Best hotels in Billings
Billings Introduction
Billings is named for Frederick H. Billings, President of the Northern Pacific Railroad, which in 1882 kick-started the transformation of this rural corner of Montana into one of the state’s major industrial, commercial, and cultural hubs. The spectacular scenery of the Yellowstone Valley forms the backdrop for this buzzing metropolis’ stylish shopping malls, glittering entertainment complexes, and lively restaurants. With everything from historic mansions to popular microbreweries, and inspiring art museums to a family-friendly zoo, Billings is an ideal base for a stimulating cultural break or a longer stay to explore the stunning natural beauty of nearby Red Lodge Mountain.Hotels in Billings
The city’s popularity as a year-round vacation hot spot ensures that hotels in Billings are geared up to cater for all comers, from cash-strapped students to family groups. Hotels in the city center typically offer value-for-money deals that include thoughtful touches like free breakfasts and unlimited use of on-site leisure facilities. Even cheap hotels in Billings offer guests extras such as free WiFi or time-saving airport shuttles. The spring break and summer vacation periods bring a surge in demand, so book early to snap up the best Billings hotel rates.Where to stay
Billings' compact downtown area ensures that whatever your choice of hotel, you won’t be far from the action. Opt for the authentic down-home ambience of Dude Rancher Lodge, the 4-star elegance of the landmark Northern Hotel, or the well-appointed convenience of Riversage Billings Inn. Head along Interstate 90, which runs along the east of the city, for the best choice of discount hotels in Billings, from trusted national chains like Comfort Suites and Best Western Plus Kelly Inn & Suites. Here, you’ll also be close to Riverfront Park and scenic walking trails along the Yellowstone River, while a short drive brings you to Zoo Montana, one of Billings’ most popular family attractions.Things to see
Put the rich heritage of present-day Billings into context by delving back into its storied past at Pompeys Pillar. This huge rocky outcrop, which towers over the Yellowstone River on the city’s eastern periphery, was first noted in the diary of Captain William Clark in 1806. The pioneering frontiersman’s expedition through the Yellowstone Valley is chronicled in the Pompeys Pillar Interpretive Center. Visit Pictograph Cave State Park to view prehistoric Native American cave paintings and gain a fascinating insight into the lives of Montana’s earliest inhabitants. The caves were first excavated in 1937 and have since revealed many artifacts of great archaeological significance; visitors can follow the paved trails to learn more about the pictographs and the unique geology of this atmospheric site. Complete your heritage journey with a stroll around the city's Bottom Westend Historic District, home to many fine mansions dating from Billings’ railroad heyday.How to get to Billings
Flights from major hubs such as Seattle, Minneapolis, and Denver land at Billings Logan International Airport, offering convenient connections to locations across the U.S. and worldwide. Hop in a cab to make the 2-mile journey into downtown, or check with your hotel to see if it provides a free shuttle for guests. Interstate 90 is the main highway axis running east-west. For a scenic alternative route, travel on the Beartooth Highway, a road that follows a section of U.S. Route 212 through Yellowstone National Park as far as the intersection with I-90, which is located a few miles southwest of Billings.
