Visitors of all ages and families of all sizes are always welcome in Big Sky, Montana. No need to worry about finding something to do with your little one. Our town is full of plenty of kid-friendly activities. So many that you won't have time to tick them all off your list! No matter their age, your child will have a blast this Summer in Big Sky.

 

We know keeping the younger ones entertained and engaged on vacation can be a fun challenge. Luckily, Big Sky is a natural playground just waiting to be explored, offering endless ways for kids to connect with nature, embrace adventure, and be kids. From splashy river fun to mountain thrills and quiet moments of discovery, your family's biggest challenge will be deciding what to do first!

 

 

Here is our extensive list of things to do with kids in Big Sky, Montana:

 

  • Enjoy Ice Cream from Scoops Ice Cream​. Everyone loves a cold treat on a hot day. With constantly rotating flavors and dairy-free options available, Scoops Ice Cream is a must-visit this summer.  

 

  • Have A Picnic At The Free Summer Concerts - Music In The Mountains. The Arts Council of Big Sky offers a free music series every Thursday night during the summer. Spread out your picnic blanket and enjoy live music while you eat. 

 

  • Enjoy a Day Outside at Camp Big Sky. As a part of BSCO’s youth development program, Camp Big Sky offers diverse and enriching activities every day. A perfect place for your child to make friends and explore the Big Sky area. 

 

  • Explore the Big Sky Farmers Market on Summertime Wednesdays. Every Wednesday you’ll find the town center bustling with vendors. This market is full of Montana artisans, vendors, and businesses, perfect for exploring with your child!

 

  • Go Whitewater Rafting On The Gallatin River. Montana Whitewater offers guided trips with various difficulty levels.. It’s a perfect splashy adventure for families. 

 

  • Hike Into Beehive Basin to Look for Wildflowers. A more intermediate hike is ideal for adventurous families. With the wildflowers, scenic views, and possible wildlife sightings, Beehive Basin is a must-do. Just don’t forget your bear spray! 

 

  • Go Shopping in Town Center. Town Center has plenty of retail stores where you’re sure to find the perfect Montana keepsake. Be sure to visit J.P. Woolies or the Big Sky Resort Store for great souvenirs.  

 

  • See A Waterfall On A Hike To Ousel Falls . A beginner-friendly, 1.6 mile hike that rewards you with stunning views of Ousel Falls and the surrounding forest..

 

 

  • Take A Chairlift Ride at Big Sky Resort. Ride state-of-the-art chairlifts equipped with auto-locking bars and bubbles. They are accessible and offer spectacular views of our resort. 

 

  • Go Horseback Riding. Explore the Custer Gallatin National Forest while living out your Western dream on horseback. With professional guides and gentle horses, it’s one of the most popular summer activities! 

 

  • Rent Bicycles And Ride Around Town. Big Sky is the perfect small town to bike through without fear of heavy traffic! Plus, the resort offers mountain bike lessons throughout our summer season. 

 

  • Roast S’mores while Camping Nearby. Located in the Greater Yellowstone Ecosystem, Big Sky offers great opportunities for camping and outdoor cooking. Many campgrounds also make a great lunch spot!  

 

  • Climb A Boulder/Playground At The Big Sky Community Park. This park is a must-visit with kids! There’s something for climbers, soccer players, and skateboarders alike. Pack a lunch and make a day of it! 

 

  • Mutton Bust at The PBR Rodeo In Big Sky. No Big Sky PBR event would be complete without the annual Mutton Busting competition. Let your child feel like a rodeo pro! 

 

 

  • Learn About History At Crail Ranch. Take a guided tour or explore Big Sky’s first homestead on your own. It’s a wonderful place to learn about the area’s early days or enjoy a picnic nearby.  

 

 

  • Explore Back Country Trails On an ATV. Perfect for the more adventurous families, ATV rentals let you escape the crowds to see even more incredible views in the backcountry. 

 

  • Try Climbing The Walls At BASE Community Center. As the community center of Big Sky, BASE offers activities for all ages! Check out the calendar to see upcoming events, including art classes, climbing wall open hours, and pickup sporting events!

 

  • See A Dinosaur At The Museum Of The Rockies In Bozeman. Did you know that the first dinosaur fossils were found in Montana? Learn about prehistoric creatures, local history, and Indigenous cultures at this renowned museum. 

 

  • Try Fly Fishing On The Gallatin River. The Gallatin is a designated Blue Ribbon fishing river, making it ideal for anglers of all skill levels. Book a guide for a memorable half or full day of fishing!  Or, check out the kids' fly fishing program at 320 Guest Ranch. 

 

  • Get a Milkshake at Blindside Burger. Blindside’s towering milkshakes are hard to beat! With fun names like “Unicorn Toot,” your child won't be disappointed. 

 

  • Get a puzzle at the Rocky Mountain Toy Store. Rainy day? Head to this shop for puzzles, toys, and to rent board games. While you’re there, grab some ice cream at Big Sky Scoops next door. 

 

  • Go Paddle Boarding or Kayaking on Lake Levinsky. Cool off on a hot day with rentals from the lakefront. Whether on a paddle board or a kayak, it’s a great way to enjoy Big Sky’s waters.   

 

  • Visit the Big Sky Public Library. With summer reading programs and a wide selection of books and media, the library is a perfect rainy-day retreat. Check their summer schedule for storytimes and more. 

 

  • Visit the Grizzly and Wolf Discovery Center in West Yellowstone. Didn’t see wildlife in Yellowstone? You will here. This rescue center lets you see resident bears, wolves, and river otters up close.

 

  • Get a Treat at Blue Moon Bakery. A favorite local spot for sweets, pizza, and sandwiches. Enjoy your meal on their sunny deck or take it to go! 

 

  • Play at Big Sky Resort’s Adventure Mountain. Located in the Mountain Village, this area offers activities like panning for gold or jumping on a bungee trampoline– all at the base of Lone Peak. 

 

  • Swim in the Wilson Hotel Pool. There is nothing better than a dip in the pool on a hot summer day. Stop by the Wilson to purchase a daily pool pass and enjoy a splash. 

 

There are so many options in Big Sky–the list feels endless. For any questions or additional ideas, feel free to call the Visitor Center or visit our office located in the Big Sky Town Center. Of course, if you need a little time off, babysitting options are available. 

 

 Make Big Sky, Montana, your family’s vacation destination. No matter your age, you'll never get bored in this playful wonderland.