3-Day Itinerary for Exploring Montana’s Craft Breweries

Montana Wines and Wineries

This itinerary will guide you through some of Montana’s best craft breweries, highlighting local attractions, dining options, and activities. From the vibrant city of Missoula to the charming towns of Bozeman and Helena, you’ll experience the rich flavors of Montana’s craft beer scene.

Day 1: Missoula Brewery Tour

Morning: Arrival and First Brewery Visit

• Arrival: Arrive in Missoula and check into your hotel. Consider staying at The Resort at Paws Up or Missoula Marriott Downtown for a comfortable stay.
• Brewery Visit: Start your brewery tour at Big Sky Brewing Company.
  • Location: 5417 Trumpeter Way, Missoula, MT 59808
  • Experience: Sample their flagship “Moose Drool” brown ale and “Big Sky IPA” in their spacious taproom.
  • Big Sky Brewing Company Website

Lunch: Local Dining

• Location: Enjoy lunch at The Black Cat Bake Shop, known for its fresh baked goods and delicious sandwiches.
  • Location: 802 SW Higgins Ave, Missoula, MT 59803
  • Black Cat Bake Shop Website

Afternoon: Brewery Visits

• Brewery Visit: Head to KettleHouse Brewing Co..

  • Location: 602 Myrtle St, Missoula, MT 59801
  • Experience: Taste their “Cold Smoke” Scotch Ale and enjoy the outdoor seating.
  • KettleHouse Brewing Co. Website

• Brewery Visit: Visit Draught Works Brewery.

  • Location: 915 Toole Ave, Missoula, MT 59802
  • Experience: Sample a variety of their craft beers in a casual setting.
  • Draught Works Brewery Website

Evening: Dinner and Entertainment

• Dinner: Dine at The Montana Club, known for its local flavors and hearty portions.

  • Location: 2500 Brooks St, Missoula, MT 59801
  • Montana Club Website

• Entertainment: Check out live music at The Wilma Theatre or enjoy a performance at Missoula Community Theatre.

  • The Wilma Theatre Website

Day 2: Bozeman and Surroundings

Morning: Travel and Brewery Visit

• Travel: Drive from Missoula to Bozeman (approximately 2 hours).
• Brewery Visit: Start your day at Bozeman Brewing Company.
  • Location: 504 N Broadway Ave, Bozeman, MT 59715
  • Experience: Sample their “Hazy Pale Ale” and “Bozeman Brown Ale.”
  • Bozeman Brewing Company Website

Lunch: Local Dining

• Location: Enjoy lunch at The Crystal Bar & Grill, known for its casual dining and local beers.
  • Location: 222 E Main St, Bozeman, MT 59715
  • The Crystal Bar & Grill Website

Afternoon: Brewery Visits

• Brewery Visit: Head to Montana Ale Works.

  • Location: 611 E Main St, Bozeman, MT 59715
  • Experience: Enjoy a wide selection of local beers in a lively atmosphere.
  • Montana Ale Works Website

• Brewery Visit: Visit New Zealand Brewery (if available) for unique flavors inspired by Kiwi ingredients.

  • Location: 1132 W Main St, Bozeman, MT 59715
  • Experience: Taste innovative beers that reflect the local terroir.
  • New Zealand Brewery Website

Evening: Dinner and Nightlife

• Dinner: Dine at Plonk Wine, offering a great selection of wines and locally sourced dishes.

  • Location: 321 E Main St, Bozeman, MT 59715
  • Plonk Wine Website

• Nightlife: Explore the Bozeman nightlife with bars and live music venues, such as The Filling Station.

  • The Filling Station Website

Day 3: Helena and Local Breweries

Morning: Travel and Brewery Visit

• Travel: Drive from Bozeman to Helena (approximately 1.5 hours).
• Brewery Visit: Start your day at Lewis & Clark Brewing Company.
  • Location: 1517 Dodge Ave, Helena, MT 59601
  • Experience: Sample their “River’s Edge Pale Ale” and enjoy the brewery tour.
  • Lewis & Clark Brewing Company Website

Lunch: Local Dining

• Location: Enjoy lunch at The Hawthorn Bottle Shop, a local favorite with a great selection of beers and casual bites.
  • Location: 345 N Last Chance Gulch, Helena, MT 59601
  • Hawthorn Bottle Shop Website

Afternoon: Brewery Visits

• Brewery Visit: Visit Blackfoot River Brewing Company.

  • Location: 46 N Last Chance Gulch, Helena, MT 59601
  • Experience: Taste their “Pineapple Cream Ale” and enjoy the relaxed atmosphere.
  • Blackfoot River Brewing Company Website

• Brewery Visit: Head to Ten Mile Creek Brewery for a final tasting.

  • Location: 1001 S. Park Ave, Helena, MT 59601
  • Experience: Sample their variety of local brews and enjoy the welcoming environment.
  • Ten Mile Creek Brewery Website

Evening: Return to Missoula

• Travel: Drive back to Missoula in the late afternoon.

Dinner: Final Farewell

• Dinner: Enjoy a farewell dinner at The Still Room, known for its unique dishes and craft beer selection.
  • Location: 312 N 1st St W, Missoula, MT 59802
  • The Still Room Website

Montana Weddings

This 3-day itinerary provides a comprehensive tour of Montana’s craft breweries while highlighting local flavors, attractions, and unique experiences. Enjoy your journey through the vibrant beer culture of Montana!

