Grasshopper Greg

Every year, thousands of value travelers like yourself experience vacations and adventures in Wyoming. As America’s 10th largest state in terms of area, there are incredible things to see in Wyoming. Home to Grand Teton, Devil’s Tower, and much of Yellowstone National Park, there is something for everybody in the state. With so much serene, natural beauty, this may even be the best destination for solo travel experiences. To help you plan out your journey, read on to learn about the complete Wyoming value travel vacation and adventure guide.

Packing For Your Trip

Since you will probably be at different elevations in different national parks, layers are the way to go in your packing. The summers are warm with cool evenings. May and October can be cool while winters are cold with lots of snow and sunshine. Sneakers and light hiking boots are good for all trails, Fleece is handy all year round. A hat and light gloves come in handy. A jacket to break the wind is always good. Khaki’s are for a nicer dinner. Even the most upscale restaurants are used to hiking shorts and boots. Don’t forget the sunscreen, bug spray and no perfumes or scents because of the mosquitos.

Grand Teton National Park

Grand Teton National Park is south of Yellowstone,  is much smaller but is spectacular. Entrance is $ 35/car and is good for seven days. Check the website for free ranger-led hikes and lectures to increase your understanding and enjoyment there. There are four main visitor centers and they are a great place to start.  www.nps.gov

Of course, you can always choose an audio tour to see Grand Teton National Park at your own pace. This $ 13 tour follows you along wherever you go while driving. Through your trip, you will learn information about the park science, history, interesting facts, and hidden gems. The tour will even show you where the majority of the animals can be found roaming freely.  www.gaperguide.com – On another note there is also a free shuttle available at Jackson Lake Lodge and Colter Bay Village to take you into the town of Jackson and also to all of your park activities.

Grand Teton Park Scenic Drive

A good orientation of the park can be the 43 mile leisurely drive. You can begin from Jackson Lake Lodge and head on John D. Rockefeller Jr. Parkway. You will soon see a panoramic view continuing south to Jenny Lake. That is a good spot for a scenic boat ride or a hike. The cruise boat rides are $ 40. Later on make a stop at the Glacier View Turnout and the Snake River Overlook for the spectacular views. Jenny Lake Campground is the best campground in the park.

If you are still in the park later in the day, drive two miles south on the Parkway to the Oxbow Bend Turnout for a stunning sunset experience. June 1 sunset is 8:58 PM  and Sept 1 at 7:57 PM as examples. Oxbow Bend is well worth going earlier in the day as well. It is right on the Snake River and you will get some heavy use out of your camera there. You may even see some moose and trumpeter swans in the area. The Snake River has calm water with class II rapids. You can make reservations at Jackson Lake Lodge for guided rafting trips. Four hours for $ 80 at 307-543-3100 or through www.gtlc.com  Another concession offering similar activities and similar rates is 855-684-3403 or online at Nationalparkreservations.com

Grand Teton Horseback Travel Adventures

If you want to see the park by horseback, make a reservation at Jackson Lake Lodge or Colter Bay Village. One hour rides are $ 50 and two hours are $80. Bring your camera!

Enjoy The Great Outdoors

After all, Wyoming is a great destination choice for your outdoor travel and adventure experience. Want to have some peaceful time away from the roads and other cars? You can rent a two person kayak for two hours for $ 80 or a canoe for two hours for $ 50. You can also order a boxed lunch from the Pioneer Grill or pick up food at the Colter Bay Village Grocery Store and enjoy it on the water. Activities in the park can be booked at 855-684-3403 or online at nationalparkreservations.com. Another service offers similar activities and rates at 307-543-3100 or through www.gtlc.com   

Wildlife Travel Experiences

A great option for exploration of wildlife at sunrise or sunset is with Ecotour Adventures. They take you out for four hours and costs $ 140. You have a choice of a sunrise trip from 6-10 AM or sunset adventure 5:30-9:30 PM  www.jhecotouradventures.com

When you are done with the beauty of the national parks head out to Lander, Wyoming and drive through the Wind River Indian Reservation. It is home to the Arapaho and Shonshone tribes and they kept the land in a peace treaty with the U.S. Government in 1864.

Start your journey at the Wind River Wild Horse Sanctuary. Here, you can see incredible wild horses up close. On your visit, be sure to stop at the Double D Ranch, where over 200 horses roam. If you want to go on a tour, you can ride in an open air vehicle to learn about the role horses have played in Native American culture, as well as the rest of the West.

At the visitor center, you can see exhibits on the history of horses in this part of the country and how they shaped Native American cultures. Wild horse tours are $35 per adult, $15 for kids ages 13-18 and free for kids 12 and under. www.windriverwildhorses.com

Native American Travel Destinations

Of course, there are several Native American travel destinations to experience in Wyoming. Some of the important stops on your drive include the grave and statue of Chief Washakie of the Shoshone tribe and the monument to Sacajawea, who was the Indian guide for the Lewis and Clark expedition. It is 14 miles from Lander. There is also the Eastern Shoshone Cultural Center where you will see examples of their traditional arts and crafts and historical photos. Last stop can be the Wind River Casino where you can see the Northern Arapaho Museum. For more info and other points of interest call 800-645-6233 or go to www.windriver.org

