As the largest city in Montana and the seat of Yellowstone County, Billings is also known as the “Magic City” for its rapid growth, strong economy and tons to do. With its location near Yellowstone, outdoor enthusiasts will love the recreational opportunities in Billings. Bike the trails at Sword Park, or if you’re looking for a more rugged landscape head to Zimmerman Park. Pictograph Cave State Park features three caves and even evidence of habitation over 3000 years ago! Love history? Retrace the famous expedition of Lewis and Clark at Pompey’s Pillar State Park. You can even see an engraving of William Clark’s name carved into the Sandstone, some of the only physical evidence left of their journey. Next, learn more about the area’s history in an authentic pioneer log cabin at Yellowstone County Museum. Now if art is more your thing, the Yellowstone Art Museum must be on your list. With its rotating exhibits and collections, mainly based on art from Montana and the surrounding regions. Finally, finish off your night at Last Chance Pub and Cider Mill for a relaxed atmosphere with elevated cuisine.
Now that Montana has finally legalized recreational-use marijuana, what does this mean for weed laws in Billings? Even though Montana was an early adopter of medical marijuana, it takes a lot of time and legislation to pass recreational marijuana laws. Montana’s I-190 went into effect on January 1, 2021, but the law’s roll-out plan for legalization takes even longer. On the 1st, the only changes that went into effect were adults could only grow or possess marijuana. The state will not start accepting applications for recreational dispensaries until October 2021, so don’t expect to go to a Billings recreational dispensary until 2022. Additionally, I-190 establishes a 20% tax on any recreational marijuana sales, allocating 10.5% to the state general fund and 9.5% for various funding for public programs in the localities that sell marijuana.