View source for Billings, Montana

{{Redirect|Billings}}
{{Use mdy dates|date=October 2012}}
{{Infobox settlement
| official_name           = Billings, Montana
| settlement_type         = [[Cities of the United States|City]]
| motto                   = Star of the Big Sky Country
| image_skyline           = Billings, Montana Collage 4.jpg
| imagesize               =
| image_caption           = Billings, Montana
| image_flag              = Billings.png
| image_seal              = Seal of Billings, Montana.png
| nickname                = Magic City, Montana's Trailhead
| image_map               = Yellowstone County Montana Incorporated and Unincorporated areas Billings Highlighted.svg
| mapsize                 = 250px
| map_caption             = Location in Yellowstone County and Montana
| image_map1              = Map of USA MT.svg
| mapsize1                =
| map_caption1            = Location of the state of Montana in the United States
| pushpin_map             = USA
| pushpin_map_caption     = Location in the United States
| coordinates_region      = US-MT
| subdivision_type        = Country
| subdivision_name        = United States
| subdivision_type1       = [[Political divisions of the United States|State]]
| subdivision_name1       = [[Montana]]
| subdivision_type2       = [[List of counties in Montana|County]]
| subdivision_name2       = [[Yellowstone County, Montana|Yellowstone]]
| government_type         = [[Mayor-council government|Mayor-Council]]
| leader_title            = Mayor
| leader_name             = Tom Hanel
| leader_title1           = [[City Administrator|City Admin.]]
| leader_name1            = Christina "Tina" Volek
| leader_title2           = Governing body
| leader_name2            = [[Billings City Council|City Council]]
| established_title       = Founded
| established_title2      = [[Municipal incorporation|Incorporated]]
| established_date        = 1877
| established_date2       = 1882
| area_magnitude          =
| unit_pref               = Imperial
| area_total_sq_mi        = 43.52
| area_footnotes          = <ref name ="Gazetteer files"/>
| area_total_km2          = 112.72
| area_land_sq_mi         = 43.41
| area_land_km2           = 112.43
| area_water_sq_mi        = 0.11
| area_water_km2          = 0.28
| area_urban_sq_mi        =
| area_urban_km2          =
| area_metro_sq_mi        =
| area_metro_km2          =
| population_as_of        = [[2010 United States Census|2010]]
| population_est          = 106954
| pop_est_as_of           = 2012<ref name="census.gov">http://www.census.gov/popest/data/cities/totals/2012/files/SUB-EST2012_30.csv</ref>
| population_footnotes    = <ref name ="FactFinder"/>
| population_total        = 104170
| population_density_km2  = 926.5
| population_density_sq_mi = 2399.7
| population_metro        = 162848
| population_urban        =
| timezone                = [[Mountain Time Zone|Mountain]]
| utc_offset              = -7
| timezone_DST            = Mountain
| utc_offset_DST          = -6
| coordinates_display     = inline,title
| coordinates_type        = region:US_type:city
| latd  =  45 | latm  = 47 | lats  = 12 | latNS  = N
| longd = 108 | longm = 32 | longs = 14 | longEW = W
| elevation_m             = 952
| elevation_ft            = 3123
| website                 = [http://www.cityofbillings.net/ www.cityofbillings.net]
| postal_code_type        = [[ZIP code]]s
| postal_code             = 59101, 59102, 59103, 59104, 59105, 59106, 59107, 59108, 59109, 59110, 59111, 59112, 59113, 59114, 59115, 59116, 59117<ref name="ZIPcode" />
| area_code               = [[Area code 406|406]]
| blank_name              = [[Federal Information Processing Standard|FIPS code]]
| blank_info              = 30-06550
| blank1_name             = [[Geographic Names Information System|GNIS]] feature ID
| blank1_info             = 0802034
| blank2_name             = [[List of Montana numbered highways|Highways]]
| blank2_info             = [[File:I-90.svg|20px|link=Interstate 90]] [[File:I-94.svg|20px|link=Interstate 94]] [[File:US 87.svg|20px|link=U.S. Route 87]]
}}
'''Billings''' is the largest [[Cities of the United States|city]] in the US state of [[Montana]], and is the principal city of the [[Billings Metropolitan Area]] with a population of 162,848.<ref>http://www.census.gov/popest/data/metro/totals/2012/tables/CBSA-EST2012-01.csv</ref> It has a trade area of over half a million people.<ref name="autogenerated1" />

Billings is located in the south-central portion of the state and is the [[county seat]] of [[Yellowstone County, Montana|Yellowstone County]], which had a 2012 population of 151,882.<ref>http://quickfacts.census.gov/qfd/states/30/30111.html</ref> The 2012 Census estimates put the Billings population at 106,954,<ref name="census.gov"/> the only city in Montana to surpass 100,000 people. The city is experiencing rapid growth and a strong economy; it has had and is continuing to have the largest growth of any city in Montana. Parts of the metro area are seeing hyper growth. From 2000 to 2010 [[Lockwood, Montana|Lockwood]], a southeastern suburb of the city saw growth of 57.8% the largest growth rate of any community in Montana.<ref>{{cite web|url=http://quickfacts.census.gov/qfd/states/30/3044200.html |title=Lockwood CDP QuickFacts from the US Census Bureau |publisher=Quickfacts.census.gov |accessdate=2012-08-07}}</ref> Billings has avoided the economic downturn that affected most of the nation 2008–2012 as well as avoiding the housing bust.<ref>{{cite web | last =Lutey | first = Tom |url=http://missoulian.com/special-section/montana-economy/article_46ed8913-601a-58b8-ad39-036786d870bd.html |title=Billings economy not an illusion |publisher=Missoulian.com |date=December 19, 2010 |accessdate=2012-08-07}}</ref><ref name="BillGaz 2010-12-26" /> With the Bakken oil play in eastern Montana and western North Dakota, the largest oil discovery in U.S. history,<ref name="marketwire.com" /><ref name="wallstreet-online.de" /> as well as the Heath shale oil play just north of Billings,<ref>{{cite web|url=http://billingsgazette.com/business/article_e8dba1c2-de7e-5488-aa12-34dff4f2f31c.html |title=A piece of the oil action | publisher = BillingsGazette.com |date=March 6, 2011 |accessdate=2012-08-07}}</ref> the city's already rapid growth rate is escalating.<ref>{{cite web|url=http://billingsgazette.com/news/local/article_3cef647d-8107-5b41-802a-5bc038d1b177.html |title=Experts say Billings will benefit from energy boom | publisher = BillingsGazette.com |date=March 4, 2011 |accessdate=2012-08-07}}</ref><ref name="2012poleshift.wetpaint.com" />

