If you’ve ever searched for things to do in Miles City while cruising down I-94, you already know this town pops up as more than just a dot on the map. Miles City has real roots. It’s a cattle town with honest-to-goodness cowboy heritage, a walkable Main Street that still feels frontier-era, and river access that leads to the wide, expansive landscapes of eastern Montana.
In this guide, explore all things Miles City, from where to stay and eat, to museums, Main Street shopping, and practical travel tips. Whether you’re overnighting along I-94 or looking for a reason to linger a little longer, here’s how to make the most of your time in Custer County.
Miles City at a Glance: Miles City has an authentic Old West feel, with a brick-front Main Street, strong ranching roots, and the kind of river-town energy you only find in eastern Montana. It’s a great place for western history, antique shopping, recreation on the Yellowstone River, and easy downtown exploring. With a population of around 8,500, Miles City is small enough to feel genuine but big enough to keep you busy.
Miles City, MT: Explore Cowboy Country & Beyond
When people ask us about the best things to do in Miles City, we usually start with this: don’t rush it. Yes, it’s right off I-94, and yes, it’s considered a bit small, but this is one of the few eastern Montana towns that holds its own as a destination.
You’ve got museums that dig deep into ranching history, a Main Street that’s genuinely walkable, river access within minutes of downtown, and a mix of local businesses grounded in the community. Ready for more? You’re in the right place.
Hotels & Places to Stay in Miles City
If you’re looking up hotels in Miles City, Montana, chances are you’re planning to stay the night (and that’s a good call). Miles City works well as a base camp for exploring eastern Montana. Start with these local options:
Miles City KOA Journey
If you prefer fresh air and a little space to stretch out, the Miles City KOA Journey is a solid option. It’s close to downtown and offers easy access to the Yellowstone River, with plenty of RV sites, tent spots, and cabin rentals. If you want quick I-94 access but still enjoy the feel of a campground, this spot makes sense.
Tongue River Winery B&B
For something more unique, Tongue River Winery offers a bed-and-breakfast experience in a vineyard setting. It’s quiet, scenic, and ideal if you’re looking for a slower pace. After a day exploring the best things to do in Miles City, this is the kind of place where you can just relax and enjoy a beautiful Montana evening.
Between riverside campgrounds and quiet vineyard stays, Miles City offers a few memorable ways to settle in for the night after a day of exploring.
Favorite Restaurants & Local Eats
You don’t get to be a cattle town without knowing your way around a good steak. When people ask for the best Miles City restaurants, Montana locals usually recommend a mix of classic and casual, just like these:
Black Iron Grill
A favorite among locals and travelers alike, Black Iron Grill leans into smoked meats, steaks, and hearty comfort food. With a comfortable and welcoming atmosphere, this is the kind of place where you can be well taken care of after a long day on the road.
Seabeck Pizza
Relaxed, family-friendly, and perfect if you’re traveling with a group, this spot is a local favorite for something quick and reliable. Seabeck Pizza is a dependable stop on your list of things to do in Miles City, whether you’re grabbing slices or taking a pie back to your hotel.
In a town built on ranching heritage and long Montana days, a good meal is always part of the experience. If you’re building your list of things to do in Miles City, these local restaurants are a great place to start.
Historic Theatres, Main Street & Shopping
Downtown Miles City is where the town really shows off its personality. Once you park, you can easily explore it all on foot. Between the brick buildings, wide sidewalks, and storefronts give you that Old West feel, there’s plenty to do and explore.
Vintage and Rustics in Montana
This place takes up nearly a full city block. With over 50,000 square feet of antiques and collectibles, it’s easy to spend an hour (or three!) wandering through. At Vintage and Rustics, you’ll find western memorabilia, reclaimed décor, vintage signs, and pieces that feel like they came straight out of a ranch house. For antique lovers, this alone makes the list of top things to do in Miles City, MT.
Montana Theatre in Miles City
The historic Montana Theatre in Miles City sits right on Main Street and dates back to the 1930s. It still shows current movie releases, but stepping inside feels like a nod to another era. If you’re visiting in the evening, catching a film here is a simple way to experience the town beyond our cowboy image.
