Montana, nicknamed the Big Sky Country, offers couples big blue skies, vast spaces, sprawling mountains, and sparkling lakes. Its diverse terrain occupies areas from the stunning Rocky Mountains to the breathtaking Great Plains. If you want to experience the beauty of nature and adventure, a Montana honeymoon is for you.
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Is Montana a Good Place for a Honeymoon?
Montana brims with natural beauty, making it one of the US’ top honeymoon destinations for newlyweds.
Crisp, clean air will greet you during your post-wedding getaway here, and the range of activities you can do will make you fall in love with this magnificent state. Try different kinds of adventure, whether you yearn to explore the mountains, the waters, or its charming cities. Topping it all off is warm, Old West hospitality.
What Activities Can You Do on a Honeymoon in Montana?
- Do various on-land escapades. Whether you’re into mountain biking, skiing, snowboarding, or snowshoeing, there’s no shortage of spots in Montana where you can enjoy outdoor activities. There’s Big Sky, Whitefish Mountain, Glacier National Park, and Yellowstone National Park. At night, you can go camping and gaze at the stars.
- Enjoy different forms of water-based activities. Try whitewater rafting in Rock Creek or quietly spend time together at hot springs across Montana. The lakes of Montana (e.g., Lake McDonald Beach) are also sought-after spots for swimming.
- Try your hand at fishing. Don’t leave without doing some fishing. Their lakes have many different varieties of fish, including trout, bass, and pike. The best areas for fly fishing include Flathead Lake and Whitefish Lake.
- Go beer tasting. Next to Vermont, Montana has the most number of breweries per capita. Whether in cities or more rural areas, you will find breweries and learn more about the state’s craft beer business.
- Unwind and enjoy spa treatments. Every honeymoon itinerary should include a day of relaxation. The great thing about Montana resorts and hotels is that they usually include spa treatments such as a couple’s massage in their honeymoon packages, plus the usual hot tub and saunas.
What Is the Best Month to Visit Montana?
There isn’t a bad time to visit Montana. It’s a year-round destination, depending on which activities you want to enjoy. You can ski in the winter or enjoy many summer outdoor activities at national parks while enjoying fantastic mountain views. If you want to avoid large crowds, go there during late spring or early fall. The weather in Montana during those seasons is also milder.
Is a Honeymoon in Montana Expensive?
A week-long trip in Montana typically costs between $2,500 and 4,000 for a couple. If you want to splurge and have a luxurious trip, you can even spend up to $14,000 and beyond.
How To Plan a Budget Montana Honeymoon
- Visit during the off-season.
- Use credit card rewards points and airline gift cards.
- Plan early and book in advance to avoid price surges.
- Go camping and opt for cheaper accommodations.
- Get a national park pass.
5 Best Cities to Stay In Montana
Missoula
Missoula is the second-biggest city in Montana and is home to the University of Montana. History and art buffs are in for a treat as the city has the Missoula Art Museum, Caras Park Carousel, and Roxy Theater. You can find great views of Mount Centinel and the Clark Fork River in Missoula.
From the city, you can travel eastward and visit the town of Greenough. There, you can explore Garnet Ghost Town and Blackfoot River or book a one-night stay at The Resort at Paws Up for the ultimate Western Montana experience.
Where to stay: Downtown Missoula or University District
Bozeman
Bozeman is your gateway to one of the most popular sites in the area: Yellowstone National Park. This 2.2 million acre park has approximately 300 waterfalls and half of the world’s geysers. Bozeman is also known for its year-round festivals highlighting art, food, music, and more.
Beyond spending your time doing outdoor adventures, you can roam around the city and check out its attractions, such as the Pioneer Museum and the Museum of Rockies. You can swim or kayak at the Gallatin River to cool off during summer.
Where to stay: Downtown Bozeman
Helena
Helena is the capital city of Montana. At the heart of the city, you will find traces of its gold rush history. Popular tourist spots include the Gates of the Mountains, the Cathedral of St. Helena, and the Missouri River.
The Missouri River is one of the US’s most famous fly fishing destinations. Rent bikes or stroll through Mount Helena City Park for a more relaxing outdoor adventure.
