Whitefish, Montana is a perfect winter escape that offers more than just snow-capped mountains and powdery slopes. With a vibrant dining scene that rivals much larger towns, easy access to Glacier National Park’s stunning landscapes, and close proximity to Flathead Lake, Whitefish blends adventure and comfort seamlessly. Direct flights from Seattle are offered several times each day, making Whitefish an ideal weekend destination for Seattleites. Whether you’re indulging in farm-to-table cuisine and craft cocktails at Herb and Omni, or exploring the serene beauty of the national park in winter, this charming mountain town invites you to experience the magic of Montana in the coziest season.
Getting There
It’s easy and affordable to travel to Whitefish from Seattle. Alaska Airlines has multiple flights per day via Horizon Air that are direct to Glacier Park International Airport in Kalispell, about a 20-minute drive from Whitefish. The direct flights are only 90 minutes long. You can also take Amtrak’s Empire Builder train directly into downtown Whitefish. Once in town, a rental car is a good idea for getting to places like Glacier National Park and Flathead Lake, but it isn’t essential. The S.N.O.W. shuttle offers free transit around the area, connecting key stops, including Whitefish Mountain Resort.
Where to Stay
The Firebrand Hotel
The Firebrand Hotel offers a stylish and modern retreat in downtown Whitefish that is perfect for travelers seeking both comfort and convenience. The Firebrand is centrally located and provides easy access to local shops, restaurants, and bars, while also being a short drive from Whitefish Mountain Resort and Glacier National Park. Guests can unwind in well-appointed rooms with upscale amenities, enjoy rooftop hot tub sessions, or relax by the lobby fireplace with a glass of wine. There is an on-site restaurant and coffee bar that serve locally inspired dishes. With its blend of urban sophistication and mountain charm, the Firebrand is a fantastic base for exploring Whitefish year-round.
Where to Eat + Drink
Herb & Omni
Herb & Omni, located in the heart of downtown Whitefish, was opened in 2011 by husband and wife team Michael and Jamie Goguen. Michael and Jamie are seasoned entrepreneurs with experience creating award-winning restaurant concepts. The restaurant’s name Herb & Omni reflects the Goguens’ dedication to nourishing both herbivores and omnivores, with an emphasis on high-quality, locally sourced ingredients. Herb & Omni is housed in a historic building, 101 Central, that operated as Sprague Saloon in 1905, The Darnell and Schaefer Saloon in the late 1930’s, The Club Bar for 27 years, and Casey’s Bar in 1967. It retains some of the original architectural charm, such as reclaimed wood beams and vintage bricks, while introducing a modern, elegant design. In addition to the ground-floor restaurant, there is also a beautiful rooftop garden and lounge called The Belvedere, which offers small bites, cocktails, and stunning mountain views.
Herb & Omni’s locally sourced menus offer both plant-based and carnivore friendly options, and are curated by Justin Kingsley Hall, a world-renowned executive chef who has worked with The James Beard Foundation. Chef Earl Reynolds, another renowned chef, and his team expertly curate rich flavors while using as many quality, local ingredients from Flathead ranches, farms, and purveyors as possible. Menu highlights include the bison tartare, the faux bone marrow, the soft shell crab, and the tempura fried lion’s mane mushroom. The caviar potato chip is one of the best bites I’ve had in my life, and is not-to-be-missed. Herb and Omni has an excellent beverage program, which includes an impressive wine list and selection of expertly crafted cocktails.
Fleur Bake Shop
Fleur Bake Shop is a beloved local bakery known for its handcrafted French-inspired pastries, artisan breads, and specialty cakes. Located on Central Avenue in downtown Whitefish, this cozy spot emphasizes high-quality, locally sourced ingredients, including organic flour milled in Montana. Pastry Chef Whitney Brien, a graduate of The French Pastry School in Chicago, brings her refined technique and passion to each item, whether it’s delicate macarons, savory croissants, or seasonal sweets. Fleur Bake Shop also serves espresso drinks, making it a perfect stop for coffee and a treat. Don’t leave without trying their famous cannelé, a French delicacy with a custard center and caramelized crust that is made with rum and vanilla.
Jalisco Cantina
Jalisco Cantina is a staple in the Whitefish dining scene, offering a vibrant Mexican dining experience with a modern twist. Known for its impressive tequila and mezcal selection, the cantina features over 100 varieties, alongside a popular menu of house-made cocktails, including the ever-so-popular cilantro smash margarita. Menu favorites include the carne asada tacos, chile relleno, and birria de res, each crafted with fresh ingredients and traditional Mexican flavors. They partner with Sweet Peaks Ice Cream for a unique dessert: horchata fried ice cream with pineapple rum sauce.
