Outdoor adventure is part of everyday life in Western Montana—but it’s not the whole picture. When winter weather rolls in or the pace slows, Glacier Country offers a rich mix of indoor experiences worth seeking out. From arts and culture to cozy stops and small-town finds, this A-to-Z guide shows how much there is to enjoy beyond the trail.
A – Allentown Restaurant in Charlo lets you settle in for a meal with beautiful views of the Mission Mountains at this local favorite.
B – Breweries. With more than 30 breweries across the region, Western Montana’s craft beer scene ranges from small-batch favorites to award-winning staples.
C – The Clubhouse Birdies ‘n Brews golf bar in Kalispell beckons golf enthusiasts with its 4 Trackman Golf Simulators, cold drinks and mouthwatering burgers.
D – Dick Idol Gallery in Whitefish features paintings, sculptures, and other curiosities, including antler furniture and decorative skull mounts.
E – Eureka. Take a winter road trip to this welcoming town. Grab a bite at Front Porch Dewey Burger + Fish Co., shop around town and sip a fizzy beverage from The Dirty Soda Saloon at Montana Farmacy.
F – Film Festivals. Flathead Lake International Cinemafest in Polson brings together filmmakers from far and wide for movie screenings. In Missoula, catch the Big Sky Documentary Film Festival, one of the region’s signature film events.
G – Glacier Art Museum in Kalispell features rotating exhibits showcasing regional, national and international artists in a welcoming downtown space.
H – Hank’s Hatchets Axe Throwing in Whitefish is exactly what it sounds like. Grab a hatchet and aim it at a wooden target on the wall; you’ll be surprised how much fun you have.
I – Inns. Stay at one of Western Montana’s many welcoming inns, like Bitterroot River Inn in Hamilton, Venture Inn in Libby or Running Horse Inn in Huson.
J – Jewel Basin Yurt near Bigfork makes a warm winter basecamp for backcountry skiing and snow-filled days in the Swan Range.
K – Kehoe’s Agate Shop in Bigfork is a must-stop for rockhounds and the rock-curious alike, with locally sourced agates and Montana-made gifts.
L – Lolo Creek Distillery is known for crafting creative cocktails. When it’s time to eat, head next door to Lolo Creek Steakhouse for a classic Montana steak.
M – Montana Valley Bookstore in Alberton is a much-loved small-town bookstore packed with used books—including out-of-print and hard-to-find titles—and plenty of local character.
N – Northwest Montana History Museum. Formerly home to the historic Kalispell Central School, the museum carries on its educational tradition by preserving and presenting stories from the Flathead Valley’s history.
O – Ovando. Stop for lunch, dinner or a drink at Trixi’s Antler Saloon, a longtime local gathering place that’s become a classic stop along Highway 200.
P – Pin & Cue in Whitefish is a go-to spot for bowling, casual food and drinks, making it an easy choice for a laid-back afternoon or evening.
Q – Quinn’s Hot Springs Resort. While the soaking pools are outdoors, they’re warm year-round and worth the step outside. Located in Paradise, Quinn’s also offers a restaurant and tavern open to the public.
R – Red Rooster Vintage in Eureka is the perfect place to explore. Find antique and farmhouse decor, furniture and more.
S – Sunflower Gallery is the cheerful blue and yellow home on Main Street in Thompson Falls. Stop in for arts and crafts from local Montanans.
T – The Hat Edit in Stevensville is the perfect way to spend an afternoon. Choose a hat style, pick accessories like ribbon, jewelry and beads, then let a hat bar designer create your new favorite piece.
U – Uptown Hearth in Columbia Falls is a friendly bakery and coffee shop serving small-batch artisan breads, baked goods and specialty coffee—an inviting stop for a warm drink.
V – Valley Drug & Variety in Stevensville invites you to indulge in a classic treat at their old-fashioned soda fountain.
W – Whitefish Theatre Company keeps live theater thriving in the Flathead Valley, offering a rotating lineup of stage productions that make for an easy and entertaining winter night out.
X – Xplorer Maps specializes in beautifully designed map art and gifts. Pop in to their Missoula headquarters and shop the collection; don’t miss their events schedule.
Y – Yaak Montana is home to the infamous Dirty Shame Saloon, the Yaak Tavern Restaurant and Bar, and the Yaak River Mercantile.
Z – Zootown Arts Community Center in Missoula is an art gallery, hosts shows and events, and offers art programs for adults and children. There’s always something going on at the ZACC.
Please note: We ask that all our visitors and residents recreate responsibly by being mindful of the following: know before you go; plan ahead; play it safe; leave no trace; tread lightly; and help build an inclusive outdoors.
December 29, 2025
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