Dubois Wyoming Tourism Destinations

A great area of Wyoming to explore is Dubois. In the winter you will find one of the world’s largest herds of Rocky Mountain Bighorn Sheep at the National Bighorn Sheep Center. They offer a three hour guided wildlife tour from November through March. This is the time of year that they come down from higher elevations and become much easier to see. It is $100 per person and you call 307-455-3429 for the reservation. They also have a map so you can do a free self guided tour. www.bighorn.org

Cody Wyoming Travel Attractions

The city of Cody is worth a visit especially since it is not far from Yellowstone. Start your orientation with a downtown walking tour of historic Cody. There are two morning walks each day at 7 and 10 AM and it costs $ 35 adults. Call 307-899-0815 or go to www.yerguides.com

Western Cowboy Experience

This also is the place to get that western/cowboy atmosphere. Have a western-style dinner, see the show and head to the rodeo all in one location. $ 53 for all three ages 13 and older. $ 34 without the rodeo. www.thecodycattlecompany.com

Another evening option for another night is the Cody Nite Rodeo. $ 23 ages 13 and older. 8 PM start time. www.codystampederodeo.com

If you are looking for some cowboy cuisine in Cody, try the Proud Cut Saloon. Great western atmosphere and plenty of burger and steak options. If you have never tried Bison, order the Bison Burger. Delicious.  www.proudcutsaloon.com

Right in front of the historic Irma Hotel, watch the authentic gunfighters show. This represents the days when lawlessness was the norm, and gunfights were common. It shows the Wild West at its most dangerous and vibrant. It is free every night at 6 PM June thru September

Tourist Lodging Options

A small, reasonable place to stay in town is the Salsbury Avenue Inn B&B. It is a couple of blocks from downtown. $ 110/night includes full breakfast. www.salsburyinncody.com

Another in Cody is the Robin’s Nest. It is in a quiet neighborhood walking distance to all the Cody main attractions. Full breakfast included. $ 165/night www.book-it-now.com

If you want more of a guest ranch experience, look at Absaroka Mountain Lodge. It is west of Cody on the way to Yellowstone. They have cabins as low as $ 155/night and have horseback riding ( $ 60) and fishing on premises. The owners are also the cooks for breakfast and dinner. The menu is reasonably priced and varied. www.absarokamtnlodge.com

Outdoor Water Recreation Activities

Water activities are available like world-class fly fishing throughout Wyoming.

If you’re looking for a classic Western fly-fishing spot where you may not see another person, the Wyoming section of the Green River is an excellent choice.  If you’ve never heard of fly fishing before, you’ll likely have seen a picture of the Wyoming section of the Snake River. Its scenic path through the valley of Jackson Hole will keep your camera busy.

Get in the fly fishing mood beforehand by watching the movie “A River Runs Through It”.

This is also a good spot for whitewater rafting, class III rapids. The eight mile Snake River trip is June-Sept for $ 87 age 13 and older.The 14 mile scenic float on the river is $ 80. Meet in the town of Jackson. www.barker-ewing.com

You have another option if you just want to relax on the Snake River, catch the 10 mile scenic float trip from Solitude for $ 80 age 16 and up. www.grand-teton-scenic-floats.com

Winter In Wyoming

Of course, outside of the warm Summer months, there is still plenty to experience in Wyoming. From cross-country skiing, dog sledding, snowboarding, or snowmobiling, there is plenty to experience in Wyoming. You can even try your hand at ice fishing, climbing, and skating. Visiting in the Winter months, you can see the National Parks and their Hot Springs like never before. Simultaneously, you can see much of Wyoming’s incredible wildlife when they come down from higher elevations like the Rocky Mountain Bighorn Sheep, which thrives throughout the Winter.

Learn About The Local History

While on your trip, be sure to spend some time learning about Wyoming’s history. There are plenty of destinations to immerse yourself in Wyoming’s history. If you are a fan of museums, there are several Old West, cultural, and paleontology centers to visit. Simultaneously, you may want to check out some of Wyoming’s historical sites. For example, Camp Douglas which was a WWII camp for Italian and German POW’s, and Connor Battlefield where the U.S government attacked the Indians in 1865, are additional stops to add to your itinerary. Moreover, be sure to check out Fort Bridger which was a supply stop along the Oregon Trail. There are restored historical buildings from the military time period, a reconstructed trading post, and a museum containing artifacts from the different historical time periods is housed in the 1888 stone barracks building.

Fort Fetterman reached its pinnacle of importance in the mid 1870’s when it became the jumping-off place for major military expeditions. It was the base for the three of General George Cook’s Powder River Expeditions and Colonel Ronald Mackenzie’s campaign against Dull Knife and the Cheyenne Indians. Unfortunately these events contributed to the end of the resistance by the Plains Indians.

Fort Fred Steele was established in 1868, and occupied until 1886, by soldiers who were sent by the U.S. Government to guard the railroad against attack from Indians.

 

Eat Some Iconic Food

Before you leave the Cowboy State, be sure to eat some iconic Wyoming foods. There are plenty of world-recognized dishes to try on your visit. First, try some chicken fried steak, Rocky Mountain oysters, elk, and bison burgers. Bison is leaner then beef. Less calories, less saturated fat and more protein. Additionally, you may want to order some chokecherry preserves, rack of lamb, or trout. Of course, many local Wyomingites will insist that you additionally try some white chili and jerky before you leave. Certainly, you need to eat some iconic Wyoming dishes before you conclude your value travel vacation.

