It's tourist season in Montana, which means more traffic, Sprinter Vans, RVs, people walking around with cameras, and lots of folks wearing the brand-new matching Montana t-shirts that they probably overpaid for.

First, let me say that if you're reading this and you are here visiting our beloved state, I hope you have a fantastic time.  Please, enjoy all that Montana has to offer and take the chance to check out all of the great shops and stores that locals work hard at providing you with the services and products that you need while you're here.

Now, for those of you planning on visiting Montana, well, I have some tips for you that you're going to want to know before you arrive.

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Tip #1 Don't Get To Close To The Wildlife

I understand for a lot of you, this will be the first time you see things like bison, bears, elk, and moose just to name a few.  You should know that while they might only be a couple hundred feet away, they're not tame and they will absolutely hurt you...bad. While it might seem tempting, keep in mind that our National Parks are not petting zoos.

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Tip #2 Be Nice To Those Providing You Service

Montana is a popular place, especially during tourist season so the chances are that you might not have the prompt service you think you deserve.  The truth is, our service folks are understaffed and they do the best they can.  What they don't need is some out-of-state person with an attitude giving them grief.

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Credit: Canva
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Tip #3 It's Expensive Here

Montana isn't a cheap place to live or visit, so before you get too excited and start thinking about leaving wherever you live and start looking at real estate, remember that.  Oh and if you're planning on staying in a hotel, depending on what part of the state you will be lodging in, it's going to cost you...a lot.

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Credit: Canva
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Tip #4 Make Sure You're Cool With Driving Here

If you've never driven in the mountains before, you might be in for a challenge.  Not only is it a completely different experience than driving on flat ground, one tends to have the desire to look around at all the scenery while behind the wheel, and that's never a good idea. So for your and everyone else's safety, probably staying in the slow lane is the best idea, at least until you get the hang of it.

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Credit: Canva
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Tip #5 Take Home A Little Montana When You Leave

We mentioned the overpriced t-shirts, but you'll also want to make sure that you bring home a little taste of Big Sky Country. We have plenty of wonderful Made In Montana products for you to choose from.  Some of the most popular items include anything with huckleberries or our delicious jerky made from bison or elk. For those of you over a certain age, we also have plenty of high-quality adult beverages that are made right here that you can enjoy when you get back home.

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Credit: Canva
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Once again, please enjoy your stay, and remember...there's no place like home.

Here's The Top 10 Tourists Sites For Those Visiting Montana

Montana is known by several nicknames. Big Sky Country, The Treasure State, and the Last Best Place to name just a few. Each year, millions of folks travel to Montana to partake in its beauty, while often seeking adventure in the outdoors. From skiing to rafting, fly fishing, to snowmobiling, Montana can certainly be described as an outdoor paradise.

No matter the season, there is always something to see and do in Montana. Here's a look at The Top 10 Tourists Sites For Those Visiting Montana.

This Family Friendly "Montana Town" Is Frozen In Time

One of the coolest places to check out in Montana is the "Old Montana" town of Nevada City. Located just on the other side of Virginia City, Nevada City is the perfect example of what life was like back during the gold rush in the 1800s.

With several different buildings to tour and friendly folks to guide you through your visit, as well as tell you the stories of the times, Nevada City is not only educational but fun for the whole family.

Offbeat adventures: Travel to the coolest hidden wonders in every U.S. state

Fuel your offbeat travel dreams. Stacker found the coolest hidden wonders in all 50 U.S. states (plus D.C.) using data from Atlas Obscura.

[WARNING: Under no circumstances should you enter private or abandoned property. By doing so you risk bodily harm and/or prosecution for trespassing.]

LOOK: Must-do activities at every national park

Stacker lists the must-do activities at every national park ranked by the annual number of visitors. 

 

 

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