“City sidewalks, busy sidewalks.
Dressed in holiday style
In the air there's a feeling of Christmas
Children laughing,
People passing,
Meeting smile after smile
And on every street corner you'll hear…”
The essence of Christmas permeates the streets and boutique-style shops of downtown Billings. Written in history and held in tradition, holiday shopping is truly something worth celebrating.
Enterprises like Billings’ treasured Hart-Albin department store cultivated the tradition—to shop for the best, most prized gifts in a location where customers can expect the highest quality and customer service.
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That tradition continues at downtown stores where leisure, quality and one-on-one customer service co-exist. It’s a desirable change from the bump-and-grind of big box store retail-a-palooza.
Aside from top-notch customer service, these vendors also carry merchandise that’s unique or difficult to find elsewhere in Billings. And we all have our favorite stops.
But this year, don’t be shy about meandering into some of Billings’ newer shops and restaurants. One of these curious locales might just become your new Secret Santa headquarters.
“You always find the most unique and special gifts,” they’ll say.
And who knows, perhaps you can find a little something just for yourself along the way.
The gazing galleria
Creativity looms just around the corner in downtown Billings, an area ripe with local art galleries and artists. From painting to photography, jewelry making to mixed media, Billings is truly a melting pot of talented, diverse artists willing and eager to share their passion with you.
New to the art scene this year is Tambo Studio & Gallery. Here, proprietors Bob and Kit Tambo turn philanthropy into an art form with their “Art for a Cause” mission. A percentage of every piece sold at the studio helps fund infrastructure and clean water projects in third world countries. Award-winning artists from Nigeria have teamed with the Tambos to display their artwork, but shoppers will also find treasures from local artists like Rob Johnson.
Or, perhaps you have a penchant for creating art yourself. If that’s the case, pop into Crooked Line Studio, located at 3330 4th Ave. N. for a “no-rules” class.
The relaxed, laid-back atmosphere is perfect for letting your creativity flow, and consider picking up an art class gift card for the Van Gogh enthusiast on your shopping list.
Trend-setting style
In addition to proven downtown favorites like Neecee’s, Cricket and Desmond’s, shoppers should also be sure to pop into some Billings’ newest shops.
Bumps ‘n Bundles is a cheerful little alcove filled with stylish and unique children’s clothing, gifts, accessories, toys and more. Located at 219 N. Broadway, Bumps ‘n Bundles also carries a wide array of unique jewelry—much of it Montana-inspired. (The perfect special gift for any new mom.)
Also new to the downtown shopping scene is Prohibition Clothiers—a premiere men’s clothing store offering fine suits, accessories—even an on-site barber shop. Just next door is Montague’s Silver, an expanded storefront to the downtown mainstay, Montague’s Jewelers. Here, shoppers will find a wide range of beautiful, high-quality giftware from trusted brands like Reed & Barton and Nambe, in addition to stunning, yet affordable, pieces of jewelry.
Dine divine
Shopping is tough work.
Why not reward yourself after a day of browsing with a soul-satisfying meal from one of downtown Billings’ fantastic restaurants.
Craving a juicy steak? No problem. In the mood for fresh seafood? We’ve got you covered. For a change of pace, try the sweet-yet-tangy taste of Wild Ginger.
New to downtown Billings’ dining scene and located at 2713 Montana Ave., Wild Ginger offers a unique menu of Asian-fusion-inspired fare in a laid-back atmosphere.
For something a bit spicier, try Café Zydeco, located at 2503 Montana Ave. Their cheeky tagline “Get Some South in Your Mouth,” is sure to get your attention, as will the delicious, authentic jambalaya, gumbo and variety of additional delicious soups and sandwiches.
Maybe a holiday cocktail or mocktail is what you desire. If that’s the case, pop into Doc Harper’s and serenely sip on one of their signature martinis; ask the barkeep about seasonal favorites.
There are several other dining gems waiting to be discovered, and most of them also cater fantastic holiday parties—so be sure to inquire.
Park and go
There are currently three city parking garages, five city lots and roughly 3,310 parking spots available in downtown Billings. Parking is free on the weekends, so that shouldn’t deter you from making the trip.
For additional information on parking and shopping in downtown Billings—and a complete list of downtown merchants—visit downtownbillings.com. Happy shopping!
