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October 27, 2024
Winter Like an Outsider
In Billings, we like to take on winter by the seat of our snow pants, like the true outsiders we are. Because even as the temperatures chill, the experiences become so much cooler. So visit us in Billings this winter and be an outsider.
No Path, No Problem
As we like to say, perfect weather is just weather. That means even when the horizon is blanketed in soft snow, those big blue skies above inspire us forward. Billings is home to more than 47 miles of trails, perfect for snowshoeing, cross-country skiing and impromptu snowball battles with the whole family. Thrill-seekers can visit nearby Red Lodge Mountain for some world-class Rocky Mountain downhill skiing and snowboarding.
Culinary Coolness
Outsiders always work up an appetite, and Billings boasts a hearty array of restaurants where you can recharge. Be sure to visit one of our James Beard Award nominees, like Walkers Grill, Marble Table and Veronika’s Pastry Shop. Or track down Khanthaly’s Egg Rolls – the first food truck in all of Montana – if the weather is warmer. Feeling frosty? Warm up with an ice-cold beer along the Billings Brew Trail. For a complete list of places to feast in Billings, click here.
Get Wild
Despite myths of hibernation, even the local wildlife takes their game up a notch during the chill season. Trek over to ZooMontana and observe various species going all-in on winter. Get to know local favorites like Pabu (red panda), Bert (bison) and Hana (ball python). Winston, the resident sloth, has even written numerous blog posts to give you some of the best ideas on how to explore Billings like an outsider. Be sure not to miss the bird’s-eye-view of the vast Montana landscape atop the Rimrocks, along the recently completed Skyline Trail, which connects Swords Rimrocks Park to Zimmerman Park. And observe local wildlife with a leisurely stroll along the Yellowstone River at Two Moon Park.
The Great Indoors
Art and entertainment are always on high in Billings. Heed the sounds of winter and take in the Billings Symphony Orchestra performance at the historic Alberta Bair Theatre. Then learn how the cowboys once lived through the artwork of Will James at the Yellowstone Art Museum. And two heads are always better than one when it comes to exploring like an outsider – just ask the two-headed calf, “Charlie and Russell,” at the Yellowstone County Museum.
Events for Outsiders
Billings is also the center stage for a variety of festive seasonal events, like Holiday Nights at ZooMontana and First Fridays – a celebration of local art, food, crafts and local businesses. And be sure to take in a show at the historic Alberta Bair Theatre, which hosts a wide array of entertainment, from the Billings Symphony Orchestra to live stand-up comedy shows. If you really want to explore the city like a local outsider, check out all of Billings’ local winter events.