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Billings

Billings travel guide

Largest city in Montana, U.S.

Best time to visitSeptember
Nearest airportBIL · 1 mi from centre
Time zoneUTC−6
Population117,116

About Billings

Billings is the most populous city in the U.S. state of Montana, and the 253rd most populous city in the United States. The population was 117,116 at the 2020 census, while the Billings metropolitan area has an estimated 193,000 people. Located in the south-central portion of the state, it is the county seat of Yellowstone County. Billings is the trade and distribution center for much of Montana east of the Continental Divide and has one of the largest trade areas in the United States. It is also the largest retail destination for much of the same area. The Billings Chamber of Commerce claims the area of commerce covers more than 125,000 square miles (320,000 km2).

Places to visit in Billings

  1. Rimrocks

    Viewpoint

    Sandstone cliffs that frame the city to the north, with a scenic drive and trails along the top offering broad views of Billings, the Yellowstone River valley and distant mountain ranges.

  2. Pictograph Cave State Park

    Pictograph Cave State Park

    Historic · 6 mi from centre

    A short paved trail leads to sandstone caves with ancient rock paintings left by prehistoric hunters over thousands of years, along with a visitor center explaining the archaeology of the site.

  3. Pompeys Pillar National Monument

    Pompeys Pillar National Monument

    Historic · 29 mi from centre

    East of the city, this sandstone butte bears William Clark's signature carved in 1806, the only remaining physical evidence of the Lewis and Clark Expedition along their route.

  4. Moss Mansion

    Moss Mansion

    Historic

    A red sandstone mansion preserved with its original furnishings, wallpaper and fixtures, offering guided tours that show the life of a prominent Billings family in the early 20th century.

  5. Yellowstone Art Museum

    Yellowstone Art Museum

    Museum · 1 mi from centre

    A downtown museum showcasing contemporary and historic art of Montana and the northern Rockies, housed partly in the old county jail, with changing exhibitions and a strong regional collection.

  6. ZooMontana

    Zoo · 6 mi from centre

    A zoo focused on animals of the northern latitudes, including grizzly bears, wolves, red pandas and Siberian tigers, set on wooded grounds with a botanical garden and children's area.

Where to stay in Billings

Popular hotels in Billings, out of 51 properties you can book.

See all hotels in Billings

Best time to visit Billings

Based on recent weather records, the most comfortable time to visit Billings is September, when average daytime highs are around 81°F and rain falls on about 3 days a month.

MonthTemperature (°F)Rain days
Jan 18° – 36° 7
Feb 15° – 36° 6
Mar 25° – 48° 10
Apr 33° – 57° 9
May 44° – 68° 12
Jun 53° – 78° 9
Jul 61° – 89° 5
Aug 61° – 88° 3
Sep 54° – 81° 3
Oct 40° – 63° 8
Nov 28° – 47° 5
Dec 22° – 41° 7

Average daily low and high temperatures and days with at least 1 mm of rain, from recent weather records. Highlighted months are the most comfortable for sightseeing.

Billings weather forecast

  • Wed 21 Oct 65° 40° 4%
  • Thu 22 Oct 77° 52° 1%
  • Fri 23 Oct 67° 45° 83%
  • Sat 24 Oct 53° 39° 74%
  • Sun 25 Oct 45° 35° 2%
  • Mon 26 Oct 43° 30° 4%

Know before you go

Currency
United States dollar (USD)
Language
English
Calling code
+1
Driving
On the right
Time zone
America/DenverUTC−6
Capital
Washington, D.C.

Upcoming public holidays in United States

  • Veterans Day
  • Thanksgiving Day
  • Christmas Day
  • New Year's Day
  • Martin Luther King, Jr. Day
  • Presidents DayWashington's Birthday

Banks, offices and some attractions may close on public holidays, and flights and hotels often fill up early around them.

Getting to Billings

These are the airports closest to central Billings. Compare fares into each one, as a slightly longer transfer can sometimes mean a much cheaper flight.

  • BIL Billings Logan International Airport1 mi (2 km) from the city centre
Search flights to Billings

Getting around Billings

Taxis in Billings charge fares based on a pre-set zone arrangement. Uber and Lyft ridesharing services also operate in the city.

Billings travel FAQ

When is the best time to visit Billings?

Based on recent weather records, the most comfortable time to visit Billings is September, when average daytime highs are around 81°F and rain falls on about 3 days a month.

What is the weather like in Billings?

July is usually the warmest month in Billings, with average highs of 89°F (32°C). February is the coolest, with average lows of 15°F (-9°C). The wettest month is typically May, with about 81 mm of rain.

Which airport is closest to Billings?

Billings Logan International Airport (BIL) is the closest airport, about 1 miles (2 km) from the centre of Billings.

What time zone is Billings in?

Billings uses the America/Denver time zone (currently UTC−6). Remember to check for daylight saving changes when planning connecting flights.

How do I get around Billings?

Taxis in Billings charge fares based on a pre-set zone arrangement. Uber and Lyft ridesharing services also operate in the city.

What are the best places to visit in Billings?

Top sights in Billings include Rimrocks, Pictograph Cave State Park, Pompeys Pillar National Monument and Moss Mansion. Sandstone cliffs that frame the city to the north, with a scenic drive and trails along the top offering broad views of Billings, the Yellowstone River valley and distant mountain ranges.

Where should I stay in Billings?

Popular areas for hotels in Billings include Downtown and West End. Well-reviewed options include Home2 Suites By Hilton Billings and Hilton Garden Inn Billings.

How many hotels can I book in Billings?

Destina Holidays currently lists 51 properties in and around Billings, from budget stays to luxury hotels. Search your dates to see live prices and availability.