Local Art Scene & Galleries

For fans of fine art, there are several attractions and galleries to experience Wyoming’s rich art scene. Wyoming galleries combine Western-themed collections of paintings, clothing, sculptures, and other types of craftmanship. If you are interested in these experiences, be sure to check out the Whitney Western Art Museum and Buffalo Bill Center of the West in Cody. Other popular galleries include the National Museum of Wildlife Art in Jackson Hole and the Brinton Museum in Big Horn. Certainly, there are several destinations to experience Wyoming western art on your vacation.

National Parks & Monuments

While we have previously discussed Grand Teton and Yellowstone National Park, there are plenty of other incredible locations to experience in Wyoming. There is the popular Devil’s Tower, which serves as the nation’s very first national monument, is a sacred spot for Indians, and used for rock climbing. Here, you can catch ranger-led guided walks, talks and evening programs. Some more popular outdoor Wyoming tourist attractions include Bighorn Canyon in Lovell which is 47 miles from Cody.

Fort Laramie became the principal military outpost on the Northern Plains and also became the primary hub for transportation and communication through the Rocky Mountain region as emigrant trails, stage lines, the Pony Express, and the transcontinental telegraph all passed through the post. Fort Laramie played an important role hosting  treaty negotiations with the Indian Nations, like the Horse Creek Treaty of 1851 and the still controversial and Treaty of 1868.

Surely, there are several incredible national parks and monuments to experience on your Wyoming travel journey. If you are stressing about travel plans, be sure to check out our recent guide on how to safely vacation this year.

Wyoming Travel Festivals

Of course, these are plenty of exciting festivals to experience on your trip to Wyoming. Summer in Wyoming is filled with a slew of Western-themed festivals, celebrations, and gatherings. One of the most famous is the Laramie Jubilee Days, which commemorates Wyoming’s Statehood. At this festival, you can expect to witness nine-full-days of rodeos, black barrel races, brewfests, and bull riding competitions. If you are a fan of Bluegrass music, you would additionally love the Grand Targhee Bluegrass Festival, which offers incredible music mixed with spectacular mountain scenery. Even more, be sure to read out guide on the best local live Kentucky Bluegrass music entertainment venues for your Lexington trip.

Important Wyoming Travel Tips

Don’t try to see everything in the state on one trip. There is just too much ground to cover and you probably don’t want to spend your trip in the car. Select what are the most important activities and locations to you and just soak it in. Don’t just look to check it off your list and move on. Enjoy slow travel and see more of less.

The peak travel season is fairly short for some outdoor activities which can mean June-September. Same goes for operating hours for accommodations and tour activities. Pricing is much more attractive in shoulder season and off season and can jump dramatically in the short summer season. The pricing for accommodations listed above reflect early in June. Rates can be higher in the summer and lower in the shoulder season. Fall and Spring have beautiful weather and will give you the best value. Winter comes early and lasts long. If you don’t like crowds and paying top dollar, avoid July and August.

When planning your trip to Wyoming here are some very good websites for updates on activities, hours of operation, and special events. Similarly, you may have to pay close attention to COVID-19 travel advisory information. Most Indian Reservations have festivals and celebrations that are well worth going to if the timing is right with your dates. It is a good idea to download Travelstorys.com to your mobile phone for no cost. There are audioguides to many locations in Wyoming.  Wind River Indian Reservation, Jackson Hole, Grand Teton, and downtown Cody to name a few. They will tell you the history and the stories behind what you are looking at as you are driving through so you have a full appreciation of what you are seeing.

www.travelwyoming.com

www.wyoroad.info

www.nps.gov

www.wyomingdra.com

 

 

There are so many exciting historical and cultural adventures to experience in Montana. The state’s natural beauty leaves tourists from across the globe in awe every year. However, there are several historic destinations to experience Montana’s heritage. From the best museums, festivals, and cultural experiences, Montana continues to draw scores of travelers from all over the world. As the fourth largest state in United States, there are a plethora of things to see, do, and experience during your visit. To help you map out your trip, we have outlined the top places, destinations, and hubs to help you build your itinerary. Of course we give you the best of a good mix of indoor and outdoor activities. Read on to learn about the perfect Montana history and heritage vacation itinerary.

Montanan Dining

If you are looking for some dining options in Billings, Ten, inside the Northern Hotel, has burgers and steak nachos on their lounge menu. Live music on Fri and Sat evenings. Dinner menu is very pricey. Head to the 1 ½ mile long Billings Brew Trail. You can visit six breweries, two distilleries and one cider house. Info at visitbillings.com

Have breakfast with the locals at the downtown Billings Stella’s. It has been around for 40 years and they are known for their cinnamon rolls and bakery.

If you are continuing to the Southeast direction in the state, another great stop for a meal is the Black Iron Grill that works very closely with local ranchers for their meat. Milescityrestaurant.com

Grab dinner at the Land of Magic Steakhouse in Manhattan, Montana. It is 20 minutes to the city of Bozeman from there. Dinner is very pricey so look at the “on the lighter side” menu they have. Steaks and burgers reasonably priced.

If you are have food allergies or dietary restrictions, there are still plenty of ways to enjoy Montana’s best dishes and restaurants. To help you find out how, be sure to read our guide on how to plan a trip around food allergies and still eat well.

