If the first thing you think of when you think of Montana is Glacier National Park, it’s okay; you’re not alone. Big Sky Country is a lot of things, and Glacier is certainly one of them. But beyond that, Montana is full of incredible public lands, fly fishing, hiking, ski slopes, and all kinds of incredible wonders for the indoorsy and outdoorsy alike.
While Montana can be terrific for roughin’ it in nature, some folks prefer the comfort of a cozy bed. From mountainside cabins to luxury resorts, Montana’s got them all. You can cook your own meals or enjoy a fine dining restaurant; the sky truly is the limit.
Obviously, there are a lot of hotels in Montana. But don’t worry; we’ve nailed down some of the best hotels and even some fabulous rentals to cover your bases.
TL;DR
| Rank | Location | Top Hotel/Resort | Average Price Per Night | Specialty |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 1 | Bozeman | The LARK | $150 | City Center, Close to Universities |
| 2 | Big Sky | Montage Big Sky | $500 | Skiing, Mountain View |
| 3 | Great Falls | Historic Hotel Arvon | $200 | Historic Hotel, Bar, Walkable Location |
| 4 | West Glacier | Great Northern Resort | $180 | Train Car Cafe, Cabin-Style, Near Glacier National Park |
| 5 | Darby | Triple Creek Ranch | $1800 | All-Inclusive, Outdoor Activities |
Top Places to Stay in Montana
1. Kandahar Lodge at Whitefish Mountain Resort
Address: 3824 Big Mountain Rd, Whitefish, MT 59937
Picture this: Whitefish Mountain shrouded in snow, warm beverage in hand, relaxing after a much-needed massage. All of that and more is possible at the Kandahar Lodge at Whitefish Mountain Resort. This enchanting mountainside cabin lodge is an incredible getaway option for a stay in Montana without breaking the bank.
Among the room types at Kandahar is the Kitchen Loft, which has two lofted double beds above a sitting area with a full kitchen. The lodge has access to multiple ski slopes, a hot tub, a full-service spa, board games to borrow, and tons of incredible views.
Pros:
- Spacious rooms
- Hot tub and spa
- Ski out access
- Mountain and garden views
- Free wifi
Cons:
- Some rooms may be outdated
Things to Do Nearby:
See Related: Best Breweries in Montana
2. Flathead Lake Resort
Address: 14871 Montana Hwy 35, Bigfork, MT 59911
Although the picturesque cabins at Flathead Lake Resort will beguile you any time of year, the warmer months are when this place really soars. That’s because of the private beach access to Flathead Lake.
Still, this place is jumping all year. Activities like cross country skiing or water skiing, mountain biking, horseback riding, hiking, and kayaking or canoeing mean you’ll never be bored.
Each of the nautically themed cabins is colorful, private, and has modern touches for a comfortable visit. The resort offers free wifi, free parking, and an outdoor fireplace for guests to enjoy. Besides the cabins the resort also has motel rooms, RV hookups, and tent camping available as well.
Pros:
- Variety of accommodation options
- Lots of outdoor activities
- Private beach access to Flathead Lake
- Free wifi
- Free parking
Cons:
Things to Do Nearby:
- Wayfarers State Park
- Woods Bay Wine
- Whistling Andy Distillery
- Schafer’s Restaurant
3. Great Northern Resort
Address: 12127 US-2, West Glacier, MT 59936
Located in West Glacier, the Great Northern Resort is an adorable Alpine-style lodge. All rooms either have a terrace/patio or balcony to enjoy the mountain views, and some rooms even have kitchenettes.
There is free parking, a games room, and playground equipment on-site. Fishing and water sports facilities are also available on-site, though access to them comes at an additional charge.
A bonus to the Great Nothern Resort is their Great Northern Railway Cafe. The cafe is housed inside a refurbished train car, which will delight guests of any age — but especially kiddos in that “everything trains” phase.
Pros:
- On-site cafe
- Every room has outdoor space
- Games room
- Playground
- Free parking
Cons:
- Some rooms may be outdated
Things to Do Nearby:
4. Montana’s Duck Lake Lodge
Address: 3215 Duck Lake Rd, Babb, MT 59411
Another lodge accommodation near Glacier National Park, the Duck Lake Lodge, is ideal for anyone who wants a rustic vibe surrounded by nature. A terrific mix of modern and rural, the rooms at the lodge will comfortably suit a range of Montana visitors.
Duck Lake Lodge does, however, utilize a shared bathroom system. So regardless of what room you choose, you will be using shared toilet and shower facilities.
Still, visitors absolutely rave about the food served on-site, pets are allowed, there are board games to borrow, and fishing is available. So, on the whole, it’s still a heck of a deal. The harmony of wildlife outside doesn’t hurt either!
