Southern Montana surprised our adventure travel family in the best way. On our family road trip in Montana, we explored the mountains around Bozeman, the plains outside Billings, and discovered unforgettable family adventures along the way. From history at Custer Battlefield to ancient rock art at Pictograph Cave State Park, every stop offered hands-on learning and fun for the kids, making this road trip truly memorable.
Exploring Bozeman With Kids
Our family road trip in Montana began in Bozeman, surrounded by towering Rocky Mountains and fresh mountain air. Bozeman instantly felt like an outdoor playground with a strong Old West soul. We explored downtown, where historic brick buildings meet modern shops and restaurants. The atmosphere was lively yet relaxed, making it easy to explore with the girls. Buttercup loved browsing local stores, while Spider Monkey enjoyed spotting murals and people watching.
Bozeman is known for fly fishing, hiking, and skiing, but even a short visit captures its adventurous spirit. Snow capped peaks framed the town, reminding us that nature is always close here. Bozeman felt like the perfect starting point for our Montana adventure. As we packed up the car and headed east, Big Sky Country unfolded around us, setting the tone for an unforgettable family journey.
- Family Tip: If you have time, plan a stop at the Montana Grizzly Encounter for a safe and educational wildlife experience near Bozeman. It’s perfect for stretching little legs and introducing kids to local animals.
Family Road Trip in Montana: Bozeman to Billings Adventures
The drive from Bozeman to Billings was its own adventure for our family. As soon as we left the city, Montana’s wide open spaces stretched out before us, and the Rockies faded into rolling plains dotted with ranches and grazing cattle. The sky seemed almost endless, changing colors with every passing cloud, making it feel like we were driving through a living postcard. Buttercup kept pointing out mountain ridges in the distance, while Spider Monkey loved spotting wildlife along the roadside.
Big Sky Country truly lives up to its name. The road twists and turns through river valleys, small towns, and grassy hills, offering a perfect mix of scenery and history. We stopped a few times to let the girls stretch their legs and snap photos, making the drive feel like part of the adventure rather than just transit. Each stop gave us a chance to breathe in the crisp Montana air and soak in the vast, rugged beauty around us.
Driving through this landscape also sparked conversations about the Old West. The girls loved imagining what life was like for early settlers, cowboys, and Native American tribes who once traveled these plains. Rolling hills, distant rivers, and wide open skies made it easy to feel connected to the land’s history. By the time we reached Billings, the sense of adventure had only grown. The drive had been a perfect transition, building excitement for the mix of history, culture, and family-friendly exploration waiting in Montana’s largest city.
- Family Tip: Pack snacks, water, and activity books for the drive. There are few towns along this stretch, and keeping kids engaged makes the scenic route more enjoyable.
Things to Do in Billings Montana With Kids
Billings surprised us with its mix of rugged history and modern energy. As Montana’s largest city, it still feels deeply connected to its Old West roots. Downtown Billings buzzed with activity, where historic buildings now house cozy cafes, local restaurants, and small breweries. We followed the Walking Brewery Trail and loved chatting with friendly locals who welcomed our adventure travel family with warmth.
The city sits along the Yellowstone River and beneath the dramatic Rimrocks, creating a stunning backdrop. One of our favorite moments was staying in the second tallest building in Montana. At just 22 floors, it still felt exciting, especially for the girls. The views stretched across the city and plains beyond, giving us a new perspective on Billings.
Billings felt comfortable, welcoming, and easy for families to explore. It offered enough excitement to keep the girls engaged while still allowing us to slow down and enjoy Montana life.
- Family Tip: Consider booking a hotel downtown for easy walking access to restaurants, shops, and the Yellowstone Riverfront for family-friendly evening strolls.
Exploring Custer Battlefield With Kids in Montana
We originally planned to visit Little Bighorn Battlefield, but closures led us to explore Custer Battlefield instead. What we found was a powerful and approachable way to experience Montana history with kids. The wide open plains immediately set the tone. The quiet landscape stretches endlessly, creating a reflective atmosphere that naturally encourages slower exploration and conversation.
The battlefield preserves part of the 1876 conflict involving the U.S. Army’s 7th Cavalry and the Lakota, Cheyenne, and Arapaho warriors. Well placed interpretive markers line the trails, explaining events clearly and respectfully. This made it easier for the girls to understand the history without feeling overwhelmed. Buttercup enjoyed stopping to read the markers and ask thoughtful questions. Spider Monkey loved walking ahead, imagining what life may have looked like during that time.
The visitor center added important context. Built from stone and wood, it blends beautifully into the surrounding plains. Inside, exhibits featured historical artifacts, photographs, and detailed maps that helped bring the story together visually. We appreciated being able to move at our own pace, choosing how much detail to share with the girls. Visiting Custer Battlefield gave our family a deeper appreciation for Montana’s complex history and the many voices connected to this land.
Visiting Pictograph Cave State Park With Kids Near Billings
Later that day, we visited Pictograph Cave State Park just outside Billings, and this stop quickly became a favorite for the girls. The park feels peaceful and tucked away, offering a completely different kind of history experience. Short, well marked trails lead to caves containing ancient rock art created thousands of years ago by early inhabitants of the region. The walk was easy and enjoyable, making it ideal for families.
Standing in front of the caves felt almost magical. We could clearly see painted images of bison, deer, human figures, handprints, and hunting scenes. Buttercup was fascinated by the idea that these images were a form of storytelling. She loved imagining the people who once stood in the same spot. Spider Monkey turned it into a game, pointing out shapes and deciding what each symbol might represent.
Educational signage throughout the park explains the significance of the pictographs in a kid friendly way. It sparked meaningful conversations as we walked the trail together. Pictograph Cave reminded us that Montana’s history reaches far beyond the Old West. It offered a hands on, visual way for the girls to connect with the past, making this stop both educational and memorable for our adventure travel family.
- Family Tip: Wear sturdy shoes for the short hikes and bring a camera or sketchbook. Kids love capturing their favorite pictographs to remember the visit.
Family Verdict
Custer Battlefield and Pictograph Cave State Park are absolutely worth visiting with kids. Both offer unique and meaningful ways to explore Montana history without long hikes or overwhelming exhibits. The girls stayed engaged, curious, and excited throughout both visits. For families traveling near Billings, these stops add depth and unforgettable learning moments to any Montana road trip.
Make sure to check out our nearby adventures in southern Montana, Beartooth Highway, Yellowstone National Park, Grand Teton National Park, Jackson Hole, Craters of the Moon National Monument, and southern Idaho. Follow along on our complete Old West family road trip and our other amazing family travel adventures at www.adventureisinoursouls.com.