Montana Museums

If you have inclement weather and want to head indoors you can visit the Yellowstone Art Museum in Billings. It has an extensive collection of contemporary art, specifically of the Rocky Mountains and Northern Plains regions. $ 15 ages 18 and older. artmuseum.org

To see what events and entertainment are scheduled in Billings for the days you are looking to be there, look at Billings365.com

Museum of the Rockies in Bozeman is a great choice if you have a bad weather day. It covers the regional history including Indian history and dinosaurs to name a few. You will also see a complete T-Rex skeleton. There is also a 30 minute planetarium show and a docent-led tour included in admission. $ 14.50 ages 18 and older. Museumoftherockies.org

If you like to see the top museums whenever you go on vacation, be sure to check out our guide on the best Santa Fe  museums and tours you need to experience.

Capital City Attractions

Of course, there are dozens of incredible attractions in Montana’s capital city of Helena. Start your visit off by checking out the Montana State Capitol building, located right at 130 East Sixth Avenue. Next, head over to the Holter Museum of Art to see some contemporary art from local Northwestern and national artists. Other popular attractions include ExplorationWorks which has hands-on exhibits and programs for kids and families. The Helena Historic District and the Montana Military Museum are other options for history lovers. If you have the time, you may even want to check out the Original Governor’s Mansion, the Cathedral of Saint Helena, and Kindrick Field to see some baseball.

Miles City & The Bucking Horse Sale

Another worthwhile museum is the Waterworks Art Museum which is next to the Yellowstone River in Miles City. $5 admission. Wtrworks.org

If you can be in Miles City for the third weekend in May, you can spend time with all the cowboys and cowgirls from Montana at the Bucking Horse Sale.

This four-day event incorporates a mix of horse races, bronc rides, grand rodeo entries, and bull riding. Even better, there is country music, evening dancing, and a strict ‘boots-and-denim’ dress code. Learn more at buckinghorsesale.com

Experience Native American History, Culture, & Heritage

When you are in Billings, pay a visit to the Native Ways Primitive Campground in order to learn about native American life. Here, you can experience an overnight or two  in a Sioux or Crow Indian tipi. As soon as you arrive in the parking lot, you will hike to your tipi camping site, where you will have a picnic table, lantern, and sink. When you make your reservation, ask them to set up all bedding so you don’t have to bring a sleeping bag. Then, you can enjoy a nightly campfire to enjoy some time in the outdoors. The popular attraction is open from March to November. To learn more, contact nwpcmt@gmail.com

If you are looking to explore the Native American experience Montana is the right place. Visit the Little Bighorn Battlefield National Monument in Crow Agency which is just south of Billings. It is where the Sioux and Cheyenne defeated the U.S. Army 7th Cavalry and General George Armstrong Custer. You can take the audio cell phone tour (406-214-3148) and stop along the 4 ½ miles and soak in what took place here. You can also see the hill where Custer had his” last stand”. You also might be able to catch a ranger-led talk about the battle. Entrance fee of $ 25 per car but there are six days each year where there is no charge. Start in the visitors center and watch the 25 minute movie for your orientation. www.nps.gov or call 406-638-3216

To see the many options for Native American tourism in Montana, go to visitmt.com/guidebook and download the Indian Country guide. There are celebrations, pow-wows and events throughout the year. See if any of those dates match up while you are there.

Native American Reservation Camping

Native-led Apsaalooke Tours will take you around for one hour and give you their interpretation on the events that took place on the Little Bighorn Battlefield. $ 15 age 13 and older. Call 406-679-2790 for more information.

Stay overnight and try glamping at Apsaalooke Glamping. Pricing starts at $ 120/night in a tipi. Call 406-623-0453 for availability.

Another option there you have is visiting the Lodgepole Gallery & Tipi Village. Catch a ½ day tour from Blackfeet artist Darrell Norman who discusses history and customs. He will travel with you in your car. $150 1-4 people. You can also stay there overnight in a tipi for $ 120 for two people. That includes a sleeping bag and blanket. A traditional Blackfeet dinner is also available for purchase. www.blackfeetculturecamp.com

Every August, Crow Agency becomes the Tepee Capital of the World when it hosts the largest American Indian encampment in the nation, and the largest gathering of the year for the Apsaalooke Nation. It is 60 miles south of Billings.

Lewis & Clark History

25 miles East of Billings you can catch some Lewis and Clark history. At Pompeys Pillar National Monument, which overlooks the Yellowstone River, you will see Captain William Clark’s signature from July 1806. You will also see etchings and drawings from settlers, traders and indians that have passed through this heavily traveled area. $ 7/vehicle. blm.gov

Entertainment In Bozeman Montana

To see events and entertainment scheduled in Bozeman for the dates you are there check out bozone.com and downtownbozeman.org

A great place to stay outside of Bozeman is the Howlers Inn B&B. You get a wonderful view of the Absaroka Mountains and overlook where the wolves play in their sanctuary right outside your door. Queen bed $ 170/night including breakfast.

Bozeman has the busiest airport in Montana and probably where you will fly into. It is 50 miles to Big Sky and 89 to Yellowstone Park.

