Glasgow Travel Guide

Explore Glasgow, Montana with our comprehensive travel guide featuring must-visit attractions, top things to do, where to stay, and more.


Glasgow, located in the Missouri River Country of Montana in the United States, is a picturesque town that brings you closer to nature. Surrounded by the Rocky Mountains, Glasgow offers visitors a blend of natural splendor, outdoor adventures, and cultural landmarks that make it the perfect destination for travelers who want to escape the hustle and bustle of big cities.

In this comprehensive travel guide to Glasgow, we’ll show you the best places to visit, things to see and do, and where to stay and eat, making your trip an unforgettable experience.

Introduction to Glasgow

Glasgow is a small town, but it has a lot to offer to visitors. Although it was initially a railroad hub, it has evolved into an outdoor mecca, a cultural hub, and a popular destination for travelers and tourists. Glasgow is located in Northern Montana, at the base of the Canadian border and is easily accessible by car or air.

List of Places to Visit in Glasgow

Culturally Important Attractions: Museums and Historical Places

Glasgow has a rich history that visitors can explore through its museums and historical sites.

  • Valley County Pioneer Museum: This museum is dedicated to preserving history for the Valley County region, and visitors can explore the life and times of pioneers in the area.
  • Fort Peck Interpretive Center and Museum: This museum showcases the history of the region and features exhibits about the construction of Fort Peck Dam, the largest earthen dam in the world.
  • Glasgow City-County Library: This library is not only a great resource for books, but it also houses an extensive collection of historical artifacts and Scottish memorabilia.

Natural Attractions of Glasgow: Outdoor Adventures and Scenic Views

Glasgow is surrounded by stunning natural beauty that visitors can explore and enjoy.

  • Glasgow Airstrip: Take a scenic plane ride over the beautiful landscapes in the area.
  • Kiwanis Park: This park is ideal for picnics, hiking, fishing, and enjoying the peaceful natural setting.
  • Fort Peck Lake: This lake offers various opportunities for outdoor activities like swimming, fishing, boating, and camping.

Hiking/Biking Routes of Glasgow

Glasgow has some fantastic hiking and biking routes that offer stunning views of the surrounding nature.

  • Fort Peck Interpretive Trail: This trail is an easy hike that winds through the cottonwood trees and the Great Plains.
  • Fish Creek Trail: This trail is ideal for hiking or mountain biking, and it takes you through a mix of forested areas and open prairies.
  • Charles M. Russell National Wildlife Refuge: This refuge offers visitors various trails that wind through some of Montana’s most rugged and beautiful wilderness areas.

Best Things to Do in Glasgow: Activities and Tours

Glasgow offers visitors a wealth of fun activities and unique experiences to enjoy.

  • Montana’s Ranch Vacation: Visitors can live like cowboys at Montana’s Ranch Vacation, where you can explore the wild beauty of Great Plains and the Rocky Mountains on horseback.
  • Nashua National Wildlife Refuge: This refuge is a must-see for bird lovers, with over 270 bird species making appearances throughout the year.
  • East Side Fishing and Hunting: Stroll through the lush greenery and catch some fish in the nearby streams, an activity every nature lover will cherish.

Week-Long Itinerary for Glasgow

If you plan to spend a week in Glasgow, here’s a sample itinerary to help you make the most of your trip:

  • Day 1: Visit the Valley County Pioneer Museum and explore the town.
  • Day 2: Take a scenic flight over the surrounding area.
  • Day 3: Visit Fort Peck Lake for some outdoor fun and adventure.
  • Day 4: Explore the Fort Peck Interpretive Center and the Fish Creek Trail.
  • Day 5: Spend some time at Kiwanis Park or the Nashua National Wildlife Refuge.
  • Day 6: Go horseback riding with Montana’s Ranch Vacation.
  • Day 7: Finish your trip with some shopping for souvenirs or enjoying the delicious local cuisine.

Food and Drink Scene of Glasgow

The food and drink scene of Glasgow has a mix of international cuisine and local Montana flavors.

