Much of Billings rests in the Yellowstone Valley, a canyon created by the Yellowstone River. Evidence of the area's earliest inhabitants lies just 5 miles south of downtown in the Pictograph Caves. These caves feature more than 100 rock paintings dating back over 2,000 years. Prior to European settlement, the Crow tribe called the region home. The modern-day Crow Nation remains located just south of town.
In 1806, William Clark of the Lewis and Clark Expedition traveled through the Billings area. He wrote about a remarkable rock he climbed to enjoy the view, carving his name and date in the rock and naming the place Pompy's Tower. Today, the site is known as Pompeys Pillar National Monument.
Billings was named after the president of the Northern Pacific Railway, Frederick H. Billings, in 1882. The railroad formed an important railhead for westward expansion, causing the town's population to explore seemingly overnight. As a result, Billings earned the nickname the Magic City. Its magic has continued to benefit Billings, which continues to enjoy rapid growth and a strong economy.
Whatever your reasons for visiting Billings, it's important to book the right hotel that allows you to explore everything this wonderful part of Montana has to offer.
When should you visit Billings, MT?
The best time to visit Billings is during the summer tourist season. Although hotel rates and crowds peak during this time, the weather is warm with little rainfall. If you want to avoid excess tourists, try to book your trip in early June. Temperatures are slightly cooler with more chance of rain, but fewer people visit the city in early summer.
Billings tends to experience its first snowfall in September. Fall offers discounted hotel rates throughout town, but you'll want to plan your trip accordingly to prepare for inclement weather. By October, average snowfall in Billings amounts to about 4 inches.
Spring can also feel quite chilly with high chances of snow or rain. Average highs in April only hit 58 degrees. If you come prepared for brisk weather, spring in Billings provides a great opportunity for enjoying low hotel rates and fewer visitors.
Billings offers an array of winter activities that attracts snow sports enthusiasts from across the country. Best of all, you can enjoy rock-bottom hotel rates from November through March. Just be sure to book refundable flights and hotels in case a snowstorm threatens your travel plans.
Below is a chart of the current pricing seasonality of hotels and motels in Billings, MT:
Billings, MT: Prices by Star Rating Class
Below we've posted 3 graphs illustrating avg. nightly cost patterns by star rating class in Billings, MT. Browse these illustrations to determine the least expensive dates to book in Billings for upcoming travels.
What are the luxury hotels in Billings, MT?
When you want to book an upscale hotel with all the amenities, Billings does not disappoint.
DoubleTree by Hilton Hotel Billings is a highly rated downtown hotel offering a 24-hour fitness center, a bar, billiards, concierge services, a gift shop, a ballroom, a fireplace in the lobby, and full-service business amenities. You can even take advantage of a 24-hour roundtrip airport shuttle. Grab dinner at the on-site restaurant, Montana Sky, stop by the cafe, or order room service. Full breakfasts are available daily for an additional fee.
Guest rooms at DoubleTree by Hilton Hotel Billings are well appointed with LED TVs, cable programming, laptop-compatible safes, complimentary weekday newspapers, hair dryers, toiletries, and phones with free local calls. Wired and wireless internet are available for an extra charge.
Northern Hotel on North Broadway is an excellent option that's sure to elevate your visit to Billings. Featured amenities include a 24-hour fitness center, concierge and wedding services, complimentary Wi-Fi, an American restaurant, 24-hour room service, a bar, a 24-hour business center, laundry and dry-cleaning services, event facilities, and an airport shuttle service. Full breakfasts are available for an additional fee. Guest rooms feature flat-screen TVs, satellite programming, pillowtop beds, premium bedding, sofa beds, hair dryers, and designer toiletries.
If you're planning an extended stay, consider Home2 Suites by Hilton Billings. Each guest room features a kitchen with a full-sized refrigerator, freezer, microwave, and stovetop. You'll also love the premium bedding, double sofa bed, 39-inch LCD TV, cable programming, and a separate sitting area. Hotel amenities include an indoor pool, a fitness center, a picnic area, barbecue grills, a business center, laundry services, complimentary shuttle services, and a free continental breakfast.
What are the budget hotels in Billings, MT?
3 Star Average Prices: $88.52
Finding an affordable hotel in Billings is easier than you might think.
Motel 6 Billings South is a no-fuss roadside accommodation located about 15 minutes from Rimrock Mall and the MetraPark. Featured amenities include a 24-hour front desk, guest laundry facilities, ample parking, and coffee and tea in the common area. Guest rooms are accessed via exterior corridors and include TVs with cable programming and complimentary wireless internet access. Accessible rooms with roll-in showers are available.
Another budget-friendly option is Super 8 by Wyndham Billings. Enjoy an on-site fitness center, a business center, guest laundry facilities, a 24-hour front desk, a conference center, and a complimentary continental breakfast. Guest rooms feature LED TVs with cable, free Wi-Fi, hair dryers, complimentary toiletries, and well-lit work desks. You can also request a complimentary newspaper daily.
The Vegas Hotel near Billings Depot features an on-site casino and ATM, so you don't have to go far for entertainment. Additional amenities include a 24-hour front desk, a conference center, a meeting room, ample parking, an outdoor pool, and a restaurant and bar. A complimentary continental breakfast is served daily, and guest rooms feature cable TV, free Wi-Fi, desks, hair dryers, and toiletries, ensuring you have everything you need to enjoy your stay.
