last minute trip to glacier national park

Glacier National Park Vacation Packages, All Inclusive Travel

Glacier National Park

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Vacation Packages Let us plan your perfect trip.

Customize it we can easily mix and match any of the below packages. call us at 888-733-1093 (direct 307-733-1093) or email us ., yellowstone, grand teton & glacier.

A 10 day itinerary let's you see all the highlights of Grand Teton, Yellowstone, and Glacier National Parks. Enjoy activities outside of the parks like guided hiking tours, whitewater and scenic rafting, a zipline tour, treetop canopy walk, and horseback riding, with plenty of time to explore the parks on your own.

Glacier Park & Whitefish 7 Night Adventure

Enjoy 6 nights in a hotel and 1 overnight llama trek. Other activities include a sunset horseback ride with dinner, ziplining, an alpine slide ride, and whitewater rafting.

Skiing and Snowmobiling

Take a day off the slopes to enjoy the scenery and deep snow via snowmobile.

Whitefish High Alpine Adventure

Walk in the treetops, zipline down the side of a mountain, cruise down an alpine slide, enjoy an evening horseback ride, all with the backdrop of gorgeous Glacier Country.

Long Weekend in Whitefish & Glacier Park

With just a long weekend in the Glacier area, we are givign you time to explore the park on your own, but also including a few fun nearby activities like inflatable kayaking, horseback riding, and a zipline tour.

Whitefish - Moderate Ski Packages

Ski package with moderate, ski in/ski out lodging.

Whitefish Slopeside Ski Bum Package

Slopeside lodging with one of the best deals for lifts and lodging in the West.

Whitefish - Economy Ski Packages

Ski package with economy, slopeside lodging.

Whitefish Family Adventure

Stay in a local hotel and enjoy fun activities for the whole family, including a scenic chairlift ride, ziplining, alpine slide ride, a walk in the treetops tour, and whitewater rafting.

Stay at a Cabin

Stay & Play Packages - Lodging & Rafting Combos

Regional vacation packages, yellowstone vacation packages, bozeman vacation packages, missoula vacation packages, whitefish vacation packages, bitterroot valley vacation packages.

Escape to a Perfect Cabin Getaway in Glacier National Park

Visit allcabins.com.

The Best of Glacier NP: An Action-Packed 4-Day Itinerary

• Updated: 04/08/2024

Are you considering a trip to Glacier National Park? With its rugged mountains, crystal-clear alpine lakes, and abundant wildlife, this national park offers an unforgettable experience for outdoor lovers. We recently visited this Montana gem of a national park with our teen daughter (our son was on another trip)—spending four days seeing its main attractions, including the iconic Going-to-the-Sun Road, stunning hiking trails, and scenic boat rides. 

Our 4-day itinerary will make you want to slip on your hiking shoes, grab your camera, and explore the best of Glacier National Park. From high-altitude vistas to pretty waterfalls, I share awe-inspiring sights and helpful tips on planning your best trip.

17 essential tips to plan Your best Glacier National Park visit.

I have tried to get to this crown jewel of national parks three times over many years. Expensive airfare, high-priced car rentals, or the lack of lodging availability have always tripped me up. Fortunately, the third time was a charm. Planned six months before the trip, we finally made it to Glacier National Park for a summer visit.

Based on our experience, I share 17 essential things you will want to know before you visit this park. It is a comprehensive overview of all the before-you-go info I wish I had before our trip. From the best times to visit to how to get around the park to where to stay , plus much more, this resource will help give you a jump start on your trip planning, ensuring an incredible visit.

4 days in Glacier National Park: an at-a-glance overview.

Our on-the-ground time in Glacier was four nights and technically five days, giving us time to experience traditional park activities over three full and two half days. 

See an at-a-glance overview of how we spent our visit below. Click each day for more details.

• Day 1: Arrive, get oriented, and check-in .
• Day 2: Hike the combined Avalanche Lake trail and Trail of the Cedars trails. Drive the Going-to-the-Sun Road .
• Day 3: Hike the St. Mary and Virginia Falls trail. Take a Two Medicine Lake boat ride to hike the Twin Falls trail .
• Day 4: Drive to Many Glacier for a scenic boat ride. Hike the Grinnell Glacier Trail via the Lake Josephine boat dock .
• Day 5: Check out. Stop in West Glacier to shop for souvenirs before driving to Missoula .

Would you like a printable version of this itinerary ? Jump here . See where we went on the map below.

How to use this map:  In the map header, click the square tab to the left of my logo or click the enlarge frame to the right to view detail. You can save the map to “Your Places” on Google Maps by clicking the star next to the map name. Or you can share it by clicking the share icon.

Day 1: Arrival and West Glacier.

Here are the highlights of the first day of our Glacier National Park trip. 

• Land at Glacier Park International Airport (FCA) in Kalispell, Montana.
• Pick up our airport rental car and drive 26 miles to West Glacier. 
• Lunch at Glacier Highland Restaurant—get the pie!
• Get our seven-day park pass and talk with a ranger at the Apgar Visitor Center.
• Check into our room at The Great Bear Inn .
• Back to West Glacier for groceries. Dinner at Lake McDonald Lodge.

After many years of trying to make it to Glacier National Park, I was thrilled to finally touch down at the Glacier Park International Airport (FCA) on our direct flight from Chicago.

The small airport, only a 35-minute drive from the West Glacier park entrance, is easy to navigate, making for a smooth first leg of the trip. Once we grabbed our luggage—we are a checked bag family—mainly to bring loads of our preferred brand of sunscreen , we headed to the rental car trailer to grab our pre-booked rental. 

Rental cars in Glacier are pricey due to low stock and high demand during a short season. Expect vehicles to cost between $100 and $200+ a day. If you plan to rent, I recommend requoting your reserved rental price before your trip. I did this and shaved hundreds of dollars off our initial quote. I share where to get the best rental quotes and other money-saving car rental tips in this article .

Sign up for my monthly Discovery Newsletter & get a free Trip Budget Calculator !

After driving the 35 minutes to West Glacier, we stopped at the Glacier Highland Restaurant for lunch. Given it was a gorgeous blue sky Montana summer day, we grabbed a table on their sunny outdoor patio ringed by flowers and cooled by misting machines. It was the perfect way to kick off our trip. 

At the Glacier Highland, expect elevated American-style pub fare of sandwiches and pizzas. We ate a solid black bean burger and a Greek salad for lunch. However, the star that shines brightest at the Glacier Highland is not the veggie burger—it is the lovingly homemade pie. 

We chose a slice of the huckleberry and lemon cream pie. It would be my first taste of huckleberry, a cross between blueberry and cranberry. The berry grows prolifically wild in the summers in Montana, and I was dying to try it.

And happily, reality exceeded expectations by a lot. If this pie is still on the Glacier Highland Restaurant menu when you visit, I highly recommend getting it. It was one of the best light pies I have ever had. The fluffy huckleberry filling towered over a thin layer of lemon curd, sitting on a perfectly flaky crust and topped with creamy and whole whipped cream. Every bite was a tangy, sweet, and creamy triumph. I can still savor its taste as I write about it. 

Fully satisfied with our al fresco meal, we drove a short distance into the park, stopping at the ranger gate to purchase our 7-day pass. Although we had pre-booked an entrance reservation allowing us access to the West Glacier entrance, we did not need it as we arrived shortly after 3 PM, when this popular western entrance re-opens to all traffic.

From there, we headed to the nearby Apgar Visitor Center to talk to a ranger and get advice on the best hikes for our family. And recommendations for the best ways to get around the park and make the most of our visit. After, we made a pit stop in West Glacier for essentials, like bear spray, an affordable cooler made of recycled materials, and picnic and snack items at the West Glacier Mercantile. 

Supplied, fed, and informed, our next stop was our lodging—checking into The Great Bear Inn .

About a 15-minute drive from the West Glacier entrance, this attractive lodge-style deluxe bed and breakfast with four rooms and two cabins is owned and run by a kind Montana couple, Bunny and Larry, year-round. The inn is on a large rolling property with beautiful views. 

Why did we stay outside Glacier National Park? Because much of the high-demand in-park lodging books up 13 months in advance. And we did not plan our trip that far ahead. Learn more about all in-park options in this comprehensive guide .

At The Great Bear Inn, we stayed in the Trail of the Cedars room with a view of the mountains. Our ensuite double room had two log-hewn frame queen beds and ample space, with a mountain decor.  See a quick tour of the inn below.

For dinner, we drove back into the park, following the road from West Glacier for 10 miles to reach Lake McDonald Lodge. This move was a bit of a whoops. 

The road was under construction and dusty, making it hard to see, and the ride was too long at the end of an already lengthy day. Because we did not feel like waiting for a table in the lodge’s fine dining room, we ordered an average pizza at super touristy Jammer Joes on the Lake McDonald Lodge property. 

In hindsight, we would have been better off grabbing a quick bite to eat closer to West Glacier or Apgar. However, the nice thing was it stayed light until nearly 10 PM, giving us plenty of daylight to find our way back to our inn. Dining options are not plenty inside or around Glacier National Park. Check out this complete where-to-eat guide to learn more.

Day 2: Avalanche Lake and the Going-to-the-Sun Road.

Here are the highlights of our first full day enjoying Glacier National Park. 

• Breakfast: Early wake-up and complimentary breakfast at The Great Bear Inn.
• Arrive at Avalanche Lake trailhead parking area by 7:30 AM.
• Hike the 5.9-mile Avalanche Lake trail combined with the Trail of the Cedars .
• Lunch: Picnic at tables next to the Avalanche Lake parking area.
• Drive the Going-to-the-Sun Road.
• Turn around at the Rising Sun area. Get snacks and use the restroom.
• Errands: Stop in West Glacier for groceries, snacks, and souvenirs. 
• Dinner: On the patio at the Belton Chalet.

After a comfortable night of sleep in our peaceful room at The Great Bear Inn, we woke early to enjoy a hot breakfast included in our stay. Finding it difficult not to overeat on many good options, we enjoyed huckleberry pancakes, biscuits and gravy, scrambled eggs, and muffins. Clearly—we were fueling up before a morning of hiking.

Driving through the West Glacier Park entrance around 6:45 AM, using our pre-booked reservation to enter, we made it to the Avalanche Lake trailhead parking area by 7:30 AM. It was already filling fast, and we felt lucky to get a space.

To explore Glacier, we drove our car. However, we found parking a pain. From 8 AM to 4 PM, spaces were difficult, if not impossible, to get when we needed them. If you are visiting in-season, to avoid this parking hassle, consider taking advantage of the free Glacier shuttle to get around. Or join for a guided tour . I share more information about shuttle dates of operation, route maps, and more in this planning tips article .

Once parked and with our daypacks ready, we hit the 5.9-mile out-and-back Avalanche Lake trail , enjoying its steady climb (a total 757-foot elevation gain) along this moderately strenuous route.

We loved this walk through the woods that paralleled streams and small waterfalls, eventually opening to beautiful views of Avalanche Lake. From its rocky shores, we marveled at the wild alpine surroundings reflected in the calm and sparkling lake waters.

After following the path around the southwest shore, we enjoyed a snack on one of several rocky beaches before heading back via a short detour on the .9-mile interpretive Trail of the Cedars loop . 

A special note for hikers seeking peace and tranquility in nature—Avalanche Lake and Trail of the Cedars are busy trails, especially after 9 AM. If you are looking for more outdoor serenity, arrive to hike this trail early. Or later, after 5 PM. Since the sun rises in Glacier around 5 AM and sets around 10 PM in early July, you may have lots of daylight to work with.

With our hike wrapped up and back at our car, we grabbed our cooler to enjoy a picnic lunch at a nearby table. When done, and after giving our parking to a grateful family patiently waiting for a space, we set out to drive the most iconic highlight of the park—the Going-to-the-Sun Road. 

The hype on this 50-mile engineering marvel of a road is well deserved. It is gorgeous. As you ascend, following the switchbacks towards its highest point at Logan Pass, the views become increasingly awe-inspiring, with every turn divulging a new vista of towering mountains or a cascading waterfall.

Is it nerve-wracking to drive the Going-to-the-Sun Road ? I share my thoughts in this article .

When driving it, we stopped just past the Weeping Wall, finding an open space adjacent to the Paradise Meadow pullout, a great place to stop. Not only is the view overlooking the meadow stunning but there is a convenient bathroom and high parking turnover. Plus, you can take a short walk to gain more height.

After this stop, we hoped to find a parking space at Logan Pass and hike the 5.1-mile out-and-back Hidden Lake trail . Unfortunately—no such luck. Instead, we drove on, pulling into the Jackson Glacier overlook to stretch our legs and take photos. From here, we continued east to the Rising Sun General Store and Motor Inn, where we stopped for ice cream treats and the bathroom before turning around to catch the jaw-dropping road views from a new direction.

After a quick pit stop in West Glacier for groceries and gas—we returned to our inn . Once there, we enjoyed a well-earned rest, soaking in a great first day before cleaning up and heading back to West Glacier and the Belton Chalet for dinner. 

Although we loved our dinner at the Belton Chalet —gourmet and inventive American West lodge fare served in a rustic and historic environment—I got sticker shock from the prices, which I found closer to downtown Chicago trendy dining versus backcountry upscale pub fare. This surprise was on me for not doing adequate research or even closely looking at the menu before eating.

So, once we decided to stay and avoid that restaurant slink-out-of-your-seat shame—keeping in mind the options for dining out in West Glacier are few—we leaned in and thoroughly enjoyed our alfresco and gourmet meal in the still bright evening sun on the restaurant’s wraparound deck. My favorite dish was the blistered shishito peppers appetizer—perfectly charred peppers paired with a paprika dipping sauce. For mains, our daughter got a ribeye, I ordered the bison meatloaf, and my husband chose the trout, making for an entirely satisfying, albeit expensive, end to an excellent first day.

Day 3: St. Mary and Virginia Falls and Two Medicine.

Here are the highlights of our second full day enjoying Glacier National Park. 

• Breakfast: Early wake-up and included breakfast at the Great Bear Inn.
• Arrive at St. Mary and Virginia Falls trailhead parking area by 8:15 AM.
• Hike the 3.1-mile out-and-back St. Mary and Virginia Falls trail .
• Drive to the Two Medicine entrance for our pre-booked boat ride and hike.
• Lunch: Picnic at Two Medicine Lake on a bench.
• Join our 1 PM scenic boat ride across Two Medicine Lake.
• Hike the 2.3-mile out-and-back Twin Falls trail from the west end boat dock.
• Return to the inn for rest and shower.
• Dinner: Glacier Highland Restaurant. 
• Errands: More gas and groceries in West Glacier. 

After a successful first full day in Glacier, we were ready to make the most of another day in this gorgeous park. Up early again, indulging in a full hot meal of breakfast burritos, waffles, eggs, muffins, and fruit, we headed into the park directly to Logan Pass. We hoped to get a parking space to hike the upper section of the Hidden Lake trail, given the lower section had been closed to bear activity.

Will you see bears at Glacier? The likelihood is high. We never did, but we came close (missed by five minutes on a trail). And we were fully prepared with bear spray and safety knowledge in case we did. Learn more about bear safety in my Glacier planning tips article here .

