Travel Spotlight on Kalispell and Its 10 Best Attractions

The name Kalispell means "flat land above the lake" and that is an apt description of this charming town. Kalispell is a small city in northwestern Montana that is a perfect family holiday destination. It’s situated in the heart of the Flathead Valley, just a 30-minute drive from a number of scenic natural attractions and retreats including the popular Glacier National Park, Bob Marshall Wilderness area and various national and state parks and forests. Kalispell is an old-fashioned, traditional place, with lots of history that visitors can find out about at a selection of fascinating museums as well as a number of cultural activities, including art fairs, festivals and concerts.

Discover the magic of the Glacier National Park

Offering more than a million acres of spectacular natural scenery, Glacier National Park is home to two mountain ranges, over 130 lakes and hundreds of different animal and plant species. It’s an ideal spot for a camping holiday, or visitors can stay at a choice of historic lodges. Otherwise, explore some 700 miles of hiking trails, relish the magnificent natural beauty, see wildlife in its natural habitat, or go boating and fishing.

Art and inspiration at Hockaday Museum Of Art

In this fascinating museum, visitors will find a variety of displays, including a permanent collection of paintings, photographs, vintage maps and collectibles inspired by the region’s history and the magnificence of Glacier National Park. The museum also offers a series of rotating exhibitions of works by famous and emerging local artists and a special Discovery Gallery where children can enjoy lots of fun activities.

Tee off at Buffalo Hill Golf Club

Nestled in Flathead Valley, this championship golf course is the most popular in the area around Kalispell. The 9-hole course was built in 1918 on land that was once home to wild buffalo, hence its unusual name. Its wide fairways make it an ideal course for all types of players. There is a driving range here, too, and keen golfers can also attend one of the course’s golf clinics.

Enjoy a family feast at Mackenzie River Pizza

This fun, friendly pizzeria is an institution in Montana, with 12 branches all over the state, including one in Kalispell. The "Mackenzie River experience" involves enjoying a feast of distinctive flavors, including unusual pizza toppings like mandarin oranges and toasted pine nuts. Mackenzie River is famous for much more than just unusual pizza; it also offers a range of innovative, creative dishes that have regular customers coming back time and again.

A unique lodging experience at The Kalispell Grand Hotel

Step into another world when you stay at this historic hotel, a landmark in Kalispell that has been welcoming visitors since the Glacier National Park was established in 1912. With its rich wooden interior, comfortable furniture and traditional décor, The Grand offers an old-world experience with all the trimmings. Heartwarming hospitality includes comfortable accommodation and hearty meals, as well as freshly baked cookies and other homemade treats.