Big Sky is a mountain town and is a gateway for Yellowstone National Park which is one hour away. The town is an excellent destination for solo travel journeys, or even family vacations. Big Sky is made up of a mountain, a canyon, and a meadow. The area is all about outdoor adventure. Skiing, fly fishing, floating(class I) and whitewater rafting on the lower(class III-IV) and upper Gallatin River( upper class II-III), hiking and mountain biking are all on the menu. The town arranges different hikes on Wed mornings in the summer. Most are 2-3 hours. bscomt.org

If you want a classic Montana menu, eat at The Corral in Gardiner. It is also attached to a motel that is centrally located and starts at $ 120/ night for two people with two queen beds. Corralbar.com

Great Falls Montana & Beyond

Heading to the Great Falls area and beyond, there is plenty to choose from. On a day you want to stay indoors, stop for a few hours at the small and impressive C.M. Russell Museum. Russell was an internationally known western artist who lived in Montana his entire life. $14 adults. cmrussell.org

13 miles south of Great Falls in Ulm go see the history of the Buffalo Jump at the First Peoples Buffalo Jump State Park. Learn about how herds of Bison were driven off of cliffs for thousands of years. They were used for their meat, and to make tools and clothing. Stateparks.mt.gov

Preparing For Montana Weather

Before you book your trip, it is important to prepare yourself for Montana weather. Staying prepared is fundamental to avoid common travel mishaps when visiting Big Sky Country. Since you will probably be at different elevations in different national parks and towns, layers are the way to go in your packing. During the summers, you can expert warm days and cool evenings. However, the winters tend to bring lots of sunshine and snow. To stay prepared, always travel with a light fleece, hat, and gloves. When you are planning activities outside, you should additionally be prepared with boots. This way, you can easily navigate whatever terrain is in front of you.

Missoula, Montana Historic Travel Adventures

Of course, there are plenty of exciting history and heritage tourism attractions in Missoula, Montana. Missoula is located right at the convergence of five mountain ranges, and is therefore often referred to as the “hub of five valleys.” Within this city of approximately 70,000, there are plenty of exciting destinations to experience. If you are an avid history lover, be sure to stop by the Old Montana Prison, as well as the abandoned Garnet Ghost Town. In addition, be sure to visit incredible museums such as the Fort Missoula Museum, Missoula Art Museum, or Children’s Museum of Missoula. In fact, you may even want to check out the Boone & Crockett Club, which was founded by President Theodore Roosevelt in the late 1800’s. If you often like to experience history while you travel, be sure to check out our guide to West Virginia historical tours as well.

Surrounded by Glacier National Park to the north and Yellowstone National Park to the south, Montana is a truly breathtaking place. This is the perfect vacation for travelers concerned with being indoors too much in this COVID environment. With so much incredible, pristine scenery to see, Montana is even an excellent destination for solo travel experiences.

Don’t try to see the whole state. There is just too much ground to cover and you probably don’t want to spend your trip driving in the car. Select what locations and activities are most important to you and soak it in.

Peak Travel Season In Montana

The peak travel season is fairly short for some outdoor activities which can mean June-September. Same goes for operating hours for accommodations, park services and tour activities. Pricing is much more attractive in shoulder season and off season. Fall and Spring have beautiful weather and will give you the best value. Expect higher pricing in the summer months.

Glacier National Park

At Glacier National Park you can see glaciers, go hiking, lakes, mountains, wildlife and waterfalls. Entrance fee of $ 35 per car and it is good for seven days. There are also six days per year that are free so look at those dates on the website. A good overall drive is the scenic Going-To-The-Sun Road. It will take a couple of hours to do the 50 miles. Please check the website for the schedule on free ranger-led hikes and lectures. www.nps.gov There are boat rides and entertainment like the Blackfeet tribe singers and dancers daily. If you want to go horseback riding in East Glacier Park, Elk River Adventures offers 1 hour for $50 and 1 ½ hours for $60. May thru Sept. Elkriveradventures.com

If you plan on sleeping overnight and want to stay in the park, go to glacierparkcollection.com for options and availability.

Yellowstone National Park

As you plan your time in Yellowstone try to allow a couple of days there. One option is to first install the TravelStorys app for free, and buy the individual tours from the app. It is $ 12.99 for South Yellowstone and $ 12.99 for North Yellowstone. For more info go to gaperguide.com

The main attractions in the park are the geothermal features and the abundant wildlife like bighorn sheep, bison, wolves and bears. Start with www.nps.gov/yell and it will tell you which activities are going on while you are there. Ranger-led programs are a great way to learn about the park and schedule them into your day. They offer hikes and lectures to enhance your enjoyment of the park. For your options on accommodations and activities go to www.yellowstonenationalparklodges.com

If you want a good orientation of the park and see some of the major sights along the Grand Loop, the tour will take most of the day and costs $ 127 ages 12 and older, half of that for 11 and younger.

Right next to the West Yellowstone entrance you can catch the impressive 40 minute IMAX movie about Yellowstone $ 9.75 Down the road from there get your Grizzly Bear and Wolves fix at the Discovery Center where they take care of the injured or orphaned ones. $ 15

If you are looking for some rodeo action, you will find that in the evenings 6 ½ miles from West Yellowstone. Even better, do a one hour horseback ride before the rodeo for $ 50 (includes the rodeo ticket). The rodeo alone is $ 15 adults. 6:30 horseback with a 8 PM rodeo start. www.yellowstonerodeo.com

For some good value accommodation choices right outside the North entrance of the park, check out these three. All include breakfast and all are around the same rate per night at $ 135. Gardiner Guest House, Yellowstone Suites and Johnstads B & B. More info on all three at visitgardnermt.com

If you want to see more of Yellowstone on your next trip, be sure to read out Wyoming value travel vacation guide as well.