Billings was nicknamed the Magic City because of its rapid growth from its founding as a railroad town in March 1882. The city is named for [[Frederick H. Billings]], a former president of the [[Northern Pacific Railroad]]. With one of the largest trade areas in the United States,<ref name="bigskyeda-edc" /> Billings is the trade and distribution center for most of [[Montana]], Northern [[Wyoming]] and western portions of [[North Dakota]] and [[South Dakota]]. Billings is also the retail destination for much of the same area. With more hotel accommodations than any area within a five state region, the city hosts a variety of conventions, concerts, sporting events and other rallies.<ref name="bigskyeda-edc" />

Area attractions include [[Pompey's Pillar National Monument|Pompey's Pillar]], [[Pictograph Cave (Billings, Montana)|Pictograph Cave]], [[Chief Plenty Coups State Park]], [[Zoo Montana]], [[Yellowstone Art Museum]]. Within 100 miles are [[Little Bighorn Battlefield National Monument]], [[Bighorn Canyon National Recreation Area]], [[Red Lodge Mountain Resort]] and the [[Beartooth Highway]] which links Red Lodge to [[Yellowstone National Park]].

== History ==
{{see also|Timeline of Billings, Montana history}}

=== Prehistory ===
The Downtown core and much of the rest of Billings is in the Yellowstone Valley which is a canyon carved out by the [[Yellowstone River]]. Around 80 million years ago, the Billings area was on the shore of the [[Western Interior Seaway]]. The sea deposited sediment and sand around the shoreline. As the sea retreated it left behind a deep layer of sand over millions of years this sand was compressed into stone that is known as [[Eagle Sandstone]]. Over the last million years the river has carved its way down through this stone to form the canyon walls that are known as the Billings [[Rimrocks]] or the Rims.<ref>{{cite web|title=The Shores of an Ancient Sea|url=http://www.mdt.mt.gov/travinfo/docs/roadsigns/ShoreAncientSea.pdf|publisher=Montana Department of Transportation|accessdate=27 March 2013}}</ref>

About five miles south of downtown are the [[Pictograph Cave (Billings, Montana)|Pictograph Caves]]. These caves contain over 100 [[Pictogram|pictographs]] (rock paintings), the oldest of which is over 2000 years old. Approximately 30,000 artifacts (including stone tools and weapons) have been excavated from the site.<ref>{{cite web|title=Pictograph Cave State Park|url=http://stateparks.mt.gov/pictograph-cave/|publisher=Montana Fish, Wildlife, and Parks|accessdate=26 February 2013}}</ref> These excavations have indicated that the area has been occupied since at least 2600 BCE until after 1800 CE.<ref>{{cite web|title=Pictograph Cave|url=http://tps.cr.nps.gov/nhl/detail.cfm?ResourceId=307&ResourceType=Site|publisher=National Park Service|accessdate=26 February 2013}}</ref>

The [[Crow Indians]] have called the Billings area home since about 1700. The present day [[Crow Nation]] is just south of Billings.<ref>http://www.crowtribe.com/</ref>

===Lewis and Clark Expedition===

[[File:Popi sig550.jpg|thumb|William Clark’s inscription on [[Pompey's Pillar National Monument|Pompeys Pillar]]]]
In July 1806, [[William Clark (explorer)|William Clark]] (of the [[Lewis and Clark Expedition]]) passed through the Billings area. On July 25 he arrived at what is now known as [[Pompeys Pillar National Monument|Pompeys Pillar]] and wrote in his journal "... at 4 P M arrived at a remarkable rock ... this rock I ascended and from its top had a most extensive view in every direction."<ref>{{cite web|title=The Journals of Lewis and Clark, 1804-1806|url=http://www.gutenberg.org/files/8419/8419-h/8419-h.htm#link32H_4_0351|publisher=Project Gutenburg|accessdate=26 February 2013|author=Meriwether Lewis and William Clark}}</ref> Clark carved his name and the date into the rock, leaving the only remaining physical evidence of the expedition that is visible along their route. He named the place Pompy’s Tower, naming it after the son of his [[Shoshone]] interpreter and guide [[Sacajawea]]. In 1965, Pompeys Pillar was designated as a national historic landmark, and was proclaimed a national monument in January 2001. An interpretive center has been built next to the monument.<ref>{{cite web|title=Pompeys Pillar National Monument|url=http://www.blm.gov/pgdata/content/mt/en/fo/billings_field_office/pompeyspillar.html|publisher=Bureau of Land Management|accessdate=26 February 2013}}</ref>

=== Coulson / Billings ===

[[File:Coulson.JPG|thumb|left|[[Coulson, Montana]]]]
The area where Billings is today was once known as Clarks Fork Bottom. Clarks Fork Bottom was to be the hub for hauling freight to Judith and Musselshell Basins. At the time these were some of the most productive areas of the [[Montana Territory]].  The plan was to run freight up Alkali Creek, now part of Billings Heights, to the basins and [[Fort Benton, Montana|Fort Benton]] on the [[Hi-Line]].

