Billings may be Montana’s largest city, but this area has much more character and heritage than what’s usually expected from a metropolitan area. In fact, if you’re wanting to experience the true western heritage of Montana look no further than this area towards the center of the state. Billings has a distinctively unique character that blends the amenities of an urban area with classic ranching culture. It’s not unusual to see cowboy hats throughout town, and the city is home to one of the most prestigious rodeo and livestock shows in the country.
This story was created in partnership with Visit Billings.
Billings is a great example of a city that has evolved with the times but continues to stay true to its roots by preserving and embracing the western way of life. One of the best times to visit Billings, Montana, is in the fall before the cold winter weather settles in and while the area has plenty of events happening right in the heart of town.
Rodeo & Ranching Culture
The Northern International Livestock Exposition (NILE) Stock Show & Rodeo happens each fall and attracts contestants from all over the country. Hundreds of cows, sheep, and pigs are shown throughout the day, and both the Pro and Ranch Rodeo athletes compete in the evenings. This event is paired with the annual Harvest Fest that takes place downtown and features scarecrow contests and pumpkin painting alongside insanely good food trucks and beer gardens. The two fall events offer a unique contrast between the city’s more urban side and the deeply ingrained western heritage.
Leaf Peeping
There’s plenty of leaf peeing to be found throughout Billings, in the fall too—both Four Dances Overlook and the Rimrocks offer a bird’s eye view of Billings, and there is usually plenty of foliage to see from both overlooks in October. For a bit of history, head down to Pompey’s Pillar National Monument which features the engraved signature of William Clark (from the Lewis and Clark expedition) or take the short drive to Pictograph Cave State Park for a look into ancient Indigenous traditions. If you’d rather enjoy foliage on a stroll a bit closer to town, Two Moon Park offers smooth and peaceful trails that meander along the Yellowstone River with plenty of golden cottonwood trees.
Local Flavors
After a jam packed day, head back into town for a classic western meal. Walker’s, Bin 119, Marble Table, Stacked, Jake’s, and Buffalo Block are all great choices, and plenty of these restaurants offer locally raised buffalo and elk meats for those wanting to experience the flavors of the West. For breakfast, The Sassy Biscuit and Proof Donuts are great choices, and Bernie’s features famous coffee, pancakes, and elk steak egg skillets for breakfast.
Traveling To Billings
Getting into town is seamless with an easy-to-navigate airport that features nonstop flights to 13 cities. Driving is also a breeze with I-90 traveling right through Billings. For lodging, there are countless options, but we love the historic Northern Hotel which is conveniently located right in the heart of the city.
Being Montana’s largest city, Billings offers urban amenities with a unique western flair. With plenty of leaf peeping opportunities paired with the annual Harvest Fest and NILE Stock Show & Rodeo, Billings is the ideal fall destination for those wanting to experience the true heritage of the west.
