After-School Adventures
As the afternoon light softens and the air turns crisp, parents across Billings start asking the same question: “what can we do with the kids after school?” The long summer evenings have faded, and while outdoor play is still possible on the good-weather days, cooler temps often mean it’s time to get creative. Luckily, our city is full of places that make those in-between hours something to look forward to, whether it’s stopping by a local park, letting off steam at an indoor play space, or grabbing a sweet treat on the way home.
These aren’t after-school programs that require sign-ups or schedules, just simple, local ideas for parents looking to get out of the house and enjoy a little quality time together. From cozy science museums and colorful candy shops to wide-open parks and ice-skating rinks, there’s plenty to keep kids busy (and parents sane) when the days get shorter. So bundle up, explore your neighborhood, and rediscover how much fun Billings can be, no matter the weather.
Explore, Discover & Create
- Billings Public Library
- Billings Parks & Recreation Programs
- Billings Studio Theatre / The Growing Stage
- Moss Mansion
- Western Heritage Center
- Wise Wonders Science & Discovery Museum
- Yellowstone Art Museum (YAM)
- ZooMontana
Play, Jump & Bounce
- Centennial Ice Arena
- Get Air Trampoline Park
- Lava Island
- Ka-Ko Jo's
- D-BAT Billings
- Skate World
- The Reef Indoor Water Park
Parks, Trails & Everyday Green Spaces
- Billings Parks & Trails - Managed by Billings Parks & Recreation, with more than 2,500 acres of parkland and 45 miles of trails.
- Billings TrailNet
- John H. Dover Memorial Park
- Lake Elmo State Park
- Riverfront Park
- Zimmerman Park
Sweet Spots for After-School Treats
A Few Final Tips for Parents
- Check schedules early: Many programs run in seasonal sessions, and spots fill quickly.
- Join newsletters: Follow places like Wise Wonders, YAM, and Parks & Rec for new session announcements.
- Mix it up: Alternate indoor play days with park stops and sweet treat runs to keep things fresh.
- Explore locally: Every neighborhood in Billings has hidden gems, whether it’s a new playground or a family-owned bakery worth discovering.
When the school day ends, you don’t need big plans to make lasting memories. A stop for ice cream, a quick visit to the library, or a few giggles at the playground can turn an ordinary weekday into something special. These local spots make it easy to slow down, connect, and enjoy the season together, one small adventure at a time.
