There are few things more fun than adventuring through Montana. As one of the best places to visit for nature, outdoor activities, and history, it’s easy to plan itineraries that can fill a day, a weekend, or even longer. While we certainly enjoy any time spent here, those looking to get a true taste of life here will love exploring the state’s many small towns. Collected here are some of the best small towns in Montana. Each one is undoubtedly perfect for a fun adventure throughout the entire year.

1. Whitefish - Flathead County

Whitefish, MT 59937, USA
Explore Whitefish/Facebook
Whitefish has a population of just over 7,000, making it one of the larger small towns on this list. One of our favorite things about a visit is just how versatile it is! Any time of year is a great time to check it out, but we particularly love the annual Whitefish Winter Carnival in January.

2. Libby - Lincoln County

Libby, MT 59923, USA
Jimmy Emerson, DVM/Flickr
The small town of Libby has around 2,800 residents. It sits right near the Idaho border, so this is a good trip for those who might not live locally. Outdoor enthusiasts who appreciate Montana's natural beauty will love the lakes and rivers. Additionally, winter lovers will enjoy the great skiing with a visit in February or March. After your visit, consider checking out some of the other charming small towns in Montana!

3. Cooke City - Park County

Cooke City, MT, USA
Cooke City Chamber of Commerce/Facebook
While this tiny town of around 150 year-round residents is fun any time of year, those who love snow will want to visit in the winter. Considered the snowiest town in the state, Cooke City frequently has snow all year, making it ideal for winter lovers any time. Plan your visit to Cooke City today!

4. Havre - Hill County

Havre, MT 59501, USA
Havre, Montana Residential Historic District/Facebook
Just 35 minutes from the Canadian border, this small town is perfect for those who are truly looking to get away. This is also a no-brainer for history buffs. Havre is chock-full of history, including tons of historic buildings and homes. Plan your visit to Havre, Montana and you will be certain to have a great time!

5. Anaconda - Deer Lodge County

Anaconda, MT, USA
Jasperdo/Flickr
The county seat of Deer Lodge County is located just a few minutes from Butte, making it one of the best towns in Montana to visit if your starting point is a larger city. It was first built to be a mining town but has become a go-to weekend destination for those looking for a low-key way to explore. Plan your trip to Anaconda in the spring when it comes alive with greenery.

6. Philipsburg - Granite County

Philipsburg, MT 59858, USA
Jasperdo/Flickr
If you visited Philipsburg in the 1800s, you'd find a thriving mining town similar to many other spots here in Montana. Today, however, this small town is known to be one of the most beautiful spots to visit for a long weekend. Beloved among locals, it's perfect for a summer visit when you can stroll around the small shops and restaurants. The most beautiful small town in Montana is easy to explore if you know what you're looking for.

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7. Great Falls - Cascade County

Great Falls, MT, USA
J. Stephen Conn/Flickr
With tons of small-town charm and some seriously beautiful views, this river town in Montana is a must-visit. Be sure to carve out enough time for a stroll along the water, as well as some time downtown to see the historic buildings.

8. Livingston - Park County

Livingston, MT 59047, USA
Jasperdo/Flickr
This little beauty is known to have some of the mildest winters in the state. Additionally, it's known for an average of 190 sunny days a year. For that reason, those who prefer to avoid cold winds might want to check it out. However, a visit any time of year will offer lots of beautiful sights. Get ready to enjoy a visit to Livingston when the weather is warm.

9. Hamilton - Ravalli County

Hamilton, MT 59840, USA
Jimmy Emerson, DVM/Flickr
You'll find the small town of Hamilton about an hour from Missoula. Its close proximity to Lake Como makes it popular when the weather is warm, but we love it any time of year. Be sure to check out the Daly Mansion for a dose of history. Then, plan to wine, dine, and explore the rest of Hamilton, Montana. Put this one on your Montana town bucket list!

10. Virginia City - Madison County

Virginia City, MT 59729, USA
Laura Grace/TripAdvisor
Each of the small towns on this list is great for a visit, but we particularly love this one for the overnight options! Be sure to plan a weekend at Just An Experience Bed and Breakfast. Plan to stay in a cabin or the main house rooms to take in the beauty of the Alder Gulch area surroundings. It is located close enough to downtown that visitors can enjoy all the gold mining history, too.

11. Big Timber - Sweet Grass County

Big Timber, MT 59011, USA
Jasperdo/Flickr
The best of both worlds come together here in Big Timber. Located where the plains meet the Rocky Mountains, this town is full of both beauty and fun. Be sure to check out the historic buildings, but also make plans to pop into a few of the local shops and restaurants. If you'd like to stay overnight, do so in this cozy cabin in Montana with amazing views.

12. Big Sky - Madison and Gallatin Counties

Big Sky, MT, USA
Outlaw Partners/Facebook
Big Sky might be the most familiar town name to those who don't live in Montana. There are quite a few reasons for that, but today we're focused on the beauty. It offers magnificent views year-round, but there's something extra special in the winter. That's especially true during the town's annual Big Sky Winterfest!

What are some of your favorite best small towns in Montana? Have we missed any that you’d include in a must-visit list? And, if you’ve been to any of those included here let us know what activities we should plan!

Now that you have a plan for where to go, you’ll want to make sure you have some accommodation options. Check out these 10 cozy rentals in Montana. If you’re looking for other fun local places to stay, take a look at Vrbo.

 

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