Need a peaceful escape or a hidden gem in Central Montana? Head to Lewistown! Surrounded by five mountain ranges, this charming town offers outdoor adventures, Western heritage, and small-town warmth. Whether you're hiking, fishing, or exploring local art, Lewistown delivers authentic Montana magic.
Lewistown, MT Highlights:
- For Outdoor Enthusiasts: Fish and float on Big Spring Creek – Cast a line or paddle this clear, spring-fed trout stream through scenic landscapes.
- For History Buffs: Walk the Lewistown Historic District – Admire early 20th-century architecture and explore Montana’s frontier past.
- For Hikers: Explore trails in the Judith Mountains – Hike to the top of Judith Peak or discover ghost towns and wildflowers.
- For Art Lovers: Browse the Lewistown Art Center – Enjoy rotating exhibitions, local crafts, and community creativity.
- For Families: Play and learn at Frank Day Park – Picnic, paddle, and let kids roam in this spacious riverside green space.
Best Time to Visit Lewistown, MT
The best time to visit Lewistown is from late spring through early fall (June to September). Expect mild weather, clear skies, and ideal conditions for hiking, fishing, and outdoor festivals.
How to Get to Lewistown, MT
- If you are traveling by car: Lewistown is located along U.S. Route 87 and U.S. Route 191, about 2 hours east of Great Falls or 3 hours north of Billings.
- By Plane: Lewistown Municipal Airport offers limited charter flights, while Billings and Great Falls provide broader commercial options.
- By Bus: Intercity bus service to Lewistown is limited, so a car is the most reliable way to reach and explore the area.
Where to Stay in Lewistown, MT
- Recommended for Families: Judith Mountain Lodge – A cozy wilderness lodge just outside of town, great for hiking and star-gazing.
- For Couples: Calvert Hotel – Historic boutique hotel in the heart of downtown, perfect for a romantic escape.
- For Outdoor Explorers: Crystal Lake Cabin Rentals – Rustic accommodations near hiking trails and fishing spots.
Best Things to Do in Lewistown, MT
1. Central Montana Historical Museum
Explore pioneer artifacts and learn local stories on an affordable cultural trip.
The Central Montana Historical Museum takes guests on a journey through time as they view the chronological display of Central Montana’s history. Starting with around the year 1870, the museum captures the time when there were few people in Montana and abundant Buffalo, displaying the progress of homesteads and settlers, along with artifacts varier peoples left behind from when they lived in this area of the state. The collection at the Central Montana Historical Museum includes a variety of firearms, fossils, musical instruments, and Indian artifacts among many other items. There’s also an extensive collection of local history books and photographs.
408 NE Main St, Lewistown, MT 59457, Phone: 406-535-3642
2. Charles M. Russell National Wildlife Refuge
Spot elk and hike rugged terrain on an exciting outdoor adventure.
The Charles M. Russell National Wildlife Refuge spreads across around 1,100,000 acres in Central Montana and offers a unique chance for visitors and locals to experience wildlife and wilderness within a natural setting similar to how Lewis and Clark encountered them during their expedition. Popular activities guests can take part in while at the Charles M. Russell National Wildlife Refuge include photography, a self-guided 20-mile auto tour, archery elk and mule deer hunts, and wildlife viewing, including viewing elk from the Slippery Ann observation area during the fall. Birding is also popular here, with over 230 species identified.
333 Airport Rd, Lewistown, MT 59457, Phone: 406-538-8706
Where to Eat
3. Central Feed Grilling Co
Savor craft burgers and enjoy local brews during a fun weekend meal.
A central gathering place of Montana, the Central Feed Grilling Co. in Lewistown aims to bring hard-working families together through passion, community, and commitment, while also offering excellent service, great wine, and fresh craft beer in a warm restaurant. Boasting a motto of “great food, great beer, great mood,” Central Feed serves fresh craft brews from the Big Spring Brewing next door, as well as a rotating selection of craft beers from around the rest of Montana. As for the food offerings at the restaurant, a variety of high quality dishes are available, made with ingredients sourced from throughout the state.
220 E Main St, Lewistown, MT 59457, Phone: 406-535-2337
4. Yogo Inn
Relax in casual comfort and stay close to Lewistown sights on a quick trip.
The Yogo Inn has been a tradition of Montana since 1962 and has been a central part of life in Lewistown for around sixty years. The hotel has long been a preferred place to stay for travelers in the state who enjoy hunting and fishing, special events, outdoor pursuits, and unique historic sites. The Yogo Inn is also a great place in town for a bite to eat or a good cocktail. Stetson’s Restaurant serves unique burgers, seafood, hand cut steaks, pastas, and decadent desserts, while the Golden Spike Lounge offers microbrews, favorite beers, wine, and top shelf drinks.
211 E Main St, Lewistown, MT 59457, Phone: 406-535-8721
If you are interested in local events:
- For Rodeo Fans: Central Montana Fair & Rodeo (July) – Celebrate with rodeo action, carnival rides, and hometown parades.
- For Art and Music Lovers: Art in the Park (June) – Enjoy local art, food trucks, and live music in Symmes Park.
- For Holiday Cheer: Christmas Stroll (December) – Kick off the holidays with lights, treats, and festive shopping downtown.
Day Trip Itineraries Within 30 Minutes of Lewistown, Montana:
- For Nature Lovers: Crystal Lake Recreation Area (30 min) – Hike to Ice Caves, fish, or relax by the alpine lake.
- For History Buffs: Kendall Ghost Town (25–30 min) – Explore Montana’s gold rush past among the ruins of this historic mining town.
- For Wildlife Watchers: Judith Gap Wind Farm & Grasslands (30 min) – Spot wildlife and take in views of wind turbines across vast prairie.
- For Birders: Big Springs Trout Hatchery (20 min) – Tour the hatchery and observe local birdlife in a serene setting.
- For Scenic Views: Judith Mountains Drive (15–25 min) – Take a leisurely drive with panoramic views, wildlife sightings, and photo ops.
Frequently Asked Questions:
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Where is Lewistown, Montana located?
- Located in the expansive Judith Basin, the town of Lewistown, Montana, is a quiet town situated in the geographic center of the state.
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What makes Lewistown unique?
- Featuring a number of well-preserved historic homes and businesses, the Lewistown area is primarily ranches, farms, and rolling prairie surrounded by five different mountain ranges: the Highwoods, the Belts, the Moccasins, the Judiths, and the Snowies.
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What attractions can visitors explore in Lewistown?
- Along with taking in the mountain scenery and picturesque landscapes, visitors can explore the Russell National Wildlife Refuge or the Central Montana Historical Museum.
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Where can visitors eat in Lewistown?
- Enjoy a delicious meal at Central Feed Grilling Co. or the Yogo Inn.
Plan Your Trip