Things to do in Kalispell/Whitefish for older couples

Question

We are doing a Roads Scholar tour in Glacier next summer. We would like to spend some additional time in the area. We are looking for activities, driving tours, places to go that don't require a lot of hiking etc. Thanks.

Answer

Kalispell and Whitefish offer a wonderful mix of Rocky Mountain scenery, light outdoor activities, historic attractions, and relaxing small-town charm—perfect for older couples wanting to enjoy the area without strenuous hiking. Since you’ll already be experiencing Glacier National Park on your Road Scholar tour, extending your stay in the Flathead Valley gives you time to explore at an easy pace.

Both towns are compact, walkable, and filled with friendly shops, galleries, and restaurants, while the surrounding region offers scenic drives, boat tours, and wildlife viewing that require minimal physical effort. Summer is a beautiful time—long days, mild weather, and vibrant activity around the lakes.

Below are some of the best activities, drives, and experiences suited for a relaxed visit.

Downtown Kalispell – Visit the historic Main Street area with boutique shops, cafés, and local art. Don’t miss the Conrad Mansion Museum, a beautifully preserved 19th-century home offering guided tours that focus on area history.
Northwest Montana History Museum – A small but interesting museum covering Native American history, early settlers, and the development of the region.
Flathead Lake Scenic Drive – Take Highway 35 on the east side or Highway 93 on the west side. Both routes offer gorgeous water and mountain views. Stop at small lakeside towns such as Bigfork and Lakeside.

Whitefish has a charming resort-town atmosphere with an alpine feel. Its proximity to Whitefish Lake and Big Mountain means easy access to scenic views and gentle outdoor options suitable for relaxed adventuring.

Summer is an excellent time to experience Whitefish’s lakeside activities and mountain vistas without needing to hike. The town is filled with excellent dining, galleries, and local crafts—perfect for leisurely exploring.

Whitefish Mountain Resort (Big Mountain) – Take the chairlift or gondola to the summit for stunning panoramic views without hiking. Enjoy lunch at the summit lodge.
Whitefish Lake – Consider a boat tour, paddlewheel cruise, or a relaxing afternoon at Whitefish City Beach.
Whitefish Depot – Visit the historic train depot and museum showcasing the Great Northern Railway and local history.

The Flathead Valley offers several gentle, enjoyable activities that don’t require strenuous walking or elevation gain. These are ideal additions before or after your Glacier tour.

Each option below is especially good for couples wanting scenic experiences, local flavor, and relaxed sightseeing.

Bigfork – A charming town with art galleries, boutiques, and the Bigfork Summer Playhouse theater. Perfect for an easy stroll and dinner.
Flathead Lake Boat Tour – Enjoy a narrated cruise from Lakeside or Bigfork. Learn about the lake’s geology and wildlife while relaxing on deck.
Lake McDonald Lodge (Glacier outside the hiking areas) – If you want more Glacier experiences without hiking, explore the historic lodge and take a Glacier Park Boat Company cruise on Lake McDonald.
Scenic drive to Polebridge – A remote but beautiful area (mostly paved roads). Visit the historic Polebridge Mercantile for baked goods and mountain views.
Swan Valley Scenic Byway – A peaceful drive along Highway 83 through forests, lakes, and meadows—less busy than other routes.

For a bit of wildlife and nature without strenuous activity, visit local refuges and scenic overlooks. These low-key areas offer good chances to spot birds and occasional larger wildlife.

They are all easy to reach by car and have flat walking paths or viewing areas.

Lone Pine State Park – Located near Kalispell, featuring a gentle paved overlook trail and a helpful visitor center.
Flathead Lake State Park Units – Multiple easy-access parks (Wayfarers, Finley Point, West Shore) with picnic areas and mellow lakeside views.
Lee Metcalf National Wildlife Refuge – An hour south of Kalispell, offering flat walking paths and excellent birdwatching.

For dining, both Kalispell and Whitefish have excellent, relaxed restaurants emphasizing Montana flavors, local products, and comfortable indoor/outdoor seating.

Here are some well-loved options that offer a welcoming atmosphere for older travelers.

Whitefish – Elegant dining at Café Kandahar; relaxed downtown meals at Abruzzo Italian; lake views at the Boat Club Restaurant.
Kalispell – Local favorites include The Desoto Grill (BBQ), Hops Downtown Grill, and The Knead Café for breakfast.
Bigfork – The Raven for lakeside dining; Showthyme for a more upscale option tied to the theater.

Overall, you can easily fill 3–5 relaxing days in Kalispell and Whitefish before or after your Glacier National Park program. The area is full of beauty, history, good food, and accessible activities that don’t require significant hiking—making it a wonderful extension for your summer visit.