Whitefish, Montana: 4-Day Summer Itinerary

Welcome to Whitefish! Fly into Glacier Park International Airport (FCA), conveniently located about 11 miles from downtown Whitefish, making for an easy arrival day. After checking into your hotel and getting settled, head to Clydesdale Creamery for a treat you absolutely cannot miss—their milkshakes are over the top and come topped with an entire slice of cake! As the evening winds down, grab pizza from Mackenzie River and head toward the lake to enjoy your first Montana sunset. Insider tip: Whitefish sunsets tend to become even more colorful as the sun dips below the mountains, so stick around a little longer than you think.

Start your morning with a round of golf at Whitefish Lake Golf Club, where beautiful mountain scenery makes even a casual round memorable. If golf isn’t your thing, still plan on stopping by for lunch because the views alone are worth it. Spend the afternoon exploring downtown Whitefish and enjoy the relaxed mountain-town atmosphere while browsing locally owned boutiques and grabbing an afternoon pick-me-up at Montana Coffee Traders or Fleur Bake Shop. For dinner, enjoy Jalisco Cantina before ending the evening at Brash Rodeo, a fun family-owned local experience held on Thursdays only. Insider tip: Downtown Whitefish is very walkable, so take your time and enjoy the local shops rather than rushing through.

Start with a hearty breakfast at Loula’s Café or Buffalo Café before heading toward Glacier National Park’s west entrance, approximately a 45-minute drive from Whitefish. Insider tip: Purchase your 7-day park pass ahead of time to avoid waiting in long entrance lines and maximize your day. Before lunch, squeeze in a morning hike and take in some of Glacier’s incredible scenery, then stop at Lake McDonald Lodge to refuel and enjoy the views. In the afternoon, hop aboard the iconic Red Bus Jammer Tour, which is one of the best ways to experience the park’s waterfalls, scenic overlooks, and mountain views without worrying about driving. End your day with dinner at the Boat Club Dining Room and save room for the huckleberry pie before catching another breathtaking Montana sunset.

Start your final morning with a hike at Whitefish Mountain Resort, where multiple trail options allow everyone to find a route that matches their comfort level and ability. The ski slopes transform during the summer into beautiful hiking trails with incredible panoramic views. After working up an appetite, enjoy lunch at Bonsai Brewing Project and try one of the local beers while soaking in the laid-back atmosphere. Finish your trip in unforgettable fashion with a sunset cruise on Whitefish Lake—one last chance to take in the mountain scenery and enjoy some of the best views Whitefish has to offer.