Must-Stop Family Road-Trip Attractions

From scenic byways to winding backroads, Western Montana is made for road trips. Whether you’re traveling between the Bitterroot Valley and Glacier National Park or exploring one of the region’s nine travel corridors, there are plenty of places worth pulling over for. Families can discover everything from ghost towns and alpine coasters to towering tree giants and quirky photo ops. Here are some of our favorite must-stop attractions to add to your Montana adventure.

50,000 SILVER DOLLAR

Just off Interstate Highway 90 near Haugan, the 50,000 Silver Dollar is an iconic roadside stop showcasing over 50,000 silver dollars embedded in its walls and bar top—a tradition that started in 1952. The expansive gift shop offers a variety of Montana souvenirs and coin-collector items, and the on-site restaurant is an easy place to stop for a meal on the road.

A CAROUSEL FOR MISSOULA + DRAGON HOLLOW

A kids’ favorite road trip stop in downtown Missoula, A Carousel for Missoula features 38 horses, two chariots and whimsical details like gargoyles and unicorns; each hand-carved and painted. Right next door, Dragon Hollow Playground is an all-abilities play area with space to climb, slide and explore, plus shaded spots for parents to take a break.

A Carousel for Missoula brings smiles to children and parents alike. Photo: Destination Missoula

AMAZING FUN CENTER

In Coram, let the kiddos get their wiggles out at the outdoor Amazing Fun Center, featuring a two-level, life-size wooden maze, a unique 18-hole mini golf course, a bumper-boat pond, bankshot basketball, a life-size 3-D puzzle and more. It’s a great mid-trip stop for families needing to stretch, play and recharge.

BIG SKY WATERPARK

Located in Columbia Falls, Big Sky Waterpark is Montana’s largest waterpark and a fun stop for families looking to cool off. With 10 water slides, a whirlpool, activity pool, mini golf, bumper cars and more, it’s an easy way to spend a summer afternoon.

BLACKFEET NATION WARRIOR SCULPTURES

Found at four entrance points to the Blackfeet Reservation, these striking warrior sculptures are a meaningful roadside sight. Created by Blackfeet artist Jay Laber, each piece is made from repurposed materials—like rusted car parts from the 1964 flood and barbed wire and stones from an old mission school—offering travelers a powerful reflection of Blackfeet resilience and creativity.

View all four Blackfeet Warrior sculptures at entrance points to Blackfeet Indian Reservation.

CSKT BISON RANGE

The CSKT Bison Range near Moiese checks all the boxes for a classic road trip stop—wildlife, wide-open views and a drive you won’t forget. Set on 18,500 acres, the range is home to more than 350 bison, along with elk, antelope, bighorn sheep, deer and more. Drive-through routes and an on-site visitor center let families explore at their own pace, with Mission Mountain views around every turn.

CUT BANK PENGUIN

You can’t miss the 27-foot-tall penguin in Cut Bank—a classic roadside photo stop and local landmark. This towering statue playfully marks Cut Bank’s claim to fame as “the coldest spot in the nation,” making it a fun and unexpected stop along your route.

FLATHEAD LAKE ALPINE COASTER

Located in Lakeside, the Flathead Lake Alpine Coaster is a fun stop for families road tripping around Flathead Lake. Kids ages 3 and up can ride with an adult on this self-controlled alpine coaster that winds through forested hillsides. Afterward, head to the gem mining station to sift through dirt and uncover crystals, gemstones and fossils.

GARNET GHOST TOWN

Tucked in the mountains east of Missoula, Garnet Ghost Town is one of Montana’s best-preserved ghost towns and a unique stop for families exploring the region. Once home to nearly 1,000 gold miners in the late 1800s, today it offers a glimpse into the past with more than 30 preserved buildings, including log cabins, a saloon and a hotel. Self-guided trails and interpretive signs make it easy for kids and adults alike to imagine life during Montana’s gold rush days.

GUS THE LARCH

In Seeley Lake, Gus the Larch holds the title of tallest tree in Montana—and the tallest larch in the world—standing at 163 feet. Estimated to be over 1,000 years old, Gus can be seen along a short, 1-mile trail that loops through the grove.

KOOTENAI FALLS

Located between Libby and Troy, Kootenai Falls is one of the largest undammed waterfalls in the Northwest and a popular stop for families traveling through the region. A short trail leads to the Kootenai Falls Swinging Bridge, offering views of the Kootenai River gorge and surrounding forest. It’s a quick stop with big payoff and space to stretch your legs. Roadside, you’ll find restrooms, picnic tables and concessions available May through September.

MIRACLE OF AMERICA MUSEUM

In Polson, the Miracle of America Museum is a one-of-a-kind stop for families. With more than 340,000 artifacts across 40 structures on 4.5 acres, exhibits range from horse-drawn carriages and retired military vehicles to vintage toys, a motorcycle collection, aircraft and even a UFO display.

MISSOULA BUTTERFLY HOUSE AND ROCKY MOUNTAIN GARDENS

Located at the Missoula County Fairgrounds, the Missoula Butterfly House and Insectarium is a family-friendly stop where kids can interact with butterflies and insects while learning about their habitats. Right next door, the Rocky Mountain Gardens offer a peaceful walk through 20 distinct growing areas. Free and open to the public, it’s a relaxing stop—and a great photo op—for families looking to explore.

ROUTE OF THE HIAWATHA

For families road tripping along I-90, the Route of the Hiawatha makes for an unforgettable detour. This 15-mile downhill bike trail winds through alpine forests, crossing seven high trestles and passing through 10 tunnels—including one that stretches 1.66 miles. With bike rentals and shuttle service available from Lookout Pass, it’s an easy adventure to add to your summer travel plans.

SELI’Š KSANKA QLISPE’ DAM

A short drive from Polson, the Séliš Ksanka Qľispe’ Dam offers spectacular views from a platform that stands 54 feet higher than Niagara Falls. Open year-round from dawn to dusk, this scenic stop overlooks both Flathead Lake and the Mission Mountains. Please note: You’ll need a CSKT Tribal recreation permit for this adventure.

STONEY THE BULL

A classic roadside photo op, Stoney the Bull stands tall at Clearwater Junction at State Highways 200 and 83. At 15 feet high and 18 feet long, he’s hard to miss—and easily the most photographed bull in Montana.

THOMPSON FALLS ISLAND PARK

In Thompson Falls, Island Park is a great spot to stretch your legs, enjoy a picnic, and take in views of the Clark Fork River. Just off Highway 200, the Gallatin Street Bridge connects to this small island park, where a short walk leads to the Thompson Falls Dam. Kids will love the fish ladder, which offers a unique look at native fish migration. Additional trails connect to the nearby historic High Bridge.

TRAVELERS’ REST STATE PARK

Located just outside Lolo, Travelers’ Rest State Park is a great stop for families interested in history and nature. It’s the only archaeologically verified campsite of the Lewis and Clark Expedition and was designated a National Historic Landmark in 1960. Interpretive trails, exhibits and ranger-led programs help bring the story to life for visitors of all ages.

WESTERN OUTDOOR + NORM’S SODA FOUNTAIN

In downtown Kalispell, Western Outdoor is a fun stop for families looking to experience a bit of Montana’s cowboy culture. With 3,000+ pairs of cowboy boots and 1,000+ cowboy hats to choose from, it’s a great place to browse or pick up a western souvenir. Afterward, head next door to the old-fashioned Norm’s Soda Fountain for a classic ice cream treat—a sweet way to break up the drive.

Get a taste of the West at Western Outdoor Store and Norm’s Soda Fountain. Photo: HoneyTrek

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.

May 19, 2025