Arriving just before 7:45 AM, we learned this was way too late. Getting there closer to 6 or 6:30 AM would have given us a better shot. The main and overflow Logan Pass lots were packed and busy with cars like ours circling in vain for an empty space. And spoiler, during our full three days in the park, we sadly, and much to my deep regret, never could find available parking here to do this hike. A definite reason to come back.

So, employing plan B, we decided to drive 7 miles further east to the St. Mary and Virginia Falls trailhead . The tiny lot here was also full. However, hoping for the best, we hung in our car, waiting for early morning hikers to return. Luck was on our side. After a 10-minute wait, hikers returned, and we took their space, setting off to experience this 3.1-mile out-and-back moderately challenging waterfall trail. 

There is no denying driving and trying to find a parking space in Glacier National Park during the height of the summer season is rough. I talk more about it in this planning tips article and share alternative ways to get around the park .

Although the initial landscape of this hike, clustering around the St. Mary River, shows the signs of the 2015 fire, this is a beautiful hike. Shortly after the viewing bridge fronting thundering St. Mary Falls, the trail climbs into a healthy forest unaffected by the burn. 

Along the way, we stopped at one of many rocky spots adjacent to Virginia Creek to explore the rushing water tumbling down from the higher-up falls—perfect places for a rest or picnic.

Reaching the trail summit is a reward. Crossing a wooden bridge, we came to the foot of Virginia Falls, soaking up the towering cascade and literally the spray that comes off it. After enjoying the welcome cool down on an already warm summer morning and catching sight of the falls from various vantage points from the rocks below, we eventually returned down the route.

Incredibly pleased with the success of our Plan B, we headed to our car, and a very thankful and patient family waiting for a parking spot to drive just over south to reenter the park at Two Medicine Lake. 

I had pre-purchased 1 PM tickets for a Two Medicine Lake Scenic Boat Tour with an Optional Hike. We wanted to arrive in time to check in for the tour and eat our picnic lunch. And success, we made it in time to do it all and board our boat to ride across the lake and take in the stunning mountain scenery.

Because of the type of ticket I purchased, we had the option to join for a group hike to Twin Falls, a 2.3-mile out-and-back hike from the Two Medicine West End boat dock, where we disembarked after crossing the lake.

However, given the ease of our experience on all the other well-marked trails in Glacier, plus a downloaded contour map of the route from Alltrails, we chose to take off while the group was still gathering and hike this relatively flat—expect a total 121-foot elevation gain—and moderate path ourselves.

It was a good choice as we got to quietly enjoy the pretty path lined with wildflowers, blue skies, and jagged peaks, eventually making it to the falls, where we took photos and explored the rocks and pools.

Returning via the boat, we stopped in the Two Medicine store for coffee and snacks to fuel up before our nearly 1.5-hour ride back to our inn . 

For dinner, and after spending time at our inn to clean up and rest, we returned to the Glacier Highland Restaurant for a low-key meal of burgers, fries, onion rings, and more pie to celebrate a rewarding day. 

Day 4: Many Glacier and the Grinnell Glacier trail.

Here are the highlights of our third full day enjoying Glacier National Park. 

• Breakfast: Take to-go breakfast provided by The Great Bear Inn (out the door by 5:15 AM).
• Drive 120 miles or 2 hours and 15 minutes to Many Glacier.
• Join our pre-booked 8:30 AM hiker shuttle boat across Swiftcurrent Lake and Lake Josephine.
• Hike the 7.6-mile out-and-back Grinnell Glacier trail from the Lake Josephine boat dock .
• Lunch: Picnic at Grinnell Glacier.
• Drive back to our inn to rest and shower.

In a perfect world where I planned our Glacier National Park trip a full 13 months in advance when reservations open for the following year, I would have booked lodging on both the west and east sides of the park to eliminate the massive drive time to get to one of the essential crown jewels of this park and one I wanted to visit—the Many Glacier area.

Want to know where to stay in Glacier National Park? Learn more here .

However, given our constantly shifting family schedules, I rarely plan that far in advance. So, I made do with the lodging we could find —which turned out to be excellent—but far from Many Glacier. 

And then we did what any self-respecting parents with an early morning destination goal and a 13-year-old who likes to sleep in until 1 PM would do. We had her get up at 4:30 AM so we could hit the road with our to-go breakfast courtesy of our inn by 5:15 AM to drive the 120 miles to get there. 

Why so early? I had pre-booked the highly popular 8:30 AM hiker shuttle scenic boat ride from the dock outside the Many Glacier Hotel that would take us across the truly stunning waters of Swiftcurrent Lake. Then, with a boat change and a brief hike, across the equally or more gorgeous waters of Lake Josephine. 

If you are an outdoor lover, taking these boats improbably further into the wilderness (we could see a moose from our boat!) on a gorgeous July Montana morning, which also happens to shave off miles of hiking time to reach one of the best trails in Glacier—the Grinnell Glacier trail , is the kind of experience that makes you feel lucky to be alive. 

Initially, our plan for the day did not include hiking the Grinnell Glacier trail. Which, incidentally, turned out to be one of my top 10 favorite all-time trails. 

Considered a challenging route, with a nearly 2,000-foot elevation, I was not up to the combined pushback from my husband and daughter protesting my overzealous hiking plans. Instead, and respecting that not everybody loves a punishing uphill hike, I told them we planned to take the flat just over a 1-mile walk to the turquoise shores of Grinnell Lake from the Lake Josephine boat dock.

However, the morning was so gorgeous, and the landscapes so utterly beguiling everyone decided to postpone the lake walk and instead gain some height for the views. So, we started walking up the Grinnell Glacier trail, where the vistas became increasingly gorgeous. Feeling good, we continued ascending, eventually crossing paths with hikers coming down and breathlessly telling others they saw grizzlies above the trail further up.

With our grizzly-alert adrenaline kicking in high gear, we double-checked our bear spray was within reach (it was), and we quickened our pace to try to catch sight of these bears in the wild. 

While I could have been perfectly fine not seeing a bear, my 13-year-old was thrilled at the prospect. So, in what was likely one of our less sage parenting moves, we indulged her and all decided to keep moving higher. 

Although we never caught sight of a bear (whew!), we covered a lot more ground than we planned. Realizing this and feeling good, we then collectively decided to hike the entire route, all the way to Grinnell Glacier. Tacking onto another friendly hiking couple for safety in numbers, we stuck together as a group of five as we followed the path up. Making our way through cascades of meltwater, across snow patches, and alpine flower fields, we were wowed by the majestic mountain views at every turn along the trail. 

Eventually reaching our goal of Grinnell Glacier, tucked into the bowl of a mountain, we headed down to the water’s edge for a closer look. And to enjoy the spectacle of this ancient glacier with its cascading waterfalls tumbling into still turquoise blue waters dotted with ice and snow. It felt like stepping into a scene from the Arctic or Antarctic. We took our time at the shoreline, soaking in the warm July Montana sun, to rest and enjoy our lunch at such a beautiful spot. 

Following a splendid break, we took the trail back to the Lake Josephine boat dock to catch our return boat. As we approached the dock, the day’s sunshine, which had begun to give way to clouds, turned cooler with light rain. Slipping our jackets on, we waited patiently in line to catch the 3:45 PM return boat, backtracking to the Many Glacier Hotel and our car. 

That night, after a welcome rest following our 2+ hour drive back to our inn, we returned for a late evening dinner at the Glacier Highland Restaurant to reflect on and appreciate our truly epic Glacier National Park day.

Day 5: Goodbye and West Glacier.

After getting up so many early mornings in a row, it felt decadent to sleep late on our final morning in Glacier until 7 AM. Once up, we enjoyed a leisurely breakfast courtesy of our innkeepers before repacking our bags and heading into West Glacier for souvenirs and gas. Then, continuing onto the second leg of our trip— three days in Missoula . 

Learn more about our time in Missoula, here . Then get an idea of the many excellent things you can see and do in and around the town in the article below .

Get a one-page print version of this itinerary.

For every trip I take, I create a one or two-page itinerary that includes the information I reference most while traveling. Although several other itinerary tools and apps are available, I have not found any to work how I want. So, I created my own template . 

See below for my itinerary for our Glacier trip.

Note, I updated this itinerary to reflect what we actually did vs. what I had originally and loosely planned. 

Because I generally keep our pre-trip itineraries flexible with wide open chunks of time, my pre-trip version of this itinerary looked less structured. Keeping things loose allows me to adjust our plans on the fly based on how our group feels, the weather, and specifically for Glacier—if there was parking. To complement the open time, I usually pre-book one fixed activity to serve as an anchor, like our Two Medicine boat ride. For the rest of the day, I keep a ready reserve of ideas of things to do so we can pick what fits our situation and mood best.

So, use what we did as a guide. Then, know that if you cannot stick precisely to your plan, this happens to us all the time, too. 

If you use this itinerary, please comment below to let me know what you think.

Love this itinerary template? Create and customize your own.

If you like this itinerary template style, I share tools in this article so you can replicate your own version for free. In the article, find four downloadable itinerary template formats. Plus—get links to more itinerary creation apps and resources that will help you find the style that works for you best.

Dining options in and around Glacier National Park.

Inside Glacier National Park and the small communities surrounding it, you will find restaurant options to be limited. Some places are open on select days with set time windows and only during the summer season. And other, in-the-know options are tucked away in campgrounds or resort parks and are easy to miss.  

To get a better idea of possible places to eat in and out of the park, check out this complete guide organized by region, detailing its distance to the closest park entrance if it is outside the park. 

Where to stay in or near Glacier National Park.

If you want to stay inside Glacier National Park —check out this comprehensive where-to-stay guide . Learn about 24+ in-park locations, including lodges, hotels, rentals, backcountry chalets, and campgrounds.

However, if you discover all inside-Glacier accommodation already booked—no worries—you will still have options. Choose to stay in hotels, motels, cabins, campgrounds, and private rentals in one of eight nearby communities . Get a list of the best outside-the-park options in this complete lodging guide organized by region and park entrance. 

Related reading .

If you are planning a Glacier trip, check out these related articles. Get more information, ideas, and resources to plan better travel and get out the door with less hassle.

• How to Plan a Glacier National Park Trip: 17 Essential Tips
• Glacier Reservation & Pass: How to Enter This National Park
• Glacier NP: Ultimate Guide Where to Stay Inside the Park
• The Best Places To Stay Near Glacier National Park
• The Best Places To Eat Around Glacier National Park
• 39 Amazing Ideas For Things To See & Do In Missoula
• How To Make The Most Of Missoula In 3 Days
• 49 Things You Need to Do to Plan Your Best Trip (Free Travel Research & Planning Checklist)
• Pack Faster & Better With This Universal Printable Packing List
• Pre-Trip: A Practical Checklist to Close the House & Pack

Feedback & questions.

Did this article help? Do you have questions about a prospective visit? Or want to communicate an update to property or business information? Please share in the comments below and I will respond.

Affiliate Disclosure: Some of the links on this page may be affiliate links, and at no additional cost to you, I earn a commission if you make a purchase. I only recommend products and companies I use. And the income goes to keeping the site community-supported and ads minimal.

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About the author:  Janice Moskoff is a travel writer and blogger who loves hiking, exploring the world, and reading. She writes to inspire travel-loving families, adult friends, and couples on her blog,  Gather and Go Travel . Check out  her bio , learn how she became  a blogger , and discover how to  work with her . Sign up for her monthly  Discovery Newsletter  to get her latest travel recommendations and  how-to’s .

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Welcome to Gather and Go Travel , a blog inspiring families, adult friends, and couples to explore US and international destinations and to get outdoors. I am Janice, an experienced traveler to over 50 countries and a travel writer, book lover, and blogger. Learn more about me , read our story , and how to work with me .

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Did you know you can hear the wings of a gliding eagle slip through the high mountain air? That deep-sea fossils hide under the crimson spikes of Indian paintbrush along the shores of high-altitude lakes? That those famous white mountain goats may actually have been transplanted from the Alps? There’s so much to experience on a Glacier National Park vacation that most visitors never even imagine. They drive through and snap some photos. The fanatics strap on heavy backpacks to escape the crowds. But Classic Journeys can show you the intense grandeur and deep solitude of this treasure in unique style. On easy-going walks carefully chosen so you can glory in wildlife and wildflowers. With visits to mining camps, ranchers and Native Americans for varied views of how humans have made their lives in this awesome setting. You’ll touch and appreciate Glacier as few people do with a fine mix of outdoor activity and perfectly located lodgings at the end of every exhilarating day.

• B egin the Glacier National Park tour in Whitefish with a gentle walk with views of the Rockies.

•  Enjoy strolling along a beautifully sustained community trail to Swift Creek for a picnic in the forest.

•  Explore America's most spectacular scenery on Glacier's Highline Trail.

•  Meet a local friend and member of the Blackfeet Indians who shares the history, mythology and culture of the tribe through songs and stories.

•  Amble along the shores of Swiftcurrent Lake inside Glacier National Park on a series of varied walks and stunning views from Sun Point.

• Spot w ildlife—elk, deer, moose, bald eagles—are common on the varied trails we’ve chosen (often with fine picnic spots as our goal). 

•  Cruise Swiftcurrent and Josephine Lakes on an easygoing boat ride

• Take leisurely hikes that bring to life the history of the local tribes and the mining boom to life.

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Dates & Prices

The earlier you book, the more choice you’ll have and the lower your price. And you can always change your mind — you won’t be charged to transfer to a different trip before your final payment is due. Talk with one of our travel experts at 800-200-3887 .

Select our “Family Departure” to travel with other families.

Why Choose Classic Journeys

• Experience the world on foot and at eye level . Each day, join your guide on the most cinematic footpaths in the region.
• Exceptional full-time local guides who become your well-connected friend. Our amazing guides are with you throughout each day of the tour, share their lifelong connections as well as engaging anecdotes about the history and culture of the region.
• Small groups that provide you unrivaled access. An average of fewer than 10 guests per departure means we can offer you special access to sites like Stonehenge so you experience the stone circle when it’s closed to the general public, a guided visit to Zion Narrows that other companies cannot arrange because of larger group sizes, and vineyard walks with a count and countess in Tuscany.
• Award-winning hotels are waiting for you at the end of every day. Luxuriate in the finest and most distinctive accommodations in the region you’re exploring, including rainforest lodges, 16th century villas, and award-winning properties that show up on World’s Best and Gold lists.
• Eat like (and with) the locals. Food is a foolproof way into the hearts, homes and history of the places you visit with us. From gourmet picnics to coveted local restaurants, our meals offer you opportunities to explore native food traditions and fine dining.
• Handcrafted itineraries with all activities included. With our long-term friendships, we know our walking tour regions more personally than anyone else. So you get thoughtfully curated itineraries that combine explorations of the villages, organic farms, archeological sites and the people who know them best.
• Sustainable travel that supports the places you’re visiting. We put our local currency into the pockets of the people who live where we travel. It’s your guarantee that you’ll have authentic, up-close experiences on your trip. Best of all, our person-to-person approach helps sustain their ways of life.

Accommodations

We spend years cultivating personal relationships with our hoteliers to provide you thoughtfully selected accommodations that reveal the true character of the region. Here is a sampling of our favorite hotels on this tour. 