Montana is a state rich in natural beauty, outdoor adventures, and vibrant cultural experiences. Whether you’re an outdoor enthusiast, a sports fan, or someone looking to explore local culture, there’s plenty to do in the Treasure State. Here’s a guide to fun things to do and sports events while you’re visiting Montana:

Outdoor Activities

1. Explore Glacier National Park

• Description: Known as the “Crown of the Continent,” Glacier National Park offers stunning landscapes, hiking trails, and wildlife viewing. Popular activities include hiking the famous Going-to-the-Sun Road and enjoying breathtaking views at places like Logan Pass and Lake McDonald.
• Website: Glacier National Park

2. Visit Yellowstone National Park

• Description: The first national park in the U.S., Yellowstone is renowned for its geothermal features, such as Old Faithful and colorful hot springs. Outdoor activities include hiking, wildlife watching, and photography.
• Website: Yellowstone National Park

3. Hiking and Biking Trails

• Description: Montana has countless hiking and biking trails, suitable for all skill levels. Some popular options include:
  • Beartooth Highway: Offers stunning views and access to various hiking trails.
  • Hyalite Canyon: Known for its scenic beauty and multiple trail options.

4. Fishing and River Activities

• Description: Enjoy fishing, rafting, or kayaking in Montana’s pristine rivers and lakes. The Madison River and Missouri River are popular for fly fishing.

5. Wildlife Watching

• Description: Montana is home to diverse wildlife, including bison, elk, bears, and eagles. Visit places like Yellowstone National Park or Glacier National Park for the best opportunities to see wildlife in their natural habitats.

Cultural Attractions

6. Visit Local Museums

• Montana Historical Society: Located in Helena, this museum offers exhibits on Montana’s history, culture, and art.

  • Website: Montana Historical Society

• Museum of the Rockies: Located in Bozeman, this museum features impressive dinosaur exhibits and displays on Montana’s history and culture.

  • Website: Museum of the Rockies

7. Explore Historic Towns

• Virginia City: A well-preserved ghost town that offers a glimpse into Montana’s Gold Rush era. Enjoy tours, shops, and historical reenactments.
• Bozeman: Known for its vibrant downtown, local shops, and dining options.

Sports Events

8. Catch a Montana Grizzlies or Montana State Bobcats Game

• Activity: If you’re visiting during the fall or winter, catch a college football game featuring the University of Montana Grizzlies or the Montana State Bobcats. The rivalry games are especially exciting!
• University of Montana Grizzlies: UM Grizzlies Athletics
• Montana State Bobcats: MSU Bobcats Athletics

9. Enjoy Local Rodeos

• Description: Experience the thrill of rodeo events, which are a significant part of Montana culture. Check local listings for rodeo events in towns like Billings, Great Falls, or Bozeman during the summer months.

10. Attend a Local Festival or Fair

• Description: Montana hosts various festivals throughout the year, celebrating everything from local cuisine to music and art. Look for events like the Montana Folk Festival in Butte or the Big Sky Country State Fair in Billings.
• Website: Montana Festivals and Events

Dining and Local Experiences

11. Sample Local Cuisine

• Description: Enjoy Montana’s culinary scene by trying local specialties like bison burgers, huckleberry dishes, and craft beers at local breweries.
• Recommended Restaurants:
  • The Notorious P.I.G. (Missoula): Known for its smoked meats and BBQ.
  • The Raven (Big Sky): Offers a mix of American and local dishes with a great view.

12. Experience Local Breweries

• Description: Take a brewery tour or participate in tastings at local breweries to learn more about Montana’s craft beer scene.

Montana Beers & Breweries

Montana offers an abundance of activities for every type of traveler. From exploring its breathtaking national parks and engaging in outdoor adventures to experiencing local sports and cultural attractions, you’re sure to have a memorable trip in the Big Sky State. Embrace the unique spirit of Montana and enjoy all the experiences it has to offer.

Montana hosts several beer festivals that celebrate the state’s vibrant craft beer culture. Here are some notable ones to check out:

1. Montana Brewers Festival

• Location: Helena, MT
• Dates: Usually held in late June
• Description: This festival features a wide array of craft beers from local Montana breweries, along with food vendors, live music, and a festive atmosphere. It’s a great opportunity to sample beers and meet the brewers.
• Website: Montana Brewers Festival

2. Bozeman Craft Beer Week

• Location: Bozeman, MT
• Dates: Typically held in mid-August
• Description: This week-long celebration of craft beer includes various events at local breweries, bars, and restaurants, including tastings, special beer releases, and educational sessions.
• Website: Bozeman Craft Beer Week

3. Great American Beer Festival (GABF)

• Location: While this event takes place in Denver, Colorado, many Montana breweries participate and showcase their beers. It’s a significant event for beer lovers across the country.
• Dates: Usually held in late September
• Website: Great American Beer Festival

4. Kalispell Beer & Wine Festival

• Location: Kalispell, MT
• Dates: Typically held in May
• Description: This festival features craft beers from local breweries, wines, and food trucks, along with live music and entertainment. It’s a fun event for the whole community.
• Website: Kalispell Beer & Wine Festival

5. Flathead Lake Cherry Festival

• Location: Polson, MT
• Dates: Typically held in July
• Description: While focused on cherries, this festival often features local craft beers, live music, and various cherry-themed events.
• Website: Flathead Lake Cherry Festival

6. Huckleberry Days Festival

• Location: Seeley Lake, MT
• Dates: Usually held in mid-August
• Description: This festival celebrates the huckleberry harvest and features craft beer tastings, local vendors, food, and live entertainment.
• Website: Huckleberry Days Festival

7. Missoula Craft Beer Week

• Location: Missoula, MT
• Dates: Typically held in late April
• Description: A celebration of craft beer that includes special events, beer tastings, and brewery tours throughout the city.
• Website: Missoula Craft Beer Week

These festivals provide a fantastic opportunity to sample a variety of craft beers, meet local brewers, and enjoy the lively atmosphere that Montana’s beer culture has to offer. Be sure to check the festival websites for the latest information on dates, tickets, and activities!