Billings, MT

Short stay (2 nights) in Billings as I head to Albuquerque then home to VA for a few weeks. As you enter town you see this amazing city in a "bowl" with plenty of pull-offs to enjoy the view.

Known as Montana’s “Magic City,” Billings blends rich history, stunning geography, and a laid-back charm that’s perfect for RV travelers like me who crave both outdoor adventure and quirky local spots. Here’s how I filled my 48 hours, from hiking rugged trails to sipping drinks in a retro tiki lounge, plus a few things I wish I’d squeezed in before heading to Casper, Wyoming.

Billings is the largest city in Montana, sits in the south-central part of the state, framed by the dramatic Rimrocks—sandstone cliffs that rise like sentinels around the city. Founded in 1882 as a railroad hub, it was named after Frederick H. Billings, a Northern Pacific Railway president. The city’s history is steeped in Native American heritage, with the Crow and Cheyenne tribes calling this region home long before settlers arrived. The Yellowstone River, winding through town, adds a serene backdrop to the urban bustle, while the nearby Beartooth Mountains beckon adventurers.Geographically, Billings is a gateway to Montana’s wild beauty. The Rimrocks, formed millions of years ago from ancient seabeds, offer jaw-dropping views and trails right in the city’s backyard. The high plains climate—sunny but crisp in late summer—made it ideal for RV camping and outdoor exploration. I parked my RV at a local campground with easy access to both downtown and natural attractions, setting the stage for a perfect two-day escape.

Day 1: Hiking Zimmerman Park

Still adjusting to 10 hour days. I kicked it off with a hike at Zimmerman Park, a gem tucked into the Rimrocks on Billings’ northwest side. 4 hours in old worn out shoes made it clear I needed to upgrade.

This 87-acre park is a great spot for hikers and mountain bikers, with trails that wind through sagebrush-dotted hills and offer panoramic views of the city and distant snow-capped peaks. I chose the moderate 2.5-mile loop trail, which climbs steadily to the rim’s edge. The path was well-maintained, with wildflowers still popping in late summer and the occasional hawk circling overhead.

Absolutely loved standing atop the Rimrocks, catching my breath as I took in the town of Billings sprawled below. The trail’s mix of open vistas and quiet, shaded sections was perfect for soaking in Montana’s landscape. Pro tip for RV travelers: the parking lot at Zimmerman Park is spacious for cars, but arrive early to snag a spot for larger rigs. I spent about two hours hiking, snapping photos, and letting the fresh air recharge me for the day ahead.

Day 2: Work... Then Sip ‘N Dip

Lots of https://enjoythesegetaways.com/ work getting AirBNB, VRBO and direct booking (and dynamic pricing) to play nice.

Tonight I ventured into downtown Billings for to see the Sip ‘N Dip Lounge, a legendary tiki bar beside teh O'Haire Inn (Winner of the 200 Montana Family Business of the Year Award!). This place is a time capsule of retro cool, complete with a mermaid show—yes, mermaids swimming in a glass-walled pool behind the bar! I'm not a mai tai guy, so I had a local brew and tried to deconflict Montana vs. Maui. Per their website:

The legendary Sip 'n Dip Tiki Lounge… Named the #1 bar on earth worth flying for by GQ Magazine!

The crowd was a mix of locals and travelers, all grinning at the sheer absurdity and charm of it. If you’re in Billings, this spot is a must for a drink and a story to tell.

I ran out of time to visit ZooMontana, a 70-acre wildlife park just west of town. I’d heard great things about its focus on northern latitude animals like grizzly bears, wolves, and red pandas, plus its accessible trails and botanical gardens.

With only two days, I prioritized hiking and downtown vibes, but ZooMontana is high on my list for a return trip. Next time, I’ll carve out a few hours to wander its paths and meet its furry residents.

Heading to Casper, WY tomorrow for a few days.