Lodge At Whitefish Lake

Inspired by the grand lodges of the past, the four diamond resort is surrounded by mountains with Whitefish Lake at its back door. Studio suites feature a gas stone fireplace and signature bathrooms with soaking tub and slate tile shower.

St. Mary Village

This mountain resort sits on the edge of Glacier National Park. Guest rooms are rustically furnished and feature mountain views. This lodge is accessible to all park activities and offers complimentary Wi-Fi in public areas.

Belton Chalet

Built in 1910 as Glacier’s first railway hotel, this lodge is rich in history. It’s beautifully restored Arts & Crafts style blends rusticity with convenience. Gardens surround the lodge, and the covered porch is the perfect spot to watch a sunset.

What’s Included

• Well-sited boutique hotels and lodges that provide you unrivaled access to the people and places, culture and natural environment you came to experience
• All breakfasts, 5 lunches and 4 dinners
•  Full-time experienced guide(s) who are with you throughout the trip and handle behind-the-scenes logistics
• Admissions to tastings, historic sites and other scheduled events as noted in the detailed daily itinerary
•  Gratuities for hotels, meals, and baggage
• All land transportation during the trip

Above & Beyond Benefits

Privileged access events.

• One-of-a-kind access to remarkable people, places and activities arranged just for you.

Invisible Check-In

• When your group arrives, we whisk you and your bags to your room immediately. No waiting – no tipping.

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If your sights are set on Western Montana's Glacier Country and now you’re just looking for some inspiration and great rates, you’re in the right place. Here you’ll find all-inclusive vacation packages and last-minute travel deals for your romantic getaway, winter ski adventure, family vacation or spa retreat. From room discounts to shoulder-season specials to permit-only guided river trips, we offer vacation deals for any time of year.

There's This Place Where Every Trail Is Worth the Trek

Three rivers and seven wilderness areas meet in Missoula, Montana, a small town with enormous personality. Visit Missoula and experience it for yourself.

Meadow Lake Resort & Condos

City: Columbia Falls Phone: 406.892.8700

100 St. Andrews Dr. Columbia Falls, MT 59912

GROUP ROOM BLOCK PERKS

Valid: Apr 9th, 2024 to Apr 15th, 2025

Book a group block of 10 or more rooms by June 30, 2024, and every 20th room night is free . Book 10 weekday room nights between September and April and enjoy 1 5% off meals at Meadow Lake Bar & Grill (excludes alcohol). Event space for 10-30 and onsite catering available. CONTACT LIISA @ [email protected] * 920-427-2306

A group block requires 10 or more total room nights, with 10 or more rooms on peak night. Blackout dates may apply. Travel must be booked by June 30, 2024, and completed by April 15, 2025. Weekday room nights are from Sunday thru Thursday.

Quality Inn Hamilton

City: Hamilton Phone: 406.363.6600

1113 N. First St. Hamilton, MT 59840

Spring Savings at the Hamilton Quality Inn

Valid: Mar 8th, 2024 to May 31st, 2024

Sneak away to the Hamilton Quality Inn, located in beautiful Bitterroot Valley. Receive a 15% lodging discount on your stay. Enjoy breakfast before you venture out for the day. We are located near downtown, close food, fun and fuel!  Book now.

 Package valid Thursday – Sunday only. 

The Firebrand Hotel

City: Whitefish Phone: 406.863.1900

650 E. Third St. Whitefish, MT 59937

Last Minute Sale at The Firebrand Hotel

Valid: Feb 21st, 2024 to May 1st, 2024

Save 15% on last minute stays at The Firebrand!

Arrival must be within 7 days or less. Offer available on new reservations only. Based on availability. Blackout dates & restrictions apply. Offer can not be combined with any other offer or promotion.

The Lodge at Whitefish Lake

City: Whitefish Phone: 877.887.4026

1380 Wisconsin Ave. Whitefish, MT 59937

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Valid: Apr 30th, 2024 to Apr 30th, 2024

Our popular Lodge Value offer is back! Stay in the Main Lodge, Viking Lodge or in one of our Lakefront Condos between April 1 and June 9, 2024 and take advantage of increasing discounts on lodging the longer you stay!

• Stay 2-4 Nights & Save 20%
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Offer available for stays October 11 - November 28, 2020. Full balance due at time of booking, non-refundable. Offer valid for Main Lodge only.

Wonderstone at Glacier

City: Columbia Falls Phone: 406.892.0888

7336 U.S. Highway 2 Columbia Falls, MT 59912

Book Direct and Save 15% Off of Published Rates

Valid: Feb 1st, 2022 to Dec 31st, 2024

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From the blog

Western Montana’s rivers are among our most treasured natural assets, and these pristine waterways offer endless adventures. From fly-fishing and...

This spring, Western Montana’s Glacier Country is the perfect place for a fresh perspective and a breath of fresh air....

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Glacier National Park Things to Do: Best Hikes and Awesome Activities

G lacier National Park is an icon on Montana, and you’ll be surprised about the fun things to do all around the park. Whether you’re interesting in hiking or if you need more accessible or mellow options, we have spent so much time in Glacier NP that our ideas for activities and how to spend your time here really are tried and true. I would say that besides Olympic National Park and Yellowstone National Park , Glacier is the park I’ve spent the most time in over the years.

If you have any questions about our favorite things to do here, where to stay in or near Glacier National Park, or just want to share your own recommendations, please leave a comment or send us a note . We’re happy to help out as much as we can and are always up for sharing more photos and tips for Montana !

Things to Do in Glacier National Park

This is why you’re here! What are the best things to do in Glacier National Park? What do I do if I don’t like hiking? What are the sights not to miss in Glacier NP? We’re got all the answers, and with so many visits under our belts, we speak from years of direct experience in the park. We’ve visited with and without kids, camped and stayed in lodges, done the road trip to Glacier and taken the train . We’re here to help!

Driving Going to the Sun Road

One of the most famous roads in America, driving Going to the Sun Road is one of the best things to do in Glacier National Park simply for the views. There are lots of hiking stops along the way, but the epic landscapes and sheer cliffs are astounding. When the Going to the Sun Road is fully open, you can drive 50 miles from West Glacier, right by the train station across from the Belton Chalet , all the way to St Mary on the east side, and vice versa. Check how much of Going to the Sun Road is open here !

Highlights and stops to make along Going to the Sun Road include:

• McDonald Falls
• Red Rock Point
• Sacred Dancing Cascades (basically all the pullouts along McDonald Creek are beautiful)
• The Hairpin of Going to the Sun (restrooms and a cool view)
• Hanging Valley viewpoint and Birdwoman Falls view
• Big Bend – this is an amazing sunrise or sunset spot
• Logan Pass – there’s a visitors center, bathrooms and several hiking trails
• Wild Goose Island
• Two Dog Flats (my favorite grizzly bear watching area)
• St Mary Lake

As you go, follow the short trails to different viewpoints and hiking destinations. You’ll find that driving Going to the Sun Road is a more involved experience than just driving on a beautiful road for fifty miles. If you’re driving the westward direction in summer, West Glacier and Columbia Falls are great for ending the day with a good meal or a brewery.

Best Hikes with Kids in Glacier

We’ve been hiking with kids in Glacier National Park since they were babies. Our first big camping trip as a family of four was to Glacier and you know it that we were hiking the whole time. Now that our kids are older, they really get into hikes with interesting sights and wildlife. Our top picks for the best hikes with kids in Glacier are all doable with minimal complaints. Not too much elevation gain and plenty to look at along the way make these trail picks perfect for families.

If you’ve done all these hikes and are looking for other Glacier hikes with kids, you can always start a more difficult trail and just not do the whole thing or just play it by ear as you go. Hiking is Glacier is fun and beautiful, so try out whatever trails you think are most interesting!

Trail of the Cedars – West Glacier

You’ll find the Trail of the Cedars at the start of the Avalanche Lake trail. This beautiful boardwalk nature trail is very flat with a cool emerald water stream gorge and forest towering all around. There are signs and exhibits about the different trees and plants you’ll see, as well as poetry installations all along the trail. The Trail of the Cedars is actually wheelchair accessible for the whole loop, and is appropriately maintained to keep it passable. I love this kid-friendly hike for seeing the forested side of Glacier National Park.

Upper McDonald Creek – West Glacier

What makes the Upper McDonald Creek trail great with kids is both the ease of the path and the fun sights along the way. This is a great hike along the raging creek with the red rocks, a fun bridge to cross and if it’s a hot day, cool breezes in the canyon. During fall, this trail is one of the most beautiful for fall colors in Glacier National Park. McDonald Creek eventually flow into the Flathead River, which is one of our favorites for rafting or doing a scenic float with kids .

Logan Pass to Hidden Lake Overlook – Going to the Sun Road

The Hidden Lake Overlook trail is a more difficult trail because of the stairs, but also great with kids due to the mountain goats and boardwalks. I remember first doing this trail when I was a little kid and now I hike it with my own kids. The views as you climb the hill up away from the Logan Pass visitor center are just amazing, and then the overlook itself has incredible views too.

The Hidden Lake Overlook trail is also where we’ve consistently seen mountain goats when hiking in Glacier National Park. Only once ever did we not see mountain goats ON this trail, but then we did see them in the parking lot. For a bit of a challenge, continue the hike down to Hidden Lake. You’re sure to see wildlife (we just hiked it an encountered a full curl bighorn sheep ram!!) and then if you have stuff for a picnic, the shore of the lake is perfect for it!

St Mary Falls – Going to the Sun Road

I love a simple hike that has a nice payoff at the end, and St Mary Falls is just that. On the east side of Logan Pass along Going the Sun Road, this is pretty easy hike to do with kids. It’s short with a nice waterfall at the end. You can continue onto more sights and eventually turn it into a big hike, but keeping it simple and just hiking to St Mary Falls makes it one of the best hikes with kids in Glacier National Park.

1913 Ranger Station – St Mary

The hike has a funny name, but I really enjoy hiking the 1913 Ranger Station trail. This is a very easy, flat hike from the St Mary visitor center towards the lake. It goes through a bit of meadow, some aspen forest, and has a wonderful view of the lake. This hike is great with young kids and you won’t get any complaints along the way because it’s easy and the scenery changes a lot.

Redrock Falls via Fishercap Lake, continue to Bullhead Lake – Many Glacier

Not that it happens for everyone, but we’ve never hiked this trail and NOT seen a moose. I’ve done the Redrock Falls / Bullhead Lake trail at least four times and every time I’ve seen at least one moose (the most recent hike here we saw three moose). Redrock Falls is pretty and you can get in the water, and you’ll go by two lakes on the way there, so it’s really pretty.

If kids are feeling it, keep on hiking to Bullhead Lake. This is the Swiftcurrent Pass trail and actually continues across the park, but you can just go to Bullhead Lake and enjoy the beautiful, secluded view. This is the best Many Glacier area hike to do with kids.

Swiftcurrent Lake and Josephine Lake – Many Glacier

Also at Many Glacier, Swiftcurrent Lake is a combination nature trail and easy hike in the woods to a second beautiful lake: Josephine Lake. I like this trail because it ventures through a more dense forest, crosses creeks, and then Lake Josephine is just really beautiful. This is a great option for hiking in Glacier National Park with kids because it’s more than just a trail, but there’s little sense of adventure when you come across the creeks. We became really familiar with these trails during one of our camping trips to Glacier when we got stuck in the Many Glacier area due to a forest fire in the main part of the park .

Running Eagle Falls (super short) – Two Medicine

I chuckle as I call this a hike, but it really is a wonderful walk in the wood. Just inside the Two Medicine entrance, this is a nature trail with the strangest, coolest waterfall in Glacier National Park. The quarter mile trail leads through the forest, with small signs and exhibits along the way. When you get to the end, the waterfall, Running Eagle Falls, is what they call a trick waterfall. It enters the rock from up above and pours out through a cave. It’s really beautiful and unique!

Favorite Hikes in Glacier National Park (not easy)

Hiking in Glacier is one of the most beautiful National Park experiences you can have, and some of the hike can be intense. My top four favorite Glacier National Parks hikes that really present a challenge (and are worth it!) are:

Since we live at sea-level, hiking in Glacier National Park tends to have quite an effect on us. While we have never gotten altitude sickness in Glacier, the elevation absolutely impacts us and our ability to hike quickly and for longer periods of time. We usually spend our first day or two in Glacier doing more mellow activities, including kayaking and enjoying kid-friendly hikes.

Avalanche Lake – West Glacier

While the hike to Avalanche Lake isn’t the most difficult hike around, if you have small kids with you or you’re not a hiker normally, this will feel like a challenge. I love hiking to Avalanche Lake because it’s such a woodsy hike, full of interesting trees and many different types of mushrooms and fungi along the way. The reward at the end is one of the most beautiful amphitheater lakes in Glacier National Park. Avalanche Lake is still like glass, clear and crystal and reflects the most beautiful colors. 10/10 worth the hike.

Note: this is one of the most popular hikes in Glacier, so you will see lots of people on the trail. Once at the lake though, you can ditch the crowds by continuing to follow the trail around the lake where most visitors don’t hike to.

Ptarmigan Tunnel / Iceberg Lake – Many Glacier

I love the Ptarmigan Tunnel hike, especially when we’ve got the stamina to do it AND Iceberg Lake. This is my #1 favorite hike in Glacier National Park as it has epic views, waterfalls, a lake with actual icebergs in it, and ends at a tunnel through the mountain opening up to the most pristine valley you can imagine. Magical! – It’s a difficult hike, very hard and not something I’ve been able to do with our kids, but we’ve done it on our own several times.

The biggest challenge of the hike is the last stretch up to the Ptarmigan Tunnel. The jackknife trail scales that last ascent for what seems like forever, but then the payoff is remarkable. It’s very doable to pair hiking to Ptarmigan Tunnel with visiting Iceberg Lake. After you hike to the tunnel, when you’re heading back down, just take the trail to the right for Iceberg Lake. It’ll add a little over an hour to your hiking time, but it’s worth it!

Sperry Chalet / Lake Ellen Wilson – West Glacier

How to describe the Sperry Chalet hike…: a very difficult hike directly up a mountain, but beautiful and full of wildlife. The Sperry Chalet is a great resting spot (reopened in 2020 after it burned in 2017) before heading onto Lake Ellen Wilson. I really enjoy this trail because it is quite the challenge and payoff when you make it to the Chalet is really cool. The original Sperry Chalet burned down in a forest fire so has been reconstructed. We enjoy hiking up and eating blueberry pie and drinking wine here (no alcohol anymore).

If you’re planning a long hike through Glacier National Park, the Sperry Chalet actually functions as a quasi-luxe bunk house along the trail. It’s really nice, albeit rustic. You’ll need to book your overnight here far in advance, and with that each night includes three meals. Getting to have a night at the Sperry Chalet is usually the treat after completing the difficult Gunsight Pass hike across nearly the whole park.

The Loop Trail – EPIC! – Going to the Sun Road

One of the most iconic hikes in Glacier National Park, the Loop trail is a long hike with sweeping views the whole way. You start the Loop at the jackknife of the Going to the Sun Road. Now, there are two ways to approach this: 1.) from the jackknife parking area and go up or 2.) from Logan Pass on the Highline Trail and come down.

