There’s absolutely no limit to what you can do in Kalispell, Montana. You can sail on some of the finest waters available; you can go biking or hiking on very intriguing trails, et cetera.
Kalispell, Montana, is a beautiful city with the most breathtaking scenery you’ve ever seen. Kalispell is a tourist haven as the possibilities are endless.
You can also explore local shops, go fishing, soak in the breathtakingly beautiful scenery from a mountain peak, or try some of the regional cuisines.
And the best part? Kalispell, Montana, is fun in the summer and also in winter.
This article covers most of the fun things to do in Kalispell, MT. It will also delve into some of its rich histories.
Where is Kalispell, Montana?
Kalispell is a city in Montana and the county seat of Flathead County, Montana. It was officially incorporated as a city in 1892.
Kalispell, Montana, has an area of 11.73 square miles which is 11.64 square miles is land, and the remaining 0.09 is water.
The population of this fantastic city stands at 24,558 as of the 2020 census.
The name Kalispell is Salish for “flat land above the lake.” It is about 2,956 feet above sea level.
It is also the gateway to the Glacier National Park. Charles Edward Conrad founded the city.
Fun Things to Do in Kalispell, MT
As we opined at the start of the article, there are countless fun things to do in the city of Kalispell, Montana, as shown below!
1. Glacier National Park
Also known as the crown of the continent, this impressive park boasts over one million acres filled with glacial-carved terrain, rushing waterfalls, 734 miles of trails, and snow-covered mountain peaks, which becomes all the more beautiful when you drive on the scenic going-to-the-Sun Road.
Going down to Glacier National Park from Kalispell is only 32 miles of effortless driving.
The park is open 365 days of the year, making it ideal for summer and winter visits. The highlight of this visit is the going-to-the-sun road.
Visitor centers in the park, guided hikes, bus and boat tours, rides on horseback, et cetera.
Address: The Glacier National Park is in Montana, United States.
You can also check out the best things to do in Helena and things to do in Paradise Valley if you plan to visit other parts of Montana during your visit.
2. Boat Tours in Glacier National Park
Tours are usually given on historic wooden boats by the Glacier Park Boat Company since 1938.
The tours include four different areas, which are Lake McDonald, Many Glacier, Two Medicine, and St. Mary.
The experienced crew at the boat company has well looked after and maintained the wooden boats.
Try going on a tour in one of these boats when next you’re in Kalispell, Montana.
Address: The Glacier National Park is in Montana, United States.
3. Skiing and Snowshoeing in Glacier National Park
As we explained earlier, Kalispell, Montana, is a favorite tourist destination in both the summer and winter. During the summer, you can go on hikes, biking, et cetera.
But the Glacier National Park transforms into a beautiful destination for cross-country skiing and snowshoeing during the winter.
Some say you’ve never been to Kalispell, Montana until you’ve been there during the winter.
If you enjoy skiing or snowshoeing, you might want to put coming to the Glacier National Park in Kalispell, Montana, on your bucket list during the winter.
Address: The Glacier National Park is in Montana, United States.
4. You can Take a Day Trip to Flathead Lake
You can always take a day trip around Flathead Lake to soak in the Breathtakingly beautiful scenery of the lake.
Take a 10-mile drive south from Kalispell to the lake’s northern end to start the round trip.
Start by driving south along the west side of the lake on the famous Highway 93.
When you get to Poulson, return north along the opposite side, which is now east of the Lake on Highway 35, for a complete round trip.
Driving along these roads is therapeutic as you’re treated to fascinating views of the colorful culture of the towns along the lake, galleries, breweries, different state parks, et cetera.
Address: Flathead lake is at 150 Flathead Lodge Rd, Bigfork, MT 59911, United States.
5. Wayfarers State Park
The Wayfarer is a mature mixed forest suitable for camping and picnicking.
This park has lots of wildflowers, especially during spring and late fall. It is over 67 acres in size and 2,923 feet in elevation.
This park is a popular destination for tourists and photographers because of the perfect view of Flathead Lake from it.
The Wayfarers State Park also has 30 campsites, including a hike-bike camp complete with nine tent pads to help make the traveling cyclists comfortable.
In addition, you can participate in activities such as bird watching, camping, boating, fishing, kayaking, et cetera in the park.
Address: Wayfarers State Park is located at 8600 Mt. Hwy 35, Bigfork, MT 59911.
6. Big Arm Park
Big Arm Park is another park you can visit when in Kalispell, Montana.
It is over 28 miles long and 15-mile wide. It is about 2,953 feet above sea level and covers nearly 240 acres.
Its campground has 41 campsites, including one easily accessible by a wheelchair.
You can participate in fun activities such as bicycling, camping, picnicking, et cetera.
You can also view wildlife and fish for lake trout. It is fun if you’re a fan of the great outdoors.
Address: This attraction is located at 28031 Big Arm State Park Rd. Big Arm, MT 59910.
7. The Conrad Mansion Museum
The Conrad Mansion Museum is beautifully preserved to compliment the 19th-century life of Kalispell’s enigmatic founder, Charles E. Conrad.
During the summer, tours are made for people, and the mansion also hosts special events. Visit the Conrad Mansion online for information.
Address: The Conrad Mansion Museum is located at 330 Woodland Ave, Kalispell, MT 59901, United States.
8. The Northwest Montana History Museum
Charles E. Conrad is often acknowledged as the founder of modern-day Kalispell, but he wasn’t the first person to call the Flathead Valley home.
Learn more about Kalispell’s earliest histories and some of its industries through some of the exhibits made available at the Northwest Montana History Museum.
The museum displays regional American Indian history, the early timber industry, and the valley’s earliest European settlers.
Address: The Northwest Montana History Museum is at 124 2nd Ave E, Kalispell, MT 59901, United States.
