The Best Small Towns For a Relaxing Montana Weekend

If you've been busy planning your summer vacations, you're not alone. Whether you're traveling out of state or prefer to stick around and explore Montana, the earlier you start planning the better.

Best Towns For a Relaxing Montana Vacation

Montana is a gigantic state, and there are several charming small towns that are perfect if you're looking to get away for a weekend and relax. If the day-to-day grind has got you stressed out, a little mountain time is always good for the soul. You can drive a short distance from some of the state's more populated cities and feel like you're in a completely different place.

You don't have to leave Montana if you want to experience an unforgettable vacation. Many places throughout the state offer the peace and serenity that you're looking for. During the summer, a lot of hotels, resorts, and campgrounds in Montana can get booked up really fast, so planning ahead is essential.

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If you want to stay somewhere that's close to a National Park, Travel & Leisure recently released a list of small towns in Montana with easy access to National Parks, scenic views, and delicious food.

Best Small Towns For a Relaxing Weekend Getaway in Montana

If you're short on time but still want to take in the sights and sounds of our beautiful state, here are some of our favorite small towns for a relaxing weekend getaway.

• Livingston, Montana - Livingston is a great place to spend a weekend. There are a lot of great restaurants and attractions to keep you busy. You can even use it as your base camp on your visit to Yellowstone National Park.
• Red Lodge, Montana - Red Lodge sits as the base of the Absaroka-Beartooth Wilderness between Bozeman and Billings. If we were picking favorites, Red Lodge would definitely be near the top of the list. If you're feeling adventurous, you can drive the Beartooth Highway into YNP.
• Phillipsburg, Montana - Phillipsburg is one of Montana's most picturesque small towns, and there are a lot of interesting things to explore. You can mine your own sapphires, and stock up on your favorite candy at The Sweet Palace.
• Virginia City, Montana - You can learn a lot about Montana's mining history by visiting Virginia City. It literally makes you feel like you're in the old west. If you're thirsty, stop by the Bale of Hay Saloon for a drink. It's the oldest bar in Montana.
• Columbia Falls, Montana - Columbia Falls is near the west entrance to Glacier National Park and is a great alternative to staying in Whitefish or Kalispell. If you want to experience something extremely weird and interesting, stop by the Montana Vortex.