Major Landmarks in Billings, Montana
Billings, the largest city in Montana, is known for its striking natural beauty, rich history, and status as a key regional economic hub. Established in 1882 as a railroad town, Billings grew rapidly and earned the nickname “Magic City.” Today, it serves as a gateway to many of Montana’s natural and historical wonders, from the Yellowstone River to nearby national parks and monuments. Billings has also been an important trade and cultural center for the surrounding area, including the Crow and Northern Cheyenne reservations. Visitors to Billings can explore both the city’s historical significance and its access to awe-inspiring natural landmarks, making it a diverse and exciting destination.
Historical Landmarks in Billings
Billings boasts a wealth of historical landmarks that reflect the region’s cultural heritage, including Native American history, the American West, and the development of the railroad and trade industries.
1. Moss Mansion
Landmark Overview
The Moss Mansion is a striking example of early 20th-century architecture in Billings. Built in 1903 for Preston Boyd Moss, one of Billings’ most prominent pioneers, the mansion was designed by renowned architect Henry Janeway Hardenbergh, who also designed the Waldorf Astoria in New York. The 28-room home is an architectural masterpiece with a blend of Moorish, French Rococo, and neoclassical styles, showcasing intricate woodwork, hand-painted ceilings, and original period furnishings. Today, the Moss Mansion is a museum that offers guided tours, providing visitors with a glimpse into the opulent lifestyle of one of Billings’ founding families and a deeper understanding of the city’s early history.
Location
Moss Mansion is located at 914 Division Street, Billings, MT 59101, just minutes from downtown Billings.
Ticket Price
General admission is $12 for adults, $10 for seniors, and $8 for students. Children under 5 enter for free.
Nearby Airports
The nearest airport is Billings Logan International Airport (BIL), located about 3 miles from Moss Mansion.
Highways
The mansion is accessible via Interstate 90 (I-90) and Interstate 94 (I-94).
Special Attentions
The mansion offers both self-guided and guided tours. Special events, such as Victorian-themed holiday tours, are held throughout the year. Photography is allowed in some areas, but flash photography is restricted inside the mansion.
2. Western Heritage Center
Landmark Overview
The Western Heritage Center, located in downtown Billings, is a museum that explores the history and culture of the Yellowstone River Valley and the surrounding region. Housed in the historic Parmly Billings Memorial Library building, the center features exhibits that showcase the lives of Native American tribes, early settlers, and pioneers who shaped the area’s history. Artifacts, photographs, and interactive displays cover a wide range of topics, including the impact of the railroad, frontier life, and the diverse cultures that have called the region home. The Western Heritage Center also offers rotating exhibits, educational programs, and walking tours of historic Billings.
Location
The Western Heritage Center is located at 2822 Montana Avenue, Billings, MT 59101.
Ticket Price
Admission is $5 for adults, $3 for seniors and students, and free for children under 12.
Nearby Airports
Billings Logan International Airport (BIL) is about 3 miles from the Western Heritage Center.
Highways
The museum is easily accessible via Interstate 90 (I-90) and U.S. Route 87.
Special Attentions
The Western Heritage Center hosts seasonal walking tours of historic sites in downtown Billings, which are highly recommended for history enthusiasts. Check the museum’s schedule for special exhibits and events during your visit.
3. Pictograph Cave State Park
Landmark Overview
Pictograph Cave State Park is one of the most significant archaeological sites in Montana, located just outside of Billings. The park features three caves—Pictograph, Middle, and Ghost Caves—where prehistoric Native Americans left behind over 100 pictographs, or rock paintings, some dating back more than 2,000 years. The park’s interpretive trails lead visitors to the caves, offering stunning views of the surrounding landscape and providing insights into the lives of the area’s earliest inhabitants. The visitor center features exhibits on the archaeological finds, including tools, weapons, and other artifacts uncovered during excavations. Pictograph Cave State Park offers a unique blend of history and nature, making it a must-visit for anyone interested in Montana’s early human history.
Location
Pictograph Cave State Park is located at 3401 Coburn Road, Billings, MT 59101, about 5 miles southeast of downtown Billings.
Ticket Price
Admission is $6 per vehicle for non-residents. Montana residents can access the park for free with a state parks pass.
Nearby Airports
Billings Logan International Airport (BIL) is located about 8 miles from Pictograph Cave State Park.
Highways
The park is accessible via Interstate 90 (I-90) and Montana Highway 87.
Special Attentions
The trails leading to the caves are relatively short but can be steep in some areas, so visitors should wear appropriate footwear. The pictographs are fragile, so visitors are advised to view them from a distance and avoid touching the rock surfaces. Guided tours are available by reservation, and interpretive signs along the trail provide information about the pictographs.
