Whitefish, Montana is more than likely exactly what you are picturing when you envision a small town in the mountains. The atmosphere doesn’t shy from that in the slightest. Whitefish, Montana is a quaint town of resorts and tourist attractions year-round that are sure to keep you busy.
Whether you are looking for a honeymoon destination, family getaway, business retreat, or solo getaway, Whitefish, Montana is the place you want to be. Primarily known as a ski destination, this picturesque town is also the perfect location year-round. Montana’s reputation of beauty is effortlessly prominent in this charming little town. Whether you visit this town to ski or to enjoy the vivacious culture and small-town way of life, this town is an experience you don’t want to miss out on!
How To Get To Whitefish, Montana
When headed into the mountains, whether it is your first time or your hundredth time, the importance of a safe and durable vehicle is of utmost importance. Upon arrival, you will want to grab yourself a rental car for the duration of your stay so that you can explore without limitations. This will ensure you get the full Montana experience.
At Hertz, you will find a car perfectly fit for experiencing the beauty Montana has to offer. Head to the counter at baggage claim and grab an SUV or sedan best suited for you and your family’s needs! An investment in a rental car has the potential to make or break your stay in terms of exploration and sightseeing. It is a must if you want to maximize the experience of your mountain experience. The experience at Hertz is so trouble-free and effortless that you won’t clog up the start of your Montana vacation with unnecessary paperwork and wait times.
Read More: Top Tips For Planning Vacations With Kids
Where To Stay: Grouse Mountain Lodge In Montana
Choosing a place to stay in Whitefish wasn’t such an easy task. There are so many amazing options to pick from that narrowing it down to one was a bit difficult. The natural beauty of Grouse Mountain Lodge is what sealed the deal. And on top of the beauty, it was in an ideal location. A win-win situation to say the very least.
Grouse Mountain Lodge is approximately 19 minutes away from the local airport, FCA-Glacier Park International, and even offers an airport shuttle for just $5 per guest with call ahead scheduling, making it of utmost convenience. The lodge is also within walking distance of the heart of town, an experience most of the world misses out on while living in suburban cities; making for the full small-town experience that everyone deserves at least once in their life.
Upon entering Grouse Mountain Lodge, one of the first things that will grab your attention is the beautiful stone fireplace accompanied by the deer head mounted on the wall, with a one-of-a-kind antler chandelier. It felt like a scene from a movie. The first impression of The Lodge was breathtaking. Although the beauty shines through the photos prominently, the pictures still are not able to do it justice!
When visiting Whitefish, Grouse Mountain Lodge is the place to stay! The property itself is awe-inspiring. Located on a golf course and just a short walk away from downtown Whitefish, it is the perfect stay to accommodate all of your wants and needs. There is so much to do at The Lodge itself! Whether Mom and Dad want to play a round of golf or the kids want to rent bicycles to go exploring, there are options for everyone.
Read More: How To Make Every Family Road Trip An Educational Adventure
What To Do In Whitefish, Montana:
Whitefish Mountain Resort
The town’s most prominent tourist sites and activities can be experienced at Whitefish Mountain Ski Resort. The town’s largest attraction is Big Mountain- perfect for skiers and snowboarders of all ages and levels, as well as a zip-line tour with a panoramic view of the mountain.
Alpine Slide
For families of all ages looking for a fun time, head over to the Alpine Slide! Soar down Grouse Mountain on your choice of a sled! Rent them for just $5 at the top of the mountain and go enjoy the fun!
Aerial Adventure Park
Looking to test your agility skills? Head to the Aerial Adventure Park to do just that. This course is equipped with varying degrees of difficulty throughout 56 elements of the course such as ziplining, obstacles, and a Tree Canopy Adventure for the younger kids.
There are plenty of other outdoor activities to choose from if your interests haven’t been sparked yet. Head over to Whitefish Lake for waterskiing, down to Whitefish River for kayaking, or to Flathead River, notorious for its superior conditions for fly-fishing. This place is an outdoor enthusiasts dream and angler’s heaven.
