Zoo Drive/Shiloh - Bursting With Expression and Activity
July 25, 2023
Bursting with Expression and Activity
Vibrant, lively and modern, this Billings neighborhood seamlessly blends shopping, dining and entertainment for the perfect combination of urban convenience. With several unique neighborhood pockets to choose from, you’ll find a variety of shops, restaurants and activities to keep you busy from dawn until dusk. Just off the I-90 exit you’ll start your discovery, and with so many great places to stay, you’ll easily find a comfortable spot to call home base where you’ll enjoy a great night’s sleep and some genuine Montana hospitality.
Zoo Drive
This area knows how to show the whole family a great time. Hop across the interstate and check out Western Ranch Supply for a true peek into the farm and ranch communities that power our state. They have a huge selection of western wear and boots, along with everything you’ll need to take care of your homestead. Need some gear for your ride up over the Beartooth Pass or to Yellowstone Park? Visit the Beartooth Harley Davidson showroom to find a massive selection of new and pre-loved motorcycles and Harley-Davidson products and apparel. The family will have a great time visiting ZooMontana, the only zoological and botanical park within a 500-mile radius of Billings. They care for over 100 animals of 56 different species, including Amur tigers, grizzly bear, wolverine, river otters, and even Hoffman’s two-toed sloth, Winston. Pro-tip: Try and visit Winston mid-morning and you might just catch him awake! The kids will love checking out SteepWorld Climbing & Fitness, an indoor climbing gym featuring rope climbing on the 40+ foot tall walls, bouldering areas, fitness room and gear shop. Belay on!
End your day at one of several superb restaurants for a relaxing drink and leisurely meal. Montana’s Rib & Chop House, founded in 2001, takes pride in their “Rocky Mountain Hospitality”. With a family-friendly atmosphere and large menu, you’ll be satisfied whether it’s brunch, lunch or dinner. Try a premium-cut steak, black angus burger, or the chicken fried steak. Montana knows its beef, and the The Montana Club is no different. Order a craft cocktail or a local micro-brew while you wait for your Prime grade Cowboy Sirloin or BBQ ribs. Don’t forget the cheese fries for the kids. Known for being Billings’ premier steak and seafood supper club, the Windmill & Bar 51 got its start in the 1930s as a dance club. In 1947 it opened as a restaurant, and though it has changed owners over the years, one thing hasn’t changed – their famous plate of prawns, pile of King Crab and the cozy atmosphere. Don’t miss this legendary local favorite. A good supply run is always on the agenda, and it goes without saying that Costco will be your best bet for this excursion. When you finish up, you may need to stop by Meadowlark Brewing and take advantage of happy hour. Independent craft beer brewers, they offer a wide selection of seasonal and rotational brews. Try the Magic Hobo Monkey along with their giant pretzel and spicy mustard.
Shiloh Crossing
Find a wide variety of niche shops, restaurants, and things to do in this contemporary neighborhood hub. Your first stop should be to City Brew Coffee for a morning pick-me-up and a flaky scone. Then head over to Scheels for a shopping and entertainment extravaganza. Find the latest clothing, sports and outdoor gear while the kiddos view the spectacular aquarium just inside the front entrance. Then take them on several adventures throughout the store, from bowling and golf to selfie opportunities and a ride on the Ferris wheel. Finish up with a stop at the café for some coffee and their famous fudge.
Another must stop shop is Candy Town USA, the largest candy store and old-fashioned soda shop in Montana. Find gourmet apples, hand-crafted fudge, saltwater taffy and all your other favorites. For some designer women’s clothing, there are several options. Giddy Up Coffee Bar & Boutique offers the latest in western fashion trends along with “burn it” hat design parties and delightful coffee while you shop. For fashion-forward catwalk trends check out RocHouse, a popular hot spot for gals to find the most sought after styles and personalized service, or stop by Neecee’s for a vibrant and fun selection of active styles. For beautiful jewelry, visit Goldsmith Gallery Jewelers, where you’ll find plenty of sparkle to celebrate a priceless moment or Yellowstone Jewelers for unique collections and a custom experience. After a full day of exploration and adventure, you might be looking for some pampering and rejuvenation. Take care of those tired muscles and let Stretch Lab do the work for you! Their team of trained Flexologists will help you get flexible and loosen things up. Make a stop at Restore Hyper Wellness for some cutting-edge services like IV therapy, cryotherapy, or the infrared sauna. Look and feel your best at Premier Aesthetics, where you’ll find the latest skin, laser, facial and sculpting treatments.
The dinner spots are both welcoming and flavorful. At the end of the day, stop in at Levity Bar & Casino for a great atmosphere, gourmet pastas and seafood, and quality wines and spirits, or if you’re looking for plenty of big screens to watch your favorite sporting event, head to Manny’s Sports & Entertainment. Also check out the great brews and friendly atmosphere at Divide Bar & Grill. They serve plenty of local beers and savory entrees. Start with the Scotch Eggs and then try the Big Sky Burger (topped with French fries, cheese curds and brown gravy). After dinner, walk next door to the Shiloh Conservation Area for an after-dinner stroll. It’s a water quality improvement area with two miles of trails that include a fishing pond, interpretive signs and viewing platforms. If it’s blustery outside, consider catching a flick at AMC Classic Shiloh 14, and don’t forget the popcorn and Raisinettes! For pizza, you can head to Bullman’s Wood Fired Pizza and sample their traditional Neapolitan style thin crust pizza baked in their blistering hot oven, or branch out and try some Japanese ramen, fresh sushi or the ever-popular Boba tea at Hokkaido Ramen & Sushi Bar.