Pros:
- Restaurant (the food is amazing)
- Games
- Close to the national park
- Surrounded by nature
- Free parking
Cons:
- Shared bathroom/shower areas
Things to Do Nearby:
5. Floating House on Flathead Lake
Have you ever stayed on a houseboat? Check out the Floating House on Flathead Lake during your visit to Montana. As houseboats go, this one is pretty dope.
Docked near Somers, this houseboat sleeps 12 (though it only has one separate bedroom), has a full kitchen, and even a waterslide. There’s also a rooftop deck and a walkway that encompasses the whole boat for ultimate views of the water and mountains.
While there is only one bathroom on board the houseboat, there is a door to close off the toilet area from the rest of the bathroom. It’s also equipped with a BBQ, a 55″ LCD smart TV, and a wood-burning fireplace.
Pros:
- Can sleep up to 12
- Full kitchen
- Large living room area
- Rooftop veranda
- Walkaround-style porch
Cons:
- One bathroom
- Only one separate bedroom area
Things to Do Nearby:
6. Apgar House
Located inside Glacier National Park, the Apgar House is a handsome cabin that sleeps up to eight guests. in three bedrooms, making for a more private getaway for larger groups. The pet-friendly cabin has a full kitchen, washer and dryer, parking, and a fireplace for guests to enjoy.
Guests of the Apgar House are within walking distance of several nearby amenities too. You can easily get to many hiking trails, stores, dining, and myriad activities at the national park. Just off Lake McDonald, this cabin is especially perfect for anyone who loves fly fishing or just gazing at still water at twilight.
Pros:
- Located in Glacier National Park
- Sleeps up to eight
- Full kitchen and laundry facilities
- Walking distance to nearby attractions
- Pet-friendly
Cons:
- Hot water may force shorter showers for big groups
Things to Do Nearby:
7. Glacier Park Cabin
Another spectacular cabin located in Glacier National Park, the Glacier Park Cabin, sleeps up to six guests. Located on Lake McDonald, the cabin has two bedrooms as well as a loft for guests to sleep in total comfort.
The cabin is equipped with a full kitchen, a washer and dryer, a BBQ area, and plenty of board games to play long into the night. There is wifi, a fireplace, and parking as well. Note there is no cable access for the television, but it will play DVDs.
Relaxing on the deck overlooking the lake and mountains makes for excellent wildlife watching. You’re within walking distance of Apgar Village to pick up anything you might need for your stay.
Pros:
- Sleeps up to six
- Free parking for 2-3 vehicles
- Full kitchen and laundry facilities
- Located on the lake in the park
- Walking distance to shops and dining
Cons:
- Visitors have mentioned needing to bring extra toilet paper for larger groups
Things to Do Nearby:
8. Historic Hotel Arvon
Address: 118 1st Ave S, Great Falls, MT 59401
If you are visiting Montana to get to know a place, Historic Hotel Arvon is where you want to stay. Part of the Arvon Block in Great Falls, the hotel was built in 1890 and, along with its neighboring buildings, makes up the oldest commercial building in town. The Arvon Block was built by Welsh immigrant and “Celtic Cowboy” Robert Vaughn, who named the area after his daughter Arvonia.
Given its fascinating history (and the rumors that it’s haunted), this historic hotel is one of the most unique hotels in Montana. Guests at this boutique hotel can enjoy continental or á la carte breakfast, a free shuttle service, free parking, and is even pet-friendly.
Pros:
- Haunted (it’s a pro to me)
- Historic building
- Restaurant
- Pet-friendly
- Excellent location
Cons:
- Some rooms are quite small
Things to Do Nearby:
See Related: Most Haunted Hotels in the U.S.
9. Montage Big Sky
Address: 995 Settlement Trail, Big Sky, MT 59716
Here, we depart the more quaint accommodations for a five-star spot. Montage Big Sky is one of the most posh places to stay in Montana, particularly for winter sports lovers, as it is a well-known ski resort. The Big Sky area is also renowned for its cycling, so not only does the Montage rent out ski equipment, but also bikes as well.
Guests have incredible ski-to-door access here, in addition to a full-service spa, hot tub, swimming pool, three restaurants, room service, a playground, and salon facilities. The Montage is also pet-friendly, offering guests and their pets bowls upon arrival for use during their stay. There is also a kids club on-site, not to mention bowling, live music, archery, and billiards.
Pros:
- Luxury hotel
- Swimming pool and hot tubs
- Perfect spot for skiers
- Pet-friendly
- Three restaurants
Cons:
Things to Do Nearby:
10. Sage Lodge
Address: 55 Sage Lodge Dr, Pray, MT 59065
A skip away from the Yellowstone River, the Sage Lodge is a luxury lodge accommodation with otherworldly views. Plus you’re also only steps away from the UNESCO World Heritage Park – Yellowstone National Park.
