Uncorking Montana: A Journey Through the State’s Unique Wines and Wineries

Positive Things in Montana

Here’s a 3-day itinerary for exploring Montana’s wine country, featuring winery visits, local dining, and outdoor activities to make the most of your trip.

Day 1: Flathead Lake and Polson

Morning:

• Arrival in Polson, MT

  • Check into your accommodation. Consider staying at The KwaTaqNuk Resort, which offers stunning views of Flathead Lake.
    • Website: KwaTaqNuk Resort

• **Breakfast at The Breakfast Nook

  • Start your day with a hearty breakfast at this local favorite, known for its homestyle cooking and friendly service.
    • Website: The Breakfast Nook

Late Morning:

• Visit Flathead Lake Winery
  • Head to Flathead Lake Winery to sample their unique fruit wines, including cherry and huckleberry. Enjoy a tasting in their scenic outdoor area.
    • Address: 1379 Loon Lake Rd, Polson, MT 59860
    • Website: Flathead Lake Winery

Afternoon:

• **Lunch at The Raven

  • Enjoy lunch at The Raven, a local spot offering fresh, locally sourced dishes with beautiful views of the lake.
    • Website: The Raven

• Visit Mission Mountain Winery

  • After lunch, visit Mission Mountain Winery for a tasting of their award-winning wines, including their popular Riesling and Merlot.
    • Address: 38894 Mission View Rd, Polson, MT 59860
    • Website: Mission Mountain Winery

Evening:

• **Dinner at Paddlefish Pizza

  • Conclude your day with a casual dinner at Paddlefish Pizza, known for its delicious pizza and friendly atmosphere.
    • Website: Paddlefish Pizza

• Overnight in Polson

Day 2: Kalispell and Whitefish

Morning:

• **Breakfast at The Yellow Bay Café

  • Start your day with breakfast at this charming café, known for its hearty portions and welcoming atmosphere.
    • Website: Yellow Bay Café

• Drive to Kalispell

  • Head to Kalispell, a short drive from Polson, and visit Montana Vintners for a tasting of their handcrafted wines.
    • Address: 2265 US-93, Kalispell, MT 59901
    • Website: Montana Vintners

Afternoon:

• **Lunch at The Desoto Grill

  • Enjoy a relaxed lunch at The Desoto Grill, which features a menu of BBQ and American comfort food.
    • Website: The Desoto Grill

• Visit Glacier Sun Winery

  • After lunch, head to Glacier Sun Winery to sample their diverse selection of wines and enjoy the beautiful surroundings.
    • Address: 1210 W 3rd St, Whitefish, MT 59937
    • Website: Glacier Sun Winery

Evening:

• **Dinner at Whitefish Lake Restaurant

  • Conclude your day with a scenic dinner at Whitefish Lake Restaurant, known for its stunning views and excellent seafood.
    • Website: Whitefish Lake Restaurant

• Overnight in Whitefish

Day 3: Scenic Adventures and Billings

Morning:

• **Breakfast at Sweet Peaks Ice Cream

  • Start your day with a unique breakfast at Sweet Peaks Ice Cream, where you can enjoy ice cream along with coffee and pastries.
    • Website: Sweet Peaks Ice Cream

• Drive to Billings

  • Head to Billings for a day of exploration and wine tasting at Bighorn Winery.
    • Address: 1201 24th St W, Billings, MT 59102
    • Website: Bighorn Winery

Afternoon:

• **Lunch at The Fieldhouse

  • Enjoy lunch at The Fieldhouse, offering a menu of locally sourced dishes and craft beers.
    • Website: The Fieldhouse

• Visit Local Attractions

  • Spend the afternoon exploring Billings. Visit the Yellowstone Art Museum or take a stroll along the Riverfront Park.
    • Website: Yellowstone Art Museum

Evening:

• **Dinner at Montana Brewing Company

  • Wrap up your trip with a delicious dinner at Montana Brewing Company, known for its great food and locally brewed beers.
    • Website: Montana Brewing Company

• Return Home

Montana Wines and Wineries

This itinerary offers a comprehensive experience of Montana’s wine country, combining winery visits with local dining and attractions. Enjoy your exploration of the diverse wines and beautiful landscapes that Montana has to offer!

Here’s a list of fun activities and attractions to enjoy while you’re in Montana, especially if you’re exploring the wine country and nearby areas:

1. Outdoor Adventures

• Visit Glacier National Park

  • Known for its stunning scenery, Glacier National Park offers hiking, wildlife viewing, and breathtaking views of mountains and glaciers. Popular trails include the Highline Trail and Avalanche Lake.
  • Website: Glacier National Park

• Explore Flathead Lake

  • Enjoy boating, fishing, or swimming in Flathead Lake, one of the largest natural freshwater lakes in the U.S. There are also great spots for picnicking and relaxing by the shore.
  • Website: Flathead Lake

2. Cultural Experiences

• Visit the Museum of the Rockies

  • Located in Bozeman, this museum features extensive exhibits on the region’s dinosaur fossils and Native American history. Don’t miss the planetarium shows!
  • Website: Museum of the Rockies

• Explore the Yellowstone Art Museum

  • Located in Billings, this museum showcases contemporary art and regional artists, with rotating exhibitions and community events.
  • Website: Yellowstone Art Museum

3. Unique Attractions

• Experience Lewis and Clark Caverns State Park

  • Explore stunning limestone caves and take guided tours through impressive underground formations. The park also offers hiking trails and beautiful views.
  • Website: Lewis and Clark Caverns

• Tour the Historic Virginia City

  • Step back in time in this well-preserved ghost town that offers a glimpse into Montana’s gold rush history. Explore old buildings, shops, and museums.
  • Website: Virginia City

4. Local Food and Drink

• Dine at Local Breweries

  • Montana has a thriving craft beer scene. Check out places like Bighorn Brewery in Billings or KettleHouse Brewing Co. in Missoula for local brews and tasty food.
  • Website: Bighorn Brewery

• Visit Local Farmers’ Markets

  • Many towns in Montana have farmers’ markets where you can sample local produce, artisanal foods, and handmade crafts. This is a great way to experience local culture and flavors.

5. Relaxation and Leisure

• Enjoy a Day Spa

  • Treat yourself to some relaxation at a local spa. Many resorts and wellness centers in the area offer massages, facials, and other treatments.

• Take a Scenic Drive

  • Enjoy the stunning landscapes of Montana with a scenic drive through places like the Beartooth Highway or along the Blackfoot River.

6. Attend Local Festivals and Events

• Montana State Fair

  • If you’re visiting in summer, check out the Montana State Fair in Great Falls for rides, food, and live entertainment.
  • Website: Montana State Fair

• Huckleberry Festival

  • Held annually in various locations, this festival celebrates the beloved huckleberry with food, crafts, and family-friendly activities.
  • Website: Check local tourism sites for dates and locations.

7. Family-Friendly Activities

• Visit the Great Falls Cascade County Public Library

  • Enjoy storytime or check out local events at this beautiful library. It often hosts family-friendly programs and activities.
  • Website: Great Falls Library

• Explore the Children’s Museum of Montana

  • Located in Great Falls, this interactive museum is perfect for families, offering hands-on exhibits and activities for children.
  • Website: Children’s Museum of Montana

Montana Wines and Wineries

With a mix of outdoor adventures, cultural experiences, local food, and family-friendly activities, Montana offers a rich variety of experiences to enjoy during your visit. Have fun exploring all that this beautiful state has to offer!