Kid-Friendly Museums
Kid-Friendly Museums
Billings is a city where learning and mighty adventures go hand in hand, offering plenty of places that keep kids engaged while sparking their imagination.
A favorite among families is Wise Wonders Science & Discovery Museum downtown. Designed for curious minds, it’s filled with interactive exhibits that encourage children to build, explore and experiment. From a kid-sized space station to an engineering lab and a Yellowstone River water table, every corner invites hands-on discovery and playful learning.
For budding artists, the Yellowstone Art Museum provides a creative space where children and parents can experience art together. Montana’s largest contemporary art museum offers a mix of rotating exhibitions and kid-focused programs. Special events like “Fam at the YAM” let families make art side by side, giving kids the chance to explore their creativity in a relaxed, inspiring atmosphere.
Those with a love of history will find plenty to explore at the Yellowstone County Museum, perched near the airport. Admission is always free, and the museum’s exhibits range from Native American culture and pioneer life to dinosaur fossils and antique farm equipment. The collection is presented in a way that’s approachable for kids, making it easy for them to connect with Montana’s rich heritage.
Another must-see is the Western Heritage Center, set inside a beautifully preserved 1901 building. Here, the story of the Yellowstone Valley comes alive through engaging displays and family-oriented programming. The museum’s focus on storytelling makes it especially appealing to children, offering a window into local history that feels both vivid and fun.
While technically a zoo, ZooMontana adds to the mix with an experience that’s part outdoor adventure, part learning opportunity. Nearly 100 animals, sensory gardens and an on-site discovery center make it a place where kids can learn about wildlife and conservation in a memorable way.
The Montana Audubon Center is a 54-acre nature area set along the Yellowstone River, designed to inspire outdoor learning and conservation. Its ponds, trails and restored habitats create a welcoming space for birdwatching, family walks and environmental education. The center regularly hosts programs for kids, adults, and schools, encouraging hands-on exploration and a deeper connection to Montana’s landscapes and wildlife.