Summertime Fun in Billings: 10 Vibrant Activities for Active Seniors

Billings, Montana, bursts with life during the summer months. Warm sunshine, clear skies, and a calendar brimming with events create the perfect backdrop for seniors to embrace the season’s vibrancy. Whether you crave outdoor adventures, cultural explorations, or social gatherings with friends, Billings offers something for every active spirit. Additionally, Billings boasts a supportive community for seniors, with resources like senior centers, social groups, and home care services available to assist them in staying active and independent.

Here’s a curated list of 10 exciting activities to fill your summer days with joy and connection:

1. Immerse Yourself in Arts and Culture:

• Catch a Summer Concert Under the Stars:The Billings Symphony Orchestra often hosts captivating outdoor concerts during the summer months. Imagine swaying to beautiful melodies amidst the warm summer breeze. Check their schedule and grab your tickets to experience the magic of live music in a stunning outdoor setting.
• Explore the Yellowstone Art Museum:Immerse yourself in the vibrant art scene at the Yellowstone Art Museum. This renowned museum houses a diverse collection of regional and national art, showcasing a variety of styles and mediums. From contemporary pieces to historical exhibits, there’s something to intrigue every art enthusiast.

2. Beat the Summer Heat Indoors:

• Find Fun and Friendship at the Senior Center:Many senior centers in Billings offer a variety of activities specifically designed for older adults. Whether you’re interested in social events with like-minded individuals, stimulating game nights, or gentle fitness classes to stay active, these centers provide a welcoming environment for fun and social connection.
• Enjoy a Movie at the Library:Escape the afternoon heat and indulge in a cinematic experience at the Billings Public Library. They often host free movie screenings throughout the summer, showcasing a variety of genres and films. Grab a bag of popcorn, settle in for a classic movie, and enjoy the cool air conditioning.

3. Embrace the Great Outdoors:

• Pack a Picnic and Find Your Scenic Spot:Billings boasts several beautiful parks perfect for a relaxing picnic under the summer sun. Head to Picnic Island Park, a scenic oasis in the Yellowstone River with walking paths and picnic areas. Alternatively, Rosebud Creek Park offers a peaceful setting with lush greenery and ample space to spread out a blanket and enjoy a delicious homemade meal with friends. For those who might need a helping hand getting outside and enjoying these parks, home care services can provide assistance with transportation or dressing.
• Explore the Rimrocks on Foot or Bike:Billings’ iconic Rimrocks provide stunning panoramic views of the city and surrounding landscape. Lace up your walking shoes or hop on a bike and explore the well-maintained trails at Swords Park Rimrock Trail. For more challenging terrain, venture out to the Four Dances Natural Recreation Area, where breathtaking vistas await.

4. Cool Off with Water Activities:

• Take a Refreshing Dip at the Pool:Billings offers several public pools perfect for beating the summer heat. Take a refreshing dip at family-friendly spots like Rose Park Pool or City Pool. Enjoy a few laps, cool off under the shade of an umbrella, or simply relax with a good book poolside.
• Scenic Boat Ride on the Yellowstone River:Several companies offer scenic boat tours on the majestic Yellowstone River. Glide through tranquil waters, admire the breathtaking scenery, and spot diverse wildlife along the way. This relaxing activity provides a unique perspective of Billings and its surroundings.

5. Experience the Buzz of Local Events:

• Billings Night Markets:Every Thursday evening during the summer, downtown Billings transforms into a vibrant hub of activity with the Billings Night Markets. Local vendors showcase their wares, offering a delightful range of food, crafts, art, and other unique products. Stroll through the bustling market, sample delicious treats, and discover hidden treasures.
• Immerse Yourself in the MontanaFair:Held annually in August, the MontanaFair is a quintessential summer event that celebrates Montana’s rich culture and heritage. Immerse yourself in the festivities, explore agricultural exhibits, marvel at livestock shows, enjoy the thrill of carnival rides, and savor delectable fair food.

6. Dive into Billings’ Rich History:

• Step Back in Time at the Moss Mansion:Journey through Billings’ opulent past with a tour of the Moss Mansion. This historic landmark, built by a prominent Billings family in the early 20th century, offers a glimpse into the grandeur of a bygone era. Admire the exquisite architecture, intricate furnishings, and fascinating stories that come alive within these walls.
• Explore the Western Heritage Center:Learn about the captivating history of Billings and the surrounding region at the Western Heritage Center. Interactive exhibits, historical artifacts, and engaging displays showcase the evolution of this vibrant city.

7. Engage with the Community:

• Share Your Skills and Make a Difference by Volunteering:Several organizations in Billings rely on the dedication and experience of volunteers to support their endeavors. Seniors can use their talents and knowledge to contribute to various causes. Whether it’s assisting at local libraries or museums, supporting senior centers or animal shelters, there are countless opportunities to give back to the community and make a meaningful difference.
• Expand Your Knowledge with Lectures and Workshops:Local colleges and libraries in Billings often host educational workshops and lectures on a wide range of topics. Engage your curiosity and stay intellectually stimulated by attending talks on history, science, literature, or even practical skills like gardening or technology.

8. Embrace Lifelong Learning:

• Sharpen Your Mind at Osher Lifelong Learning Institute (OLLI):Offered by Montana State University Billings, the Osher Lifelong Learning Institute (OLLI) caters to adults aged 50 and above. This program features non-credit courses on diverse subjects, ranging from art history and philosophy to creative writing and foreign languages. Expand your knowledge base, explore new interests, and connect with fellow lifelong learners in a stimulating environment.
• Join a Book Club at the Billings Public Library:For bookworms seeking intellectual stimulation and social connection, the Billings Public Library offers a variety of book clubs. Discuss your favorite novels, share insights with fellow bibliophiles, and delve deeper into the literary world. These book clubs provide a platform to appreciate literature, make new friends who share your passion for reading, and keep your mind actively engaged.

9. Plan a Fun-Filled Day Trip:

• Explore Pompeys Pillar National Monument:Just a 45-minute drive away from Billings lies Pompeys Pillar National Monument. This historic landmark features a majestic sandstone butte towering over the surrounding landscape. Enjoy a scenic picnic lunch at the base of the monument, explore the informative visitor center, and learn about the intriguing stories etched into the rocks by Lewis and Clark during their historic expedition. For seniors who might require transportation assistance for day trips, home care services can help ensure a safe and enjoyable outing.
• Escape to Bighorn Canyon National Recreation Area:For a more adventurous day trip, consider venturing out to the breathtaking Bighorn Canyon National Recreation Area, located 1.5 hours from Billings. This vast area offers a plethora of outdoor activities, including hiking, biking, boating, and fishing. Immerse yourself in the stunning canyon scenery, spot diverse wildlife, and create lasting memories in this natural paradise.

10. Strengthen Social Bonds with Friends:

• Host a Backyard BBQ Extravaganza:Gather your friends and family for a quintessential summer celebration – a backyard barbecue! Fire up the grill, prepare delicious food, and enjoy the company of loved ones. Play lawn games, share stories, and create new memories in the warm summer sunshine.
• Organize a Potluck Extravaganza:For a social gathering with a culinary twist, organize a potluck dinner with friends at a park or community center. Each guest contributes a dish, creating a delightful spread of diverse flavors. Enjoy delicious food, lively conversation, and the beauty of the outdoors while strengthening your social bonds.

Embrace the Billings Summer:

Remember, this list is just a starting point! Billings offers a vibrant tapestry of activities and events waiting to be explored. With a little planning and a sense of adventure, you can turn your summer in Billings into an unforgettable experience. So, step outside, soak up the sunshine, and embrace the countless joys this charming city has to offer.