Summer Tubing
Grab the family and your tube and head up to the top of the hill for a one-of-a-kind experience! Whether you’re looking for some healthy competition or a leisurely ride down the hill, summer tubing is perfect to do just that! No need to wait for the winter for this tubing fun.
Summit Scenic Lift Rides
Make your way to the top of the mountain in style! Choose between riding the Scenic Lift on either an open chair or gondola to the top of the Summit. In doing so, you will be met with the best views in town of the Flathead Valley and Glacier National Park. This Scenic Lift Ride will allow you the chance to experience Montana from new heights. Get a glimpse of the town and check a new experience off your bucket list!
Alpine Theatre Project
Wanting fewer hands-on activities? In the heart of the town, known for its adequate arts scene, you will find the Alpine Theatre Project. They regularly put on plays, concerts, and musicals for the locals and guests of the town!
Read More: Packing Hacks For Tricky Travel Situations
Whitefish, Montana Restaurants
Looking for a bite to eat at Whitefish restaurants and within walking distance? Take your pick! From southern comfort cuisine to sushi, and local breweries, the cuisine options of Whitefish restaurants are fit for all taste buds and moods. And an added perk: they are all within a 5-minute walk of the Grouse Mountain Lodge!
Loula’s Cafe
Loula’s Cafe prides itself on a “made from scratch” menu featuring local produce. And boy does she deliver! This cafe is located in downtown Whitefish’s Historic Masonic temple building and surrounds diners with local artist’s art and photography. This hometown family-owned gem is open for breakfast and lunch, serves hormone and antibiotic-free Montana beef, and has a menu stocked with comfort food. Loula’s claim to fame? Pie, pie, and more delicious pie. Loula’s Cafe gives diners a taste of hospitality with their pie that comes in an assortment of flavors and love baked into each one.
Piggyback Barbecue
Swing by Whitefish, Montana’s ONLY Authentic Pit BBQ restaurant that highlights local ingredients for a true Montana experience! Whether you are looking for breakfast, lunch, or dinner, Piggyback is your ideal location for it all! Dedicated to the community, fresh, locally grown ingredients, this gem’s menu is bursting with flavor and is the perfect restaurant to include in your itinerary.
Indah Sushi
Craving dinner on the fancier side? Look no further! Featuring the very best sushi in the area, Indah Sushi is a sushi lover’s dream come true! Not only do they offer popular sushi staples but they also feature fresh seasonal plates as well. Local, sustainable dishes from starters to sharable Sushi Cakes, Indah Sushi delivers authentic Asian cuisine to sushi enthusiasts and families alike. This treasure will be one of your favorite dining experiences in Whitefish, Montana.
Latitude 48 Bistro
Dinner is served. Latitude 48 Bistro boasts aromatic dishes with vibrant colors and flavors to please any palate. Savory entrees paired beautifully with an extensive international wine list will put this chic bistro on your trip itinerary. Foodies will delight in the culinary details and elegant plating. Once you have indulged in an unforgettable dinner head downstairs to the Red Room Lounge for hand-crafted cocktails.
Whitefish, Montana is a small town with massive potential for a once-in-a-lifetime northern getaway. This quaint, picturesque town is the epitome of a winter wonderland vacation. Whether you enjoy the thrill and the adrenaline side of fun, or the more subtle, peaceful activities the town has to offer; Whitefish, Montana has it all! From skiing and agility courses to the theatre, there is something for each and everyone to enjoy. Whitefish, Montana makes for the perfect destination location for a honeymoon, family getaway, business retreat, or solo getaway. Each stay is custom to you and your wants and needs! You do not want to miss out on the experience that this quaint town of Montana has to offer.
WANT TO READ MORE?
Don’t pack everything AND the kitchen sink. Here is The Ultimate Family Carry-On Packing List to help simplify travel.