Miles City, Montana: 10 Best Things To Do Nearby

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10 Fun Things To Do In And Around Miles City, Montana

If you’re dreaming about wide-open skies, old Western history, and friendly small-town vibes, Miles City, Montana should be on your list. Tucked along the Yellowstone River in Custer County, this classic cowboy town is a great stop for a Montana road trip or a relaxed long weekend. Whether you’re into rodeos, hiking, history, or just slow-paced Main Street strolls, there’s a lot to discover. Here are 10 things to do in and near Miles City that show off the best of this corner of eastern Montana.

1. Explore Downtown Miles City & Main Street

If you want to get a feel for Miles City, start with a simple walk. Downtown Miles City is compact and easy to explore on foot. You’ll find historic brick buildings, old signs, and that classic Western small-town feel.
  • Pop into local shops for Montana-made gifts.
  • Check out cafes and diners for hearty breakfasts and strong coffee.
  • Walk a few blocks off Main Street to see quiet neighborhoods and old homes.
I like to park once and wander. Grab a coffee, stroll down Main Street, and imagine what this town felt like when cowboys, ranchers, and railroad workers filled the streets.

2. Visit the Range Riders Museum

For a real taste of Western and cowboy history, head to the Range Riders Museum, one of the most popular things to do in Miles City. The museum covers the story of eastern Montana from the frontier days up through the 20th century. It’s spread out across several buildings and outdoor exhibits. You’ll find:
  • Old wagons, saddles, and ranching gear
  • Displays on Native American history and early settlers
  • Recreated rooms and storefronts from the old days
  • Vintage photos and local stories
Plan for at least 1–2 hours. It’s the kind of place where you keep saying, “Okay, just one more building,” and suddenly it’s lunchtime. If you’re traveling with kids, it’s hands-on enough to keep them interested, and it’s a great way to understand just how rugged life in Custer County used to be.

3. Relax Along the Yellowstone River

The Yellowstone River runs right by Miles City, and it’s one of the prettiest features in town. On a summer evening, sitting by the river feels like hitting pause on life for a bit. Here are a few easy ways to enjoy it:
  • Picnic by the river: Pick up sandwiches in town and find a shady spot near the water.
  • Simple walks: Take a walk along the riverbanks and watch the water roll by.
  • Fishing: The Yellowstone is known for good fishing. If you’re an angler, bring your rod and Montana fishing license.
On a warm day, you’ll see locals out walking dogs, kids skipping rocks, and folks just sitting and watching the current. It’s calm, quiet, and very Montana.

4. Step Back in Time at the WaterWorks Art Museum

This one is a little surprise: the WaterWorks Art Museum is located in a historic water treatment plant overlooking the Yellowstone River. Inside, you’ll find:
  • Rotating art exhibits, often featuring Montana and regional artists
  • Works inspired by the landscapes and history of eastern Montana
  • A cool blend of old industrial architecture and modern creativity
It’s a nice change of pace if you’ve been driving for hours or doing a lot of outdoor activities. Spend 30–60 minutes wandering the galleries, then step outside to take in the river views. If you enjoy photography, the old brick building and river backdrop make a great combo.

5. Experience Cowboy Culture at the Miles City Bucking Horse Sale

If you want to see Miles City at its most alive, try to visit during the Miles City Bucking Horse Sale, usually held in May. This famous event is a mix of:
  • Rodeo action and bronc riding
  • Street dances and live music
  • Parades, vendors, and classic small-town fun
People travel from all over the country for this weekend. Hotels fill up, the streets are busy, and the whole town feels like a scene from a Western movie—with smartphones. If you’re planning a trip to Montana in spring and want something uniquely local, this is one of the top things to do in Miles City.

6. Get Outside at Spotted Eagle Recreation Area

Looking for a quick nature break without driving far? Check out the Spotted Eagle Recreation Area, just a short drive from downtown Miles City. This local spot offers:
  • A small lake
  • Walking paths
  • Picnic areas
  • Fishing opportunities
It’s not a huge state park or anything fancy, but that’s part of its charm. It’s where locals go to walk, relax, and enjoy some fresh air. Pack a simple picnic, bring a book, or just sit by the water for a bit. After hours on the highway, this kind of easy, no-pressure stop can feel amazing.

7. Drive the Back Roads of Custer County

One of the best things to do near Miles City isn’t tied to a single attraction at all—just go for a drive. Custer County is full of:
  • Rolling prairie
  • Ranch land and grazing cattle
  • Big skies that seem to go on forever
Pick a clear afternoon, fill up your gas tank, and head out of town in almost any direction. Watch for:
  • Old barns and windmills
  • Wildlife like deer, antelope, and hawks
  • Sunsets that light up the whole horizon
It’s the kind of landscape that makes you slow down and breathe a little deeper. If you’re coming from a crowded city or busy coast, the space and quiet can be a real reset.

8. Visit Local Parks and Sports Fields

Sometimes, the best way to get to know a town is to hang out where locals do. Miles City has several city parks and sports fields where you can:
  • Let kids burn off energy on playgrounds
  • Watch a local baseball or softball game
  • Take a casual walk or run
If you’re on a long road trip across Montana, these small stops become important. Stretch your legs, toss a frisbee, or just sit on a bench and enjoy the slower pace of life here. You’ll often see families, dog walkers, and groups of friends catching up—simple, everyday scenes that tell you a lot about the community.

9. Enjoy Classic Montana Food & Local Diners

Travel isn’t just about sights—it’s also about what you eat along the way. In Miles City, look for:
  • Local diners with hearty breakfasts and strong coffee
  • Steakhouses serving Montana beef
  • Cafes and bars where locals gather to talk ranching, weather, and sports
Order something simple and classic:
  • A burger with fries
  • Chicken-fried steak
  • A slice of pie if you spot it on the menu
Sit for a while, listen to conversations at the next table, and soak in that small-town Montana feel. It’s one of the easiest (and tastiest) ways to connect with the area.

10. Use Miles City as a Base for Eastern Montana Road Trips

Because of its location along I‑94 and the Yellowstone River, Miles City makes a handy base to explore more of eastern Montana. From here, you can take day trips to:
  • Scenic prairie drives in all directions
  • Other small towns with their own unique stories
  • Open country where you might go an hour without seeing another car
If you’re driving between the Dakotas and western Montana, staying a night or two in Miles City breaks up the trip and gives you time to actually enjoy this region instead of just blasting past it on the interstate. Think of Miles City as your home base on the range—a place to sleep, eat, and plan the next stretch of your Montana adventure.

Final Tips for Visiting Miles City, Montana

Here are a few quick tips before you go:
  • Best time to visit: Late spring through early fall, especially around the Miles City Bucking Horse Sale in May if you love rodeo culture.
  • Weather: Summers can be hot and dry; winters can be cold with snow. Pack layers and a good jacket.
  • Driving: Distances can be long in eastern Montana, so keep your gas tank reasonably full and bring water and snacks.
Whether you’re crossing the state or planning a focused trip to eastern Montana, Miles City and Custer County offer that mix of history, open space, and small-town charm that many travelers are looking for right now.

Have You Been to Miles City?

Have you visited Miles City, Montana or anywhere else in Custer County?
  • What was your favorite thing to do?
  • Did you discover a hidden gem—a local café, a quiet river spot, or a scenic back road?
Share your experiences and tips in the comments so other travelers can make the most of their own Miles City adventure. And if you know someone planning a Montana road trip, send them this guide or share it on your social media—help them discover this classic small-town stop on the Yellowstone River.
Location: Georgetown, IN, USA

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