If you choose option one, you’ll have a challenge for sure, but this is the best option if you do not have anyone else to pick you up at Logan Pass. You can do this hike when the shuttle is running in the summer, but you’ll run the risk of there not being room on the shuttle when you’re trying to catch it.

Grinnell Glacier and Grinnell Lake – Many Glacier

I love this trail for the solitude and the beauty that waits at the end. One of the best hikes in Glacier Natioanl Park, the Grinnell Glacier trail is awesome. Continuing trail from Josephine Lake in Many Glacier, this is one of the most popular hikes in the park but is also very difficult so isn’t too heavily trafficked in comparison to other famous national park hike, like doing Half Dome in Yosemite National Park .

Upper Two Medicine Lake – Two Medicine

A much less trafficked trail, Upper Two Medicine Lake is a hidden gem in Glacier National Park. It’s a trek, but beautiful! Two Medicine is one of the less visited areas of the park, so you’ll need to be extra aware of wildlife on the hike to Upper Two Medicine Lake. The trail is pretty gradual, but it’s long. Small ponds, waterfalls and streams along the way make it an interesting trail and then the lake at the end is perfect. I love hiking here!

Best Lakes to Visit in Glacier NPS

It is so difficult to choose my favorite lake in Glacier National Park. The best lakes are both small and that you must hike to, as well as large and popular to visit. So how I’ll break it down is be the easiest to get to and enjoy, and the best for hiking to.

If you’re looking for some peaceful kayaking in Glacier National Park , Bowman Lake and Kintla Lake in the northwest corner of the park are both beautiful. Visiting these lakes is all about the scenery with some uncrowded hiking trails.

The other lakes you’ll fall in love with that are easy to get to are:

• Lake McDonald (just inside the West Glacier entrance)
• St Mary Lake (east entrance)
• Two Medicine Lake (Two Medicine entrance)
• Swiftcurrent Lake (Many Glacier entrance)

Each of the above lakes offer boat tours on vintage boats during the summer months . Doing a boat tour is a great way to hear about the history of the area, the National Park itself and to learn about the geology that makes Glacier NP so special.

There are lots more lakes in Glacier National Park, but these next ones are all ones to hike to. These are some of the more popular hikes in the park, but that doesn’t mean they’re crowded all the time, but just that a lot of visitors will put these lake hikes on their Glacier itinerary.

• Avalanche Lake – probably the most popular hike in the park; near Lake McDonald
• Hidden Lake – hiked to from Logan Pass
• Upper Two Medicine Lake – beautiful hike with an amphitheater style lake
• Lake Josephine – easy hike or a part of Glacier National Park boat tours in Many Glacier

Two more lakes to call out, and I mentioned these above in my list of favorite hikes, are Grinnell Lake and Iceberg Lake. Both are very unique in that they have glaciers in close proximity which calve off into the lakes, making it so icebergs actually float in them. This can be observed all year long at Iceberg Lake and for most of the year at Grinnell Lake. It’s just one of the many interesting sights that make Glacier National Park such a unique place to explore.

Visitors Centers and Ranger Stations to Visit

Glacier National Park has three visitor centers and several ranger stations. You’ll find visitor centers at Apgar (West Glacier), Logan Pass (middle of the park) and St Mary (east side entrance). In parts of the park without visitor centers there are ranger stations for getting up-to-date information and permits. When you look at a Glacier National Park map Many Glacier, Two Medicine and Polebridge don’t have visitor centers, but they do have ranger stations. Ranger stations are not always manned, and after summer season, visitor centers aren’t also. Apgar is open for the longest season of any of the visitor centers.

Stopping into the Apgar visitor center before heading out on Going to the Sun Road will help you plan your time in Glacier NP well. The same can be said of stopping into the St Mary visitor center. While here, you can get information on trail closures, get updates on any road construction in the park, and confirm how much of the Going to the Sun Road is open. Also, if you have a Junior Ranger packet that you’ve completed, you can get these signed off at any manned ranger station or visitor center.

There are lots of great educational displays and exhibits the visitors centers in Glacier. We like the St Mary visitor center the most, and it’s also got the most epic view of the three locations.

Day Trip up to Waterton Lakes National Park in Canada

Something unique about Glacier NP is that it shares a border with Canada’s Waterton Lakes National Park, making the Waterton-Glacier International Peace Park. If you’re staying in the Many Glacier area , doing a day trip up to Waterton Lakes National Park is a great idea. You will need a passport for crossing the border into and from Canada, but the crossing is usually pretty swift.

Once at Waterton Lakes National Park, you’ll have lots of hiking options. There are beautiful waterfalls, the lakes are awesome (of course!) and there’s a lot of wildlife to watch for. On one visit to Waterton, I saw seven bears in about six hours!

Another cool thing to do when visiting Waterton Lakes National Park is checking out the historic railway hotel, the Prince of Whales. Built in 1927, it’s like a gingerbread castle overlooking the lake. If you want to actually stay at the Prince of Whales Hotel, plan on booking it about a year in advance, as reservations go quickly and at a premium price (prices always listed in CAD).

Fun Facts and Tips for Glacier National Park

Clearly we love hiking in Glacier National Park and enjoying all the things to do in summer and fall. Understanding the layout of the park though, that’s very important if it’s your first visit. Here are our tips and extra insights to make visiting Glacier NP easier for you.

Map of Glacier National Park Areas

Like Yellowstone NP , Acadia National Park or Yosemite , Glacier National Park has several areas to visit. The most common entrance is in West Glacier near Apgar Village, but there are lots of ways to enter the park. In the West Glacier area, you’ll find lots of places to stay, awesome rafting on the Flathead River , and plenty of restaurant and activity options during the summer.

On the east side there are three primary areas to visit: Two Medicine, St Mary and Many Glacier. The Going to the Sun Road connects West Glacier to St Mary, but both Two Medicine and Many Glacier are entered from outside the park. Each of the east side entrances are about a half hour apart, so visiting multiple areas in one day is doable, but we like to do one area each day so we can take our time and hike as much as possible.

Shuttle Service in Glacier National Park

Like Bryce Canyon NP or Zion National Park, during peak summer season Glacier National Park offers shuttle service along Going to the Sun Road. This free service (with park entry) runs from July 1 until Labor Day (first Monday of September), and then service is reduced for another week or so until it ends.

For hikers and bikers, there is shuttle service up to Logan Pass starting in May (as long as the Going to the Sun Road is passable). Check with the National Park Service for current schedules before hinging all your hiking plans on the Glacier NP shuttle service.

Glacier National Park Entrance Signs for Photos

There are quite a few Glacier National Park entrance signs to get great souvenir photos when you visit. The easiest one is at the West Glacier entrance, which is your first park entrance if you’re coming from Kalispell or Missoula, MT . You can’t miss it and there is a pull off from the road to be able to take photos of the park entrance sign safely. The St Mary and Cut Bank entrances on the east side of Glacier National Park also has an easily accessible park entrance sign for photos.

The Many Glacier entrance sign is more difficult to stop and get pictures during the summer months, as this is a busy part of the park, but in the fall or when Many Glacier first reopens in spring, you can safely stop to take pictures at the national park entrance sign.

There are also national park signs at Two Medicine and Polebridge, but these parts of the part can be more difficult to access due to their remote nature and that they aren’t maintained with the same haste as West Glacier and St Mary are.

Animals to Watch for in Glacier

We absolutely love wildlife watching in National Parks, and Glacier is one of the best! You might not get the alligators and turtles of Everglades National Park or the snorkeling of Dry Tortugas National Park , but you do get all the amazing wildlife of the Rocky Mountains. In Glacier National Park you have some BIG animals to watch for:

• Grizzly bear
• Bighorn sheep
• Mountain goats
• Bald and Golden eagles
• Badgers and more!

The most consistent places we’ve seen moose in Glacier National Park include the Many Glacier area and just outside of the Two Medicine entrance. We’ve seen them at Fish Creek and Polebridge too, but the east side of the park is usually a hit. If you come across a moose on a trail (or multiple moose), even though you’re going to be excited to see one, you need to be safe. Give the moose as much distance as possible and if you cannot, put a large tree between you and the moose. The more distance the better.

For bears, they really do cover the whole park. In general, the best way to spot a bear is to look on the hillsides where there are lots of berry bushes. They live for berries and tend to roam the hillsides chowing on blueberries and digging. If you are on the west side of the park, head towards Polebridge and Bowman Lake early in the morning and you may be lucky!

If you do come across a bear on a trail, do not approach them. If it’s a bear cub, that’s a huge warning to be extra alert because a cub is NEVER without a mama bear nearby. Distance and staying alert are the best ways to stay safe if there’s a bear.

While the mountain goats do have free range of Glacier National Park, they are most concentrated and prolific in Logan Pass on both sides of Going to the Sun Road. If you miss out on them during the day, they actually like to wander through the Logan Pass parking areas at night, so you’re nearly guaranteed to see some after dark. And where there are mountain goats there are likely bighorn sheep, so keep your eyes and ears open!

The best time of year to see wildlife in Glacier National Park is late spring, before the main summer tourist season begins, and then again as fall sets in. In addition to amazing fall colors at Glacier NP , you can see the wildlife become more active as they get ready for winter.

Is Glacier in Montana Different from Glacier NP in British Columbia, Canada?

Canadian Glacier National Park is very different from the one in Montana. At Canadas Glacier National Park you’ll find very dense fir forests, waterfalls deep in the woods and mountains rising from the forests. Glacier National Park in Montana (USA) is much more of the fir or cedar forest landscape on the west side and then very low, deciduous forests on the east side. You can visit Canada’s Glacier National Park when you do a Canadian Rockies road trip , including visiting Banff !

Also, this park is NOT THE SAME as Glacier Bay National Park. That’s in Alaska and it’s also beautiful and interesting, but not even remotely similar. Check out our UnCruise page to learn more about visiting Glacier Bay NP and small-ship sailing in Alaska. And no, Rocky Mountain National Park is NOT adjacent to Glacier NP; that’s in Estes Park, CO . I know it may seem confusing with so many wonderful National Parks to keep track of, but you’ll get the hang of it!

Wow! Even though we’ve been to Glacier National Park so many times I’m ready to go back! If you have any questions about visiting Glacier, hiking or other things to do in the park, please leave a comment or send us a note . We’re always happy to help other plan awesome adventures!

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Hiking solo high line trail to Logan creek - Glacier National Park Forum

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Hiking solo high line trail to Logan creek

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If I’m hiking from high line trail head to granite park chalet to logan creek than to the loop shuttle. What time should I start my hike to catch the loop shuttle back to agpar?

I'm confused about where Logan Creek comes into this. Neither the Highline nor Loop trails cross Logan Creek. The GTTSR does cross the creek between Avalanche and the Loop, but not any trails.

I am going to assume your hike is taking place between July 1 and Sept 2, when the shuttles are running their full schedule: https://www.nps.gov/glac/planyourvisit/shuttles.htm

Hike times vary greatly from person to person. What's your hiking speed? Are you fit/conditioned for hiking? Are you accustomed to the altitude? Are you prepared for the sun exposure? Make sure to factor in time to enjoy scenery, wildlife, lunch break.

I hike at an average pace, and would start at noon at the latest for the 11.6 mile Logan Pass-to-Loop hike, personally. Much earlier if I intend to do any of the side trails.

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How to plan an epic summer trip to a national park

We’ve got insider tips on the best times to visit the most popular parks, timed entry passes, and where to stay.

As summer approaches, the siren call of national park adventures grows stronger. However, these iconic sites are bringing in unprecedented crowds.

In 2023, the National Park Service (NPS) reported over 300 million visits , a four percent increase from the previous year. This surge isn’t limited to famous spots; lesser known parks such as Congaree and Dry Tortugas are also experiencing record-breaking numbers. To manage the influx, park authorities are implementing innovative strategies to improve the guest experience.  

( These are the 10 most popular national parks .)

From snagging the perfect stay to timing your bookings just right, we’ve got insider tips to ensure your national park vacation is nothing short of epic. Here’s what you need to know.

Best time to visit

Timing is crucial in planning your summer getaway, especially if you’re eyeing popular national parks. Finding affordable lodging and activities during the high season can be tricky.

During the shoulder seasons—early- to mid-spring and late fall—you can expect pleasant weather and a reprieve from the crowds, but there are a few trade-offs to consider. Some hotels and lodges might close during the off-season and reopen later in the year, potentially limiting your accommodation options. Additionally, parks at higher elevations, such as Glacier or Lassen Volcanic , may not have all their trails open and could require snowshoes or traction cleats to get around.

( Here’s why Yellowstone in the off-season is great for families .)  

Arriving before sunrise has its perks, too. Typically, most visitors don’t arrive until mid-to-late morning, allowing you to enjoy attractions like Arches ’ Windows or Delicate Arch with minimal crowds, provided you arrive early enough.

When permitted, exploring the parks in winter offers a unique perspective that few experience. Yosemite Valley, for instance, transforms into a winter wonderland —a sight cherished by photographers and nature enthusiasts alike.

Tony McDaniel, a Yosemite   Mariposa County spokesperson, says the best way to plan a visit is to avoid taking a “checklist approach” to your visit.

“Slow down and immerse yourself in the destination,” McDaniel says. “There’s no place on earth like Yosemite National Park , and it’s best seen slowly and outside of a vehicle where you can fully embrace the sights, sounds, and smells.”

What parks require timed entry passes?

Timed entry reservations typically provide access within a two-hour window. The price of the pass, however, does not include the standard park entry fee. But, a separate timed entry permit is unnecessary if you already have campground reservations, a wilderness permit, or bookings for a pre-arranged, park-sponsored activity. Additionally, if you plan to stay inside the park for multiple days, only one timed entry reservation is required—just make sure not to leave the park during your visit.

Although these passes can reduce a trip’s spontaneity, NPS spokeswoman Kathy Kupper says they also lead to better park experiences.

“Visitors love the timed entry system,” Kupper says, “because it gives them increased confidence that they’ll be able to get in and get where they want to go.”

If you miss out on a timed entry reservation, don’t fret. Ditch your car and opt to walk or bike into the park at any time of day. Glacier National Park adjusts its timed entry program annually, including relocating entry gates beyond the visitor center, where guests can hop on a shuttle bus to access the park.

( Ready to plan your fall hike? Read this safety advice first .)

Arches: Timed entry reservations will be required from April 1 to October 31. The reservation system operates on a rolling basis. For example, June 1–30 bookings opened March 1; July 1–31 reservations opened April 1. A limited number of reservations will also be released at 7 p.m. MST the day before, providing some flexibility for last-minute planners to Utah.

Glacier: For travelers intending to drive along the iconic Going-to-the-Sun Road or head to North Fork, Montana, a vehicle reservation is mandatory between 6 a.m. and 3 p.m. from May 24 to September 8. Similarly, from July 1 to September 8, a reservation is required to access Many Glacier between 6 a.m. and 3 p.m. These reservations can be secured up to 120 days or approximately four months in advance, starting at 8 a.m. MST. Additionally, a limited number of next-day vehicle reservations will be released at 7 p.m. MST for those seeking entry on the following day on a rolling basis.

