If you visit Billings and had a great experience we invite you to write about it so that others may enjoy the same great time you had. Below is an email Amy (a guest who recently stayed) wrote and wanted us to share with other guests.
If you’re trying to figure out where to take your next vacation, you should definitely consider heading to Billings, Montana. Everyone is very friendly and welcoming to visitors. Make sure you stay at the Best Western ClockTower Inn. The staff and location are second to none. I’ve been to Billings three times and have always stayed here and wouldn’t consider staying anywhere else. You are treated like family there. When you stay here, be sure to bring a few dog treats for Bell, the best hostess in town.
Across the lot is Stella’s where you will find caramel rolls and cinnamon rolls that are to die for. And don’t forget to have the fresh squeezed orange juice with your breakfast – you’ll be glad you did. There are a multitude of restaurants to choose from all within walking distance in downtown. I highly recommend going to Walkers at least once. The food and service is amazing. Go hungry and be sure to order a full course from the appetizers to the desserts. You will not go wrong. (Can I recommend the banana crème brûlée?) While out walking in town and you’re looking for a place to grab a quick lunch, check out Sweetgrass for one of the best sandwiches you will ever have.
There are several things to see and do while in Billings, so you will not be bored. There is the Yellowstone Art Museum, the Western Heritage Center (where you can learn about some of the rich heritage of the area), and the historic Moss Mansion. I highly recommend taking the tour to learn the history of the mansion. It takes about an hour. The home was designed in 1901 by the same architect that designed the original Waldorf Astoria and the Plaza Hotel in New York City. The mansion is nearly all original from the drapes, to the fixtures and furniture, to the carpets, and is a must see when you visit Billings. It allows you to take a step into history and see how the Moss family lived in the early 1900s.
Within a couple of miles you will also find Geyser Park, which has golf, bumper boats, go carts, laser tag, and a host of other activities for all ages, and Big Splash Water Park.
If you’re up for a short drive, you will also find other activities if you’re looking to spend your afternoon outside, or if you’re traveling with your family. Zoo Montana is a very small, but quaint zoo, located just a few miles from the heart of downtown. If you are looking for something big and flashy, this probably isn’t your zoo, but it does make for a nice stroll, with the opportunity to view a few animals. The animals are not confined to small cages, and the trails appeared to be well maintained. The Serenity Garden is a very tranquil spot to stop and spend a little time just enjoying being outside.
Also not to be missed is Pictograph Cave State Park. There are two trails to choose from, one paved, one unpaved. One will take you directly to the main cave, while the other will take you through a couple of other caves. While walking along the trails, be sure to take in the scenery and enjoy the smell of the wild roses and other plants growing in the area. This is a great activity for families as it is friendly for all ages. Many of the prehistoric drawings are faded due to natural erosion from exposure to the elements. While the park has taken precautions to preserve the drawings, nature will still find a way to eventually destroy this wonderful piece of history. Be sure to visit it while you still can.
After you’ve spent your day outside and are looking for some nightlife, the Railyard Ale House is the best local bar in town. The staff and patrons are friendly. Go, take a load off, have a few beverages and enjoy some live music. If you happen to be in Billings on a Thursday night, be sure to go to The Carlin. Every Thursday night they have an improv comedy show at 8:00 p.m. I make sure to attend this when I visit Billings. I leave with my cheeks hurting from laughing so much every time. They also involve the audience in their acts, which adds to the fun.
I consider Billings to be a hidden gem in the usual array of typical vacation destinations, and I encourage everyone I know to visit.
The Western Heritage Center strives to engage in activities that bring about a deeper understanding of our region and a broader appreciation for its people.