Montana has seen a surge in tourism in recent years. More people are discovering the treasures within its national parks—others may have watched Yellowstone and been inspired to see its famed landscapes for themselves. Whatever the reason, Montana is on the map in a big way.
In the digital era of constant connectivity, Big Sky Country also might be a location planners are taking a closer look at when craving a place that can divert attendees’ attention away from screens and back to one other, whether they are organizing a corporate retreat, domestic incentive program or executive board meeting. Whatever the event, attendees will want a taste of authentic Montana when they arrive. These unique venues across the state deliver this, plus the amenities to match.
University of Montana, Missoula
Missoula is considered the cultural epicenter of Montana, and that’s largely due in part to being home to the University of Montana. The home of the Grizzlies is situated below Mount Sentinel, within easy reach of downtown Missoula and its accompanying hotels. The onsite UM Conference & Event Services team can help with all event details throughout the campus’ venues.
Notable spaces include a full-service conference center that offers 16 flexible meeting and event spaces with capacities ranging from 10-1000 people, year-round; the Montana Museum of Art & Culture, which houses 12,000 pieces of art from both famed artists and students, and can host events or docent-led group tours; the Adams Center, an icon on campus since the 1950s, which hosts Grizzly Athletics, concerts, tradeshows, conferences and other events; and a variety of outdoor spaces that take advantage of the scenic views of Mount Sentinel and fresh Montana air.
The Wilma, Missoula
Originally constructed in the 1920s, The Wilma theater in downtown Missoula is a historic treasure, just steps from the Clark Fork River and various hotels. Restored to its former glory, and now equipped with state-of-the-art equipment and technology, the venue is not only a fun spot to catch a live performance in Missoula but also serves as a unique venue, whether it be for a corporate presentation in the 1,500-seat theater or a special seated banquet.
Logjam is the full-service events team that plans and executes rentals of The Wilma, handling duties such sourcing vendors for entertainment, full bar, AV, lighting, tables, linens, chairs, dishes and flatware, catering and staffing from setup to cleanup.
Paws Up Montana
Roughly 30 miles from downtown Missoula in Greenough is the 37,000-acre, luxurious ranch and resort Paws Up Montana. Cabin-style homes with every bell and whistle, plus adults-only accommodations within the resort at the green o that feature glass tree houses, promise special incentive programs or group retreats.
Event spaces abound for an authentic Montana ranch experience. Book the Saddle Club for a classic Western rodeo, teambuilding games or any other event for up to 400 people. The Great Angus Hall at the Bull Barn has vaulted ceilings and chandeliers providing a welcoming, rustic-chic atmosphere for up to 150. The onsite restaurant, camp pavilions and other spaces throughout the resort are also available.
For many groups, the advantage to meeting at Paws Up is the opportunity to disconnect and spend time outdoors, no matter the season. Horseback riding, fly fishing, hiking, cross-country skiing and many other activities are available for time in nature.
[Related: Outdoor Adventure and Inspiration Await Meeting and Incentive Groups in Western Montana]
The Lodge at Whitefish Lake
Situated in an idyllic setting on Whitefish Lake and surrounded by mountains in the town of Whitefish, The Lodge at Whitefish Lake is inspired by the grand lodges of the past, providing groups with a true Montana experience—with the amenities corporate groups require.
Natural wonder is within reach—the property is just 10 minutes from slopes of the Whitefish Mountain and a 30-minute drive to Glacier National Park, and boat rentals on Whitefish Lake are also possible. The 2,100-square-foot Lakeside Pavilion is ideal for lakeside events, able to accommodate up to 120 people. Inside, a conference center, executive boardroom, private dining room and other breakout spaces round out the resort’s options for gatherings.
Billings Depot
The most populous city in Montana has a storied past, founded in 1882 as a railroad town, growing rapidly as a trading hub. The Billings Depot can give visitors a glimpse into this history. Originally constructed in 1909 as a railroad station, the venue has hosted presidents, celebrities, dignitaries and now can play host to any group for meetings and events such as tradeshows, training meetings, receptions, board meetings and others. The campus, which spans five city blocks, comprises of four buildings. Planners can buy out the whole campus or specific spaces.
A highlight in the main building is the Passenger Station, which features vaulted ceilings, Roman columns and historic ticket windows and can seat up to 266 people.
Conrad Mansion, Kalispell
Kalispell is just nine miles from Glacier Park International Airport, making it an ideal location for groups that want easy airport access but also want to be within reach of outdoor adventure—it’s just 32 miles from Glacier National Park and 10 miles from the tip of Flathead Lake. Historic downtown can give groups seeking the energy of the Old West an authentic taste, as it’s lined with early 20th-century-era buildings.
For groups that want to delve into the history of Kalispell further, the circa-1895 Conrad Mansion tells the story of the founder of Kalispell, Charles Conrad. Docent-led tours can be arranged to learn more about the city’s founding and the Conrad family, or special seated events can take place on the lawn, gazebo and/or deck.