Old Faithful & Famous Yellowstone Geysers

Of course the star of the show is Old Faithful geyser. The best way to see it is to drive 30 miles from entering the West Yellowstone entrance. It is located in the Upper Geyser Basin and it erupts 15-20 times per day. It can last from 1 ½ to five minutes long. There is even a phone number you can call with the expected times for the day. Of course that is a best-guess prediction (307-344-2751).

One very photogenic geyser is the Grand Prismatic Spring located at the Midway Geyser Basin. It is the largest geyser in Yellowstone.

Important Considerations For Visiting Yellowstone

Bring bear spray for the park. You just never know when you will come across one. Realize this is not a zoo and they roam free. It can be purchased or rented at many different locations around and outside the park. Remember to keep it very handy. Having it in your bag will not help you much. You only use it if a bear comes within 25 feet of you. With this on your person at all time, you can avoid common travel mishaps on your visit to the National Park.

You have some great choices for lunch inside the park. Lake Yellowstone Hotel Dining Room sits on the lake and the Old Faithful Inn Dining Room has a great western ambiance. Both menus are fantastic. Go for breakfast or lunch. Dinner gets pricey.

Outdoor Montana Dining

If you want some fantastic Montana atmosphere and you have time on your hands to enjoy a slower meal, head for breakfast or lunch at Horn and Cantle in Big Sky at Lone Mountain Ranch. Great menu but pricey for dinner.

If you are looking for a nice evening outdoors, go to Music Ranch Montana. It is a hillside amphitheatre where you can listen to some great local music with wonderful scenery. Nine miles South of Livingston. Check the website for schedules. www.musicranchmontana.net

23 miles south of Livingston, head to some Hot Springs. Chico Hot Springs Resort offers two hot springs pools and has a fantastic menu of Montana cuisine at their restaurant. Cost of the Hot Springs is $ 8.50 per person. www.chicohotsprings.com

Remember that many of these restaurants prepare dishes with meat, fish, poultry, and peanut products. Therefore, you may want to plan ahead if you are vegan, gluten-free, or have severe food allergies. This way, you can plan your trip around food allergies and still eat well.

Fly Fishing In Montana

There are many rivers to fly fish in Montana. The Flathead, Madison, Gallatin, Blackfoot and Missouri are some of them. If you catch a trout that is 20 inches and over they are considered to be a trophy size. In Montana, it is safe to say, if you find a body of water you will find trout. You can take a three hour lesson on the Gallatin from Montana Whitewater for $ 66 plus the small expense of the Montana Fishing License. Yellowstone Park is nearby. Yellowstonefish.com Get in the mood beforehand by watching the movie “A River Runs Through It”.

Montana Dinosaurs & Fossil Digging

Montana is also where the dinosaur used to roam. Take the family and you can dig for dinosaur fossils. The experienced guides will show you what to look for, how to excavate, and they will supply all the tools and supplies necessary. Found in the past have included Pachycephalosaurs, Champsosaurus, Pachycephalosaurs, Triceratops and Tyrannosaurus Rex. ½ day $80 but ages 12 and under are free. Baisch’s Dinosaur Digs is located in Glendive. Dailydinosaurdigs.com

If you want to dig a lot deeper into the history of dinosaurs in Montana, go to mtdinotrail.org- There are 14 stops in the state where you can see exhibits, attend programs, or field digs.

Montana Winter Sports

Of course, Montana is home to an abundance of world-famous popular winter sports. One of the most famous destinations for winter sports lovers is the ski resort Big Sky Montana, located about an hour away from Bozeman. With approximately 400 inches of snow a year and over 5,500 acres of skiable land, Big Sky is an incredible stop for skiing and snowboarding enthusiasts. If these activities are not for you, Montana also has an abundance of destinations for dog sledding, snowshoeing, ice fishing, climbing, or even skijoring. If you are a huge fan of winter sports while you travel, be sure to read our latest all-season Jackson Hole Wyoming travel and recreation guide.

Water Activities In Montana

After you have had your share of the mountains and the snow, there are also a plethora of water activities to experience on your Montana outdoor travel adventure itinerary. For fans of paddling, kayaking, or canoeing, head over to the 3 1/2 mile Clearwater River Canoe Trail in Seeley Lake, Upper Missouri River Breaks, and the 59 mile Smith River State Park at Camp Baker. However, you should pay a visit to freshwater Flathead Lake if you like to go boating, tubing, or waterskiing. For the southern half of the lake you will need a tribal recreational permit before you are on Native American land. For fans of extreme water sports, Montana also offers an abundance of opportunities for surfing, wakeboarding, and jet-propelled flyboarding.

Montana Hiking Destinations

Of course, there are plenty of incredible hiking destinations to visit on your trip to Montana. In Great Falls, one of the most popular hiking trails is the River’s Edge Trail, which extends over fifty miles along the Missouri River. If you are in Big Sky, be sure to check out the Ousel Falls Trail. Similarly, the Rattlesnake National Recreation Area is an excellent outdoor experience to check out in Missoula. For fans of hiking, biking, and running, Swan River Nature Trail is another excellent option right in Bigfork, Montana. If you like to experience exciting recreational activities whenever you travel, be sure to read our West Virginia outdoor travel guide for adventure seekers.

