(Pictures taken outside of Ennis at Hyalite Canyon by @kyliefarmerphotography)
Ennis is a small town in southwestern Montana that is a popular spot for summer tourists looking to fly fish, hike, and explore the outdoors. There are also plenty of options for delicious food, fun family activities, and fun day trips. This town is a truly special place that will keep you coming back year after year. If you are anything like our family, we love to enjoy the Montana summers outdoors and any chance we get we take our french bulldogs with us to explore. Family trips just aren’t the same without our frenchies.
Food & Drink:
One of the most important parts of any vacation is food! Check out these local spots on your next trip and partake in some small town delicacies that you won’t find anywhere else.
Deemos Meats is a butcher shop and local grocery store that is perfect for stocking up on take and bake pizzas (which the kids will love) and cheese, crackers, sausages, and jerky for road trip snacks or picnic meals.
Nacho Mamas for yummy Mexican food. They have burritos, tacos, nachos, salads and take and bake meals.
The Tavern 287– They serve $5 daily specials, so be sure to check them out on their website and Facebook. The Tavern has a lot of specialty, homemade seasonal meals and the best macaroons/deserts.
McAlister Inn and Steakhouse is a local favorite. The laid back environment coupled with an amazing menu makes this a must-taste experience. Locals and frequent visitors suggest the Walleye Steak and the Crabcakes. It also has the best atmosphere to have a drink and an appetizer. Located in McAlister just off highway 287 and also have full lodging available.
Sportsmans Bar and Grill- Bison Burgers are at the top of our list here.
The Grizzly Bar- The pasta is to die for, but you can’t go wrong with anything on the menu. It is a long drive from Ennis, but its worth the drive. If you’re planning a trip to Yellowstone, this might even be right on your way!
Chicks Bar and Grill– Trust us, try the prime rib.
Wells Fargo Steakhouse offers great Italian food and a few American Dishes’ chicken alfredo is a must for any pasta lover.
Blue Moon Saloon is home to a menu full of wonderful desserts. Also, be sure to get the chicken dinner!
Gravel Bar has live music and food, but they are known for their beers on tap and the atmosphere.
Burnt Tree Brewery has a new raspberry ale that any beer drinking will definitely appreciate.
Willies Distilery has live music and a huge variety of original drinks to try, including samplers!
The Daily Grind Espresso and Clothing Boutique is connected to the Whispering Willow spa downtown. Try their specialty menu for something delicious! They also offer a variety of healthier options and have a little boutique to look around while you wait for your coffee.
Mapples Coffee on the way into town offers you the opportunity to talk to some of the sweetest people around while you enjoy your coffee outside. The green tea is my favorite!
Outdoor Activities
Trout Stalkers offers great guided fishing trips. It is also a great company for renting boats, paddleboards, or kayaks and buying all of your fishing supplies.
Ennis lake is sure to be seen as you get to McAllister on highway 287. It is a great place to boat, paddle board, kayak or fish.
Madison River is home to fly fishing and rafting. You can go on guided tours or float on your own. Most areas are pretty shallow and kid or animal friendly!
Norris Hot Springs is a natural hot spring with live music every weekend during the summer. They have space for swimming and camping as well as options for food and drinks on-site.
Madison Meadows Golf Course offers 9 well-maintained golf holes as well as tennis courts and beautiful views.
Helmet and Sphinx Mountain is a 7 mile trek one way. The hike to Helmet isn’t too bad, but the hike up to Sphinx Mountain is pretty strenuous, so make sure that you’re prepared.
Cameron Lake Trail is a pretty tough 11.7 mile hike. The best time to go is between March and October.
North and South Meadow Creek have awesome trails for ATV and side-by-side riding.
Indoor fun
If you’re looking for indoor activities for bad weather days, the town has both a bowling alley, the Ennis Fish Bowl and a centrally located, full-service movie theater. The bowling alley is closed on Monday, but is available any other time during the week.
Spa and Salons
Trenz Spa and Salon and the Whispering Willow Spa both offer hair, nail, and skin services.
Shopping
The Trading Post offers high quality, unique pieces of women’s jewelry and clothing. They also sell boots! Stop by and ask for Jamie – she’ll take care of you!
Plain Jane’s Boutique is the cutest place for nick knacks and home goods. They also have cute clothes for the whole family.
Benjee’s is a great place to find jewelry and turquoise. Everything is always 50% off.
Cabin Creek is the place to go for anything “home”. They have adorable nursery decorations, unicorn swaddles, jellycat animals, and so much more.
Day Trips
Yellowstone National Park is about 75 miles away if you’re interested in visiting a national landmark.
Virginia City is home to a famous candy store, beautiful historic architecture, antique shops, the famous Brewery Follies and it’s accessible from Ennis! Plus, it’s home to the well known Pioneer Bar, Wells Fargo Steakhouse and Bobs Place for homeade pizza.