Must-Try Dishes

  • Northern Montana Sausage: A spicy, flavorful sausage that is popular in the region.
  • Rocky Mountain Oysters: Fried bull testicles that are considered a delicacy in the area.
  • Burgers and Fries: Glasgow has plenty of diners, drive-ins, and cafes, all serving delicious burgers and fries.

Local Beverages

  • Montana Whiskey: Montana has some of the best whiskey distilleries in the country, and Glasgow has its share of craft breweries and distilleries.
  • Huckleberry Slushies: These are refreshing cocktails and the perfect way to cool off on a hot summer day.

Where to Stay in Glasgow: Hotels, Hostels, and Guesthouses

Although Glasgow is a small town, it has a variety of options when it comes to lodging.

  • Cottonwood Inn: This inn has comfortable, affordable rooms and is located near the main attractions.
  • Valley County Pioneer Motel: This motel has easy access to the museum and is ideal for budget travelers.
  • The Glasgow Hotel: This hotel is located in the heart of downtown and is known for its comfortable rooms and excellent service.

What to Buy in Glasgow: Souvenirs and Local Products to Bring Home

Glasgow offers visitors a range of souvenirs and local products that make great gifts for family and friends or keepsakes for yourself.

  • Scottish Memorabilia: There are plenty of stores in town selling Scottish memorabilia, from tartan kilts to whisky.
  • Local Handmade Crafts: Local artisans create beautiful, unique, handmade crafts that are on display in galleries and stores around the town.
  • Huckleberry Products: Huckleberries are a local favorite, and you can find various products, including jams, syrups, and candies, made from this delicious fruit.

Local Culture and Customs of Glasgow

Montana’s culture is a mix of indigenous tribal heritage, cowboy spirit, and pioneering adventures that have shaped this region of the country. Glasgow’s community is proud of its Scottish heritage, and visitors will notice this in various events and celebrations throughout the year.

Best Time to Visit Glasgow

The best time to visit Glasgow is between late May and early October. During this period, the weather is pleasant, and most outdoor attractions are open.

Do’s and Don’ts of Glasgow

Do:

  • Do respect the local culture and customs.
  • Do explore the great outdoors and take advantage of the stunning natural beauty that Glasgow offers.
  • Do try local cuisine and traditional dishes.

Don’t:

  • Don’t litter, and always clean up the places you visit.
  • Don’t approach wildlife or disturb their natural habitat.
  • Don’t forget to dress appropriately for the weather and activities you plan to do.

Safety and Health

Safety in Glasgow

Glasgow is generally a safe town to visit, but visitors should always take precautions to protect themselves and their belongings.

Health in Glasgow

Visitors should take precautions to protect themselves from the Montana sun; the bright sun can cause sunburns and dehydration. It’s essential to carry enough water, sunscreen, and wear a hat and sunglasses.

Getting to Glasgow: Transportation Options and Logistics

Glasgow is easily accessible by air and car and has a few transportation options to suit different travelers’ needs.

Airports Near Glasgow

  • Glasgow International Airport: Located about 99 miles west of Glasgow and serves several major airlines.

Bus Stations Near Glasgow

  • Jefferson Bus Line: This bus service connects Glasgow to several destinations throughout the United States.

Other Options

The town has car rental services too, offering visitors the freedom to explore on their own schedule.

How to Get Around in Glasgow

The easiest way to get around Glasgow is by car, and visitors can rent a car or bring their own.

Where to Go Next from Glasgow: Nearby Destinations and Excursions

Glasgow is located in Missouri River Country, which means several other Montana towns and cities are worth a visit, such as:

  • Fort Peck: Located just 32 miles from Glasgow, Fort Peck is home to the largest earthen dam in the world.
  • Missouri River: One of the world’s most beautiful rivers and popular among nature lovers.

Conclusion

Glasgow, Missouri River Country, is the perfect destination if you’re looking to explore the great outdoors, connect with nature, and learn more about Montana’s unique culture and history. With this comprehensive travel guide, you have everything you need to plan an unforgettable trip to this small town in Montana.