Murdoch’s Ranch & Home Supply
This store is an integral part of Montana life. You’ll find ranch supplies, tack, tools, clothing, boots, fencing gear, and more at Murdoch’s. Even if you’re just browsing, it’s a glimpse into the working culture that defines Miles City.
Spend a few hours wandering Main Street, and you will see how past and present meet in this part of town. It is one of the easiest ways to experience the everyday rhythm of Miles City.
Enjoy Locally Grown Cannabis at Seed of Life
Seed of Life Labs is a Montana-grown operation, built from the ground up in Billings by people who genuinely love the plant. The philosophy behind every product on the shelf comes down to one question: would we smoke it? That filter drives everything: from which strains make it into the grow rotation to what ends up in your hand at the counter.
Strain selection here goes deeper than most. The cultivation team follows breeders closely, sourcing unique and diverse genetics and getting in on new drops before they sell out. Right now, there are around 40 strains in active rotation, with new genetics constantly in testing. It’s the kind of menu that rewards curiosity and gives I-94 travelers a good reason to pull off and take a look before heading deeper into eastern Montana.
Our Miles City location is just off I-94, open daily 9:00 a.m. to 7:50 p.m., with convenient parking and an on-site ATM. Check the live menu before you stop in.
Heading further into Montana? Find your nearest Seed of Life Labs location along the way.
Cannabis in Miles City: Laws, I-94 Travel Tips & More
Miles City sits roughly midway between Billings and the North Dakota border on I-94. If you’re heading into more remote stretches of eastern Montana, this is a smart place to plan ahead. Here are a few practical things to know before you go:
- Don’t forget your valid ID. Adults 21+ can purchase cannabis with any government-issued ID.
- Know the local purchase limits. Montana allows up to 1 ounce of flower, 8 grams of concentrate, or 800mg of THC in edibles per transaction.
- Stock up here if heading east. Services get sparse past Miles City, so plan accordingly.
- Cash is king. Many Montana dispensaries operate cash-only, and there’s an on-site ATM.
- Never drive impaired. Eastern Montana highway stretches are long and rural; plan your timing accordingly.
- Store cannabis securely in your vehicle. Keep products sealed and out of reach while traveling.
- Public consumption is not allowed. Cannabis must be used on private property where the owner permits it.
For current regulations, check our Montana weed laws guide. Laws can change, so it’s worth confirming before your trip.
Explore All Miles City Has to Offer
We love being part of the Montana cannabis community, and Miles City holds a special place in our story. This town blends working ranch culture, river access, and Main Street charm in a way that feels uniquely eastern Montana.
Planning an afternoon exploring downtown? A pre-roll might pair well with a relaxed evening, enjoying the night sky of Big Sky Country. Spending the day on the river? An edible for later can make for a laid-back night once you’re settled in.
Coming to Miles City for BHS? Head to our guide to the Bucking Horse Sale to find out everything you need to know before you go.
At Seed of Life Miles City, our team is here to answer questions, guide first-time shoppers, and make sure both locals and I-94 travelers feel comfortable and informed. If your road trip continues on from here, we’ve got multiple locations across Montana. See you soon!
FAQ: Visiting Miles City, Montana
Top picks include Black Iron Grill for steaks and smoked meats, and Seabeck Pizza for something casual. Main Street also has a handful of bars and cafés worth checking out, including the Ugly Mug for coffee and Otium Brewing while you’re out exploring.
Hotels in Miles City range from traditional roadside options near I-94, like Motel Miles, to unique stays like Tongue River Winery’s B&B. Campers can also consider the Miles City KOA Journey for river access and easy downtown proximity.
Yes. Adults 21 and older with a valid government-issued ID can legally purchase cannabis in Miles City. Visitors should review Montana laws, avoid public consumption, and never drive impaired.
Miles City has a semi-arid climate with hot summers, cold winters, and plenty of sunshine. Spring and fall can be windy, and winter temperatures regularly drop below freezing.
Miles City is about 140 miles east of Billings along I-94. The drive typically takes just over two hours, making it an easy, scenic eastern Montana road trip.
