The Best of Billings: Spring Edition
Nestled in the picturesque landscape of Montana, Billings begins to come alive as spring approaches, offering an abundance of exciting activities and attractions for locals and visitors alike.
From fun outdoor activities to vibrant community events, this city has something for everyone.
Whether you're an outdoor enthusiast, a history buff or someone that simply loves to soak in the season by doing the absolute most, this guide will ensure that you make the most of your spring adventures in Billings, MT and create lasting memories with unforgettable experiences.
From getting outside in the sunshine when it finally stops snowing to attending local events, this spring is sure to be one to remember. 🌸
In this Best of Billings Guide, you’ll find all of the can’t miss moments to fill your season with fun.
Let’s dive in!
The Best Annual Spring Events in Billings, MT
Come enjoy the excitement of the Kentucky Derby on the beautiful Moss Mansion grounds while you watch the races on the big screen. The day will be filled with mint juleps, lovely appetizers, and a little bit of luck for those who want to place a bet or two. It’ll be the closest thing to the Churchill Downs experience Billings has to offer!
This is a free, family friendly self-guided event that takes place on the second Saturday each month from May through October and then again in December. It's an easy stroll through beautiful Red Lodge, MT, where you can see fabulous artwork!
MSU Billings Foundation's Wine & Food Festival has become the signature event in Montana and the region for wine and culinary enthusiasts. Enjoy a week of wine seminars, gourmet dining and cooking schools with local, state, and nationally-renowned chefs and wine masters!
The annual SpringFest at Moss Mansion begins with a delicious pancake breakfast at 8:30am, followed by a day full of shopping works of art and fine crafts presented by local artists The festival features a wide variety of handmade art in mediums such as jewelry, photography, clothing/textiles, leather, wood, pottery/clay, paintings and prints, and more.
Enjoy putting around 9 or 18 holes on two different courses of downtown fun. This is a fun event for families with kiddos and adult friend groups alike featuring various giveaways and prize opportunities offered throughout the event.
Montana's Largest and Longest running Renaissance Festival happens every June and features nonstop entertainment, craft vendors, food and drink vendors, an incredible jousting and equestrian arena, day long period crafts demonstrators, and more!
The Red Lodge Songwriter Festival brings hit Nashville Songwriters and the best songwriters from Montana to perform and network with each other in the mountain community of Red Lodge.
For three days the streets, bars, cafes and parks of Red Lodge become a gathering place for songwriters from across the country!
The Best Spring Outdoor Adventure in Billings, MT
Four Dances – if you want a quick hike that delivers incredible views, Four Dances is your spot. The 1.7 mile loop is open year-round, so even if you’re visiting when it’s a bit cooler, you can take advantage of this trail. The 30ish minute hike will give you a view like this!
Zimmerman Park – this is your go-to spot for exploring some of the best views in Billings. Here you’ll find easy access to the Rimrocks with hiking and biking trails, picnic spots and even safe paths to bring your pup!
Norm Schoenthal Island - a prominent part of Riverfront Park, Norm’s Island has over two miles of trails and is a popular walking spot to easily enjoy the outdoors.
Lake Elmo State Park - this public recreation area is a popular spot for those looking to swim, boat, paddleboard or picnic (depending on the season of course). In the fall, it’s a great spot for a dreamy day date, is welcoming for the whole family or is perfect for the solo adventurer.
Phipps Park - a popular downtown park destination offering all of your traditional outdoor activities along with its unique disc golf experience for all to enjoy and your pup is welcome here too!
The Best Family Friendly Spring Activities in Billings, MT
See a show at the Alberta or the Nova 🎥
All year round, the Alberta Bair Theatre and The NOVA Center for the Performing Arts features classic musicals and plays that the whole family is sure to enjoy.
Spend the day at Moss Mansion 🏛
Moss Mansion is a classic Billings museum featuring tons of family-friendly events all throughout the year, but the winter season makes it a perfect time to visit!
Click here to view their event schedule or choose a day to simply stroll the grounds for a fun outing.
Attend a workshop at Frae Everyday Goods or AR Workshop 🎨
All throughout the year, Frae Everyday and AR Workshop offer fun and creative workshops, like candle making, blanket making, canvas painting and more. These make for a great girls night out activity!
Drink wine at Yellowstone Cellars and Winery 🍷
Just because it’s cold doesn’t mean you can’t sight see! This beautiful winery has gorgeous views and offers the perfect backdrop while you sip on delicious Montana wines.
Visit one of Billings best breweries 🍺
Not a wine fan? That’s okay – Billings has you covered with some of the best brews in the state! Some notable favorites include Meadowlark, Thirsty Street, Canyon Creek, and Montana Brewing.
The Best Places for Outdoor Dining in Billings
I don’t know about you, but when the sun is shining I just want to be outside and sometimes the best way to make that happen is to take my meals outdoors!
There’s a few spots in Billings that stand out as great options for outdoor dining, including:
Bin 119 – a chic spot with seasonal tapas, dinner and brunch fare, plus a large wine list and lovely patio to enjoy on those warm Billings days. Fun news here! One of our favorite restaurant owners, Nick Steen, just bought Bin 119. Keep an eye out for an incredible new menu coming soon. I may or may not have had a sneak peek! 😉
Montana Brewing Company – this place has been around since 1994, so you could say it’s a true downtown classic! Known as Montana's first brew pub, you’ll get to enjoy the atmosphere of a brewery, full bar and entire restaurant under one roof when you visit.
Thirsty Street Brewing – a downtown favorite, this family-friendly microbrewery offers hand-crafted beer on tap, wine, cider, seltzer and non-alcoholic drink option paired with live music and events!
Diamond X Beer Co. – a casual and welcoming family friendly brewpub perfect for an after work drink with your co-workers, Diamond X offers a true taste of Montana with local beer and wine paired with classic bites that are sure to satisfy.
Canyon Creek Brewing – Billings first built from the ground up brewery and tap room, Canyon Creek offers craft beers centered in an environment that’s perfect for a night out with friends.
Meadowlark Brewing – another Billings brewhouse featuring craft beers, fun events and yummy food in a family friendly environment.
As you can see, Billings is truly THE place to be in the spring and my hope is that this Best of Billings Spring Guide helps you thoughtfully plan your days to enjoy with family and friends this season.
If you’re looking for more specific guides for the area, I invite you to explore our Weekend Guides to Billings on the blog to find itineraries for your specific scenario – we’ve got you covered from outdoor adventures, to wellness weekends and even a couples getaway.
Here’s to a fun filled spring!