Things To Do
Kalispell
Kalispell is home to Flathead Lake, several championship golf courses, unlimited trails for hiking (Lone Pine), lakes and streams for fishing and warm western hospitality. The downtown area has cute coffee shops, bars and gift shops that are within walking distance of the Red Lion Hotel. The downtown district itself is an easy afternoon stroll and is a bit smaller than it's neighboring downtown district in Whitefish. Western Outdoor and Norms News are great starting points!
The Conrad Mansion
The Conrad Mansion in Kalispell, Montana is the most beautifully preserved pre-1900 mansion in Montana. Complete with over 90 percent of the original family furnishings, a visit to Kalispell isn't complete without enjoying a tour of this beautiful home. A great activity for the whole family!
Hockaday Museum of Art
The Hockaday Museum of Art's mission is to preserve the artistic legacy of Montana and Glacier National Park. The Museum maintains a permanent collection and offers rotating exhibits by nationally renowned and emerging artists, in addition to a permanent exhibit of Glacier National Park art and culture. A Discovery Gallery provides hands-on activities for children that changes along with the rotating exhibits.
Moose's Pizza & Saloon
A Kalispell tradition since 1957! Moose's is a family friendly restaurant and saloon with a relaxed and casual atmosphere. Both the Maid of Honor and the Bride worked here durning their early 20s. Moose's is right across the street from the Red Lion Hotel, and does takeout.
Glacier National Park
Dubbed “Crown of the Continent,” this pristine wilderness was established in 1910. It features alpine meadows, deep forests, waterfalls, 25 glaciers and 200 lakes. After Sept 12th you no longer need a vehicle reservation to get in but do need a park pass. Click the link below for more information.
Whitefish
Whitefish is about 15 min from Kalispell. Named one of the "Top 25 Ski Towns in the World" by National Geographic, Whitefish sits at the base of Big Mountain, which is home to Whitefish Mountain Resort. Whitefish is a year-round destination with a mixed array of shops, coffee houses, stellar dining, and bars (Great Northern Bar and Grill, Bulldog Saloon). This is a great place to spend an afternoon exploring w/or without kiddos!
Whitefish Scenic Lift Rides
Ranked #1 among Whitefish attractions "Scenic Lift Rides" are a must-do in summer. Choose from an enclosed gondola (easy for kids) or an open chairlift. Then sit back and enjoy the mountain scenery as well as views of Whitefish Lake, the Flathead Valley and Glacier National Park on the ride to the summit. Once at the summit, enjoy 360-degree views before returning down the mountain, or spend some time at the Summit House enjoying the view with a beverage from the Summit House Bar. Grab & Go food available as well!
The Great Northern Bar & Grill
Whitefish's hottest spot for great food, spirits, dancing, and a collection of micro brews from around the valley and across the country. Possibly the world's greatest collection of signs. No visit to Whitefish is complete without stopping in at "The Northern" for a drink!
Tupelo Grille
This is our favorite restaurant in the valley! Established in 1995, this fine dining restaurant has quickly gained a reputation as being one of the top eateries in the Northwest Montana. Tupelo Grille specializes in Cajun and Southern cuisine, fresh sea food, steaks and pasta. Our favorite Date Night Spot!
Pin & Cue
The Pin & Cue is a family recreation and dining center. They offer 16 lanes of bowling, and Thunder Alley (black lights bowling) on Friday and Saturday. Call ahead and book your lanes, they almost always sell out!
Flathead Lake/Bigfork
Flathead Lake is the largest natural freshwater lake west of the Mississippi. Recreation on the lake includes: sailing, power boating, waterskiing, swimming, fishing and picnicking. In the summer months, roadside stands along the East Shore (BIGFORK) offer a variety of locally grown cherries, apples, plums, and other fruits! Bigfork Website: https://bigfork.org/planning-a-visit/things-to-do/
Gunsight Saloon
The Gunsight Saloon is a family-friendly bar and restaurant featuring an outdoor venue that plays live music in summer months. The restaurant features exceptional burgers, sandwiches, and entrees as well as options for kids They have two full bars (one indoor, one outdoor), huge outdoor patio that's kid friendly! Columbia Falls is only 15 min from Whitefish.
The Back Room Restaurant
For something out of the ordinary, visit the Back Room Restaurant located directly behind the Nite Owl. Their hickory smoked spare, country or baby back pork ribs are prepared fresh daily with a secret spice blend, and flavor for which the Back Room is renowned! The Back Room also features succulent broasted or rotisserie chicken that is to die for - broasted is a family favorite!
Glacier Lanes
Vintage 8 Wood Lane Bowling Alley 20 minutes from Whitefish in the town of Columbia Falls. Loads of kid friendly fun, nice outdoor seating, corn hole, ping pong, sidewalk chalk and hula hoops. Call ahead to book your lane!