Natural Landmarks in Billings
Billings is surrounded by breathtaking natural landmarks that showcase the beauty and ruggedness of the Montana landscape. From stunning cliffs to sprawling parks, these natural sites provide ample opportunities for outdoor exploration and recreation.
1. The Rimrocks (The Rims)
Landmark Overview
The Rimrocks, known locally as “The Rims,” are a series of massive sandstone cliffs that overlook the city of Billings, offering panoramic views of the city and the surrounding Yellowstone River Valley. Formed over 80 million years ago, the cliffs are a striking natural feature that dominates the local landscape. The Rims are a popular destination for hiking, rock climbing, and sightseeing, with numerous trails that wind along the edge of the cliffs. Some of the most accessible viewpoints, such as Swords Park and Zimmerman Park, provide visitors with stunning vistas of Billings and beyond. The Rims are also home to a variety of wildlife, including hawks, eagles, and mule deer, making it a great spot for nature enthusiasts and photographers.
Location
The Rims are located along the northern edge of Billings, with access points at Swords Park (Hilands Golf Course Road) and Zimmerman Park (Highway 3).
Ticket Price
There is no admission fee to visit The Rims.
Nearby Airports
Billings Logan International Airport (BIL) is located directly adjacent to The Rims, providing convenient access for visitors.
Highways
The Rims are accessible via Montana Highway 3 and U.S. Route 87.
Special Attentions
The Rimrocks’ trails are relatively easy to navigate but can be steep in certain areas, so appropriate footwear is recommended. The cliffs are steep, and visitors should exercise caution, especially when hiking near the edge. The area is particularly beautiful at sunrise and sunset, offering spectacular lighting for photography.
2. Yellowstone River
Landmark Overview
The Yellowstone River is the longest undammed river in the contiguous United States, and it flows right through Billings, offering a wide range of recreational opportunities for visitors and locals alike. The river’s clear, fast-flowing waters make it an excellent destination for fishing, kayaking, rafting, and wildlife watching. The Yellowstone River is also surrounded by scenic landscapes, including cottonwood forests, rolling hills, and towering cliffs, making it a favorite spot for hiking and picnicking. Several parks and access points along the river, such as Riverfront Park and Norm Schoenthal Island, offer visitors a chance to explore the beauty of the river up close. The river has historical significance as well, having been used by Native Americans, explorers like Lewis and Clark, and early settlers.
Location
The Yellowstone River runs through Billings, with popular access points at Riverfront Park (3001 S Billings Blvd) and Norm Schoenthal Island (Billings, MT 59101).
Ticket Price
There is no fee to access the Yellowstone River at most public parks in Billings.
Nearby Airports
Billings Logan International Airport (BIL) is approximately 4 miles from Riverfront Park.
Highways
The Yellowstone River is accessible via Interstate 90 (I-90) and U.S. Route 87.
Special Attentions
Water levels in the Yellowstone River can fluctuate, especially during the spring melt, so visitors should check conditions before planning water-based activities. Fishing licenses are required for those interested in angling, and proper safety equipment is recommended for boating and rafting.
3. Four Dances Natural Area
Landmark Overview
Four Dances Natural Area is a 765-acre Bureau of Land Management (BLM) property located just outside of Billings. This stunning natural area is perched on a bluff overlooking the Yellowstone River, offering incredible views of the river valley and the surrounding countryside. Named after Chief Four Dances, a Crow Indian leader who is said to have used the area for vision quests, this site is rich in both natural beauty and cultural history. Visitors can explore several miles of hiking trails that wind through grasslands and juniper forests, providing opportunities for birdwatching, photography, and solitude. The natural area is home to a variety of wildlife, including mule deer, red-tailed hawks, and golden eagles. The peaceful setting and expansive views make Four Dances Natural Area a hidden gem for outdoor enthusiasts.
Location
Four Dances Natural Area is located about 3 miles east of downtown Billings, with access from Coburn Road.
Ticket Price
There is no fee to visit Four Dances Natural Area.
Nearby Airports
Billings Logan International Airport (BIL) is located approximately 7 miles from Four Dances Natural Area.
Highways
The natural area is accessible via Interstate 90 (I-90) and U.S. Route 87.
Special Attentions
The trails at Four Dances Natural Area are relatively easy but can be rocky and uneven in places, so sturdy footwear is recommended. The site is known for its spectacular views, particularly at sunrise and sunset, so plan your visit accordingly to capture the best lighting. Visitors should bring water, as there are no facilities on-site.