Group Tour Discoveries In Montana

Bigfork, Montana

It's The Place To be

As a tour operator I am always looking for new places for group outings that I can use and share with

photo credit: Gerald Eldridge

 other tour operators. Small towns hold a lot of fascination for tour takers whether they are looking for historical sites, cultural visitation, edutainment, hands-on experiences, or unique shopping. Bigfork has all of these. Bigfork is located at the northern end of Flathead Lake on Highway 35. The village actually is located on the bay which is a combination of outlet to Flathead Lake and Swan River. Approximately 2 hours from Missoula, MT or 5 hours east of Spokane, WA or 5 hours south of Calgary, Alberta, Canada, it is beautifully located for hub and spoke tours. The most outstanding feature is the proximity to Glacier National Park only 1 hour away. I sometimes call it the “Santa Fe” of the Northwest due to all the famous artists who call Bigfork home. Yes I love it so much that I call Bigfork home as well.

In the heart of the village is the Bigfork Summer Playhouse. This year the Bigfork Summer Playhouse celebrates the 50th anniversary as the Northwest’s finest repertory theatre. It is truly the stimulus that keeps other businesses growing in the village. This was the first precious “find” for us when we visited the area before we moved to Bigfork. The historic building has gone thru renovation many times with the support of the community. One renovation occurred just this summer, but the quality of talent and presentation is constant and has not changed since my first visit. It has been a favorite of families visiting and residing in the greater Flathead Valley. I am addicted to this theatre and am always in awe that the Broadway shows at the Bigfork Summer Playhouse equal and sometimes surpasses what I saw in London or on Broadway. The best news to hit the press is that the Bigfork Summer Playhouse is now offering group tickets with specials in the early season of late May and early June and the close of the season late August. Please visit their website at www.bigforksummerplayhouse.com for more information. When you call to book ask for Don Thomson. His number is 406-837-4886. If you need help with tour planning around the visitation give me a call at 406-837-7280.

What goes perfect with the Bigfork Summer Playhouse is shopping, of course. My favorite place is THE BARN. The big red barn is home to a variety of antiques and gifts that are beautifully displayed. The staff could have invented customer service and they are very knowledgeable. THE BARN offers shipping as well. THE BARN is located just a few miles off Highway 35 or Highway 83 in a valley that is surrounded by mountains and unforgettable scenery. The stop is worth picture taking alone. Many have never seen an actual sheep wagon or covered wagon, the likes that are on display outside the barn. I cannot describe the feeling, but I always feel wonderful just meandering amongst all the history. Phil Otterson, from Tauck Tours, has asked me in the past to look for good tour stops. This location has ample parking with easy turn around for the motor coaches. I knew this was a great tour stop and shared my ideas with Carole Hill, the owner. She has just announced that for groups who make reservations she will provide a complimentary refreshment stop for groups. REMEMBER this service comes with reservations only. Wow what an opportunity for midmorning, catered lunches, mid afternoon or late afternoon before dining in Bigfork and then attending the Bigfork Summer Playhouse. This one is for you Phil! If I am in town I would be happy to greet your coach and share some history of the area, but reservations only for this program. You can reach Carol Hill at THE BARN at 406-837-2276 or by e-mail carole@thebarnantiques.biz

Please feel free to call if I can be of assistance with your groups visiting Bigfork.