Mount Rainier : Two areas of this Washington State park—Paradise Corridor from the south and Sunrise Corridor from the northeast—will require reservations from 7 a.m. to 3 p.m., May 24-September 2, and July 4-September 2, respectively. Each corridor requires a separate vehicle reservation, valid for a single day per vehicle. Note that reservations are unnecessary when entering the park from a different entrance.

Rocky Mountain :   Between May 24 and October 20, reservations are required for entry into this Colorado park. Two types of reservations will be available: one granting access to the entire park, including the bustling Bear Lake Road Corridor from 5 a.m. to 6 p.m., and another from 9 a.m. to 2 p.m. that excludes access to this corridor. Reservations for May 24 to June 30 can be secured starting at 8 a.m. on May 1. Subsequent reservation releases will follow, with reservations for July becoming available on June 1, and so forth.

Yosemite: Reservations are needed from April to October. On Saturdays, Sundays, and holidays (May 27, June 19, September 2, and October 14) from April 13 to June 30 and August 17 to October 27, reservations are required from 5 a.m. to 4 p.m. From July 1 to August 16, reservations are needed daily during the same hours.

( Discover the best day hikes in Yosemite National Park .)

What parks require a specific area pass?

Acadia : In Maine, Cadillac Mountain Summit Road vehicle reservations are required from May 22 to October 27. About one-third of them can be purchased 90 days in advance, while the rest become available two days before, starting at 10 a.m. Reservations cost $6 and are sold only at https://www.recreation.gov/timed-entry/400000 .

Great Smoky Mountains : While you don’t need a timed entry reservation to enter this Tennessee-North Carolina park, you will need a parking permit to stop for more than 15 minutes. Passes are $5 (daily),   $15 (weekly), and $40 (annually). Permits can be purchased in person or online . Passes are good for one vehicle only.

( See fireflies magically light up this national park .)

Haleakalā : To park at Hawaii’s Haleakalā summit for sunrise, you’ll need a parking pass from 3 to 7 a.m. throughout the year.

Shenandoah : Visitors hiking Virginia’s Old Rag Mountain must obtain a $2 day-use ticket in advance from March 1 to November 30. Of the 800 tickets issued daily, 400 will be released 30 days in advance, with the remaining 400 released five days beforehand on https://www.recreation.gov/ticket/10088450/ticket/10088451 .

Zion: You’ll need a timed permit to hike Angel’s Landing in Utah. Lotteries open for June-August hikes on April 1, September-November on July 1, and December-February on October 1. A limited number of next-day licenses will be available at 12:01 a.m. the day before. Hiking groups of up to six people can apply for a permit. Winning groups will be charged an additional $3 per person.

( Not a hiker? That’s not a problem at these eight national parks .)

Best alternatives to national parks

If you’re visiting in the summer, don’t have a reservation, and couldn’t get into the park early enough, you still have options. State parks and national forests surrounding official national parks often offer similar views but with few visitors.  

( Go wild—and skip the crowds—at these 7 spectacular parks .)

For example, if you get shut out of Utah’s Bryce Canyon , you can always drive 15 minutes away to the picturesque Dixie National Forest . Instead of being shoulder-to-shoulder with thousands of other visitors on the trails, you’ll be almost entirely alone while overlooking nearly identical scenes.

Where to stay in or near a popular park

Most NPS campgrounds can be reserved six months in advance on a rolling basis through Recreation.gov, but the most popular sites, including Yellowstone ’s Slough Creek or Watchman in Zion , can sell out within minutes. Even if you miss out, you still have plenty of options.  

“For something similar to camping in Yosemite Valley, Housekeeping Camp or Curry Village are as close as you’ll get to camping, plus you don’t need to bring a tent,” says McDaniel. “In areas like Wawona, Yosemite West, and Foresta, there are cabin rentals that will still get you into the park. Outside the park, there are hundreds of more options in great locations and historic towns that are generally more budget-friendly and put visitors close to more dining options.”

( These historic lodges are the perfect way to see North America’s wild parks .)

Nearby national forests and Bureau of Land Management areas typically offer established campgrounds or free dispersed camping (areas outside a designated campground). Sites are generally first-come, first-served. Arrive at an established campground between 10 a.m. and noon to score a recently vacated site.

Apps like AllStays and sites like freecampsites.net and Campendium can help tremendously. Signal Mountain Campground in Wyoming’s Grand Teton National Park sells out almost immediately, but on a recent trip to the park, I found an incredible mountaintop dispersed campsite, in   Bridger-Teton National Forest . The view of the Tetons was spectacular, made even better because the campsite was free.

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What to Know Before Booking a National Park Trip This Summer

Additional routes in popular parks now require reservations, the annual pass gets a big change, Juneteenth is now a new free entrance day and more changes for 2024.

By Lauren Matison

In 2023, the seashores, lakeshores, battlefields, historic sites, monuments and more that make up the National Park Service had 325.5 million visits , an increase of 4 percent from the year before.

The National Park Service director, Charles F. Sams III, praised the surge of interest in “learning our shared American story throughout the hidden gems of the National Parks System.”

Expecting an even greater turnout in 2024, the Park Service and Recreation.gov , the booking platform for federal land reservations, have implemented new measures to streamline the park experience, manage overcrowding and safeguard the environment.

More parks are requiring reservations

To better avoid congested trails, packed parking lots and overflowing trash cans, additional parks are joining Rocky Mountain , Arches and Glacier National Parks this year in requiring day-use permits, timed entries and other reservations for travelers who wish to visit, particularly during peak hours, holidays and the parks’ high seasons. Yosemite National Park is reinstating a timed-entry system it instituted in 2020, but paused in 2022.

Many park enthusiasts expressed mixed feelings about the reservation policies, with some lamenting a lack of first-come, first-served campsites while others find comfort in knowing they have a confirmed booking. As nearly 75 percent of visitors each year descend on national parks from May to October (and often on weekends), park officials stand by the system.

“In some parks, the level of demand is exceeding the capacity for which infrastructure was designed or is outpacing the National Park Service’s ability to sustainably support visitation,” said Kathy Kupper, a public affairs specialist for the service. “This trend is resulting in the need to explore new strategies to protect natural and cultural resources and provide opportunities for safe and meaningful visitor experiences.”

It can be confusing.

New to implementing timed-entry reservations for vehicles is Mount Rainier National Park , in Washington, for its popular Paradise and Sunrise Corridors during certain times in the summer season. Reservations cost $2, are valid for one day and must be purchased along with the park ticket, but do not apply for visitors with wilderness permits or camping or lodge reservations. Similar vehicle reservations are now required for certain periods for viewing the sunrise at Haleakalā National Park in Maui, Hawaii , and driving the Cadillac Summit Road in Maine’s Acadia National Park .

Visitors wishing to hike Old Rag Mountain in Virginia’s Shenandoah National Park must obtain a day-use ticket between March 1 and Nov. 30, and in Zion National Park, in Utah, hikers wishing to visit Angels Landing , the dramatic 1,488-foot-tall rock formation, also need to purchase a permit. Fees range from $1 to $6, in addition to the parks’ entrance fees.

As each destination is managed differently, check the park’s webpage for the type of reservation required. Although most bookings can be made through Recreation.gov, some sites, such as Muir Woods National Monument, use a different system.

New features on Recreation.gov

In 2023, Recreation.gov reported that more than 4 million camping reservations and 2 million timed-entry reservations were booked online, and 1.5 million permits were issued. Some 2.9 million new users signed up for the site. With its expanding user base, the booking platform has added 58 reservable national park locations — including 17 campgrounds — such as Central Avenue Walk-in Sites at Indiana Dunes National Lakeshore and Bluff Hike In Camping in South Carolina’s Congaree National Park.

Recreation.gov has also improved an alerts feature, piloted in July 2023, that can notify users through email or mobile push notifications when a sold-out campsite becomes available. After Recreation.gov notifies you of availability, you must book the campsite yourself online — and quickly, as you’ll be shown how many other people (possibly hundreds) have received the same alert.

While its customer support center and mobile app are still only available in English, Recreation.gov recently introduced a Spanish language translation option. The Park Service partners with Latino Conservation Week , which hosts nationwide hikes and events on environmental education and in-park stewardship, and will celebrate its 10th year in September.

A limit to the annual America the Beautiful pass

The 2024 America the Beautiful pass no longer allows two owners. The annual interagency pass, which costs $80 and covers the entrance fees for more than 2,000 federal recreation sites (of which roughly 100 do not charge for admission year-round), is now marked by a single signature line on the back of the card. The pass owner must show I.D. and be present with any accompanying travelers wishing to access the park with the pass. (Annual passes issued in 2023 will still be valid until their expiration date.) The pass covers all passengers in a vehicle — up to four adults, and children under 16 are admitted free — or up to four cyclists riding together. Active military or veterans and people with permanent disabilities are eligible for a free lifetime pass; 4th grade students may receive a free annual pass; and senior citizens may purchase a $20 annual pass or pay $80 for a lifetime pass.

At the parks, more accessible features, E.V. chargers and new lodging

To better protect against global warming, the Park Service is putting more than $65 million from the Inflation Reduction Act and Great American Outdoors Act into climate mitigation and ecosystem restoration.

Using $15.9 million budgeted for zero-emission vehicle deployment, charging capacity and infrastructure, the Park Service is prioritizing a reduction in carbon emissions, said Mr. Sams, by installing new electric-vehicle charging stations and running electric buses.

An interactive online locator tool created in 2023 shows E.V. charging stations throughout 27 national parks and the type of chargers available. In addition to the tool, every national park page displays alerts on road closures, parking lot capacities, construction work and other incidents.

Mr. Sams also said the Park Service is investing $1.3 billion from the Great American Outdoors Act to improve accessibility features, ranging from a new A.D.A.-compliant visitor center at Morristown National Historic Park in New Jersey to new beach wheelchairs at Sleeping Bear Dunes , Channel Islands and Virgin Islands National Parks . Each destination’s website has an accessibility tab to help visitors plan their trip, and Recreation.gov now has a search filter on its homepage to make it easier to locate accessible accommodations.

New lodging options now available across the country include the Flamingo Lodge , which opened inside Everglades National Park last fall with 24 guest rooms built from repurposed shipping containers. In March, along the southeastern border of Great Smoky Mountains National Park, the Cataloochee Ranch reopened with 11 renovated cabins and a new restaurant. This spring, the Clubhouse Hotel & Suites will welcome its first guests in Rapid City, S.D., the closest major town to Badlands National Park , and opening in May in Idaho is the Yellowstone Peaks Hotel , a 30-minute-drive from Yellowstone National Park. This fall, California-bound travelers planning a visit to General Sherman, the largest known tree on Earth, might book at AutoCamp Sequoia , just outside Sequoia and Kings Canyon National Park .

Also in California: Those who don’t score a highly coveted (and contentious) spot at the newly reopened High Sierra Camps in Yosemite could book Wildhaven Yosemite in Mariposa, which offers more affordable rates, hiking trails and views of the Sierra Nevadas. Reservations for its first season are available beginning May 1.

Celebrating milestones and a new free entrance day

On the 60th anniversary of the Civil Rights Act, visitors can pay tribute to African American heritage at over 100 parks , including the Frederick Douglass National Historic Site in Washington, D.C., Birmingham Civil Rights National Monument , and the Selma to Montgomery National Historic Trail . This year also marks 100 years since Indigenous people were recognized as United States citizens. Although many parks have Indigenous programming , Mr. Sams, who is the first Native American to serve as N.P.S. director , suggested visiting Hopewell Cultural Historical Park in Ohio and Whitman Mission Historic National Historic Site in Washington, where he recently brought his daughter.

“In order to celebrate the diversity that makes our country great, we must share the complete story of America, which includes both the successes and challenges encountered on the way to form a more perfect union,” Mr. Sams said.

Juneteenth National Independence Day is the National Park Service’s newest free entrance day . Visitors can also take advantage of free admission on April 20, the first day of National Park Week; Aug. 4, the four-year anniversary of the Great American Outdoors Act ; Sept. 28 on National Public Lands Day ; and Nov. 11 for Veterans Day .

Follow New York Times Travel on Instagram and sign up for our weekly Travel Dispatch newsletter to get expert tips on traveling smarter and inspiration for your next vacation. Dreaming up a future getaway or just armchair traveling? Check out our 52 Places to Go in 2024 .

An earlier version of this article misstated the location of the Flamingo Lodge. It is inside Everglades National Park, not outside the park.

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Moscow Itinerary: How To Spend 3 Days In Moscow

By: Author Lotte

Posted on Last updated: March 2, 2023

Categories Trans Mongolian Express

Moscow is the capital of Russia and there are few cities in the world that have played such a significant part in history.

Home to the Kremlin, the Red Square, the colorful St. Basil's Cathedral, and many more famous landmarks, Moscow is a city like no other.

This Moscow itinerary will help you plan your trip and make the most of your time in Moscow. From the best places to see in Moscow to how to get around, this post has got you covered.

Moscow itinerary

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Moscow 3 day itinerary: map with highlights

Click here for the interactive map .

What to do in Moscow in 3 days

• Day 1: The Red Square, GUM Department Store, St. Basil's Cathedral, Lenin's Mausoleum, and the State Historical Museum.
• Day 2: The Kremlin, the Cathedral of Christ the Saviour, Gorky Park, and the Bolshoi Theatre.
• Day 3: Izmailovsky Market, Bunker 42, and Zaryadye Park.

Important things to know when planning a trip to Moscow

The best time to plan a trip to Moscow is April-May and September-October . During these months temperatures are (generally) quite comfortable, though even in April there can be a bit of snow! The summer months are hot, both in regard to temperature as well as activities in the city. While it's a nice time to visit, it's also the busiest time of the year to visit Moscow. Hotel prices reflect this as well and summer definitely isn't a great time for budget travelers to visit Moscow. Winter in Moscow is cold, and I mean seriously cold (-15°C isn't rare). However, if you can withstand the subzero temperatures and freezing winds, it can be a magical time to visit. A snow-covered St. Basil’s Cathedral is a sight you will never forget. Keep in mind that days are short in winter and be sure to bring plenty of warm winter clothes!

The official currency in Russia is the Russian Ruble (₽ or RUB). Here you can find the current exchange rates, at the time of writing €1 is approximately 70RUB and $1 is around 62RUB.

Yes, you probably do. Getting a visa for Russia requires a bit of time and effort. You need to fill out several forms and provide a detailed travel itinerary and information about your accommodation. Also, you will need a Visa Support Letter which can be provided by your travel agency or your hotel. Depending on your nationality, there may be additional requirements, please refer to the information provided on the website of your country's Embassy in Russia.

While most of the things to see in Moscow listed in this post are within walking distance of each other, sometimes you will have to travel a bit further afield. The best way to get around in Moscow is by metro. It's cheap and efficient and a sightseeing activity in itself, because Moscow has the most beautiful metro stations in the world ! Among the most exquisitely decorated stations are Komsomolskaya, Novoslobodskaya, Mayakovskaya, Taganskaya, and Prospect Mira Station, but there are many more worthwhile stations to be found in the Moscow underground. You can purchase a single ticket from one of the ticket machines or get a rechargeable Troika Card when you plan on taking the metro several times. Read more details on how to use the Moscow metro here . If you prefer to get around by taxi, that's possible too. We used the Gett app to order a taxi (similar to Uber) to avoid confusion about our intended destination and having to negotiate in Russian. A convenient extra for families is the Gett Kids option, these cars are outfitted with a car seat.