If your sweet tooth is nagging you grab some delicious fro-yo at Billings Best Yogurt, or try a delicious fruit smoothie at Banano. And don’t miss out on the scrumptious bundtinis at Nothing Bundt Cakes with a variety of flavors all crowned with cream cheese frosting.
Shiloh Commons
Experience true community living in this quaint multi-use neighborhood with a bounty of shops on the ground level. Grab a cup of coffee to go or stay awhile and enjoy the bustle of the locals at Mazevo Coffee. Try a breakfast wrap or some of the delicious coffee cake. Or stop by Crumbl Cookie for a decadent frosted sugar or chocolate chip cookie. Don’t miss Sophie’s Kitchen with the perfect twist on comfort food for breakfast, lunch or dinner. Order the Irish coffee or a specialty mimosa paired with the Bacon Egg and Arugula Sandwich or the classic eggs benedict. Delish! Other dining options include Soup & Such, with the absolute best soup and salad bar in town, with options like the Baked Potato Chowder and the Creamy Basil Tomato, or Sakura Ramen & Sushi Bar for an authentic ramen bowl and sushi rolls. And for that afternoon pick-me-up, check out the Soda Station for an adventurous take on the traditional soda. Try The Big Sky (Coke, pineapple and coconut cream) or The Last Best Place (Sprite, cherry and fresh lime).
Dine in for dinner and order from Redneck Pizza & Chicken, where they promise to go heavy on the toppings and the chicken is perfectly broasted, or dine out at Copper Onion Bistro. The atmosphere is chic and cozy and they serve everything from pizza and salads to pasta, seafood and steak.
For shopping, simplify things with a curated collection of everyday goods that are both sustainable and delightful at Frae Everyday Goods. Find soaps, shampoos, and scrubs as well as textiles, candles and all sorts of treasures. Continue the mindfulness with a yoga class from the inclusive community at Limber Tree Studio and enjoy the benefits of a healthier state of mind, or try a red-light sauna or Salt and Sweat session at Onyx Wellness Studio & Spa and feel energized and renewed.
Grand and Shiloh
This area features a variety of dining options, ranging from casual eateries to upscale restaurants, providing a diverse culinary experience. Whether you're in the mood for a quick bite, a leisurely meal, or a coffee break, it will satisfy every palate. Run through the drive-thru at City Brew Coffee and order the Huckleberry White Mocha and a cinnamon scone, or head over to Mazevo Coffee and grab a sofa and the Sugar Cookie Oatmilk Espresso – it’s dreamy. For a quick bite to eat, try Topz Sandwich Company for a stacked sub sandwich and their trademark queso with corn chips, or order the Buffalo Chicken or Philly Cheese Steak pizza at Carbonne’s Pizzeria & Pub – you can get pan style, traditional or thin crust, and the beer’s pretty good too. The Red Door Lounge offers a great lunch menu and bar food, and as a bonus they have the best karaoke in town.
The noshing options for the dinner rush will make foodies rejoice. Stop by City Vineyard and browse this unique wine and craft beer shop and gourmet food market, or relax in the full tasting lounge or on the patio. Cork & Barrel has a gorgeous bar that’s the perfect ambiance for an evening meal. With craft cocktails and brews and an international wine list, all paired with a classy, fresh and locally sourced menu, you will not want to leave. The Local Kitchen & Bar is a quaint little spot with exceptional scratch gourmet meals using local beef, hand-rolled pasta and fresh ingredients. Stay awhile and start with the Poutine or coconut shrimp with a glass of wine and then try the Crimini Mushroom Crusted Ribeye or Braised Rack of Lamb. Finish the evening with the Crack Pie. Magnifique! Enjoy the benefits of restorative IV treatments and massage and feel healthy and rejuvenated at Revive IV & Wellness, or boost your immunity and energy with an IV drip from IV Nutrition.
Billings is committed to ensuring that all visitors and locals feel welcome, safe and included. Landon’s Miracle Field is a tangible way to provide the opportunity to play America’s favorite pastime – baseball – for both children and adults regardless of their ability. This special needs baseball field located at the Poly Vista Baseball Complex located at 38th and Poly Drive, is a custom-designed, latex free, rubberized turf field that accommodates wheelchairs and other adaptive equipment. The Miracle League field serves children and adults with physical or mental disabilities so they can experience the joy of being part of a baseball league. And stay tuned – funds are being raised to build an inclusive playground as well, with multisensory experiences that assist children with sensory, motor, strength, cognitive, social and emotional skills.
Further West
Billings continues to grow and expand, reaching even further west to a great little neighborhood just off of Grand Avenue and 54th Street. Stop by the Diamond X Beer Co and experience this hip space while enjoying a micro-brew and sampling the Trash Can Nachos or Truffle Fries. And they serve brunch on the weekends! The Den Sports Bar & Ale House is a popular spot to unwind and enjoy the comfortable sports bar vibe. Home of the legendary 100oz. Tower of Beer, make sure you order some bar grub too. If you head next door, you can enjoy one of the six custom-built TruGolf simulation suites at the Back 9 Lounge, with a full bar and menu to choose from while you work on your swing. If you’re looking for adventure, head up to Rimrock road and travel a few miles further west to check out Phipps Park. This 350-acre park that includes a disc golf course and trails for running, hiking or biking all nestled within a beautiful natural area of sandstone, pines and views from the top of the butte.