In 1877 settlers from the Gallatin Valley area of the Montana Territory formed [[Coulson, Montana|Coulson]] the first town of the Yellowstone Valley.<ref name="autogenerated2" /> The town was started when John Alderson built a sawmill and convinced PW McAdow to open a general store and trading post on land that Alderson owned on the bank of the Yellowstone River. The store went by the name of Headquarters and soon other buildings and tents were being built as the town began to grow. At this time before the coming of the railroad, most goods coming to and going from the Montana Territory were carried on paddle riverboats. It is believed that it was decided to name the new town Coulson in an attempt to attract the Coulson Packet Company that ran riverboats between St Louis and many points in the Montana Territory. In spite of their efforts the river was traversed only once by paddle riverboat to the point of the new town.

Coulson was a rough town of dance halls and saloons and not a single church. The town needed a sheriff and the famous mountain man [[Liver-Eating Johnson|John "Liver-Eating" Johnson]] took the job. Many disagreements were settled with a gun in the coarse Wild West town. Soon a graveyard was needed and Boothill Cemetery was created. It was called Boothill because most of the people in it were said to have died with their boots on. Boothill Cemetery today sets within the city limits of Billings and is the only remaining physical evidence of Coulson's existence.

When the railroad came to the area Coulson residents were sure the town would become the railroads hub and Coulson would soon be the Territories largest city. The railroad only had claim to odd sections and it had two sections side-by-side about two miles west of Coulson. Being able to make far more money by creating a new town on these two sections the railroad decided to create the new town of Billings,  For a short time the two towns existed side-by-side with a trolley even running between the two. However most of the residents of Coulson ended up moving to the new booming town of Billings. In the end Coulson faded away with the last remains of the town disappearing in the 1930s. Today Coulson Park, a Billings city park, sits on the river bank where Coulson once was.<ref>{{cite web|title=Yellowstone County Towns, Train Stations & Post Offices|url=http://www.rootsweb.ancestry.com/~mtygf/towns.htm|publisher=rootsweb|accessdate=27 March 2013}}</ref>

=== Early railroad town ===
Named after [[Northern Pacific Railway]] president [[Frederick H. Billings]] Billings was founded in 1882. The Railroad formed the city as a western railhead for it farther westward expansion. At first the new town had only three buildings but within just a few months it had grown to over 2000. This spurred the Billings nickname of the Magic City because like magic it seemed to appear overnight.
By Sep 1882, a street railway was being built, ties were ready cars and rails were being shipped in, and operation was expected to start by mid October.

{{Panorama
| image      = File:MT Panoramic view of Billings 1915.jpg|MT
| fullwidth  = 2000
| fullheight = 396
| caption    = Panoramic view of downtown Billings 1915. View is to the east and south from a high point at the intersection of North 28th Street (street extending away in the right half of the photo) and 3rd Avenue North (street extending away in the left half of the photo).
| height     = 200
}}

The nearby town of Coulson appeared a far more likely site. Coulson was a rough and tumble town where arguments were often followed by gunplay. [[Liver-Eating Johnston]] was a lawman in Coulson.<ref>{{cite web|url=http://johnlivereatingjohnston.com/ |title=John Liver Eating Johnston |publisher=Johnlivereatingjohnston.com |date=July 5, 2009 |accessdate=2012-08-07}}</ref> Perhaps the most famous person to be buried in Coulsons Boothill cemetery is Muggins Taylor,<ref>{{cite web|url=http://www.billings.k12.mt.us/talesw/teamtale/castle/taylor.htm |title=Taylor |publisher=Billings.k12.mt.us |accessdate=2012-08-07}}</ref> the scout who carried the news of Custer's Last Stand to the world. Most buried here were said to have died with their boots on. The town of Coulson had been situated on the [[Yellowstone River]], which made it ideal for the commerce that [[steamboat]]s brought up the river. However, when the Montana & Minnesota Land Company oversaw the development of potential railroad land, they ignored Coulson, and platted the new town of Billings just a couple of miles to the Northwest. Coulson quickly faded away; most of her residents were absorbed into Billings. Yet for a short time the two towns co-existed: a trolley even ran between the two. But ultimately there was no future for Coulson as Billings grew. Though it stood on the banks of the Yellowstone River only a couple of miles from the heart of present day Downtown Billings, the city of Billings never built on the land where Coulson once stood. Today Coulson Park sits along the banks of the Yellowstone where the valley's first town once stood.<ref name="autogenerated2" />

=== 20th century ===
By the 1910 census, Billings' population had risen to 10,031 ranking it the sixth fastest growing community in the nation.<ref name="autogenerated2" />

[[File:First Interstate Center, Billings, MT cropped.jpg|thumb|upright|The First Interstate Tower, built in 1985 and standing at 272 feet, is the tallest building in Montana.<ref>{{cite web|title=First Interstate Center|url=http://skyscraperpage.com/cities/?buildingID=6284|accessdate=August 1, 2012|author=Skyscraper Source Media Inc.}}</ref>]]

Billings became an energy center in the early years of the twentieth century with the discovery of oil fields in Montana and Wyoming. Then the discovery of large natural gas and coal reserves secured the cities place as an energy center.<ref name="autogenerated2" />

After [[World War II]], Billings boomed into the major financial, medical and cultural center of the region. Billings always experienced rapid growth from its founding, in its first 50 years growth was at times in the 300 and 400 percentile.<ref>{{cite book|url=http://books.google.com/books?id=T9HrAAAAMAAJ&pg=PA311&lpg=PA311&dq=census+billings+montana+1900&source=bl&ots=Nbo9SdNvbB&sig=yXIoRpGw-r6X29YPdRLOruUuFMM&hl=en&ei=xd53TaKbK4r1rAGp9f3WDQ&sa=X&oi=book_result&ct=result&resnum=5&ved=0CD4Q6AEwBDgK#v=onepage&q&f=false |title=Thirteenth Census of the United States, 1910: Population by Counties and ... – United States. Bureau of the Census |publisher=Google Books |date=May 17, 2012 |accessdate=2012-08-07}}</ref> Billings's growth has remained robust throughout the years and at times almost unmanageable as in the 1950s when it had a growth rate of 66.0%. The [[1973 oil embargo]] by [[OPEC]] spurred an oil boom in eastern Montana, northern Wyoming and Western North Dakota. With this increase in oil production, Billings became the headquarters for energy sector companies. In 1975 and 1976, the [[Colstrip]] coal fire generation plants 1 and 2 were completed; plants 3 and 4 were operational in 1984 and 1986.

In the 1970s and 1980s, Billings saw major growth in its downtown core; the first high-rise buildings to be built in Montana were erected. In 1980, the 22-floor Sheraton Hotel was completed. Upon its completion it was also declared "the tallest load-bearing brick masonry building in the world" by the Brick Institute of America.<ref>{{cite web|url=http://www.emporis.com/application/?nav=building&lng=3&id=sheratonbillingshotel-billings-mt-usa |title=Crowne Plaza, Billings, U.S.A |location=Billings / |publisher=Emporis.com |accessdate=2012-08-07}}</ref> During the 1970s and 1980s, Billings also saw the completion of other important buildings in its downtown core;<ref>{{cite web|url=http://www.emporis.com/wm/ci/bu/?id=102598 |title=Buildings of Billings |publisher=Emporis.com |accessdate=2012-08-07}}</ref> the Norwest Building (now Wells Fargo), Granite Tower, Sage Tower the MetraPark arena, the TransWestern Center, many new city owned parking garages and the First Interstate Tower, now the tallest building in a five state area.<ref>{{cite web|url=http://www.emporis.com/application/?nav=building&lng=3&id=1interstatecenter-billings-mt-usa |title=First Interstate Center, Billings, U.S.A |location=Billings / |publisher=Emporis.com |accessdate=2012-08-07}}</ref>
[[File:JFK greets crowd in Billings 1963-09-25.jpg|thumb|left|President [[John F. Kennedy|Kennedy]] in Billings, September 25, 1963]]

With the completion of large sections of the interstate system in Montana in the 1970s, Billings became an even bigger shopping destination for an ever increasingly larger area. The 1970s and 1980s saw new shopping districts and shopping centers developed in the Billings area. In addition to the other shopping centers developed, two new malls were developed and a third mall redeveloped and enlarged, Rimrock Mall on what was then the city's west end, Cross Roads Mall, ''no longer in existence,'' in Billings Heights, and West Park Plaza mall in midtown. In addition, several new business parks were developed on the city's west end during this period. Billings was affected by the [[1980 eruption of Mount St. Helens]] in May; the city received about an inch of ash on the ground.<ref>{{cite web|url=http://pubs.usgs.gov/fs/2000/fs036-00/ |title=Mount St. Helens&nbsp;– From the 1980 Eruption to 2000, Fact Sheet 036-00 |publisher=pubs.usgs.gov |accessdate=2012-08-07}}</ref> The [[Yellowstone fires of 1988]] blanketed Billings in smoke for weeks.<ref>{{cite web|url=http://www.yellowstone-bearman.com/yfire.html |title=Yellowstone's Year Of Fire-1988 |publisher=Yellowstone-bearman.com |date=August 20, 1988 |accessdate=2012-08-07}}</ref>

In the 1990s, Billings saw further enlargement of its service sector with the arrival of new shopping centers built around stores such as Target, Wal Mart and Office Depot, all of which built multiple outlets in the Billings area. With the addition of more interchange exits along [[I-90]], even more hotel chains and service industry outlets are being built in Billings. Development of more business parks and large residential developments on the city's west end, South Hills area Lockwood and the Billings Heights were all part of the 1990s. Billings received the [[All-America City Award]] in 1992.

=== 21st century ===

[[File:4th Av Downtown Billings, Montana.JPG|thumb|4th Ave. N., and N. 28th St. Intersection, Downtown]]
[[File:Billings, Montana downtown.JPG|thumb|Central downtown and EBURD district]]

In the 21st century, Billings saw the development of operations centers in the city's business parks and downtown core by such national companies as GE, Wells Fargo and First Interstate Bank. It also saw renewed growth in the downtown core with the addition of numerous new buildings, new parking garages and a new MET Transit Center and in 2002 [[Skypoint]] was completed. Downtown also saw a renaissance of the historic areas within the downtown core as building after building was restored to its previous glory. In 2007, Billings was designated a [[Preserve America Community]].<ref>{{cite web|url=http://www.preserveamerica.gov/12-26-07PAcommunity-billingsMT.html |title=Preserve America Community |publisher=Preserveamerica.gov |date=March 13, 2009 |accessdate=2012-08-07}}</ref> With the completion of the Shiloh interchange exit off [[Interstate 90]], The TransTech Center was developed<ref>{{cite web|url=http://www.transtechcenter.com/ |title=Transtech Center |publisher=Transtech Center |accessdate=2012-08-07}}</ref> and yet more hotel development as well. In 2010 the Shiloh corridor was open for business with the completion of the Shiloh parkway, a {{convert|4.8|mi|km|adj=on}} multi-lane street with eight [[roundabouts]].<ref>{{cite web|url=http://billingsgazette.com/news/local/government-and-politics/article_146041ab-beff-52c0-97a1-791734c50f36.html |title=Shiloh Road open end to end | publisher = BillingsGazette.com |date=November 13, 2010 |accessdate=2012-08-07}}</ref> Even more shopping centers were developed in the 21st century. Some of the new centers are Shiloh Crossing which brought the first [[Kohl's]]<ref>{{cite web|url=http://www.kohlscorporation.com/maps/SiteAdvantage/advantage.asp |title=Kohl's Department Stores: Store Locator |publisher=Kohlscorporation.com |accessdate=2012-08-07}}</ref> department store to Montana. Shiloh Crossing has also announced that [[Scheels All Sports|Scheels]] will be constructing what is being billed as the second largest sporting goods store in the western United States and the second largest Scheels in the world.<ref>{{cite web|author=Big Sky Economic Development |url=http://www.bigskyeda-edc.org/news-detail.php?id=185 |title=Big Sky Economic Development |publisher=Bigskyeda-edc.org |date=November 1, 2011 |accessdate=2012-08-07}}</ref> Other new centers include Billings Town Square with Montana's first [[Cabela's]],<ref>{{cite web|url=http://www.cabelas.com/retail-stores-billings.shtml |title=Cabela's Billings, MT Store |publisher=Cabelas.com |accessdate=2012-08-07}}</ref> and West Park Promenade, Montana's first open-air shopping mall. In 2009, ''Fortune Small Business'' magazine named Billings the best small city in which to start a business.<ref name="autogenerated1" /><ref name="billingsgazette.com" /> Billings saw continued growth with the largest actual growth of any city in Montana. On June 20, 2010 (Father's Day), a tornado, dubbed by the media the [[Fathers Day Tornado]],<ref name="cbsnews1" /> touched down in the downtown core and Heights sections of Billings. The [[Rimrock Auto Arena at MetraPark]] and area businesses suffered major damage. While the nation has been feeling the effects of a recession, Billings's economy has been strong. Construction and housing starts have been up has well as large investments in the community by national companies and major new road construction projects. The state's economy is healthier than most states but as western Montana is suffering from a crash in real estate and the near demise of its timber industry, eastern Montana and North Dakota are experiencing an energy boom due to coal and the [[Bakken formation]] the largest oil discovery in U.S. history.<ref name="marketwire.com" /><ref name="wallstreet-online.de" /><ref name="2012poleshift.wetpaint.com" /> Billings is Montana's oasis of economic growth.<ref name="autogenerated1" /><ref name="BillGaz 2010-12-26" />

== Geography ==

[[File:Billings MT and Yellowstone River .jpg|thumb|left|The Rims border the north and east edges of the downtown core]]
[[File:Feral horses - Pryor Mountain Wild Horse Range - Montana.jpg|thumb|[[Pryor Mountains]]]]

Billings is located at {{Coord|45|47|12|N|108|32|14|W|type:city}} (45.786553, −108.537139){{Geographic reference|1}}, with two-thirds of the city being in the Yellowstone Valley and the South Hills area and one-third being in the Heights-Lockwood area. The city is divided by the Rims, long cliffs, also called the [[Rimrocks]]. The Rims run to the north and east of the downtown core, separating it from the Heights to the north and Lockwood to the east, with the cliffs to the north being {{convert|500|ft|m}} tall and to the east of downtown, the face rises {{convert|800|ft|m}}. The [[Yellowstone River]] runs through the southeast portion of the city. According to the [[United States Census Bureau]], the city has a total area of {{convert|43.52|sqmi|sqkm|2}}, of which, {{convert|43.41|sqmi|sqkm|2}} is land and {{convert|0.11|sqmi|sqkm|2}} is water.<ref name ="Gazetteer files">{{cite web|title=US Gazetteer files 2010|url=http://www.census.gov/geo/www/gazetteer/files/Gaz_places_national.txt|publisher=[[United States Census Bureau]]|accessdate=2012-12-18}}</ref>

Around Billings, six mountain ranges can be viewed. The [[Bighorn Mountains]] with over 200 lakes and two peaks that rise to over 13,000 feet (3,960 m) Cloud Peak (13,167&nbsp;ft, 4013 m) and Black Tooth Mountain (13,005&nbsp;ft, 3964 m).<ref>{{cite web|url=http://www.bighornmountains.com/hiking.htm |title=Hiking & Backpacking |publisher=BighornMountains.Com |accessdate=2012-08-07}}</ref> The [[Pryor Mountains]] directly south of Billings rise to a height of 8,822 feet and are unlike any other landscape in Montana they are also home the Pryor Mountain Wild Horse Range.<ref>{{cite web|url=http://www.pryormountains.org/ |title=The Pryor Mountains |publisher= The Pryors Coalition |accessdate=2012-08-07}}</ref> The [[Beartooth Mountains]] are the location of Granite Peak, which at 12,807 feet (3,904 m) is the highest point in the state of Montana. The [[Beartooth Highway]] a series of steep zigzags and switchbacks, along the Montana-Wyoming border rises to 10,947 feet. It was called "the most beautiful drive in America" by [[Charles Kuralt]].<ref>{{cite web|last=Robbins|first=Jim|title=U.S. Budget Cuts Imperil Remote Town's Lifeline|url=http://www.nytimes.com/1996/06/16/us/us-budget-cuts-imperil-remote-town-s-lifeline.html?ref=charleskuralt|work=The New York Times|accessdate=August 17, 2012}}</ref> The Beartooth Mountains are just northeast of Yellowstone National Park. The [[Crazy Mountains]] to the west, rise to a height of 11,209 feet at Crazy Peak the tallest peak in the range.<ref>{{cite web|url=http://www.peakbagger.com/range.aspx?rid=14245 |title=Crazy Mountains |publisher=Peakbagger.com |date=November 1, 2004 |accessdate=2012-08-07}}</ref> [[Big Snowy Mountains]] with peaks of 8,600 feet are home to Crystal Lake.<ref>{{cite web|url=http://www.montanahikes.com/Crystal_lake.php |title=Crystal Lake in the Big Snowy Mountains |publisher=Montanahikes.com |accessdate=2012-08-07}}</ref> The [[Bull Mountains]] are a low laying heavily forested range north of Billings Heights.

== Climate ==

Billings has a semi-arid climate ([[Köppen climate classification|Köppen]] ''BSk''),<ref>Peel, M. C., Finlayson, B. L., and McMahon, T. A.: [[Media:Americas Koppen Map.png|Updated world map of the Köppen-Geiger climate classification]], Hydrol. Earth Syst. Sci., 11, 1633–1644, 2007.</ref> with hot summers, and cold, dry winters. In the summer, the temperature can rise to over {{convert|100|°F|0}} (1 to 3 times per year)<ref name="NCDC Billings Airport" /><ref name="NCDC Downtown Billings" /> while the winter can bring temperatures below zero (−17 °C), with 17 to 18 such nights per year.<ref name="NCDC Billings Airport" /> The snowfall averages about 57&nbsp;inches a year, but because of warm [[Chinook winds]] that pass through the region between December and March, the snow does not usually accumulate heavily or remain on the ground for long. The first freeze of the season on average arrives by October 4 and the last is May 7.<ref name=NCDC2/> Spring and autumn in Billings are usually mild, but brief. Winds, while strong at times, are considered light compared with the rest of Montana and the Rocky Mountain front.

{{Weather box |imperial first = Y
| location = Billings, Montana ([[Billings Logan International Airport|Billings Logan Int'l Airport]]), 1981–2010 normals
| single line = Y
| collapsed = Y
| Jan high F = 36.4
| Feb high F = 40.2
| Mar high F = 48.6
| Apr high F = 57.6
| May high F = 67.5
| Jun high F = 77.2
| Jul high F = 86.8
| Aug high F = 85.7
| Sep high F = 73.1
| Oct high F = 59.4
| Nov high F = 45.3
| Dec high F = 35.2
| year high F= 59.4
| Jan low F = 17.8
| Feb low F = 20.6
| Mar low F = 26.9
| Apr low F = 34.7
| May low F = 43.6
| Jun low F = 52.1
| Jul low F = 58.8
| Aug low F = 57.3
| Sep low F = 47.5
| Oct low F = 37.1
| Nov low F = 26.3
| Dec low F = 17.8
| year low F= 36.7
| Jan record high F =  68
| Feb record high F =  72
| Mar record high F =  80
| Apr record high F =  90
| May record high F =  96
| Jun record high F = 105
| Jul record high F = 108
| Aug record high F = 105
| Sep record high F = 103
| Oct record high F =  91
| Nov record high F =  77
| Dec record high F =  73
| year record high F= 108
| Jan record low F = −30
| Feb record low F = −38
| Mar record low F = −19
| Apr record low F =  −5
| May record low F =  14
| Jun record low F =  32
| Jul record low F =  41
| Aug record low F =  35
| Sep record low F =  22
| Oct record low F =  −7
| Nov record low F = −22
| Dec record low F = −32
| year record low F= −38
| precipitation colour = green
| Jan precipitation inch = 0.48
| Feb precipitation inch = 0.48
| Mar precipitation inch = 1.05
| Apr precipitation inch = 1.65
| May precipitation inch = 2.17
| Jun precipitation inch = 2.11
| Jul precipitation inch = 1.32
| Aug precipitation inch = 0.74
| Sep precipitation inch = 1.30
| Oct precipitation inch = 1.18
| Nov precipitation inch = 0.63
| Dec precipitation inch = 0.50
| year precipitation inch=13.63
| Jan snow inch = 8.6
| Feb snow inch = 6.8
| Mar snow inch = 9.8
| Apr snow inch = 8.6
| May snow inch = 1.5
| Jun snow inch = 0
| Jul snow inch = 0
| Aug snow inch = 0
| Sep snow inch = 1.1
| Oct snow inch = 4.1
| Nov snow inch = 6.5
| Dec snow inch = 8.1
| year snow inch=55.1
| unit precipitation days = 0.01 in
| unit snow days = 0.1 in
| Jan precipitation days =  6.2
| Feb precipitation days =  6.2
| Mar precipitation days =  9.2
| Apr precipitation days = 10.2
| May precipitation days = 12.0
| Jun precipitation days = 11.5
| Jul precipitation days =  7.9
| Aug precipitation days =  6.0
| Sep precipitation days =  7.1
| Oct precipitation days =  7.3
| Nov precipitation days =  6.3
| Dec precipitation days =  6.6
| year precipitation days= 96.5
| Jan snow days = 6.2
| Feb snow days = 6.0
| Mar snow days = 6.8
| Apr snow days = 4.7
| May snow days = 0.9
| Jun snow days = 0
| Jul snow days = 0
| Aug snow days = 0
| Sep snow days = 0.5
| Oct snow days = 2.3
| Nov snow days = 4.6
| Dec snow days = 6.9
| year snow days=38.9
| Jan sun = 130.2
| Feb sun = 158.2
| Mar sun = 235.6
| Apr sun = 255.0
| May sun = 282.1
| Jun sun = 306.0
| Jul sun = 356.5
| Aug sun = 328.6
| Sep sun = 255.0
| Oct sun = 204.6
| Nov sun = 129.0
| Dec sun = 117.8
| source 1 = NOAA (extremes 1934–present)<ref name="NCDC2">{{cite web
| url = http://www.nws.noaa.gov/climate/xmacis.php?wfo=byz
| title = NOWData - NOAA Online Weather Data
| publisher = [[National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration]]
| accessdate = February 19, 2013
}}</ref>
| source 2 = Hong Kong Observatory (sun only, 1961–1990)<ref name="HKO">{{cite web
| url = http://www.weather.gov.hk/wxinfo/climat/world/eng/n_america/us/billings_e.htm
| title = Climatological Information for Billings, United States
| publisher = [[Hong Kong Observatory]]
| accessdate = February 19, 2013
}}</ref>
| date = August 2010
}}

{{Weather box |imperial first = Y
| location = Billings, Montana (downtown), 1981–2010 normals
| collapsed = Y
| single line = Y
| Jan high F = 40.6
| Feb high F = 45.2
| Mar high F = 54.2
| Apr high F = 63.0
| May high F = 72.1
| Jun high F = 80.6
| Jul high F = 89.4
| Aug high F = 88.7
| Sep high F = 77.9
| Oct high F = 64.5
| Nov high F = 49.4
| Dec high F = 39.2
| year high F= 63.7
| Jan low F = 15.6
| Feb low F = 18.8
| Mar low F = 25.7
| Apr low F = 33.9
| May low F = 42.7
| Jun low F = 51.0
| Jul low F = 56.8
| Aug low F = 54.6
| Sep low F = 45.0
| Oct low F = 34.8
| Nov low F = 24.4
| Dec low F = 15.5
| year low F= 34.9
| Jan record high F =  75
| Feb record high F =  76
| Mar record high F =  82
| Apr record high F =  92
| May record high F =  99
| Jun record high F = 108
| Jul record high F = 112
| Aug record high F = 107
| Sep record high F = 100
| Oct record high F =  95
| Nov record high F =  80
| Dec record high F =  75
| year record high F= 112
| Jan record low F = −39
| Feb record low F = −49
| Mar record low F = −34
| Apr record low F =  −5
| May record low F =  14
| Jun record low F =  26
| Jul record low F =  37
| Aug record low F =  28
| Sep record low F =  18
| Oct record low F = −11
| Nov record low F = −28
| Dec record low F = −41
| year record low F= −49
| precipitation colour = green
| Jan precipitation inch = 0.42
| Feb precipitation inch = 0.48
| Mar precipitation inch = 0.92
| Apr precipitation inch = 1.65
| May precipitation inch = 2.23
| Jun precipitation inch = 2.27
| Jul precipitation inch = 1.34
| Aug precipitation inch = 0.81
| Sep precipitation inch = 1.41
| Oct precipitation inch = 1.34
| Nov precipitation inch = 0.60
| Dec precipitation inch = 0.50
| year precipitation inch=13.96
| Jan snow inch = 5.5
| Feb snow inch = 2.9
| Mar snow inch = 3.4
| Apr snow inch = 2.4
| May snow inch = 0.1
| Jun snow inch = 0
| Jul snow inch = 0
| Aug snow inch = 0
| Sep snow inch = 0.3
| Oct snow inch = 0.7
| Nov snow inch = 2.0
| Dec snow inch = 4.6
| year snow inch=22.0
| unit precipitation days = 0.01 in
| Jan precipitation days = 4.2
| Feb precipitation days = 4.1
| Mar precipitation days = 5.8
| Apr precipitation days = 7.9
| May precipitation days = 9.4
| Jun precipitation days = 9.9
| Jul precipitation days = 6.2
| Aug precipitation days = 4.9
| Sep precipitation days = 6.1
| Oct precipitation days = 6.3
| Nov precipitation days = 4.8
| Dec precipitation days = 4.6
| year precipitation days=74.1
| unit snow days = 0.1 in
| Jan snow days = 2.5
| Feb snow days = 1.6
| Mar snow days = 1.5
| Apr snow days = 0.8
| May snow days = 0.1
| Jun snow days = 0
| Jul snow days = 0
| Aug snow days = 0
| Sep snow days = 0.1
| Oct snow days = 0.4
| Nov snow days = 0.9
| Dec snow days = 2.5
| year snow days=10.4
| source 1 = NOAA (extremes 1894–present)<ref name="NCDC2">{{cite web
| url = http://www.nws.noaa.gov/climate/xmacis.php?wfo=byz
| title = NOWData - NOAA Online Weather Data
| publisher = [[National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration]]
| accessdate = February 19, 2013
}}</ref>
| date=December 2010
}}
[[File:Lightning over Billings Airport April 2007.jpg|thumbnail|left|Lightning near the airport, April 2007]]

=== Severe weather ===
As the city is far from [[Tornado Alley]], tornadoes are very rare in Billings, though it is not immune from severe weather. In most cases, severe storms travel fast at 25 to 30 miles per hour and either veer to the north or south of the city. The first recorded tornado to touch down in Billings was on June 2, 1958. On June 20, 2010, a tornado dubbed the [[Fathers Day Tornado]]<ref name="cbsnews1" /> touched down in the Billings Heights and Downtown sections of the city. The tornado was accompanied by hail up to golf ball size, dangerous cloud to ground lightning, and heavy winds. The tornado destroyed a number of businesses and severely damaged the 12,000-seat [[Rimrock Auto Arena at MetraPark]].<ref>{{cite web|author=Matt Brown, Associated Press Writers |url=http://www.mtstandard.com/news/state-and-regional/article_b8d6f6ec-7cc5-11df-886c-001cc4c002e0.html |title=UPDATED: Tornado heavily damages MetraPark, Billings stores |publisher=Mtstandard.com |date=June 20, 2010 |accessdate=2012-08-07}}</ref>

== Demographics ==
{{US Census population
| 1870 = 145
| 1880 = 587
| 1890 = 836
| 1900 = 3211
| 1910 = 10031
| 1920 = 15100
| 1930 = 16386
| 1940 = 23216
| 1950 = 31834
| 1960 = 52851
| 1970 = 61581
| 1980 = 66798
| 1990 = 81151
| 2000 = 89847
| 2010 = 104170
|estimate= 106954
|estyear= 2012
| footnote = Source:<ref name="census.gov"/><ref>{{cite web| url=http://www.census.gov/population/www/documentation/twps0076.html | title=Historical Census Statistics On Population Totals By Race, 1790 to 1990, and By Hispanic Origin, 1970 to 1990, For the top 100 Cities And Other Urban Places in the United States (Montana) |author=Campbell Gibson and Kay Jung | publisher=U.S. Census Bureau | month=February | year=2005 | accessdate=2009-08-21}}</ref><ref>{{cite web| url=http://www.census.gov/population/www/documentation/twps0027.html | title=Population of top 100 US cities and other urban places in the United States: 1790 to 1990 | author =  Campbell Gibson | publisher=U.S. Census Bureau | month=June | year=1998 | accessdate=2007-11-16 | archiveurl = http://www.webcitation.org/5QDWouvv1 | archivedate = July 9, 2007| deadurl=no}}</ref>
}}

===2010 census===
As of the [[census]]<ref name ="FactFinder">{{cite web|title=American FactFinder|url=http://factfinder2.census.gov/faces/nav/jsf/pages/index.xhtml|publisher=[[United States Census Bureau]]|accessdate=2012-12-18}}</ref> of 2010, there were 104,170 people, 43,945 households, and 26,194 families residing in the city. The [[population density]] was {{convert|2399.7|PD/sqmi|PD/km2|1}}. There were 46,317 housing units at an average density of {{convert|1067.0|/sqmi|/km2|1}}. The racial makeup of the city was 89.6% [[White (U.S. Census)|White]], 0.8% [[African American (U.S. Census)|African American]], 4.4% [[Native American (U.S. Census)|Native American]], 0.7% [[Asian (U.S. Census)|Asian]], 0.1% [[Race (U.S. Census)|Pacific Islander]], 1.4% from [[Race (U.S. Census)|other races]], and 2.9% from two or more races. [[Hispanic (U.S. Census)|Hispanic]] or [[Latino (U.S. Census)|Latino]] of any race were 5.2% of the population.