Blackstar BrewPub
Located in downtown Whitefish, Blackstar Brewpub offers a blend of handcrafted beers and a hearty pub menu, including wood-fired pizzas and the best smash burger in town. Blackstar is set in a welcoming, multi-story venue featuring rustic decor and scenic views. Partnering with Jeremiah Johnson Brewing, Blackstar serves locally brewed beers, including seasonal and specialty options exclusive to the location. Menu highlights include the fried chicken sandwich, the capichola pizza with hot honey, and of course, the smash burger. Blackstar’s laid-back vibe and rooftop patio make it a go-to spot for locals and visitors alike.
Activities
Glacier National Park
Glacier National Park is easily accessible from Whitefish and offers stunning landscapes, popular hikes, and incredible viewpoints that make it a premier outdoor destination. The iconic Going-to-the-Sun Road, about 30 miles from Whitefish, provides a scenic route to the park’s most famous spots, including Logan Pass. From there, popular trails like the Hidden Lake Overlook (2.7 miles round-trip) allow you to explore lush alpine meadows with sweeping views of Bearhat Mountain and the surrounding valley.
For more ambitious hikers, the Highline Trail (11.6 miles) offers breathtaking mountain vistas and views of the Grinnell Glacier Overlook. During peak summer season, there are shuttle services within the park for hassle-free transportation along the Going-to-the-Sun Road. During the rest of the year, it is easy to drive to the park from Whitefish. Keep your eyes peeled while visiting, you might just spot a bear!
Flathead Lake
A 30-minute drive from Whitefish, Flathead Lake is the largest freshwater lake in the western U.S. and is a stunning year-round destination in Montana. In the fall, the landscape comes alive with vibrant colors, and it’s an excellent time for hiking and scenic drives. Tamarack Time in October celebrates the golden hues of larch trees, creating a picturesque backdrop around the lake. Fishing remains popular as trout and bass are active in the cooler weather. During winter, the area transforms into a quieter retreat. While water activities slow down, ice fishing becomes popular on the lake, along with nearby skiing, snowshoeing, and cross-country trails at Blacktail Mountain and the surrounding Flathead Valley.
Vibe Wellness Lounge
Located in downtown Whitefish, Vibe Wellness Lounge is a holistic wellness center focused on promoting overall well-being. Vibe offers a wide array of therapeutic and beauty services, including massage therapy, acupuncture, Chinese medicine, facials, waxing, and Reiki. Vibe prides itself on creating a relaxing and restorative environment, featuring skilled practitioners who tailor each session to individual needs. This personalized approach, combined with treatments like deep tissue, relaxation massages, and other specialized therapies, makes it a popular choice for both locals and visitors.
Whitefish Mountain Resort
Whitefish Mountain Resort offers a variety of activities to suit different interests and skill levels. As one of the largest ski areas in the U.S., it has over 3,000 skiable acres, with trails for beginner to expert skiers and snowboarders. Night skiing is also popular here, typically available on weekends throughout the season. Beyond skiing, the resort offers a range of winter activities, including snowshoeing through scenic trails, snowmobiling on groomed paths, and dog sledding.
For a more relaxed experience, visitors can enjoy sleigh rides, perfect for families or couples looking for a cozy winter adventure. The resort also provides options for ice skating, and various guided tours allow guests to explore the surrounding natural beauty. Located only 7 miles from downtown Whitefish and 18 miles from Glacier Park International Airport, Whitefish Mountain Resort is easily accessible. It also features on-mountain dining, a variety of lodging options, and a village atmosphere, making it a convenient and comprehensive winter destination.
Special Shoutout: Two Bear Therapeutic Riding Center
Two Bear Therapeutic Riding Center provides therapeutic riding and horsemanship programs tailored to individuals with physical, emotional, or developmental challenges. Located on KM Ranch Road in Whitefish, Two Bear emphasizes adaptive horsemanship, pediatric physical therapy, and the positive impacts of equine-assisted activities. Their programs, such as summer camps and the Ranch Experience, offer engaging activities for youth and adults, fostering independence, physical strength, and emotional well-being. Participants build confidence and connection through interactions with well-trained horses in a supportive, scenic environment, all led by knowledgeable instructors and volunteers.
Happy traveling!
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