With its many natural wonders, Montana is a dream destination for travelers of any age. When you’re visiting with children, in particular, there are several things to see and do that will keep the whole family entertained.
Plus, many of Montana’s child-friendly destinations are also incredibly educational, from the captivating science centers to the state’s national parks.
Below, we’ve curated a list of the top things to do in Montana with kids. They’re located right across the state and suit every kind of traveler, whether you prefer to get active outdoors or stay in and learn about the fascinating history of the state.
1. Children’s Museum of Montana, Great Falls
If you’re looking for something to do with kids in Montana, the Children’s Museum of Montana is a no-brainer. The museum maintains a special focus on inspiring learning and promoting the creative education of children, so a visit is sure to be enriching as well as entertaining.
The largest and oldest children’s museum in the state, the museum boasts several colorful and interactive exhibits that give guests under 12 the chance to learn about the world.
They’re open 9:30 a.m. through 5 p.m., Monday through Saturday, and admission is $10, while children under 23 months can enter for free.
2. Yellowstone National Park
Yellowstone National Park needs no introduction. One of the world’s most famous national parks, this sprawling wilderness recreation area that spans three states is an exciting place for guests of any age.
Within the park, children will see geothermal landmarks like the spurting Old Faithful, Mammoth Hot Springs, and Grand Prismatic Spring. They will also have plenty of opportunities for outdoor fun in the form of hiking, camping, and wildlife viewing.
For a full list of the operating hours and seasons, which may vary due to weather, please see the official park website. There is also a range of passes available, from seven-day passes to annual tickets.
3. A Carousel for Missoula, Missoula
A Carousel for Missoula will transport families back to an earlier and simpler time. The charming hand-carved carousel lies on the banks of the Clark Fork River in Caras Park in Downtown Missoula and was specifically built to bring about a sense of old-fashioned fun for the kids of today.
Throughout the year, the Carousel runs several exciting events and specials, including a Kid’s Day where children ride free on the Saturday of Memorial Day Weekend, and a Fairytale and Superhero Festival in July. There are also free rides offered on Halloween and Thanksgiving.
There is a gift shop located in the Carousel building where you can buy carousel-themed souvenirs, including hand-crafted ponies and other goodies made by local artisans.
The Carousel is currently open seven days a week, staff permitting, from 11 a.m. through 5:30 p.m. Children under 11 can ride the Carousel for $1 while guests aged 12 and older can ride for $2.
4. Grizzly and Wolf Discovery Center, West Yellowstone
Much of Montana’s legacy is rooted in the wildlife roaming the plains and mountains. While it’s not safe for kids to get up close and personal with wild animals, they can learn about two of the state’s signature animals—wolves and bears—at the Grizzly and Wolf Discovery Center in West Yellowstone.
Guests will be given a chance to see live bears and wolves while also learning about these magnificent animals and the efforts to conserve them in the wild. The center features both indoor and outdoor exhibits and is also home to a few river otters.
The Grizzly and Wolf Discovery Center is open year-round, as the grizzly bears at the center don’t hibernate. They are open seven days, from 9 a.m. through 5 p.m., though this may change throughout the seasons, and are located just a block from Yellowstone National Park’s West Entrance.
General admission is $15 for adults 13 years and older.
5. Montana Science Center, Bozeman
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