Billings
Why? Many people travel to Billings, Montana,
en route to the magnificent Yellowstone National Park. The city has
been able to capitalise on its proximity to this, and other
national parks, by building up a healthy tourism-oriented profile,
ensuring that a holiday in Billings is entertaining and enjoyable.
Billings also has a packed events calendar of music festivals,
rodeos and various outdoor activities.
When? Travel to Billings at any time of year
because the city enjoys a warm, dry climate, except for mid-winter
when it can be very cold with snowfalls. The best time to holiday
in Billings, though, is during the summer (July and August) when
most of the outdoor community events are held.
Who for? Nature lovers and those who enjoy outdoor
recreation are particularly drawn to a holiday in Billings, which
is surrounded by breathtaking mountains. History buffs will also
enjoy a Billings holiday exploring the museums and landmarks
associated with legends of the Old West. Children are well catered
for with the zoo and the interactive Western Heritage Center.
More Info: To start planning a holiday in Billings
take a look at our Billings travel guide, updated daily, which
contains comprehensive and detailed information about the city's
attractions and excursions, including Yellowstone National
Park.
Overview
The leisurely city of Billings, with its central location and
international airport, is the gateway to Montana and the perfect
base from which to explore the many attractions of this vast,
northerly US State.
The small city, founded in 1882, is situated on the Yellowstone
River at the base of the Rimrocks, a set of distinctive rock
formations, and was named for a former president of the Northern
Pacific Railway, Frederick Billings, who piloted the railway line
across Montana. Today Billings remains an economic and transport
hub for the state, and also serves as its welcome mat for tourism.
The city bristles with hotels, motels and B&Bs, its modern
complexes like MetraPark and the Expo Center offering facilities
for rodeos, concerts, the Montana Fair and a variety of other
events. Its broad, tree-lined avenues also boast a variety of
attractions: museums and galleries such as the unique Yellowstone
Art Museum, the renowned Alberta Bair Theater, the interactive
Western Heritage Center, and preserved historic buildings like the
Moss Mansion. Within a day's drive of the city are three stunning
national parks, Yellowstone, Glacier and Grand Teton.
