What to expect: A beamed ceiling rises high above the lobby, which is adorned with displays of Montana taxidermy. The lobby fireplace adds to the mountain lodge aesthetic, and large windows overlook the adjacent golf course. Thanks to the region's year-round outdoor activities, all types of people will be found here: ski bums, golf nuts, big game hunters, and others looking to explore Montana's natural wonders.

Amenity highlights: The hotel, located a mile from downtown Whitefish, offers complimentary wireless Internet. Cars can be rented on-site, and together the hotel's three restaurants cover breakfast, lunch, and dinner. For relaxation, there's a heated indoor pool, two outdoor spa tubs, and a sauna. The Whitefish Lake Golf Club is adjacent, and a large city park across the street has tennis courts.

Insider tip: Whitefish is no metropolis, but it boasts a lively nightlife for a town of its size. Montanans are friendly and fun-loving, so mingling with the locals at one of many unique bars or restaurants downtown will make for a memorable evening. The hotel operates a complimentary late-night shuttle from downtown Whitefish until 2 AM, allowing revelers to cut loose without worry in the Big Sky State.