What Are The Best Things to Do in Kalispell With Kids?

(A Family-Friendly Local Guide)

1. Explore Flathead Lake With the Whole Family

Flathead Lake is one of the biggest highlights for families visiting Kalispell. The water is clean, calm in many areas, and perfect for kids to experience Montana’s outdoors safely.

Family-friendly ways to enjoy the lake:

• Relaxing shoreline time and swimming spots
• Short paddles in calm bays (Yellow Bay,Blue Bay, and Woods Bay are all great)
• Scenic views that keep adults just as entertained as kids

Many families choose guided experiences on the lake so kids can enjoy being on the water while parents don’t have to worry about logistics or equipment.

2. Go on a Clear Kayak Tour (Surprisingly Great for Kids)

Clear kayaks are a hit with kids because they turn paddling into an interactive experience—they can see directly into the water below. Fish, rocks, and underwater movement keep kids engaged the entire time.

There are two especially popular options for families:

• Daytime clear kayak tours on Flathead Lake, ideal for younger kids and first-time paddlers
• LED illuminated sunset kayak tours, best for older kids who enjoy something a little more magical and unique

The LED-lit kayaks glow after sunset, creating an experience that feels exciting but still calm and controlled—many families say it becomes the highlight of their trip.

These tours are guided, beginner-friendly, and designed so kids can feel confident on the water.

3. Visit Glacier National Park (Easy Family Adventures)

Just a short drive from Kalispell, Glacier National Park offers countless kid-friendly options—especially if you focus on shorter outings rather than full-day hikes.

Great Glacier ideas for families:

• Scenic drives with frequent pull-offs
• Short, flat walks near lakes and viewpoints (Avalanche Lake Trail is Glacier's Most Popular trail for Families!)
• Wildlife spotting from safe distances

You don’t need to tackle long trails to make Glacier memorable for kids.

4. Walk & Explore Downtown Kalispell

Downtown Kalispell is easy to explore with kids and offers a nice break from bigger adventures.

Family-friendly highlights:

• Open sidewalks and small local shops
• Ice cream stops and casual food options ( Sweat Peaks - Locals Favorite Ice cream Shop)
• A relaxed pace that works well for strollers or tired legs

It’s a great way to fill an afternoon without committing to a full activity.

5. Let Kids Learn While Having Fun

Kalispell offers several experiences that mix learning and play—perfect for curious kids.

Popular options include:

• Local museums with hands-on exhibits (The Conrad Mansion is always a great Option) 
• Nature-focused learning experiences (Guided Kayak tours are always a fun way to learn)
• Short educational stops that don’t feel like “school”

These activities balance out outdoor days and keep kids engaged without overstimulation.

6. Evening Activities Kids Actually Enjoy

Evenings in Kalispell are calm, which works well for families.

Kid-approved evening ideas:

• Watching the sunset near the water
• Easy evening walks
• LED-lit kayak tours for families with older children

Unlike loud or crowded attractions, these experiences help kids wind down while still feeling special.

Why Kalispell Is Great for Family Vacations

Families love Kalispell because it’s:

• Outdoor-focused but not extreme
• Easy to navigate with kids
• Full of experiences that work for multiple age groups

Parents often appreciate that activities here don’t feel rushed or overly commercial.

Planning a Kid-Friendly Kalispell Trip

When visiting Kalispell with kids, the best approach is balance:

• One main activity per day
• Plenty of time near water or nature
• Simple evenings that don’t overwhelm younger travelers

Water-based experiences—especially clear kayak tours on Flathead Lake or LED-lit sunset tours —are often the most memorable moments for families.