Welcome to JetSetting Fools, here you will find our best travel tips for destinations worldwide. Some of the links on this site are Affiliate Links and if you use them to make a purchase, we may earn a commission. For more information, read our Disclosure Policy.
Kalispell, Montana ranks as the largest city and commercial hub of the state’s northwest region. As the county seat, we weren’t sure there were too many things to do in Kalispell. Still, we decided to check it out anyway, and were pleased that we did!
Our 5 Top Things To Do in Kalispell, Montana
The Kalispell attractions on our list are all centrally located – and most are within walking distance from the old town center. In addition to our list of Kalispell tourist attractions, we provide other information – like where to stay and how to get there – at the end of the article.
Save, Pin or Bookmark our Kalispell Travel Guide to plan your trip to Montana!
#1 Stroll Main Street Kalispell
Topping our list of Kalispell Things To Do is walking down Main Street, where it feels like you are stepping back in time.
Main Street marks the heart of Old Town Kalispell, Montana. The street features buildings that date to the early 1900s and occupying these historic structures are boutique shops, antique stores, locally owned restaurants, and charming cafes.
Shop on Kalispell Main Street
Shopping at the stores on Main Street is one of the top things to do in Kalispell – and there is something for everyone! From outdoor apparel to western wear to Made-in-Montana art to used book shops and thrift stores, there is a range of items.
A few of the top places to shop in Kalispell are Rocky Mountain Outfitters, Sage and Cedar and The Toggery.
Pro Tip: Start your tour at the Kalispell Visitor Center for more information and brochures.
#2 Explore Historic Kalispell on Foot
One of the Kalispell activities that we most enjoyed was discovering the entire Historic District, which extends beyond Main Street.
The city of Kalispell dates to 1891 – and much of that original plan and several structures still exist today. We wandered the streets, walking down tree-lined lanes, past historic dwellings and by a few beautiful churches.
We were happy to roam the Kalispell downtown district without purpose, but there is a useful Self-Guided Walking Tour that can help lead the way, too!
Pro Tip: The Conrad Memorial Cemetery is somewhere history buffs will want to check it out! The site, which is listed on the National Register of Historic Places, is located on the northwest side of downtown.
#3 Visit Museums in Kalispell
Visiting one of the city’s museums is one of the top Kalispell, Montana things to do! There are actually three located within the heart of the historic district.
Conrad Mansion Museum
Charles E Conrad is credited with founding the city of Kalispell – and in 1895 he built a mansion where he resided with his family. Today, the house stands as a museum, fully decorated as it might have been when it was first built.
Northwest Montana History Museum
Housed in an old school building, the exhibits detail the history of Flathead Valley. Visitors can learn about the first people to live on the land and the logging industry that helped shape the region.
Hockaday Museum of Art
Located in the iconic 100-year-old Carnegie Library Building, this museum hosts a permanent collection of art depicting Glacier National Park. It includes photographs, paintings and collectibles – all of which have been created by Montana artists.
#4 Go to a Kalispell Park
It’s a well-known fact that the region surrounding Kalispell, Montana boasts incredible nature. However, visitors don’t need to go far to find beautiful green spaces. There are several parks where guests can get a full dose of nature.
Woodland Park
Just a few blocks from Main Street, Woodland is a fantastic city park – and visiting it is one of the fun things for families to do in Kalispell. In addition to the playground and skate park, the space features a duck pond, walking and biking trails and picnic areas. The adjacent Woodland Water Park is a top summertime attraction in Kalispell, too.
Lone Pine State Park
Want to go hiking in Kalispell? Check out the nearby Lone Pine State Park, which is just a short drive from downtown. The site is known for fun and relatively easy hiking trails that lead to fantastic viewpoints.
Herron Park
Trails for hikers of every level, Herron Park is a favorite local spot. In addition to the family fun hiking trails, visitors can go mountain biking, skiing, sledding and horseback riding.
Flathead National Forest
The 2.4-million-acre Flathead National Forest is a perfect place to escape into nature and one of the top things to do in the Flathead Valley. Featuring incredible vistas, beautiful lakes and miles of trails, it is one of the best parks in Montana.
Pro Tip: If you are visiting Montana to go to Glacier National Park, use our GNP Itinerary to help plan your trip!
#5 Sip Craft Beer at the Breweries in Kalispell
If you follow our blog (and we hope that you do!) you know that we are big fans of craft beer. There are three Kalispell breweries located within the downtown historic district (and one just beyond).
Kalispell Brewing Company
Established in 2014, Kalispell Brewing was the first craft brewer on the scene and is one of the popular craft breweries in Montana. The taproom is staffed by friendly bartenders – and the open-air rooftop offers a birds’ eye view of the surrounding area.
SunRift Beer Company
SunRift is a fun spot to have a pint in the heart of downtown Kalispell. Their line up of beers is inspired by nature. On-site food is provided by food trucks – and they have a stellar happy hour!
Bias Brewing
Featuring an experimental range of beers, Bias Brewing is a fun place to check out! Located one block from Main Street on 1st Avenue, Bias is open daily from noon until 10pm.
Sacred Waters Brewing Company
Sacred Waters Brewing Company is located outside the historic center along Highway 2 – but is well worth a visit, in our opinion! The brewery was built with the great Montana outdoors in mind – both in their beers and the taproom space.
The inside is as cozy as a family room and perfect for when the Montana weather is less than ideal. However, the outdoor lawn space is as comfortable as a friend’s backyard on sunny summer afternoon. Oh, and the beer is delicious!
