friendly towns to visit in Montana?
Montana has several family-friendly towns that are great for vacations with kids. Bozeman, Missoula, Kalispell, and Butte are some of the top choices. These towns offer a variety of activities for families, including outdoor adventures, museums, and cultural events.
What are some fun weekend trips to take with kids in Montana?
Montana has plenty of options for weekend trips with kids. Some popular choices include visiting Yellowstone National Park, exploring Glacier National Park, and going on a scenic drive through the Big Sky Country. You can also go skiing at Big Sky Resort or enjoy water activities at Flathead Lake.
Are there any Montana resorts that are great for families during the summer?
Yes, Montana has several resorts that are great for families during the summer. Big Sky Resort, Whitefish Mountain Resort, and Red Lodge Mountain Resort are some of the top choices. These resorts offer a variety of activities for families, including hiking, biking, fishing, and horseback riding.
When is the best time to plan a family vacation to Montana?
The best time to plan a family vacation to Montana depends on your preferences and interests. Summer is the most popular season, as it offers a wide range of outdoor activities and events. Winter is also a great time to visit Montana, especially if you enjoy skiing and snowboarding. Spring and fall offer fewer crowds and lower prices, but the weather can be unpredictable.