Set inside a luxe building, the Sage Lodge is a drop-dead gorgeous location for a visit, particularly a romantic one. There are two restaurants on-site: The Grill at Sage Lodge, which is open for dinner, and The Fireside Room, which is earmarked as a family-friendly spot.
Amenities at the lodge include spa services, a fitness center, an airport shuttle, room service, and hot tubs. Many rooms here offer unbelievable mountain views and more of the great outdoors that make Montana so great.
Pros:
- Two restaurants
- Spa facilities
- Shuttle services
- Free parking
- Pet-friendly
Cons:
- Many visitors say restaurant menus are overpriced
Things to Do Nearby:
See Related: Best Geysers & Hot Springs in Yellowstone National Park
11. Grouse Mountain Lodge
Address: 2 Fairway Dr, Whitefish, MT 59937
Anyone looking for rustic log cabins need not look here, though the lodge certainly was inspired by them. Hey! Quit your grousing! Even if it’s not a traditional cabin, there’s nothing fowl about the Grouse Mountain Lodge.
Almost resembling the mountains, the captivating architecture of this cabin-style lodge is just the start of what makes this accommodation so fantastic. Grouse Mountain Lodge also has an on-site restaurant, Logan’s Bar and Grill, which is open every day.
At the lodge, there is an outdoor hot tub and fire pit, an indoor pool, a fitness center, an airport, and a town shuttle. This hotel is also pet-friendly without additional fees.
Pros:
- Pet-friendly without fees
- Airport and town shuttles
- Free parking
- Games room
- Tennis court
Cons:
- Some rooms may be outdated
Things to Do Nearby:
12. Lone Mountain Ranch
Address: 750 Lone Mountain Ranch Rd, Big Sky, MT 59716
The mountain town of Big Sky is known for more than just its skiing access, and Lone Mountain Ranch is proof of that. Rustic cabins with modern amenities abound at this ranch.
It’s great for privacy, without many neighbors. Yet even with its slight remoteness, Lone Mountain Ranch still has the ski-to-door experience you expect from a Big Sky hotel.
In addition to the ample winter sports access, guests can also participate in paid horse riding, canoeing, or massage services. There are two American cuisine restaurants on-site, as well as a playground, outdoor fireplace, board games, and evening entertainment. Pets are also welcome.
Pros:
- Pets welcome
- Plenty of outdoor adventures
- Two restaurants
- Private cabins
- Live entertainment
Cons:
Things to Do Nearby:
13. Triple Creek Ranch, A Montana Hideaway
Address: 5551 W Fork Rd, Darby, MT 59829
Tucked within the Bitterroot Mountain Range, Triple Creek Ranch puts Montana on the map. Not just because it’s been named one of the best ranch hotels in the country, but it’s recognized as such worldwide! Designed for adults, the all-inclusive ranch offers luxury accommodations and is a destination in itself.
Within the ranch are a range of accommodations, from suites to log cabins and even houses; you’ve got your pick of amenities at Triple Creek Ranch. Each kind of accommodation at Triple Creek Ranch has a shared or private hot tub, too.
Meals and drinks are all included, as are skiing, horseback riding, and fly fishing. The ranch also has an outdoor heated pool, tennis court, restaurant, and wine cellar. Massages can also be arranged for an additional fee.
Pros:
- One of the top-ranked resorts in the world
- Range of accommodation options
- All-inclusive dining
- Horseback riding and other outdoor activities
- Heated pool
Cons:
- Some accommodations may be outdated
Things to Do Nearby:
14. The LARK
Address: 122 West Main Street, Bozeman, MT 59715
Located in the thrum and bustle of downtown Bozeman, The Lark is one of those bright and sunny hotels you can’t help but admire. Like a piece of pop art, this hotel astounds with splashes of vibrant yellows and reds with decadent line art strewn across walls. This spot is particularly good for folks who want to be able to walk around a lot during their time in Montana.
There aren’t a ton of on-site amenities here, though the decor, affordable price point, and clean rooms make up for that. The Lark is also pet-friendly and has a coffeehouse. Plus, some of the room types have bunk beds, which is always popular with the kids.
Pros:
- Terrific location in downtown Bozeman
- On-site coffeehouse
- Pet-friendly
- Colorful
- Affordable
Cons:
Things to Do Nearby:
- Gallatin County Conservation & Park
- Barley & Vine
- Cooper Park
- Bozeman Sculpture Park
- Bozeman Softball Complex
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