What to do in Billings, MT?
April 22, 2012 1:49 PM

I'm headed to Billings, MT tomorrow for work, and have a couple of nights free. Where can I go/what can I do, to get away from the special hell of business travel that is hotels and chain restaurants?

I'm posting because I've made this trip before, and short of a very nice and enjoyable run up the rim (that I plan to repeat), I really ended-up doing exactly what I hate to do when I travel for work (i.e. work, hotel, Qdoba, hotel... repeat).

What should I check out? Anything from restaurant/bar recommendations, local quirky sights, or places within an hour's drive are welcome. The only limitations are that I only have two evenings (Monday and Tuesday), and have basically 6p-12 free, so I won't have a ton of daylight.
posted by cosmonaught to Travel & Transportation (6 answers total) 2 users marked this as a favorite
You must, you must, you must go to the Crystal Lounge. Best karaoke in the whole country.
posted by ThePinkSuperhero at 1:54 PM on April 22, 2012


Siam Thai does not have a liquor license, and apparently Montana doesn't allow BYOB, so takeout's in order if you want a beer. (NB: This may have changed in the last year.) But the meal was truly excellent. Enjoy!
posted by cyndigo at 1:59 PM on April 22, 2012


Montana Brewing on N. Broadway will give you a great steak with good local brew.
posted by birdwatcher at 2:14 PM on April 22, 2012


Big Sky and Bridger Bowl are only a few hours away if you're a skier.
posted by no bueno at 8:02 PM on April 22, 2012


Billings guy here!

You already say you'll be running on the rims, which is great. You might want to hit Zimmerman Park, just east of the top of Zimmerman trail. Nice place to stroll or run... Just don't fall off!

As mentioned, Montana Brewing Co. is nice, with a good selection of made-on-premises microbrews and good food. The Crystal Lounge, mentioned by TPS is on the same block, and is popular for karaoke, but I doubt The Pink Superhero will fly in this week. :)

Enzo is a popular restaurant with a smallish menu of very good quality food and wine. Ciao Mambo downtown has great Italian food.

Manny's features an open mic comedy on Monday night. Comedian Skyler Stone (with whom I am not familiar) will be there Tuesday and Wednesday.

More if I think of anything! Enjoy your visit to The Capital of the World.
posted by The Deej at 8:33 PM on April 22, 2012


Thanks everyone! Crystal Lounge sounds especially intriguing-- especially after cringing through their YouTube channel.

I wish I could go skiing, but I only have evenings... Is there even still snow?
posted by cosmonaught at 10:30 AM on April 23, 2012


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