Where to stay: Downtown and South Central
Kalispell
Kalispell is the starting point for those who want to visit Glacier National Park. South of the city, you’ll find the largest freshwater lake in the county, Flathead Lake. To the north, you’ll find the Whitefish Mountain Resort. Go a little farther, and you’ll get to Glacier National Park, where you can try plenty of outdoor activities. Near Glacier, you can find the hospitable community of Columbia Falls.
The city also has its own art and culture community, with the Hockaday Museum of Art as one of the must-visits. This museum opened in 1969 and showcases local artists’ work while preserving the area’s cultural history.
Where to stay: Main St or north of the city
Billings
Billings is the biggest Montana city. Thanks to its vast spaces, it earned the name ‘Montana’s trailhead.’ Dividing the city is the majestic Rimrocks and sandstone cliffs where you can hike, bike, or rock climb.
Aside from steep terrains, it also boasts flat spots where you and your new spouse can picnic. Another scenic spot is the Yellowstone River. Visit the downtown area and explore its cafes, museums, and music venues.
Where to stay: Central-Terry or Downtown Billings
How Long Should You Spend in Montana For a Honeymoon?
At 145,552 square miles, Montana is the fourth largest state in the US. You should set aside 7 to 10 days to explore many places in this part of the country.
What Is the Best Way to Travel to Montana?
Depending on where you’ll be staying, you have seven major airports to fly into: Billings, Bozeman, Missoula, Helena, Kalispell, Butte, and Great Falls. If you prefer to go by train, you can choose one of the two train operators that travel to and from the state—Amtrak and Amtrak Empire Builder.
Traveling Within Montana
The best way to get around Montana is by car; you can rent cars at major airports. Taking the bus, train, or shuttle services are budget-saving options, although they give you less freedom and ease of movement.
What Types of Accommodations Are Available in Montana?
When you go to Montana, you’ll have several accommodation options: honeymoon resorts, log cabins, and private vacation rentals. Popular lodgings among couples include Lone Mountain Ranch and The Green O.
You can also go glamping or stay at a dude ranch (a guest ranch that lets visitors experience Western activities like fishing and horseback riding).
4 Foods to Try in Montana
- Huckleberries. Pies, pancakes, jams, ice creams. If you visit this state, you can find many culinary creations that use huckleberries, usually harvested from the northwestern mountains.
- Elk and bison burgers. Want to taste a different kind of burger? Try Montana’s burgers that feature elk and bison. These meats are also available in other types of cooking, such as stew.
- Wheat Montana Cinnamon Rolls. Wheat Montana Farms and Bakery is originally in Three Forks but now has a presence across the state. The shop is known for its cinnamon rolls.
- Trout. The most popular fish in Montana is trout. One of the best ways to eat it is by grilling it. Most restaurants stuff it with lemon, garlic, and herbs to further elevate the flavors.
What to Pack For a Honeymoon in Montana
Most activities involve the outdoors, so most people dress casually in Montana. However, if you plan to attend a few nice dinners on your romantic honeymoon, you may also want to pack a few semi-formal outfits. Don’t forget the following:
- Casual attire, including long sleeves for sun protection
- Sunscreen, sunglasses, and lip balm with SPF protection
- Layers, no matter the season. For a winter or spring trip, bring a heavy jacket; a mediumweight jacket for fall
- Tennis shoes or hiking shoes
- Reusable water bottles
- Personal first-aid kit
Is Montana Safe to Visit?
Montana offers newlyweds a magical setting where they can spend their first days as a married couple in adventure-filled bliss. A Montana honeymoon is generally a safe experience as the overall risk is low. However, here are some safety tips to keep in mind:
- If you’re driving, drive slowly. Montana roads are curvy and accident-prone.
- Expect and respect the wildlife. Don’t approach or feed them.
- Always be careful about your valuables, especially when visiting crowded areas.
- Avoid places with a higher crime rate, such as Ronan, Wolf Point, and Hamilton.
- While tap water is generally safe to drink, many locals and tourists prefer filtered water.