The best things to do in Moscow

While you could easily spend a week in Moscow (or more), most of us, unfortunately, don't have that much time available.

This 3-day Moscow itinerary will guide you to the most popular and important places to visit in Moscow, as well as to some of the more unusual things to do in Moscow.

Below you can find the list of the Moscow sightseeing highlights included in this post.

The Red Square

Gum department store, st. basil's cathedral, lenin's mausoleum, the state historical museum, the kremlin, cathedral of christ the saviour.

• The Bolshoi Theatre

Izmailovsky Market

Zaryadye park.

Plan your trip like a pro with these tools: ✈️ Find the best flight deals on Kiwi.com . ? Get the best car rental deal for your road trip on Rentalcars.com . ?️ Find your dream accommodation on Booking.com or Agoda . ? Book the best tours via Get Your Guide , Viator or Klook . ? Plan your journey with the  Lonely Planet . ?️ Travel safely and get reliable travel insurance from Safety Wing .

Moscow itinerary day 1

There is no better place to start your first day in Moscow, than at the world-famous Red Square.

This square is considered the central square of Moscow, not just because all the major streets start here, but also because no matter where you look when standing on this square, there are historic buildings all around.

Starting with the impressive GUM store and going clockwise, there is the colorful Saint Basil's Cathedral, the Kremlin, Lenin's Mausoleum, the State Historical Museum, and the Kazan Cathedral.

However, before entering any of these Moscow must-see attractions, allow yourself a moment to take in the view and let it sink in that you're standing on historical grounds (and a UNESCO site).

The Red Square was the official address of the Soviet government and played an important part in history. Many military parades have been held (and are still being held) here. It's the place where protests have taken place, as well as high-profile concerts from famous international artists.

All in all, it's one of the places in Moscow you can't miss during your Moscow city trip!

Yulia from That's What She Had: it might seem like visiting a department store is not something you’d do on the first visit to Russia’s capital.

But GUM is not like any other department store and is well worth your time, if only for its unique architecture.

First of all, it’s located right on Red Square which makes it an easy stop on your Moscow trip itinerary. Second, GUM is not a simple mall, but an institution built in the late XIX century.

The abbreviation stands for  Glavniy Universalniy Magazin or Main Universal Store. Its impressive facade extends for over 240 meters along the eastern side of Red Square.

Inside you’ll find a beautiful glass ceiling supported by a metal framework, not unlike the ones found in the old train stations of Great Britain. 

While shopping in GUM will cost you an arm and a leg, there’s one reason why tourists and locals come here anyways:  traditional Russian food  at Stolovaya #57. Stolovaya is Russian for canteen and this is where you can get your  pelmeni , borsch , and  pirozhki  fix!

Afterward, don’t forget to get the famous  plombir  ice cream in one of the kiosks on the ground floor.

Saint Basil's Cathedral with its colorful domes is easily recognizable and one of the most popular Moscow tourist attractions. The building, built on orders from Ivan the Terrible, was completed in 1561 to commemorate the victory over Kazan and Astrakhan.

Until the construction of Ivan the Great Bell Tower (which can be found within the walls of the Kremlin), it was the tallest building in Moscow.

The design of St. Basil's Cathedral is truly unique; it's shaped like the flame of a bonfire and not one building in a similar style can be found in the whole of Russia.

A legend tells the story of how Ivan the Terrible had the architects of the Cathedral blinded so they could never build anything comparable.

This is a myth, however, but the fact remains that Saint Basil's Cathedral is one of a kind and it's not surprising it has become the symbol of Russia.

Wendy from The Nomadic Vegan: Lenin Mausoleum is hard to miss. It's a stepped-pyramid construction that sits right at the base of the Kremlin walls on the western side of Red Square.

Entrance is free but note that opening hours are quite limited, with visiting hours lasting only from 10 am to 1 pm on Tuesday, Wednesday, Thursday, and Saturday.

If seeing Lenin's embalmed body is important to you, be sure to take this into account when planning your itinerary in Moscow.

One of my  top tips for travelers to Russia  is to arrive early, well before the mausoleum opens, as the queue is usually quite long. However, usually, the queue does move pretty quickly.

This is especially true now that they have lifted the ban on bags and cameras.

It used to be that all cameras, smartphones, and bags of any size had to be checked at a left-luggage office nearby. But now you can bring a small handbag or backpack as well as your camera and phone.

Photography inside the mausoleum is still strictly forbidden, but you are allowed to take photos of the graves of various other important Russian figures that line the path leading to the mausoleum.

Once you finally enter the mausoleum, the atmosphere is surprisingly peaceful and uncrowded. It doesn't feel nearly as rushed as when visiting Mao Ze Dong's tomb in Beijing or Ho Chi Minh's body in Hanoi , for example.

The illumination of the body is very well done and would make for superb photography if it wasn't forbidden. As an added bonus, just after you exit, you'll see the grave of Joseph Stalin outside.

Rai from A Rai Of Light: the imposing crimson building at the northern end of the Red Square is the State Historical Museum.

By decree of Alexander III, the museum was built with the support of Russian historians, philosophers, and artists. The red brick building, dating from 1875, was designed in the Russian revival style by Vladimir Shervud.

The National Museum of Russia houses a collection of over four million items, devoted to the history of the country's ancient and imperial period.

The exhibitions include many items previously owned by members of the Romanov dynasty, such as documents, artwork, personal items, furnishings, and decorations from the palace interiors.

Another exhibit features relics of the prehistoric tribes that once inhabited this region.

Notable items include ancient manuscripts, birch-bark scrolls, a longboat excavated from the banks of the Volga River, and the largest coin collection in Russia, sourced from the museums in St Petersburg .

The State Historical Museum is open daily from 10 am to 6 pm. The entrance fee is 700₽ per adult.

Moscow itinerary day 2

When listing the best Moscow things to do, one cannot miss the Kremlin! The Kremlin houses the current seat of power in Russia and has done so for several decades.

Within its walls, the offices of the Russian Government can be found. During Soviet rule, the Kremlin was where all the important decisions were made but its history goes back for many centuries.

The first mention of the Kremlin in history books was in 1147, however, the current citadel dates from the 16th century.

The Kremlin is one of the major fortifications found in Europe, with walls that are up to 6.5 meters thick and 19 meters high in particular sections.

Inside the complex, there are many government buildings, however, these aren't accessible to the public.

Around Cathedral Square you'll find (as the name suggests) many churches and cathedrals, such as the Cathedral of the Archangel, Annunciation Cathedral, the Church of Laying Our Lady's Holy Robe, and Ivan the Great Bell-Tower.

While Cathedral Square is definitely worth visiting, the highlight of the Kremlin is a visit to the Armoury.

Inside you can find an impressive collection of Faberge eggs, beautiful dresses worn by Catherine the Great, intricately decorated thrones used by the Tsars, and much more. Unfortunately, photography is forbidden inside the Armoury.

Practical information about visiting the Kremlin

In order to visit both Cathedral Square and the Armoury, you will have to buy two separate tickets. A ticket to Cathedral Square costs 700₽ and a ticket to the Armoury is 1000₽. Prices mentioned are for adults, children below 16 years old are free.

Tickets can be bought at the ticket office onsite on the same day, however, there's no guarantee tickets will be available, especially during peak season.

Conveniently, tickets can be bought online as well, which is highly advisable if you want to make sure you'll be able to visit the Kremlin during your city trip to Moscow.

How much time to spend at the Kremlin

Be sure to allow plenty of time to explore the Kremlin, at least half a day but it's easy to spend more time as there is so much to see.

Please note there isn't any food sold inside the Kremlin, so bring a snack and enough water (especially in summer when it can get pretty hot).

Luggage storage

Backpacks aren't allowed inside the Kremlin, they can be stored (for free) in the cloakroom, but you can bring your camera and a small purse.

We could also take our Babyzen Yoyo stroller inside, which was very convenient as our 10-month-old son could take a nap while we explored the sights.

After the original Cathedral of Christ the Saviour was demolished by Stalin in 1931, a new version was completed in 2000.

The imposing building is the tallest Orthodox Christian church in the world (103 meters high), and is beautiful on the outside as well as on the inside.

Visiting the Cathedral is free of charge and it's open any day of the week from 10 am to 5 pm (except on Mondays when the opening hours are 1 to 5 pm).

When visiting the Cathedral of Christ the Saviour it's important to dress appropriately. For men, this means no shorts or tank tops.

Women can't enter with mini skirts or shorts, strap tops, or anything too revealing. Also, women are advised to cover their heads with a scarf as a sign of respect.

Inside the Cathedral photography isn't allowed, but believe me when I say there is plenty to see. There are beautiful frescoes, colorful icons, impressive statues, and other vivid decorations.

For a beautiful view over Moscow, walk up the stairs to the 40-meter high observation deck (entrance fee 400₽).  

Visit Gorky Park

Helen from Holidays from Hels : Gorky Park, named after the Soviet writer Maxim Gorky, has recently undergone extensive regeneration to become Moscow's central leisure hub for young Muscovites.

Every day of the week you can find many Moscow residents strolling along the banks of the river in the summer, hiring bikes, picnicking on the grass, or dining at one of the many restaurants.

Open-air cinemas, petanque, and ping pong are all on offer. Not to be missed is the iconic white stone entranceway and museum, complete with columns carved with Soviet hammers and sickles.

In winter, look out for the ducks waddling across the frozen Moskva River, and watch boats attempting to navigate through the cracked ice. However, the real winter highlight is to try ice skating on one of the biggest rinks in Europe!

Ice skating in Gorky Park

The park’s maze of pedestrian pathways is transformed into one huge skating rink, which can play host to up to four thousand skaters. 

Not surprisingly, Russians are talented ice skaters and there is a good chance you will find yourself next to a pirouetting ballerina.

Handily, you will find you will already be wearing most of what you need – gloves, hat, scarf, and thick socks and you can hire skates on-site. Lockers are included in the price if you don’t fancy skating with your day pack.

Disco tunes fill the air, and the whole arena is backlit in spectacular neon lights. Rest your weary legs and warm up at one of the cafes dotted along the frozen pathways, with the added bonus of not having to take off your skates.

Opening times

The rink is open from 10 am until 11 pm on weekdays and until midnight at weekends but closes between 3 and 5 pm. Like most attractions in Moscow, the rink is closed on Mondays. 

The prices range from 350-650₽ and go up in the evening, which is the best time for the light show. Arriving at 5 pm, just as the rink opens for the evening session will give you time to find your ice legs before it fills up with more confident skaters.

Whilst waiting for the rink to open, try out the nearby tubing track where you can shoot down a snowy hill on an inflatable ring repeatedly for a very enjoyable half an hour!

How to get to Gorky Park by metro

The nearest metro is Park Kultury Station, on the other side of the river. As always, check out in advance what this looks like in the Russian Alphabet so you know when to get off!

Bolshoi Theatre

James Ian at Travel Collecting : one of the best places to go in Moscow is the famous Bolshoi Theater, located only a short walk from Red square. Bolshoy means big in Russian, and the theatre is not only big but also beautiful.

There are two ways to see the theater: on a guided tour or by watching a performance .

Take a guided tour

• English tours are held on Tuesdays, Wednesdays, and Fridays at 11:30 am. Tickets for these tours can be bought (on the same day) at the ticket office located in the Historic building of the theatre (door #12).
• A ticket costs 2000₽ per person, tours last one hour, and the number of people on a tour is limited to a maximum of 20. The tour takes you inside the theater and to the historic main stage.

Watch a performance

My favorite way to see the theater, though, is to enjoy a performance and experience the theater as a patron.

The entrance is a little underwhelming when you first arrive, the street lobby is small and quite plain and you will be immediately directed up to your floor.

There are helpful attendants on each floor to guide you to the correct door. Arrive a little early and head up to the Grand Salon on the top floor where you can enjoy a glass of champagne while people-watching (Russians dress up for the theater).

Then head to your seat and take in the stunning theater before enjoying the famous Bolshoi Ballet or another performance.

Be sure to book a show at the historic stage, there is a modern stage as well but that isn't nearly as much fun.

Moscow itinerary day 3

Karen from WanderlustingK : one of the most interesting Moscow places to visit is the Izmailovsky Market .

This flea market and tourist attraction a bit outside of the tourist center is a recreation of a Tzar’s Palace, known as a Kremlin, produced in a colorful 16th-century style.

The market is filled with tiny stalls that sell everything from snacks to kitsch to authentic items from Soviet times such as hats, pins, and other pieces of memorabilia.

You'll also find authentic antiques such as vases, paintings, and other religious items if you're looking to splurge within the interior parts of the market.

Negotiating in English is not always possible as many vendors only speak Russian, so be sure to practice your Russian numbers and see how well you can do with haggling.

It's important to carry cash when you visit given that many vendors do not accept cards. We ended up purchasing a series of hats at the market, along with a beautiful hot tea glass with a metal holder with a typical Russian scene.

Elsewhere in the market, you’ll also find a few tourist shops that sell typical Russian products. It takes a few hours to see the market in full, so arrive early as the best items go quickly! 

Lindsey from Have Clothes, Will Travel : Bunker-42 was once a top-secret, Soviet military complex. Stalin commissioned its construction after the United States succeeded in creating a nuclear bomb.

An impressive 65 meters (or about 213 feet) underground, was the desired depth to protect Russia’s top officials from a nuclear attack.

Bunker 42 became operational in 1954. Fortunately, it was never needed for its true purpose, and instead it was used as the command center of strategic bombers for nearly 30 years.

Nowadays it's a museum dedicated to the Cold War and visiting is a truly unique experience!

You will need to join a tour in order to see the museum. You can call ahead to book your tour (the number is: +7 499 703-44-55), there are several English tours throughout the day that are held at 13:30, 16:30, and 18:30 (the price is 2200₽).

On Mondays, there is an extra tour at 17:30, which lasts an additional 30 minutes and costs 2800₽ per person. There is also the option to book a private tour. However, I am unsure of the price for this.

You will have to wait until exactly 15 minutes before your tour begins before you'll be admitted inside. After paying for your tickets and a quick restroom stop you will descend 65 meters underground…

Another option for visiting Bunker-42, if you would rather not do the tour, is to visit the restaurant inside Bunker-42. Actually, I highly recommend visiting the restaurant before or after a tour as well!

While the food is not that great, it’s worth visiting for a drink. The restaurant is also located within the bunker and is decorated in the old Soviet style.

From time to time there will be live performances and visiting Bunker 42 is definitely an experience worth having while in Moscow! After all, how many people can say they've had a drink in a top-secret Soviet military bunker?

If you’re visiting Moscow during peak season (June-July-August), it would be worth making a reservation, to avoid having to wait. Otherwise, I would not say you need to worry about a reservation at the restaurant.

Bunker-42 is a short cab ride away from Red Square (10-15 minutes). But I recommend taking the metro to get there. The closest station is Taganskaya, which is a beautiful metro station very much worth visiting.