Best Places To Eat in Kalispell
When it comes to eating, there is no shortage of restaurants in Kalispell, Montana. Whether you’re looking for breakfast, lunch or dinner, many of the best restaurants are located along Main Street.
Breakfast
For the first meal of the day, Ceres Bakery is a popular place to go for locals and visitors. For something a little more filling than pastries, try Sykes Diner, The Knead Café or Montana Coffee Traders.
Lunch and Dinner
For lunch or dinner in the city, Norm’s Soda Fountain (for burgers), Hop’s Downtown Grill (more burgers) and Moose’s Saloon (pizza) are top picks!
Best Ice Cream in Kalispell
If you are looking for a sweet treat, get an ice cream cone from Sweet Peaks, which is also on Main Street.
Kalispell Map
Use this Google Map for and online version our Kalispell, Montana Map of Attractions below.
Things To Do Near Kalispell
Above, we feature what to do in Kalispell, but there are many more things to do around Kalispell, MT, too!
Whitefish
A popular ski area and summer mountain retreat, Whitefish Mountain Resort is highly rated destination any time of year.
Deciding between Whitefish or Kalispell? The distance between the two is only 15 miles – so seeing both places is quite easy! Read our post on the top Things To Do in Whitefish for tips on what to see and do in the town!
Glacier National Park
To get from Kalispell to Glacier National Park takes about 45 minutes, and it is a must-see while in Montana! We feature everything you need to know about hitting the trails in our article, Hiking in GNP!
Flathead Lake
Ranking as the largest freshwater lake in the western United States, Flathead is a must-see when visiting the region. The shoreline is dotted with six state parks, which together are known as the Flathead Lake State Parks.
Many opt to simply drive around the lake, but we recommend making stops in Bigfork, Bear Dance and Polson – or even Wild Horse Island! Find more details in our guide to the Best Montana Road Trip.
Columbia Falls
The third largest city in Flathead County, Columbia Falls offers heaps of great activities and it’s just 20 miles from Kalispell.
Home to attractions like the Big Sky Waterpark, Glacier Ziplines and the Montana Vortex and House of Mystery, Columbia Falls is a fun destination. Other reasons to make are sampling beers at Backslope Brewing, feasting on a Mudman burger and dining at one of the local establishments on Nucleus Avenue.
Horseback Riding
Artemis Acres is a guest ranch just south of Old Town that offers guided horseback riding adventures. Visitors can ride to beautiful vistas and then stay for a fireside BBQ cookout. Those looking for romantic weekend can stay at the on-site Bed and Breakfast!
Blackfeet Nation
The Blackfeet Indian Reservation sits on the east side of Glacier National Park and is about a 2 hour drive from Kalispell. Visitors to the Native American lands can learn about the history of the tribe at the Museum of the Plains Indian or join one of the guided tours.
Tips for Visiting Kalispell, Montana
We have covered the top things to do – but we have a few more Kalispell travel tips to help you plan your trip!
Pro Tip: Get (and stay) organized for your vacation to Montana by utilizing our Trip Planning Printables!
Airport in Kalispell
The main Kalispell, Montana airport is the Glacier Park International Airport (FCA). We arrived from Portland, OR – but Kalispell also has non-stop flights from Seattle, San Francisco, Las Vegas, Denver, Phoenix and Chicago (among others!).
The Missoula Airport also has several direct, year-round flights – and Missoula is definitely worth visiting as well!
To find the Best Fares on Flights into Kalispell – start your search on Skyscanner!
Renting a Car
To get around the Kalispell region and into the nature of Montana, you will need a car. We recommend upgrading to an SUV for a more comfortable ride on Montana roads. Read our advice for getting the best price then start your search for rental cars.
Where To Stay in Kalispell
There are several options for accommodations in – and around – Kalispell. The city makes a great base for a trip to Montana. Read our tips for booking the best accommodations.
Hotels
Visitors who want to stay in the historic district should check availability at the Kalispell Grand Hotel. The iconic property opened in 1912, featuring amenities such as running water and door locks! Today, the hotel retains that rich history, but with modern rooms and an on-site spa.
Check rates for the Grand Hotel and other highly-rated spots on Booking.com!
Airbnb
Airbnb is our go-to resource for accommodations. There are several Airbnb rentals in Kalispell to fit a range of budgets and styles – many of which are within walking distance to downtown.
Read our Tips for Airbnb Guests that will help you find your perfect place to stay!
What To Pack for your Kalispell Trip
Now that you know what to do in Kalispell, Montana, we have some final packing hacks for your suitcase or backpack.
Durable Shoes
Spending time outdoors is one of the top Kalispell, Montana things to do – so you will want to pack appropriate footwear. Use our tips to help find the best travel shoes for you.
On our autumn trip, I wore New Balance trainers that worked great for both cities and nature trails. Kris brought his Merrell trail shoes – and could wear them everywhere!
Quality Camera
Montana is stunningly beautiful! You will want to capture that beauty with a real travel camera. We shoot with a Canon Rebel with an everyday 18-135mm lens – although a 55-200mm lens would have been better for wildlife photography.
Start planning your trip to the USA! Search for the lowest airfares, the best accommodations and fun things to do…then start packing! Want more advice? Head over to our Travel Planning Page for tips on traveling – and for country-specific information, take a look at our Travel Guides Page!
Pin it! See all of our travel pins on our JetSetting Fools Pinterest Board.
