As tourist season starts to take over Montana, millions of folks will be coming to Big Sky Country to visit our National Parks, lodge in our hotels and motels, camp in camp grounds, and dine in our restaurants.

Out-of-staters will spend hundreds of thousands of dollars on "Montana" t-shirts and other souvenirs over the next months, not to mention they'll buy or rent rafts, mountain bikes, and fishing gear so they can enjoy all that we do here in the last best place.

Since the pandemic, Montana has become a hot spot for travel, in fact, last year according one source, Montana was home to the 1st and 2nd ranked spots for a family vacation, but have we lost some of that luster?

READ MORE: Is this Montana city the new hot spot for transplants?

It may be at least according to one source.

The folks over at WalletHub have come out with their 2025 Best Summer Travel Destinations, and you might be surprised at the results. Before we dive into the data, let's check out Montana's 6 Most Beautiful Places

Montana's 6 Most Beautiful Places

Living in Big Sky Country has its perks. From breathtaking scenery to world-class skiing and fly fishing, Montana has a lot to offer. Not only are we home to hundreds of lakes and rivers, but we also claim two of the most famous National Parks in the country. Although it should be noted that we didn't include any spots in Yellowstone because it covers multiple states. So, which places in Montana are the most beautiful? Here's our Top 6.

Gallery Credit: Derek Wolf

2025 Best Summer Travel Destinations

While the travel industry is big business in Big Sky Country, according to WalletHub, Montana didn't make the list of the best places for travel this summer. You read that right, out of 100 destinations to visit this summer, not one of them is in Montana.

Source: WalletHub

I realize that those who hate the idea of out-of-staters coming here to spend their money will rejoice over this news, while others will no doubt be worried. I mean, it's kind of a big deal. Not only did Montana not make the list, but neither did Wyoming, North Dakota, or South Dakota.

So, what factors were used to determine these results? The study used the following to determine rankings:

  • Travel and Hassle Costs
  • Local Costs
  • Attractions
  • Weather
  • Activities
  • Safety

While it might not come as a surprise that Orlando, Florida, was the number one choice, the fact that Montana didn't make it, and places like Detroit, St. Louis, and Memphis did, should be a little alarming. I mean, those three cities are usually ranked high in the Top 10 Murder Capitals each year.

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What do you think? Is it good or bad that Montana didn't make the list for Best Family Summer Destinations for 2025? Let us know by sending us a message on our app.

Summer Guide To Living In Bozeman

Summer in Bozeman can be a huge challenge for those of us living here. One of the best ways to deal with it all is to be prepared for whatever may come your way. So, we've come up with a few helpful hints to help you deal with the craziness that is summer in Bozeman.

Gallery Credit: Derek Wolf

Montana's Best Resorts For Luxury

For those who are looking for luxury in a rustic setting, Montana offers some of the most wonderful Resorts in the world. Straight out of an episode of "Lifestyles of the Rich and Famous", these 5-Star Resorts offer much more than a bed and a roof over your head. They are the definition of the finer things in life.

Gallery Credit: Derek Wolf

Best Places To Play Golf In Montana

For those who love the game of golf, Montana has several options to choose from. With just under 120 courses across the state, no matter your skill level OR your bank account, you're sure to find the perfect fit for your game and your budget. Check out the best Golf Courses in Montana according to Golf Digest.

Gallery Credit: Derek Wolf

 

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