Attractions and Places To See in Yellowstone County - Top 8
Best attractions and places to see in Yellowstone County, Montana, encompass a diverse range of historical landmarks, cultural sites, and natural features. The region, primarily centered around Billings, offers opportunities to explore the area's past and its natural landscape. Visitors can find historic buildings, museums, and scenic viewpoints. Yellowstone County provides a variety of points of interest for exploration.
Best attractions and places to see in Yellowstone County
- The most popular attractions is Black Otter Trail – Billings Ridgeline,…
Last updated: May 11, 2026
Babcock Theater - Downtown Billings
Highlight • Historical Site
Tip by
Ignatius D. O'Donnell House
Highlight • Historical Site
Tip by
Sign up now to discover places like this
Get recommendations on the best single tracks, peaks, & plenty of other exciting outdoor places.
Sign up for free
Black Otter Trail – Billings Ridgeline
Highlight (Segment) • Trail
Tip by
Moss Mansion Museum - Billings
Highlight • Historical Site
Tip by
Billings Ridgeline - Rimrock Overlook
Highlight • Viewpoint
Tip by
Billings
Highlight • Settlement
Tip by
Zimmerman Trail Viewpoint
Highlight • Viewpoint
Tip by
Billings Mountain View Rimrock Ridgeline Trail
Highlight • Trail
Tip by
Start today with a free account
Your next adventure awaits.
Login or Signup
Tips from the Community
There are many natural paths through Zimmerman Park. Just pick one and you'll find it will loop back eventually. It's a great place to explore.
0
0
Constructed in 1907, the Babcock Theatre is a bold, colorful landmark in the heart of Downtown Billings, MT. What was once a venue for stage shows and boxing matches, the Babcock is now an arthouse and blockbuster movie theater as well as a venue available to rent for live performances, film, weddings, parties and more. The Babcock Theatre has gone through many iterations in its 110+ years. Originally built as the Billings Opera House, a fire in 1906 left Albert Louis Babcock with an opportunity to rebuild the theatre as the largest, most notable venue West of the Mississippi. Visitors would travel hundreds of miles to see stage shows, silent films, and concerts. 2018, the City of Billings purchased the Babcock Theatre and awarded management of the historic landmark to Art House Cinema. Art House has stepped in to create a 7-day-a-week movie palace, offering the Billings film community a bright and positive place to enjoy modern films. The theatre sits 750 and has top-of-the-line speakers and projectors to ensure a powerful moviegoing experience. https://www.babcockbillings.com
1
0
Sweeping Vista point of Billings city below and the wide river valley stretching to the southwest and north-east. From here the Rimrock trail runs along the edge of the escarpment.
0
0
The Rimrock trail runs along the edge of the escarpment with sweeping views of the city and the wide river valley stretching below to the south and east
2
0
The Queen Anne-Style house at 105 Clark Ave, built in 1903, is arguably one of Billings' most picturesque homes. It was originally home to Billings pioneer Ignatius D. O'Donnell until he died in 1948. When Frederick Billings, the president of the Northern Pacific Railroad, helped to established the “town on paper” called Billings in 1882, he soon discovered that while there was coal in the Bull Mountains to the north there was little land worth his salt for agricultural development. only water would make the ground bloom, so the construction of the Big Ditch began. It ran through the Billings family land, known as Hesper Farm. When Billings son Parmly unexpectedly passed away, Billings turned to one of his son’s workers, and friends, I. D. O’Donnell, to make his land valuable and to give life to the town that was named for him. O’Donnell, self taught in the value of land, irrigation engineering, and the possible miracle crop of sugar beets, became the Oracle of Irrigation for not only the Yellowstone Valley but for all of the northern plains. https://montanahistoriclandscape.com/tag/i-d-odonnell
2
0
Nice park for a rest around this historic house museum
0
0
Frequently Asked Questions
What historical landmarks can I explore in Yellowstone County?
Yellowstone County is rich in history. You can visit the historic Babcock Theater - Downtown Billings, originally built in 1907, which now functions as a movie theater and event space. Another significant site is the Moss Mansion Museum - Billings, a turn-of-the-century home listed on the National Register of Historic Places. Don't miss the Ignatius D. O'Donnell House, a picturesque Queen Anne-style home from 1903. Beyond these, the Yellowstone County Museum and the Western Heritage Center offer insights into the region's past, while Pictograph Cave provides a glimpse into ancient life.
