As the largest city in the state, visitors arrive in Billings to connect to something real that is distinctly Montanan. As we look ahead to 2026 – well, there’s even more to see and do than ever before. Recent milestones include a “Top 10 True Western Towns” designation and national recognition for ZooMontana, alongside high-energy Banana Ball games, new cocktail and bourbon experiences and major investments in sports and recreation. While you’re here, chase the Yellowstone and carve your own trail. It’s time to do mighty things in Billings, Montana.
ZooMontana Welcomes Two New Bobcats and Earns AZA Accreditation
Two new bobcats have recently joined the hundreds of animals that call ZooMontana home. Orphaned in northwest Montana as young kittens, the male, now six months old, and the female, three months old, are settling into a behind-the-scenes area as animal care staff focus on building trust, strengthening their bond and beginning foundational training. The long-term goal is for the pair to become ambassador animals, supporting ZooMontana’s mission through education and conservation outreach. Nearly 2,000 votes were cast to name the pair of bobcats, with Sonny and Goldie being the winners. Sonny is named after Sonny Holland, former head football coach for the Montana State University Bobcats, while Goldie is named after one of the school’s two colors (gold). Notably, the ZooMontana bobcat duo may be good luck charms, as the MSU Bobcats recently won the NCAA Division I Football Subdivision Championship.
The arrival of the bobcats also coincides with ZooMontana earning reaccreditation from the Association of Zoos and Aquariums, a distinction that reflects compliance with the most rigorous standards for animal care, conservation and education. Fewer than 10% of animal facilities nationwide hold AZA accreditation, underscoring ZooMontana’s continued commitment to excellence and the well-being of the animals in its care.
Billings is a “Top 10 True Western Town”
True West Magazine has recognized Billings as a “Top 10 True Western Town” for 2026, to be announced in the Jan/Feb “Top Western Towns/Best of the West” double issue. The publication noted that “Billings truly captures the essence of the modern West, where history, culture, and adventure come together along the Yellowstone River. From the Western Heritage Center to the vibrant downtown and nearby historic sites, readers will love seeing Billings recognized among the very best in the West.”
This is the 20th year True West has presented the annual award. Editors base their selection on how each town has preserved its history. Founded along the Yellowstone River as a railroad hub and shaped by ranchers, homesteaders, and entrepreneurs, Billings has long-standing ties to the region’s ranching and Native history make it a prime destination for travelers. In fact, it was the only Montana city in the “Top 10 True Western Town” for 2026.
Banana Ball and Billings Team Up for a Home Run Experience
The Billings Mustangs and Visit Billings have partnered to bring the 2026 Banana Ball World Tour to Billings, making the destination the only host city in Montana. Games are scheduled for August 20–22, 2026, with a three-game series showcasing the Firefighters and the Party Animals, two popular rivals of the Savannah Bananas. Known for its lightning-fast pace and party-like atmosphere, Banana Ball turns a night at the ballpark into full-scale entertainment. Games move quickly under a strict two-hour time limit and follow a delightfully unconventional rulebook, with no bunting and outs recorded on caught foul balls. But the real magic goes far beyond the rules, as players break into choreographed routines, lean into crowd interaction and deliver nonstop surprises that keep fans laughing, cheering and fully engaged from the first pitch to the final out.
New Speakeasy Offers a Secret Sip of Old-School Cool
After a decade of operating Doc Harper’s martini bar on North Broadway in downtown Billings, owners Bruce and Barb Harper have expanded their concept with the opening of a neighboring speakeasy called The Waiting Room. Designed as a throwback to the Prohibition era, the hidden bar features period-inspired details like velvet curtains and vintage ceiling fans, creating an immersive step back in time. While martinis remain the focus at Doc Harper’s, The Waiting Room offers a cocktail menu centered entirely on Prohibition-era mixology.
Undammed Distillery Debuts a Billings-Only Bourbon
Undammed Distilling Co. is raising a glass to five years of craft with the debut of Pryor Creek Bourbon, a new whiskey created in celebration of both the milestone and the Billings community that helped make it possible. Inspired by the waterways of the Yellowstone watershed that shape every Undammed spirit, the bourbon takes its name from Pryor Creek, a local stream with deep regional roots. Keeping the release close to home, Pryor Creek Bourbon will be available exclusively in Billings liquor retailers and at the Undammed tasting room.
Major Investments Expand Billings’ Sports and Recreation Scene
Billings is investing in the future of play and community gathering with significant upgrades to both new and historic facilities. Construction is underway on the $20 million Amend Recreational Center, a nearly 57,000-square-foot multi-sport complex scheduled for completion by late June 2026. Designed as a flexible, multi-use space, the center will feature four regulation basketball courts adaptable for volleyball and pickleball, supporting everything from weekend tournaments to everyday recreation.
At the same time, long-planned renovations at historic Daylis Stadium are moving forward with the start of demolition. The project will replace aging grandstands, improve accessibility and update locker rooms, with a modernized and expanded stadium expected to open in mid-October.