Park Zaryad'ye or Zaryadye Park is a lovely place for a stroll and a nice place to relax after a day of sightseeing in Moscow, especially when exploring Moscow with kids.

There are many things to see and do in this park, but I recommend starting your visit at The River Overlook , a 70-meter-long boardwalk with beautiful views over the river and the Kremlin.

Other interesting places to visit in Zaryadye Park are the Ice Cave, The Museum of Nature, and The Glass Crust. But most importantly, do as the Muscovites do and find yourself a nice place in the park to sit down and relax.

Enjoy the view, do some people-watching, and take a moment to think back about all the Moscow top sights you've seen in the past couple of days.

Where to stay in Moscow

There is a huge amount of hotels in Moscow, ranging from budget hostels to exquisite 5-star hotels. Below you can find three well-reviewed Moscow hotels (rating of 8.5+ on Agoda and  Booking ).

3-star hotel in Moscow: MIRROS Hotel Mokhovaya

This 3-star hotel is one of the best budget Moscow hotels and is all about location! From the hotel, it's just a 10-minute walk to the Kremlin and only 600 meters to the Christ the Savior Cathedral.

Set in a historic 19th-century mansion, the hotel features classic rooms with ensuite bathrooms.

The staff is friendly and there is a metro station nearby (Borovitskaya), making it easy to get to the Moscow attractions a bit further afield.

Click here to book

Modern hotel in Moscow: Barin Residence Myasnitskaya

The Barin Residence Myasnitskaya is a newly built hotel, located about 1.2km from the Red Square (about a 15-20 minute walk).

The rooms and bathrooms are very modern and clean, the beds are comfortable and room service is available. This hotel is an excellent choice for travelers looking for a nice hotel without a hefty price tag.

Luxury hotel in Moscow: Hotel National Moscow

Hotel National is potentially the best Moscow hotel. It's a gorgeous 5-star hotel located just a stone's throw away from the Bolshoi Theater, the Red Square, and the Kremlin.

The building was designed by architect Alexander Ivanov and completed in 1903 and has been welcoming international travelers ever since.

With its imperial architecture, luxury design, and charming classic rooms (some with a view of the Kremlin!), the Hotel National is a unique property.

Furthermore, you can enjoy an indoor pool, sauna, and fitness center as well as the well-reviewed Beluga restaurant that serves both Russian and European dishes.

While this hotel doesn't come cheap, your stay at the Hotel National will make your trip to Moscow an unforgettable experience.

Moscow itinerary and travel guide: in conclusion

I hope this guide to Moscow will help you plan a trip to this interesting Russian city. Feel free to ask any questions you may have by leaving a comment or  sending me an email !

Below you can find my other posts about the Trans Mongolian Express , and the stops we made along the way:

• St. Petersburg itinerary
• Irkutsk and Lake Baikal itinerary
• Ulaanbaatar itinerary
• Trans-Mongolian Express travel guide

This post was updated in December 2020.

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Our mission is to serve the 50+ traveler who's ready to cross a few items off their bucket list.

19 Unique And Fabulous Experiences In Moscow

• Destinations

Thinking of visiting Russia? When visiting such a famous city, one must, of course, visit the iconic landmarks first. Moscow has plenty of those, most of them in the center of the city, which is very well-planned for tourists. Once you’ve seen the sights that are on most travelers’ lists, it’s time to branch out and visit some of the lesser-known sites, and there are some fascinating places to see and things to do.

I know this list is long, but I just couldn’t help myself. You probably won’t have the time to see them all. But that’s okay. Just scroll through the list and choose what sounds the most interesting to you. Where possible, make sure to book in advance, as things can get crowded, especially during high season.

1. The Red Square, Kremlin, And Surroundings

Red Square (Krasnya Ploshad) is the heart and soul of Russia, and where much of the country’s history has unfolded. This is the most famous landmark in Moscow and indeed the whole country, it’s an absolute must-do! The square is always full of people and has a rather festive atmosphere!

Saint Basil’s Cathedral

This is the famous church with the rainbow-colored, onion-domed roof. The cathedral was commissioned in the 1500s by Ivan the Terrible and according to legend, the Tsar thought it was so beautiful, that he ordered that the architect’s eyes be cut out afterward, so he could never build anything more beautiful! He wasn’t called Ivan the Terrible for no reason!

Lenin’s Mausoleum

The “love-it-or-hate-it” of tourist attractions in Russia. A glass sarcophagus containing the embalmed body of Russian revolutionary, Vladimir Lenin. It may seem a bit bizarre to display the mummy of a person, but it has been there for almost half a century and the 2.5 million visitors who come each year, clearly feel the queuing and thorough body search are worth it, to be in Lenin’s presence.

Pro Tip: no photos and no loud talking are allowed inside the Mausoleum.

Eternal Flame

There is an Eternal Flame in honor of an unknown soldier on the left side of Red Square. The hourly changing of the guards is worth seeing.

The Kremlin is the official residence of the Russian president. You can see it from the outside, or you can take an excursion to one of the museums located inside. This is the biggest active fortress in Europe, and holds a week’s worth of attractions! Once behind the 7,332-feet of walls, there are five squares, four cathedrals, 20 towers, various museums, and the world’s largest bell and cannon to see. Worth a special mention is the Armory Chamber that houses a collection of the famous Faberge Eggs.

Pro Tip: You can only go inside the Kremlin if you are part of a tourist group.

2. Bolshoi Theatre

Bolshoi Theatre translates to “The Big Theatre” in Russian, and the building is home to both the Bolshoi Ballet and Bolshoi Opera — among the oldest and most famous ballet and opera companies in the world.

Pro Tip: It’s hard to get an inexpensive ticket, so if you’re reading well in advance of going to Moscow then try buying tickets on the official website . Last-minute tickets cost around $250 per person. If this is out of your budget, about an hour before a performance, you can try buying a ticket at the entrance from a reseller. Most can speak enough English to negotiate the price.

Tour the Bolshoi Theatre: You can take a group guided tour of the Bolshoi Theatre which focuses on the history and architecture of the theatre and behind the scenes. There’s an English language tour that lasts 2 hours and costs around $300 for a group of up to six.

3. Luxury Shopping At GUM And TSUM

Russia’s main department store, GUM, has a stunning interior that is home to over 100 high-end boutiques, selling a variety of brands: from luxurious Dior to the more affordable Zara. Even if shopping is not on your Moscow to-do list GUM is still worth a visit; the glass-roofed arcade faces Red Square and offers a variety of classy eateries. TSUM, one of the biggest luxury malls in town, is right behind the Bolshoi and GUM. It’s an imposing building with lots of history, and worth a visit just for its design and its glass roof.

4. Christ The Savior Cathedral

This is one of Russia’s most visited cathedrals and is a newer addition to the gorgeous array of Muscovite cathedrals, but don’t let its young age fool you. After perestroika, in the early 90s, the revived Russian Orthodox Church was given permission to build a cathedral on this site. It did the location honors and built the largest temple of the Christian Orthodox Church. The façade is as grand as you’d expect, but it’s the inside that will mesmerize you, with its domes, gold, gorgeous paintings, and decor!

The cathedral is located just a few hundred feet away from the Kremlin and was the site of the infamous Pussy Riot protest against Putin back in 2012.

Pro Tip: Bring a shawl to cover your hair as is the local custom.

5. Gorky Park

Moscow’s premier green space, Gorky Park (Park Gor’kogo) is the city’s biggest and most famous park. There is entertainment on offer here for every taste, from outdoor dancing sessions to yoga classes, volleyball, ping-pong, rollerblading, and bike and boat rental in summer. In winter, half the park turns into a huge ice skating rink. Gorky Park is also home to an open-air movie theater and the Garage Museum of Contemporary Art. There is also Muzeon Art Park, a dynamic contemporary space with a unique collection of 700 sculptures. It is located right in front of Gorky Park.

6. Sparrow Hills Park

If you take a walk from Gorky Park, along the Moscow River embankment, you’ll end up in the city’s other legendary park, Sparrow Hills. Although the park doesn’t offer as many activities as its hip neighbor, it has a great panoramic view of the city

Pro Tip: You can take a free walking tour to all of the above attractions with an English-speaking guide.

7. River Cruising

One of the best ways to experience Moscow, and see all the famous landmarks, but from a different angle, is from the Moscow River. Take a river cruise. Avoid the tourist crowds. There are little nameless old boats that do the cruise, but if you are looking for a more luxurious experience take the Radisson Blu cruise and enjoy the sights with some good food and a glass of wine.

8. Metro Hopping

Inaugurated in the 1930s, the Moscow Metro system is one of the oldest and most beautiful in the world. Started in Stalinist times, each station is a work of art in its own right. I’d recommend touring the stations between 11 a.m. and 4 p.m. This way, you’ll be able to properly see it without the crowds. Ideally, I’d recommend taking a tour with a knowledgeable guide with GuruWalk, who will tell you stories of forgotten stations and how the history of the country is interconnected with the metro development. If going by yourself, then I definitely recommend checking out: Mayakovskaya, Ploschad Revolutsii, Kievskaya, Kropotkinskaya, Kurskaya, and Novoslobodskaya stations.

Visit the free Moscow Metro Museum: For real train enthusiasts, located in the southern vestibule of Sportivnaya station is a small free museum. Here you can take a peek into the driver’s cabin, see a collection of metro tokens from different cities, and see different models of a turnstile, traffic lights, escalator, and more.

9. Moscow State University View

In his effort to create a grander Moscow, Stalin had seven skyscrapers built in different parts of town; they’re called the Seven Sisters. The largest of these buildings and the one with the best view is the main building of the Moscow State University. Although this is a little outside the city center, the view is more than worth it.

10. Izmailovsky Market

Mostly known for the city’s largest flea market, the district of Izmaylovo is home to a maze of shops where you can get just about anything, from artisan crafts to traditional fur hats, handcrafted jewelry, fascinating Soviet memorabilia, and antiquities. It’s also one of Moscow’s largest green spaces. There are often no price tags, so be prepared to haggle a bit. Head to one of the market cafes for a warming mulled wine before continuing your shopping spree.

The History of Vodka Museum is found here, and the museum’s restaurant is the perfect place to sample various brands of the national drink.

Once you’ve covered the more touristy spots, Moscow still has plenty to offer, and the places below will also be full of locals! So for some local vibes, I would strongly recommend the spots below!

11. Moscow City

With a completely different vibe, Moscow City (also referred to as Moscow International Business Center) is like a mini Dubai, with lots of impressive tall glass buildings. Here is where you’ll find the best rooftops in towns, like Ruski Restaurant, the highest restaurant both in Moscow City and in Europe. Moscow City is great for crowd-free shopping and the best panoramic views of the city.

12. Tretyakov Gallery

Tretyakov Gallery started as the private collection of the Tretyakov brothers, who were 19th-century philanthropists. They gave their private collection to the government after their deaths. If there is just one museum you visit in Moscow, I recommend this one!

13. Tsaritsyno Museum-Reserve

Tsaritsyno was a residence of Catherine the Great more than two centuries ago. It became derelict during the Soviet era but has now been fully renovated. With its opulently decorated buildings, gardens, meadows, and forests, Tsaritsyno Park is the perfect place for a green respite in Moscow.

14. Kolomenskoye

A 10-minute metro ride from the city center is Kolomenskoe Museum-Reserve, where you can get an idea of what Russia looked like 200 years ago. You’ll find ancient churches (one dating back to the 16th century), the oldest garden in Moscow, and the wonderful fairytale wooden palace of Tsar Alexey Mikhailovich, father of Peter the Great.

15. Ostankino TV Tower

Built in 1967, Ostankino TV Tower was the tallest free-standing construction in the world at the time, it’s still the 8th tallest building in the world and the highest in Europe. It’s also the best observation deck, with a glass floor and 360-degree views. The speedy elevators take you 1,105 feet in next to no time.

Pro Tip: You need to book in advance; entrance is based on specific ticket times and the capacity is limited and only a certain number of tourists are allowed per day. Don’t forget your passport, you’ll need it to get through security.

16. Zaryadye Park

Zaryadye is a newly opened, landscaped urban park so new you won’t find it in a lot of tour guides. The park is near Red Square and is divided into four climatic zones: forest, steppe, tundra, and floodplains, depicting the variety of climatic zones in Russia.

These last three suggestions are a little quirky, but all are really worth checking out.

17. Museum Of Soviet Arcade Games

Release your inner child playing on 66 arcade machines from the Soviet era! What a great way to spend a couple of hours when tired of visiting museums and palaces. The staff speaks excellent English and are happy to explain how the games work.

18. Moscow Rooftop Tour

Take a 1-hour private Moscow rooftop tour with an experienced roofer. I can just about guarantee none of your friends will be able to say they’ve done it! For your comfort, I recommend wearing comfortable shoes. Take your camera, there are some amazing photo opportunities out there!

19. Sanduny Banya

This classical Russian bathhouse opened its doors in 1808 and is famous for combining traditional Russian banya services with luxurious interiors and service. If you enjoy spas and saunas, then you should experience a Russian bathhouse at least once in your life! Go with an open mind and hire a specialist to steam you as it’s meant to be done — by being beaten repeatedly with a besom (a leafy branch)! This is said to improve circulation, but is best done by a professional!

So there you have my list of things to do in Moscow. I could have gone on and on and on, but I didn’t want to try your patience! There are so many things to do in this vibrant city that you’ll definitely need to allocate several days for exploring.

Here are some other reasons to visit Moscow and Russia:

• 7 Reasons To Put Moscow On Your Travel Bucket List
• Russia 30 Years (And 30 Pounds) Ago
• Massive Mysterious Craters Appearing Again In Siberia

Born and raised in Sydney, Australia, before moving to Africa at the age of 21, Sarah Kingdom is a mountain climber and guide, traveler, yoga teacher, trail runner, and mother of two. When she is not climbing or traveling she lives on a cattle ranch in central Zambia. She guides and runs trips regularly in India, Nepal, Tibet, Russia, and Ethiopia, taking climbers up Tanzania’s Mount Kilimanjaro numerous times a year.

Travel Itinerary For One Week in Moscow: The Best of Moscow!

I just got back from one week in Moscow. And, as you might have already guessed, it was a mind-boggling experience. It was not my first trip to the Russian capital. But I hardly ever got enough time to explore this sprawling city. Visiting places for business rarely leaves enough time for sightseeing. I think that if you’ve got one week in Russia, you can also consider splitting your time between its largest cities (i.e. Saint Petersburg ) to get the most out of your trip. Seven days will let you see the majority of the main sights and go beyond just scratching the surface. In this post, I’m going to share with you my idea of the perfect travel itinerary for one week in Moscow.

Moscow is perhaps both the business and cultural hub of Russia. There is a lot more to see here than just the Kremlin and Saint Basil’s Cathedral. Centuries-old churches with onion-shaped domes dotted around the city are in stark contrast with newly completed impressive skyscrapers of Moscow City dominating the skyline. I spent a lot of time thinking about my Moscow itinerary before I left. And this city lived up to all of my expectations.

Travel Itinerary For One Week in Moscow

Day 1 – red square and the kremlin.