There are dozens of incredible Native American experience vacation ideas to get the most out of your cultural travel. Whether you are listening to Native stories, taking in the energy at a powwow, exchanging with Native peoples, or taking a ride through the mountain or desert, there is so much to learn about the culture of American Indians through travel experiences. As you likely know, travel experiences provide a much more visceral understanding of culture, history, and heritage, compared to traditional sightseeing.

If you are looking to learn more about the culture of Native men, women, and children, the United States is home to hundreds of incredibly rich cultural attractions to visit. By getting prepared beforehand, you can avoid common travel mishaps during your vacation. To help you plan your itinerary, we have outlined some of the best Native American experience vacation ideas for cultural travel.

Fairs & Festivals

If you are in search of creative Native American experience vacation ideas, consider attending a fair or festivals. There are numerous annual celebrations that you can attend all throughout the country. One of the most popular, the Navajo Nation Fair, is held every year at Window Rock, Arizona. Throughout this week long event, you will experience a parade, traditional singing, dancing, and a science fair. Of course, one of the most famous events is the Miss Navajo Nation pageant, which uniquely features sheep butchering as one of its core competitions.

Music & Live Shows

Live shows, dance, DJs, and music are another excellent way to experience Native American cultural travel. There are dozens of famous American Indian musicians located all across the country. Some of the most famous are Sihasin, Pamua, Arigon Starr, Raye Zaragoza, Prolific the Rapper, and A Tribe Called Red. If you get the opportunity, you should certainly attend one of A Tribe Called Red’s live performances. This unique trio of DJs is famous for their blend of hip hop, electronic dance music, and powwow singing. Recently, the Native group has even played major music festivals like New Orleans Jazz Fest, Coachella, and Bonnaroo. If you want to experience some more exciting, yet educational destinations in the United States, there are plenty of additional options to consider. Be sure to check out our Black history entertainment travel guide to learn more.

Indian Markets

Native Indian Markets are an excellent way to learn about the culture, traditions, and beliefs of American Indians through travel. These famous markets provide an excellent opportunity to experience Native American heritage through music, fashion, film, and literature. While there are hundreds of markets throughout the United States, none are as popular as the annual Santa Fe Indian Market. Here, you can additionally browse through a vast selection of authentic American Indian jewelry, crafts, and artwork. From pottery, carvings, turquoise jewelry, and baskets, there is something for everybody at an authentic Indian Market.

Tribal Museums

Tribal museums are an excellent way to learn about the culture and history of the indigenous people of the Americas. Throughout the United States, there are many popular, educational museums to visit. None are likely as popular as the National Museum of The American Indian, in Washington D.C and New York City. Of course, you should also pay a visit to the Cherokee Heritage Center in Oklahoma , Ah-Tah-Thi-Ki Museum in Florida, Five Civilized Tribes Museum in Oklahoma, and the Six Nations Indian Museum in upstate NY. If you are still looking to learn more, you may even want to visit:

• Spiro Mounds Archaeological Center, Oklahoma
• Southern Plains Indian Museum, Oklahoma
• Mashantucket Pequot Museum & Research Center, Connecticut
• Chicksaw Cultural Center, Oklahoma
• Museum of the Plains Indian, Montana

Often, you can enter many of these museums entirely for free. This way, you can learn more about Native American history, culture, and heritage, while simultaneously keeping up with your value travel ambitions.

Powwows

Of course, traditional powwows are one of the most popular ways to experience Native American travel. With over 550 federally recognized Indian Nations in the United States, there are dozens and dozens of powwows that visitors can attend. One of the most popular, and by far the largest powwow held every year is the Gathering of Nations in New Mexico.  Every year, the multi-day event highlights traditional song, dance, and drumming competitions. In fact, the annual gathering routinely turns out over three-thousand performers. To learn more about upcoming dates and locations, you can visit powwows.com. If you like to experience authentic music whenever you travel, take the time to read our recent guide on the best local live Kentucky Bluegrass music entertainment venues for your Lexington trip.

National Parks

Of course, there are plenty of incredibly Native American vacation experiences that can be had at National Parks. There are plenty of world-famous Native American parks and heritage sites to explore this year. One of the most famous is Mesa Verde National Park, located in Colorado. Here, visitors can experience roughly five-thousand archaeological sites, of which six-hundred are incredible cliff dwellings. Other renowned parks include the Lodgepole Gallery & Tipi Village located in Browning Montana. If you are visiting here, be sure to read our Montana outdoor travel adventure guide to get the most out of your trip.

There are several incredible Native American experience vacation ideas for cultural travel. With centuries of history, culture, and heritage, Native American reservations are an excellent place to experience slow travel vacations. First, consider attending a fair or festival. Live shows, dance, DJs, and music are another excellent way to experience Native American cultural travel. Native Indian Markets are an excellent way to learn about the culture, traditions, and beliefs. At the same time, you should visit some tribal museums, such as the National Museum of The American Indian, in Washington D.C. Of course, traditional powwows are one of the most popular ways to experience Native American travel. Follow the points discussed above to learn about the best Native American experience vacation ideas for cultural travel.

