Message from our Editor | July 2026

July is all about open roads, Western roots, and long summer days under Montana skies. In this month’s Wide Open Summer issue, you’ll find stories of local artists, wild mustangs, community builders, Western style, family adventures, patio season, farmers markets, and the people who make South Central Montana a remarkable place to call home. It’s your guide to making the most of summer in Big Sky Country.

Where the West Still Runs Wild

Wind, sagebrush, badlands, and bands of wild horses moving across the Wyoming desert. Spend a day in McCullough Peaks with longtime wild horse advocates Tricia, Phyllis, and Vicki, women who have dedi...

Nature Nicks Field Notes: Woods Rose

This month, we're celebrating Woods Rose, a thorny native shrub with gorgeous pink blooms that wildlife absolutely can't resist. You can spot this chaotic beauty along the trails at Riverfront Park—bu...

Reimagining the American West with Gordon McConnell

What happens when an artist spends decades painting the American West while also questioning the myths that shaped it? Simply Local sits down with renowned Montana artist Gordon McConnell to talk abou...

The Beer Cheese Dip Billings Didn't Know It Needed

You're already grabbing a growler this summer. Save three-quarters of a cup and thank me later. Check out our Beer Cheese Dip Recipe in the pages and at the link in our bio. Camera icon- @lovely_bacon...

The Story Behind the BEER CAR

It started with one black-and-white photo. Now it’s stopping traffic across Montana. The beer car is back, and it’s reminding Billings what beer is really about. @maloree_everett, @westernheritagecent...

Jumpstart Summer Reading

Early childhood literacy sets a child up for more than just good reading skills. Studies show that achieving grade-level literacy early on charts the course for success in all areas of life for a life...

Reading Rocks is More than Books

Food insecurity affects thousands of students in the Billings Public Schools, and for many children, school is their primary source of meals during the school year. When school cafeterias close for th...

STEAMing along in Red Lodge

Red Lodge is known for its access to natural resources, but one community classroom is teaching high-tech ideas to everyone from elementary students to retirees. The Hero’s STEAM Center opened in 2019...

A Different Path to Healing

Horses respond to emotion long before words are spoken, making them powerful partners in healing. Through equine-assisted therapy, Chinook Horses, a Billings nonprofit, is helping children and familie...

The Women of Yellowstone Surgery Center

They’re surgeons, anesthesiologists, mothers, partners, runners, caregivers, and community members. Meet six women from Yellowstone Surgery Center as they share the realities, sacrifices, and perspect...

Grounded in Good Design

Most people pick their rug last. Turns out, that's exactly wrong. Our latest issue breaks down the design rule that changes everything — and the new Billings spot helping homeowners get it right. Phot...

Western, Refined

There's a fine line between a home that feels Montana and one that feels like a gift shop. We sat down with Billings designer Jeremiah Young of Kibler & Kirch to find out how to get it right. Find it...

Exploring the Magic City on Two Wheels

Ditch the planning stress and grab your helmets. Our latest guide features three family-friendly bike routes designed to keep everyone moving and motivated. With detailed maps and destinations for tre...

Hot Days, Cold Scoops

It’s National Ice Cream Day, and nothing says summer in Billings quite like a cool treat on a sweltering evening. From the nostalgic walk-up window at Softies to the fresh acai bowls at The Local Ber...

The Story of Bernie's Happy Home

What do you do when the care your child needs simply doesn't exist? For Billings family Stephanie and Justin Brown, the answer was to build it themselves. Bernie's Happy Home is on a mission to give a...

The Vision & Fashion of Coup de Rouge

Part runway show, part art installation, and part cultural celebration, Coup de Rouge is an immersive experience unlike anything Montana has seen before. Created by three women who share a passion for...