Things To Do
Flathead Lake
Thousands of years ago, the glaciers that carved the stunning landscapes of Glacier National Park pushed their way down into the modern-day Flathead Valley and sculpted the terrain that includes Flathead Lake. The largest natural freshwater lake in the West, Flathead Lake sits in northwest Montana and is a sprawling blue jewel at the base of the Swan and Mission mountain ranges. Encompassing nearly 200 square miles, the lake has 185 miles of shoreline and reached a depth of 370 feet.
Glacier National Park
A showcase of melting glaciers, alpine meadows, carved valleys, and spectacular lakes. With over 700 miles of trails, Glacier is a paradise for adventurous visitors seeking a landscape steeped in human culture. Relive the days of old through historic chalets, lodges, and the famous Going-to-the-Sun Road.
Yellowstone National Park
Yellowstone is a 6-7 hr drive from Flathead Lake. On March 1, 1872, Yellowstone became the first national park for all to enjoy the unique hydrothermal and geologic features. Within Yellowstone's 2.2 million acres, visitors have unparalleled opportunities to observe wildlife in an intact ecosystem, explore geothermal areas that contain about half the world’s active geysers, and view geologic wonders like the Grand Canyon of the Yellowstone River.
Downtown Kalispell
We’ve got to hand it to Charles E. Conrad, Kalispell’s founder—he knew a good thing when he saw it. And while it looks different than it did in the late 1800s, the potential that Conrad saw has come to life and today it’s a mountain town with beautifully historic roots, a vibrant downtown and plenty of things to do right here in Kalispell, Montana. Steeped in history and filled with locally owned shops and boutiques, restaurants, art galleries and more, downtown Kalispell beautifully combines touches from the past with modern offerings in a charming setting.
Flathead National Forest
Located in the Rocky Mountains of Northwest Montana, surrounding Kalispell, lies the expansive 2.4-million acre Flathead National Forest. Boasting a wealth of lakes, rugged wilderness, wild rivers, and over 2,000 miles of trails, this forest is a quintessential natural gem of the American West.
Bibler Gardens
Enjoy a colorful, guided or self-guided stroll at beautiful Bibler Gardens where hundreds of thousands of tulips and daffodils bloom each May as well as lush gardens into the fall. Designated for special events or by appointment.
Swan River Nature Trail
Bigfork’s 2-mile long gravel trail looks down upon the Wild Mile of the Swan River. Take Montana 35 in to Bigfork, turn on Grand Drive and go past Electric Avenue and the Bigfork Inn. The trailhead’s at the top of the short hill.
Museums & Galleries
While the mountains may beckon you to the outdoors, Kalispell’s museums are some of the must-see things to do on any visit. A list of museums include The Conrad Museum, The Northwest Montana History Museum, and Glacier Art Museum.
Local Watering Holes
In Kalispell, enjoy IPAs, stouts, lagers, sours and pale ales at breweries like Bias Brewing, Sacred Waters Brewing Company, Flathead Lake Brewing Co, and Tamarack Brewing Company Alehouse & Grill. Glacier Distilling Company serves craft spirits in small batches like, whiskey, rum, bourbon and more. For those who like cider, there's Big Mountain Cider Works as well.
Norm's Soda Fountain
Take a step back in time to Norm’s Soda Fountain, a 1930’s local, family-run burger shop & soda fountain. Complete with shakes, hand dipped cones, and old fashioned ice cream sodas, we also have over 700 kinds of candy.
Mercantile Steak
Within historic Kalispell Mercantile, the exposed brick and Art Deco chandeliers provide a warm, stately setting for our hand selected steaks, fresh seafood, and carefully chosen wine list.
Longview Lavender Farm LLC
With over 8,000 plants get lost in the fragrant fields of Longview Lavender Farm. Set against the majestic Rocky Mountains: u-pick lavender, a farm shop with an array of lavender products, live plants and countless photo opportunities are available.
Kalispell’s Boutiques and Stores
Kalispell favorites and must-shop locations include The Toggery, Western Outdoor, Sage & Cedar, Sportsman & Ski Haus, and True Water Fly Shop.
Blacktail Family Foods
Full service grocery store. Fresh meats, produce, and bakery/deli.
Whistling Andy
Inspired by a great person and the perfect location, Whistling Andy meticulously handcrafts the finest spirits using select local grains, local cherries, true first cut cane sugar and locally sourced botanicals whenever possible.