Where can I find scenic viewpoints in Yellowstone County?
For breathtaking vistas, head to the Billings Ridgeline - Rimrock Overlook, which offers sweeping views of Billings and the Yellowstone River Valley. The Zimmerman Trail Viewpoint also provides natural paths through Zimmerman Park with various routes to explore. The Black Otter Trail – Billings Ridgeline is another excellent spot, offering panoramic views from the rim above the city.
Are there family-friendly attractions in Yellowstone County?
Yes, several attractions are suitable for families. The Moss Mansion Museum - Billings is a family-friendly historical site offering a glimpse into early 20th-century life. The Billings Ridgeline - Rimrock Overlook is also considered family-friendly, providing accessible views. Exploring the natural paths at Zimmerman Trail Viewpoint can also be a fun outdoor activity for all ages.
What kind of trails are available for cycling in Yellowstone County?
Yellowstone County offers several cycling opportunities. The Black Otter Trail – Billings Ridgeline is an excellent paved dedicated bike trail with panoramic views from above the city, providing a good connection to the airport. For more road cycling options, you can explore routes like the Jim Dutcher Kiwanis Trail loop or the Yellowstone Art Center loop. Find more details on these and other routes in the Road Cycling Routes in Yellowstone County guide.
Are there running trails near the attractions in Yellowstone County?
Yes, there are several running trails available. You can find various running loops starting from locations like Montana State University Billings or Rocky Mountain College. These routes offer moderate difficulty and range in distance. For a comprehensive list and details, refer to the Running Trails in Yellowstone County guide.
Which attractions in Yellowstone County are wheelchair accessible?
The Babcock Theater - Downtown Billings is listed as wheelchair accessible, offering a cultural experience. Additionally, the city of Billings itself has areas that are wheelchair accessible, allowing visitors to explore parts of the urban environment.
What is the best time to visit Yellowstone County attractions?
Yellowstone County's attractions, particularly its historical sites and museums, can be enjoyed year-round. For outdoor activities like exploring trails and viewpoints, late spring through early fall (May to October) generally offers the most pleasant weather for hiking and cycling. However, the scenic views from the rimrocks are beautiful in any season.
What are some lesser-known historical sites in Yellowstone County?
Beyond the more prominent landmarks, Yellowstone County features several other historic sites. These include the Dude Rancher Lodge, a unique historic building in Billings, and various historic districts like the Billings Old Town Historic District, preserving the architectural character of the area. The Old Fire House No. 2 and Boothill Cemetery also offer glimpses into the county's past.
Can I find natural parks or areas for walking in Yellowstone County?
Absolutely. Zimmerman Park, accessible via the Zimmerman Trail Viewpoint, offers natural paths perfect for walking and exploring. The Billings Ridgeline - Rimrock Overlook also features trails along the escarpment, providing opportunities for leisurely strolls with scenic views.
What kind of cultural experiences can I have in Yellowstone County?
Yellowstone County offers a rich cultural experience, primarily centered in Billings. You can visit the Babcock Theater - Downtown Billings for movies or live performances. The Moss Mansion Museum - Billings provides a window into the lifestyle of a prominent early 20th-century family. The Yellowstone County Museum and the Western Heritage Center (formerly Parmly Billings Memorial Library) are excellent places to learn about the region's history and culture, from Native American artifacts to pioneer life.
Are there any trails with intermediate difficulty in Yellowstone County?
Yes, several trails in Yellowstone County are rated as intermediate. The Black Otter Trail – Billings Ridgeline is an intermediate cycle way with great views. The Zimmerman Trail Viewpoint also features intermediate trails within Zimmerman Park. Additionally, the Billings Mountain View Rimrock Ridgeline Trail is another intermediate option for those looking for a moderate challenge.
Get inspired with the komoot mobile app
Didn’t find what you were looking for?
Are you keen on exploring more awesome places nearby? Browse our guides:
Explore more
Still not found the Highlight you’re looking for? See guides of the top attractions in other regions:
