Where to Stay When Visiting Montana State University: Great Falls Accommodations Guide
Planning a visit to Montana State University? Whether you're a prospective student touring campus, a proud parent attending graduation, or visiting faculty for a conference, finding the right accommodations is essential for a successful trip. While many visitors immediately search for hotels near Montana State University, savvy travelers know that Great Falls offers excellent options that combine value, comfort, and convenience.
Great Falls: The Strategic Alternative to Campus-Adjacent Accommodations
Montana State University attracts thousands of visitors annually to its beautiful campus. During peak events like orientation, homecoming, and graduation, accommodations closest to campus often book months in advance and command premium prices. Great Falls, positioned as an excellent hub for Montana exploration, offers several advantages for university visitors:
Better availability during MSU's busiest weekends
More competitive rates compared to campus-adjacent options
Spacious accommodations ideal for families or extended stays
Central location for exploring more of Montana during your visit
Transportation Options Between Great Falls and Montana State University
The journey between Great Falls and Montana State University is straightforward, with several transportation options:
By Car
Approximately 89 miles via I-15 S and US-87 S
Scenic 1.5-hour drive through Montana's beautiful landscapes
Ample parking available at our property for guests with vehicles
Shuttle Services
Daily scheduled shuttles between Great Falls and Bozeman
Special event shuttles during graduation and major university events
Our front desk can arrange private transportation upon request
Rental Cars
All major rental companies available at Great Falls International Airport
Our hotel offers special partner rates with select rental agencies
Weekend car rental packages available for university visitors
Extended Stay Options for University Affiliates
Visiting professors, researchers, and university contractors often need accommodations beyond the typical short stay. Our extended-stay suites offer:
Full kitchens for home-cooked meals
Separate living and sleeping areas
Weekly housekeeping services
Discounted monthly rates
Complimentary high-speed internet for remote work and research
Planning Your Montana State University Visit
When planning your visit to Montana State University, timing is everything. Here's a quick guide to the university's calendar highlights:
August/September: Move-in weekend and fall semester start
October: Homecoming weekend (dates vary annually)
December: Fall commencement
January: Spring semester start
May: Spring commencement (largest graduation ceremony)
June-August: Summer orientation sessions
Pro tip: Book your Great Falls accommodations at least 3-4 months in advance for graduation weekends and 2-3 months ahead for other significant university events.
Beyond the University Visit
One of the greatest advantages of staying in Great Falls during your Montana State University visit is the opportunity to extend your Montana experience. After your campus activities, consider:
Exploring Glacier National Park (just a short drive away)
Discovering Great Falls' local attractions like the Lewis and Clark Interpretive Center
Experiencing Montana's outdoor adventures with fly fishing on the Missouri River
Visiting multiple Montana destinations with Great Falls as your home base
Book Your MSU Visit Stay Today
Ready to plan your Montana State University visit? Contact our friendly team to learn more about our MSU visitor packages and secure your accommodations.
Make your university visit more comfortable, affordable, and memorable by choosing our Great Falls hotel as your home base for exploring both MSU and the magnificent Montana landscape.