Metro Station: Okhotny Ryad on Red Line.

No trip to Moscow would be complete without seeing its main attraction. The Red Square is just a stone’s throw away from several metro stations. It is home to some of the most impressive architectural masterpieces in the city. The first thing you’ll probably notice after entering it and passing vendors selling weird fur hats is the fairytale-like looking Saint Basil’s Cathedral. It was built to commemorate one of the major victories of Ivan the Terrible. I once spent 20 minutes gazing at it, trying to find the perfect angle to snap it. It was easier said than done because of the hordes of locals and tourists.

As you continue strolling around Red Square, there’s no way you can miss Gum. It was widely known as the main department store during the Soviet Era. Now this large (yet historic) shopping mall is filled with expensive boutiques, pricey eateries, etc. During my trip to Moscow, I was on a tight budget. So I only took a retro-style stroll in Gum to get a rare glimpse of a place where Soviet leaders used to grocery shop and buy their stuff. In case you want some modern shopping experience, head to the Okhotny Ryad Shopping Center with stores like New Yorker, Zara, and Adidas.

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To continue this Moscow itinerary, next you may want to go inside the Kremlin walls. This is the center of Russian political power and the president’s official residence. If you’re planning to pay Kremlin a visit do your best to visit Ivan the Great Bell Tower as well. Go there as early as possible to avoid crowds and get an incredible bird’s-eye view. There are a couple of museums that are available during designated visiting hours. Make sure to book your ticket online and avoid lines.

Day 2 – Cathedral of Christ the Saviour, the Tretyakov Gallery, and the Arbat Street

Metro Station: Kropotkinskaya on Red Line

As soon as you start creating a Moscow itinerary for your second day, you’ll discover that there are plenty of metro stations that are much closer to certain sites. Depending on your route, take a closer look at the metro map to pick the closest.

The white marble walls of Christ the Saviour Cathedral are awe-inspiring. As you approach this tallest Orthodox Christian church, you may notice the bronze sculptures, magnificent arches, and cupolas that were created to commemorate Russia’s victory against Napoleon.

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Unfortunately, the current Cathedral is a replica, since original was blown to bits in 1931 by the Soviet government. The new cathedral basically follows the original design, but they have added some new elements such as marble high reliefs.

Home to some precious collection of artworks, in Tretyakov Gallery you can find more than 150,000 of works spanning centuries of artistic endeavor. Originally a privately owned gallery, it now has become one of the largest museums in Russia. The Gallery is often considered essential to visit. But I have encountered a lot of locals who have never been there.

Famous for its souvenirs, musicians, and theaters, Arbat street is among the few in Moscow that were turned into pedestrian zones. Arbat street is usually very busy with tourists and locals alike. My local friend once called it the oldest street in Moscow dating back to 1493. It is a kilometer long walking street filled with fancy gift shops, small cozy restaurants, lots of cute cafes, and street artists. It is closed to any vehicular traffic, so you can easily stroll it with kids.

Day 3 – Moscow River Boat Ride, Poklonnaya Hill Victory Park, the Moscow City

Metro Station: Kievskaya and Park Pobedy on Dark Blue Line / Vystavochnaya on Light Blue Line

Voyaging along the Moscow River is definitely one of the best ways to catch a glimpse of the city and see the attractions from a bit different perspective. Depending on your Moscow itinerary, travel budget and the time of the year, there are various types of boats available. In the summer there is no shortage of boats, and you’ll be spoiled for choice.

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If you find yourself in Moscow during the winter months, I’d recommend going with Radisson boat cruise. These are often more expensive (yet comfy). They offer refreshments like tea, coffee, hot chocolate, and, of course, alcoholic drinks. Prices may vary but mostly depend on your food and drink selection. Find their main pier near the opulent Ukraine hotel . The hotel is one of the “Seven Sisters”, so if you’re into the charm of Stalinist architecture don’t miss a chance to stay there.

The area near Poklonnaya Hill has the closest relation to the country’s recent past. The memorial complex was completed in the mid-1990s to commemorate the Victory and WW2 casualties. Also known as the Great Patriotic War Museum, activities here include indoor attractions while the grounds around host an open-air museum with old tanks and other vehicles used on the battlefield.

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The hallmark of the memorial complex and the first thing you see as you exit metro is the statue of Nike mounted to its column. This is a very impressive Obelisk with a statue of Saint George slaying the dragon at its base.

Maybe not as impressive as Shanghai’s Oriental Pearl Tower , the skyscrapers of the Moscow City (otherwise known as Moscow International Business Center) are so drastically different from dull Soviet architecture. With 239 meters and 60 floors, the Empire Tower is the seventh highest building in the business district.

The observation deck occupies 56 floor from where you have some panoramic views of the city. I loved the view in the direction of Moscow State University and Luzhniki stadium as well to the other side with residential quarters. The entrance fee is pricey, but if you’re want to get a bird’s eye view, the skyscraper is one of the best places for doing just that.

Day 4 – VDNKh, Worker and Collective Farm Woman Monument, The Ostankino TV Tower

Metro Station: VDNKh on Orange Line

VDNKh is one of my favorite attractions in Moscow. The weird abbreviation actually stands for Russian vystavka dostizheniy narodnogo khozyaystva (Exhibition of Achievements of the National Economy). With more than 200 buildings and 30 pavilions on the grounds, VDNKh serves as an open-air museum. You can easily spend a full day here since the park occupies a very large area.

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First, there are pavilions that used to showcase different cultures the USSR was made of. Additionally, there is a number of shopping pavilions, as well as Moskvarium (an Oceanarium) that features a variety of marine species. VDNKh is a popular venue for events and fairs. There is always something going on, so I’d recommend checking their website if you want to see some particular exhibition.

A stone’s throw away from VDNKh there is a very distinctive 25-meters high monument. Originally built in 1937 for the world fair in Paris, the hulking figures of men and women holding a hammer and a sickle represent the Soviet idea of united workers and farmers. It doesn’t take much time to see the monument, but visiting it gives some idea of the Soviet Union’s grandiose aspirations.

I have a thing for tall buildings. So to continue my travel itinerary for one week in Moscow I decided to climb the fourth highest TV tower in the world. This iconic 540m tower is a fixture of the skyline. You can see it virtually from everywhere in Moscow, and this is where you can get the best panoramic views (yep, even better than Empire skyscraper).

Parts of the floor are made of tempered glass, so it can be quite scary to exit the elevator. But trust me, as you start observing buildings and cars below, you won’t want to leave. There is only a limited number of tickets per day, so you may want to book online. Insider tip: the first tour is cheaper, you can save up to $10 if go there early.

Day 5 – A Tour To Moscow Manor Houses

Metro Station: Kolomenskoye, Tsaritsyno on Dark Green Line / Kuskovo on Purple Line

I love visiting the manor houses and palaces in Moscow. These opulent buildings were generally built to house Russian aristocratic families and monarchs. Houses tend to be rather grand affairs with impressive architecture. And, depending on the whims of the owners, some form of a landscaped garden.

During the early part of the 20th century though, many of Russia’s aristocratic families (including the family of the last emperor) ended up being killed or moving abroad . Their manor houses were nationalized. Some time later (after the fall of the USSR) these were open to the public. It means that today a great many of Moscow’s finest manor houses and palaces are open for touring.

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There are 20 manor houses scattered throughout the city and more than 25 in the area around. But not all of them easily accessible and exploring them often takes a lot of time. I’d recommend focusing on three most popular estates in Moscow that are some 30-minute metro ride away from Kremlin.

Sandwiched between the Moscow River and the Andropov Avenue, Kolomenskoye is a UNESCO site that became a public park in the 1920’s. Once a former royal estate, now it is one of the most tranquil parks in the city with gorgeous views. The Ascension Church, The White Column, and the grounds are a truly grand place to visit.

You could easily spend a full day here, exploring a traditional Russian village (that is, in fact, a market), picnicking by the river, enjoying the Eastern Orthodox church architecture, hiking the grounds as well as and wandering the park and gardens with wildflower meadows, apple orchards, and birch and maple groves. The estate museum showcases Russian nature at its finest year-round.

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If my travel itinerary for one week in Moscow was a family tree, Tsaritsyno Park would probably be the crazy uncle that no-one talks about. It’s a large park in the south of the city of mind-boggling proportions, unbelievable in so many ways, and yet most travelers have never heard of it.

The palace was supposed to be a summer home for Empress Catherine the Great. But since the construction didn’t meet with her approval the palace was abandoned. Since the early 1990’s the palace, the pond, and the grounds have been undergoing renovations. The entire complex is now looking brighter and more elaborately decorated than at possibly any other time during its history. Like most parks in Moscow, you can visit Tsaritsyno free of charge, but there is a small fee if you want to visit the palace.

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Last, but by no means least on my Moscow itinerary is Kuskovo Park . This is definitely an off-the-beaten-path place. While it is not easily accessible, you will be rewarded with a lack of crowds. This 18th-century summer country house of the Sheremetev family was one of the first summer country estates of the Russian nobility. And when you visit you’ll quickly realize why locals love this park.

Like many other estates, Kuskovo has just been renovated. So there are lovely French formal garden, a grotto, and the Dutch house to explore. Make sure to plan your itinerary well because the estate is some way from a metro station.

Day 6 – Explore the Golden Ring

Creating the Moscow itinerary may keep you busy for days with the seemingly endless amount of things to do. Visiting the so-called Golden Ring is like stepping back in time. Golden Ring is a “theme route” devised by promotion-minded journalist and writer Yuri Bychkov.

Having started in Moscow the route will take you through a number of historical cities. It now includes Suzdal, Vladimir, Kostroma, Yaroslavl and Sergiev Posad. All these awe-inspiring towns have their own smaller kremlins and feature dramatic churches with onion-shaped domes, tranquil residential areas, and other architectural landmarks.

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I only visited two out of eight cities included on the route. It is a no-brainer that Sergiev Posad is the nearest and the easiest city to see on a day trip from Moscow. That being said, you can explore its main attractions in just one day. Located some 70 km north-east of the Russian capital, this tiny and overlooked town is home to Trinity Lavra of St. Sergius, UNESCO Site.

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Sergiev Posad is often described as being at the heart of Russian spiritual life. So it is uncommon to see the crowds of Russian pilgrims showing a deep reverence for their religion. If you’re traveling independently and using public transport, you can reach Sergiev Posad by bus (departs from VDNKh) or by suburban commuter train from Yaroslavskaya Railway Station (Bahnhof). It takes about one and a half hours to reach the town.

Trinity Lavra of St. Sergius is a great place to get a glimpse of filling and warming Russian lunch, specifically at the “ Gostevaya Izba ” restaurant. Try the duck breast, hearty potato and vegetables, and the awesome Napoleon cake.

Day 7 – Gorky Park, Izmailovo Kremlin, Patriarch’s Ponds

Metro Station: Park Kultury or Oktyabrskaya on Circle Line / Partizanskaya on Dark Blue Line / Pushkinskaya on Dark Green Line

Gorky Park is in the heart of Moscow. It offers many different types of outdoor activities, such as dancing, cycling, skateboarding, walking, jogging, and anything else you can do in a park. Named after Maxim Gorky, this sprawling and lovely park is where locals go on a picnic, relax and enjoy free yoga classes. It’s a popular place to bike around, and there is a Muzeon Art Park not far from here. A dynamic location with a younger vibe. There is also a pier, so you can take a cruise along the river too.

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The Kremlin in Izmailovo is by no means like the one you can find near the Red Square. Originally built for decorative purposes, it now features the Vernissage flea market and a number of frequent fairs, exhibitions, and conferences. Every weekend, there’s a giant flea market in Izmailovo, where dozens of stalls sell Soviet propaganda crap, Russian nesting dolls, vinyl records, jewelry and just about any object you can imagine. Go early in the morning if you want to beat the crowds.

All the Bulgakov’s fans should pay a visit to Patriarch’s Ponds (yup, that is plural). With a lovely small city park and the only one (!) pond in the middle, the location is where the opening scene of Bulgakov’s novel Master and Margarita was set. The novel is centered around a visit by Devil to the atheistic Soviet Union is considered by many critics to be one of the best novels of the 20th century. I spent great two hours strolling the nearby streets and having lunch in the hipster cafe.

Conclusion and Recommendations

To conclude, Moscow is a safe city to visit. I have never had a problem with getting around and most locals are really friendly once they know you’re a foreigner. Moscow has undergone some serious reconstruction over the last few years. So you can expect some places to be completely different. I hope my one week Moscow itinerary was helpful! If you have less time, say 4 days or 5 days, I would cut out day 6 and day 7. You could save the Golden Ring for a separate trip entirely as there’s lots to see!

What are your thoughts on this one week Moscow itinerary? Are you excited about your first time in the city? Let me know in the comments below!

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24 comments.

Ann Snook-Moreau

Moscow looks so beautiful and historic! Thanks for including public transit information for those of us who don’t like to rent cars.

MindTheTravel

Yup, that is me 🙂 Rarely rent + stick to the metro = Full wallet!

Mariella Blago

Looks like you had loads of fun! Well done. Also great value post for travel lovers.

Thanks, Mariella!

I have always wanted to go to Russia, especially Moscow. These sights look absolutely beautiful to see and there is so much history there!

Agree! Moscow is a thousand-year-old city and there is definitely something for everyone.

Tara Pittman

Those are amazing buildings. Looks like a place that would be amazing to visit.

Adriana Lopez

Never been to Moscow or Russia but my family has. Many great spots and a lot of culture. Your itinerary sounds fantastic and covers a lot despite it is only a short period of time.

What was their favourite thing about Russia?

Gladys Parker

I know very little about Moscow or Russia for the\at matter. I do know I would have to see the Red Square and all of its exquisite architectural masterpieces. Also the CATHEDRAL OF CHRIST THE SAVIOUR. Thanks for shedding some light on visiting Moscow.

Thanks for swinging by! The Red Square is a great starting point, but there way too many places and things to discover aside from it!

Ruthy @ Percolate Kitchen

You are making me so jealous!! I’ve always wanted to see Russia.

Moscow is in my bucket list, I don’t know when I can visit there, your post is really useful. As a culture rich place we need to spend at least week.

DANA GUTKOWSKI

Looks like you had a great trip! Thanks for all the great info! I’ve never been in to Russia, but this post makes me wanna go now!

Wow this is amazing! Moscow is on my bucket list – such an amazing place to visit I can imagine! I can’t wait to go there one day!

The building on the second picture looks familiar. I keep seeing that on TV.

Reesa Lewandowski

What beautiful moments! I always wish I had the personality to travel more like this!

Perfect itinerary for spending a week in Moscow! So many places to visit and it looks like you had a wonderful time. I would love to climb that tower. The views I am sure must have been amazing!

I was lucky enough to see the skyline of Moscow from this TV Tower and it is definitely mind-blowing.

Chelsea Pearl

Moscow is definitely up there on my travel bucket list. So much history and iconic architecture!

Thumbs up! 🙂

Blair Villanueva

OMG I dream to visit Moscow someday! Hope the visa processing would be okay (and become more affordable) so I could pursue my dream trip!

Yup, visa processing is the major downside! Agree! Time and the money consuming process…

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