9. Hockaday Museum of Art
The museum is housed in a stunning early 20th-century building erected as the town library in 1901.
It has a permanent “Crown of the Continent” exhibition that features 15 historic Glacier National Park murals and works from some of the best-known Western artists, including Charles M. Russell and O.C. Seltzer.
Address: The Hockaday Museum of Art is at 302 2nd Ave E, Kalispell, MT 59901, United States.
10. The Montana Modern Fine Art
Located in Kalispell’s walkable downtown, Montana Modern Fine Art specializes in the display and sale of contemporary artists with ties to the Flathead Valley.
The works tend to be colorful and abstract while incorporating each artist’s interpretations of northwest Montana landscapes, culture, and wildlife into their pieces.
Address: The Montana Modern Fine Art is at 127 S Main St, Kalispell, MT 59901, United States.
11. Swan Mountain Snowmobiling
Swan Mountain Snowmobiling has a permit from the USFS to provide guided tours and snowmobile rentals in the Hungry Horse/Glacier View Ranger District.
This includes the famed Canyon Creek snowmobile area as well as Desert Mountain.
Additionally, they provide tours into the Swan River Ranger District and Crane Mountain area.
Packages include the “Quickie” consisting of a two-hour ride or Sunrise and Sunset snowmobile tours.
Or experience a Cook While You Ride upgrade to enjoy a hot meal out on the trail.
Address: This attraction is at 680 Railroad St E, Columbia Falls, MT 59912, United States.
12. Moose’s Saloon
To visitors, Moose’s might not look inviting from the outside.
For some reason, the tavern’s name is nowhere to be seen outside the building’s flat, weathered wood façade; there are only crisscrossing “Saloon” signs.
It might look a bit unpleasant on the outside, but Moose’s is one of the friendliest places you’ll find anywhere.
This is where you make some of your fondest memories in the company of new friends.
Address: The Moose’s Saloon is at 173 N Main St, Kalispell, MT 59901, United States.
13. Brannigan’s Pub
Brannigan’s is a popular tourist destination for lovers of Celtic culture.
There’s always a lot of singing in this bar; if you’re not mindful, you might start singing along.
Address: Brannigan’s Pub is at 101 E Center St. Kalispell, MT 59901.
14. MontaVino Winery & Tasting Room
Kalispell’s newest winery has quickly become a favorite downtown gathering spot.
MontaVino’s owner Julie is an expert at creating music events, yoga sessions, trivia nights, and many other reasons to celebrate the occasion over a glass of your favorite grape.
Address: MontaVino Winery & Tasting Room is at 38 1st Ave E suite d, Kalispell, MT 59901, United States.
15. Kalispell Brewing Company
This is one of the breweries located in Kalispell, Montana. Kalispell Brewing Company makes it its duty to offer traditional German-style lagers and Northwest-inspired ales.
This, combined with the acknowledgment of history and an eye for detail, produces some of the best beers you’re likely to taste in Kalispell, Montana.
You can enjoy several pints while soaking in the magnificent views of downtown Kalispell, Montana.
Address: Kalispell Brewing Company is at 412 South Main Street, Kalispell. MT 59901.
Are you thinking of visiting other parts of Montana? Why not check out the best things to do in Livingston and fun things to do in Gardiner (Montana) also?
16. Bias Brewing
Bias Brewing offers several beers on tap. They provide beers such as the Hard Kombucha, the Jewel Basin, Huckleberry White Quill, Sudo Strawberry Sour, Better Sweater Cashmere, Live Wire Coffee Blonde, et cetera.
This is one of the cool places to check out in Kalispell, Montana.
You’re likely to find a favorite with the several drinks on tap. They’re open every week from 12:00 pm to 8:00 pm.
Address: Bias Brewing is at 409 1st Avenue East Kalispell, Montana.
17. Mercantile Steak & KM Bar
This is one of the best places in Kalispell, Montana, to eat when hungry. The art deco and chandeliers provide a warm and very comfortable setting.
They also have on offer hand-selected steaks and fresh seafood that are unrivaled. They also have a sophisticated wine list.
It is worth a visit whenever you visit the beautiful city of Kalispell, Montana.
Address: This attraction is at 30 2nd St E, Kalispell, MT, 59901.
18. Mackenzie River Plaza, Grill & Pub
With over 22 years of experience, the Mackenzie River Plaza, Grill & Pub transports you to the very heart of the Northern Rockies.
The rustic atmosphere with some historic photographs set the tone for creatively prepared food served by vibrant employees renowned for being courteous and having an overall positive attitude.
Address: Mackenzie River Plaza, Grill & Pub is at 45 treeline Road, Kalispell, MT 59901, USA.
19. Buffalo Hill Golf Course
The beauty and charm of the championship 18 and the most spectacular views make Buffalo Hill the most popular course in the Flathead Valley and consistently on Golf Digest’s top courses and places to play.
It boasts 27 holes, a PGA Golf Shop, Golf Lessons, a Driving Range, Practice Greens, and Restaurant.
Address: The Buffalo Hill Golf Course is at 1176 N Main St, Kalispell, MT 59901, United States.
20. Northern Pines Golf Club
This is another popular golf course in Kalispell, Montana, United States.
It boasts only 18 holes, PGA Golf Shop, Golf Lessons, a Driving Range, Practice Greens, and Restaurant.
Address: The Northern Pines Golf Club is at 2 US-93, Kalispell, MT 59901, United States.
21. The Village Greens Golf Club
The Village Greens Golf Club has 18 holes, PGA Golf Shop, Golf Lessons, a Driving Range, Practice Greens, and Snack Bar.
Address: This attraction is at 500 Palmer Dr, Kalispell, MT 59901, United States.