Best Spots for a Summer Drink in Whitefish, Montana
After a full day of hiking in Glacier, mountain Biking at Big Mountain resort or wakeboarding on Whitefish Lake cap off your adventures with a cold drink. When the sun doesn’t set until nearly 11 pm, most summer days have an active morning and are followed by an eventful evening. Take some time to refresh and refuel for the second part of your day at one of many breweries and bars with outdoor seating, friendly staff, and of course - beer.
Bonsai Brewery
Number one on our list is Bonsai Brewery. This local favorite only operates during the summertime and quickly becomes part of everyone’s ideal weekend as soon as they’re open for the season. Most of their seating is outside in a large garden where you’ll find dogs, babies, and locals all enjoying the sunshine together. Their kitchen is open until 7:30 pm with a great lineup of fresh healthy food. Stop by on Tuesdays for a live DJ set!
Source: @BonsaiBrew on Instagram Aug 16th, 2022
Our Recommendation: Irish Goodbye - ‘A bourbon barrel-aged Coffee Porter that will see you soon enough’
Spring Hours: Tuesday - Sunday, 12 pm - 8 pm
Bonsai Brewery Website | Address: 549 Wisconsin Ave
2. Montana Tap House
On your way home from the mountain or to the lake you gotta stop by the Montana Tap House for a traditional bar experience. Their full kitchen cooks up delicious pizzas, wings, and other American food and their bar has over 50 beers on tap ranging from local favorites to the classics. This casual family-friendly spot has indoor seating and during the summer they open their dog-friendly patio often with live music up on the stage.
Source: @MTtaphouse via Instagram July 9th, 2022
Our Recommendation: Whiskey Peach Sour
Spring Hours: Daily, 11 am - 10 pm
Montana Tap House Website | Address: 845 Wisconsin Ave
3. Black Star Brewery
Black star is one of Whitefish’s newest spots located right downtown in a beautiful three-story building with a prime view of the mountain and an indoor-outdoor rooftop seating area. Serving locally brewed Jeremiah Johnson beer this spot has quickly become the go-to starting spot for a fun night downtown. Their kitchen opens for lunch every day of the week and their second bar is open up on the weekends as well.
Our Recommendation: Serversa, a light lager
Spring Hours: Daily, 12 pm - 9 pm
Black Star Brewery Website | Address: 2 Central Ave
4. Tiki Bar @ The Lodge at Whitefish Lake
If you want to catch the sunset while sipping on a drink, visit the Tiki Bar at the Lodge at Whitefish Lake for the only lakeside dining in town. This outdoor spot has been fully remodeled over the winter and it is open to the public all summer long. Featuring a full bar, this spot is known for its specialty cocktails and perfect lake vibes. The kitchen is open daily for lunch and dinner with hours varying depending on the time of the season.
Source: https://lodgeatwhitefishlake.com/tiki-bar-grill
Our Recommendation: Huckleberry Margarita
Hours: not yet confirmed for summer 2023
Tiki Bar Website | Address:1380 Wisconsin Ave
5. The Whitefish Lake Golf Club Patio
The Whitefish Lake Golf Club is the perfect spot for an outdoor drink with a great view during the summer months for golfers and non-golfers alike. Grab a drink from the outside bar or enjoy table service as you take in the views and company. Just a 5-minute drive from town the Golf Club is a welcoming place for everyone - I mean how many other non-profit golf clubs have you heard of?! It's the perfect place if you’re looking for a high-quality experience without any pretense.
Our Recommendation: Spotted Bear Paralyzer -this very strong drink made with locally distilled vodka and coffee liquor is the perfect Whitefish afternoon pick me up
Hours: Daily, 3 pm - Close
Whitefish Lake Restaurant Website | Address:1200 Highway 93 North