There are several incredible Native American travel destinations to learn about heritage, culture, and history in the United States. The culture of American Indians continues to thrive through museums, film festivals, art galleries, modern powwows, and restaurants. Whatever experience you prefer, exchanges with Native people provide a unique understand of traditions, history, and heritage that is unavailable through textbooks. With more travelers looking to explore new things, Native American travel journeys are an excellent choice for your upcoming family vacation. Fortunately, there are amazing Native heritage attractions all across the United States. To learn more about the culture of the over 5 million indigenous people living in the country today, you need to get out and explore the top American Indian travel destinations. Read on to learn about some of the top Native American travel destinations to learn heritage in the United States.

Montana

Visit the Little Bighorn Battlefield National Monument in Crow Agency. It is where the Sioux and Cheyenne defeated the U.S. Army 7th Cavalry and General Custer. You can take the audio cell phone tour and stop along the 4 ½ miles and soak in what took place here. You can also see the hill where Custer had his last stand. You also might be able to catch a ranger-led talk about the battle. Start in the visitors center and watch the 25 minute movie for your orientation. www.nps.gov or call 406-638-3216. While you are in Northeastern region of the United States, there are plenty of additional exciting destinations and National Parks to visit. Be sure to read our Wyoming value travel vacation guide to learn more.

Native-led Apsaalooke Tours will take you around for one hour and give you their interpretation on the events that took place. Call 406-679-2790 for more information.

Stay overnight and try glamping at Apsaalooke Glamping. Pricing starts at $ 120/night in a tipi. Call 406-623-0453 for availability.

There is also the Custer Battlefield Museum in Garryowen. call 406-638-1876 for details.

Oklahoma

The entire state of Oklahoma is loaded with American Indian history and culture. After all, the entire state has over 35 tribes, making it the second largest percentage of Native Americans in the entire United States. Start off by paying a visit to the Cherokee National Prison Museum in Tahlequah. Here, you can learn all sorts of information about the history of Cherokee laws and justice.

Then, head over to the Cherokee National History Museum in the same city to learn about the distinct culture of the Cherokee Nation. Continue to make your way over to the Cherokee Heritage Center in Park Hill and Sequoyah’s Cabin Museum. If you are interested in learning more about Native culture, be sure to stop by the John Ross Museum, and the site of the Engagement at Honey Springs.

To learn even more about Native American travel experiences, destinations, and journeys in Oklahoma, check out www.travelok.com or www.okhistory.org. If you are additionally interested in learning more about history throughout your travels, take the time to additionally check out our travel guide on the top West Virginia historical tours.

Massachusetts

There are dozens of incredible Native American heritage attractions throughout Massachusetts. Begin your journey at Aquinnah Cliffs on Martha’s Vineyard. Here, you can visit the local cultural center and view sacred spots on the cliffs. Just a 30 minute ferry ride away is the home of the Mashpee Wampanoag tribe. Located right on Cape Cod, there are several attractions to visit like the 1684 Old Indian House and Mashpee Wampanoag museum. If you are visiting during November, the tribe holds an annual Thanksgiving Celebration located right at the Old Meeting House. Open to the public, this festival includes a cultural ceremony, traditions, and craft sale.

Ohio

Ohio is another state with an abundance of Native American cultural travel destinations and attractions. You can even visit many of these cultural sites on your RV travel destination. Just an hour south of Columbus, go to see a show about the life story of Tecumseh, the Shawnee leader during the late 1700s. If you are visiting Ohio between June and September, the show is held daily at 8:00 PM. It is held at the Sugarloaf Mountain Amphitheater, and costs approximately $30. To learn more about Native American history in Ohio, be sure to pay a visit to Hopewell Culture National Historic Park, Ohio History Center, and Newark Earthworks. Of course, you should also stop by Serpent Mound, Shrum Mound, and Seip Mound to experience all the Native American vacation history that Ohio has to offer.

California

California is another major hub for Native American heritage travel destinations. Undeniably, one of the largest attractions to experience in California is the American Indian Film Festival in San Francisco. The annual film festival is an excellent way to see American Indian life and understand the modern Native lifestyle through the lens of Native American filmmakers. While in California, be sure to additionally pay visit to the California Indian Museum & Cultural Center in Santa Rosa , Satwiwa Native American Indian Cultural Center, and the Antelope Valley Indian Historic State Park in Northern Los Angeles County.

Iowa

Of course, the mid-western United States is packed with incredible Native American travel destinations to explore, and Iowa is no exception. Right along the Mississippi River in Iowa, you will find the Effigy Mounds National Monument. Here, over two-hundred prehistoric mounds built by Native Americans are still preserved today. Many mounds are shaped like animals, such as bears, birds, and turtles. Many of these were constructed in the first millennium, by peoples of the Woodland Native Culture. In historic times, these mounds served numerous spiritual, ceremonial, and practical purposes for tribes. In fact, these mounds were even sometimes used as a place of burial. If you like learning more about history while traveling, be sure to check out our Montana history heritage vacation guide to experience more on your next trip.

There are several Native American travel destinations to learn about American Indian heritage in the United States. Before you book your trip, plan ahead to avoid common travel mishaps during your vacation. Start off by checking out some incredible Native heritage attractions in Montana. There are dozens of incredible Native American travel destinations throughout Massachusetts. Ohio is another state with an abundance of destinations and attractions. Of course, you should additionally be sure to check out some incredible native travel experiences in California. Follow the points outlined above to learn about the top Native American travel destinations to learn heritage in the United States.