When summer in Glacier Country brings warmer days, there’s nothing better than being outside and enjoying the sunshine. That’s why we’ve compiled a list of the best patios in Western Montana, making it easy for you to grab a bite, quench your thirst and relax under our big blue sky. From upscale dining on a rooftop to classic American fare lakeside, these decks and patios are some of our favorite places.

MISSOULA

Missoula’s food scene is not to be missed, and many restaurants offer patios with spectacular views. For one of the most picture-perfect city views, enjoy fine dining at The Keep atop the South Hills . Or head to the heart of downtown for Plonk Missoula. Known for their creative cocktails and exceptional wine list, the rooftop patio is where you’ll find locals and in-the-know visitors. Other restaurants with exceptional patios and mouth-watering food include:

The rooftop patio at Plonk Missoula gives off The Secret Garden vibes. Photo: Plonk Missoula

Finn

Florabella

Highlander

Imagination Brewing Co.

Kettlehouse Brewery, Bonner

Paradise Falls

The Trough

BITTERROOT VALLEY

If you’re lucky, you might spot a bighorn sheep or moose while you’re dining at Skalkaho Steak House in Hamilton. Wildlife makes its presence known here inside and out. This little gem has won awards for best steak, best atmosphere and best views in the Bitterroot. Another thing that makes it such a unique spot is the hundreds of hummingbirds that visit the outside patio during the summer months. Or, if local taphouses and distilleries are more your style, try these nearby options:

Enjoy a cocktail on the patio at Lolo Creek Distillery.

Backyard Tap House, Florence

Fin’s Tap House, Corvallis

Lolo Peak Brewery and Grill, Lolo  

Lolo Creek Distillery, Lolo

FLATHEAD CORRIDOR

In Woods Bay, The Raven Bar & Grill serves delicious pub grub with an international flair in a Caribbean-style and festive atmosphere. Their waterfront deck has unmatched views of the largest freshwater lake west of the Mississippi—Flathead Lake. The cocktail menu and beer selection are largely sourced from local distilleries and breweries and are best enjoyed lakeside. Many restaurants dot the shore along Flathead Lake, or offer stunning views of the surrounding Mission Mountains, including:

The Raven Bar & Grill is the place to be in Woods Bay. Photo: Andy Austin

Allentown Restaurant, Charlo

Cantina Grill & Supper Club, Ronan Golf Course

Fiesta En Jalisco, Polson

Flathead Lake Brewing Company, Bigfork

Harbor Grill, Lakeside

The Chuck Wagon Bar & Grill, Dayton

The Shoe, Polson

The Sitting Duck, Bigfork

WHITEFISH + BONUS

Find a tiki bar and grill at The Lodge at Whitefish Lake. The deck is waterfront with incredible views of Whitefish Lake, a laid-back atmosphere and food fresh off the grill. For a fine-dining experience at The Lodge at Whitefish Lake, opt for a meal on the Boat Club deck, the only lakeside restaurant on Whitefish Lake.

Enjoy mouth-watering food on the deck at The Lodge at Whitefish Lake. Photo: Noah Couser

Other noteworthy places to wet your whistle on decks in Glacier Country include Big Eddy’s in Thompson Falls, Lindey’s Prime Steakhouse in Seely Lake, Logan’s Bar & Grill at Grouse Mountain Lodge in Columbia Falls, Home Ranch Bottoms in Polebridge, The Stray Bullet in Ovando and Trout Creek’s Lakeside Resort.

Please note: We ask that all our visitors and residents Recreate Responsibly by being mindful of the following: practice physical distancing; know before you go; plan ahead; play it safe; leave no trace; tread lightly; and help  build an inclusive outdoors.

July 24, 2023

Related: Bigfork, Bitterroot Valley, Charlo, Columbia Falls, Corvallis, Dayton, Dining, Florence, Food, Hamilton, Lakeside, Lolo, Missoula, Montana, Outdoor Fun, Ovando, Polebridge, Polson, Ronan, Seeley Lake, Thompson Falls, Trout Creek, Whitefish

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