There were 43,945 households of which 28.9% had children under the age of 18 living with them, 43.7% were [[Marriage|married couples]] living together, 11.3% had a female householder with no husband present, 4.6% had a male householder with no wife present, and 40.4% were non-families. 32.6% of all households were made up of individuals and 12% had someone living alone who was 65 years of age or older. The average household size was 2.29 and the average family size was 2.90.

The median age in the city was 37.5 years. 22.6% of residents were under the age of 18; 9.8% were between the ages of 18 and 24; 26.3% were from 25 to 44; 26.3% were from 45 to 64; and 15% were 65 years of age or older. The gender makeup of the city was 48.3% male and 51.7% female.

=== Income ===
As of 2000 the median income for a household in the city was $35,147, and the median income for a family was $45,032. Males had a median income of $32,525 versus $21,824 for females. The per capita income for the city was $19,207. About 9.2% of families and 12.0% of the population were below the poverty line, including 16.5% of those under age 18 and 7.0% of those age 65 or over. 29.4% of the population had a Bachelor's degree or higher.<ref>{{cite web|url=http://factfinder.census.gov/servlet/ADPTable?_bm=y&-qr_name=ACS_2009_3YR_G00_DP3YR5&-geo_id=31200US137403006550&-context=adp&-ds_name=&-tree_id=3309&-_lang=en&-redoLog=false&-format=7 |title=American FactFinder |publisher=Factfinder.census.gov |accessdate=2012-08-07}}</ref>

=== Sections ===

[[File:Billings, Montana. Granite Tower.JPG|thumb|upright|[[Granite Tower]] 3rd and 32nd downtown]]

Billings has many sections that comprise the whole of the city. Because of the unique geography of Billings many of these sections are defined by actual physical characteristics of the terrain. For example; the Heights is separated from Downtown by a {{convert|500|ft|m|adj=on}} cliff known as the (Rims).

There are currently 11 official first level of districts called "sections" within the city limits of Billings, Montana.

{{main|Sections of Billings, Montana}}

=== Neighborhoods and zones ===

The city's neighborhoods make up the soul of Billings. The south side of Billings is probably the oldest residential area in the city, and it is the city’s most culturally diverse Neighborhood. South Park is an old growth City park, host to countless food fairs and festivals in the summer months. The Bottom Westend Historic District is home to many of Billings first mansions. Mid-town, the most densely populated portion of the city is in the midst of [[gentrification]] on a level that few if any areas in Montana have ever seen. Or even Josephine Crossing, one of Billings' many new contemporary neighborhoods.

=== Surrounding areas ===

Billings is the principal city of the Billings Metropolitan Statistical Area. The metropolitan area consists of two counties, [[Yellowstone County, Montana|Yellowstone]] and [[Carbon County, Montana|Carbon County]].<ref>{{cite web|title=Update of Statistical Area Definitions and Guidance on Their Uses|url=http://www.whitehouse.gov/sites/default/files/omb/assets/bulletins/b10-02.pdf|accessdate=August 16, 2012|author=The Office of Management and Budget|page=26}}</ref> The population of the entire metropolitan area was estimated at 160,097 as of the 2011 census estimate.<ref>{{cite web|title=Annual Estimates of the Population of Metropolitan and Micropolitan Statistical Areas: April 1, 2010 to July 1, 2011|url=http://www.census.gov/popest/data/metro/totals/2011/tables/CBSA-EST2011-01.csv|accessdate=August 16, 2012|author=United States Census Bureau}}</ref>

{{main|Billings Metropolitan Area}}

== Government ==

{| class="toccolours" border="1" cellpadding="2" cellspacing="0" style="border-collapse: collapse; float:right; margin: .5em;"
|+ '''City Council:'''<ref>{{cite web|url=http://ci.billings.mt.us/index.aspx?NID=159 |title=City Council Members |publisher=The City of Billings, Montana |accessdate=September 12, 2010}}
</ref>
|-
| '''Mayor''' || [[Tom Hanel]]
|-
| '''Ward 1''' || Brent Cromley / Jim Ronquillo
|-
| '''Ward 2''' || Angela Cimmino / Denis Pitman
|-
| '''Ward 3''' || Richard McFadden / Becky Bird
|-
| '''Ward 4''' || Jani McCall / Ed Ulledalen
|-
| '''Ward 5''' || Ken Crouch / Mark Astle
|}

[[File:Billings, Montana. the new federal courthouse.JPG|thumb|James F. Battin Federal Courthouse]]

Billings is the county seat of [[Yellowstone County, Montana|Yellowstone County]], the most populous county in Montana.<ref>{{cite web|title=About Yellowstone County, Montana|url=http://www.co.yellowstone.mt.gov/cofacts.asp|publisher=Yellowstone County, Montana|accessdate=28 February 2013}}</ref> It is also the location of the James F. Battin Federal Courthouse, one of five federal courthouses for the [[United States District Court for the District of Montana|District of Montana]].<ref>{{cite web|title=Courthouse Locations|url=http://www.mtd.uscourts.gov/courthouselist.html|publisher=U. S. District Court of Montana|accessdate=28 February 2013}}</ref>

Billings is governed via the mayor council system. There are ten members of the city council who are elected from one of five wards with each ward electing two members. The mayor is elected in a citywide vote. The current city charter, also called the Billings, Montana City Code (BMCC) was established 1977.

{{See also|Mayors of Billings, Montana}}

=== Public safety ===

The [[Billings Police Department]] is the main [[law enforcement agency]] in Billings. It is the largest city police force in [[Montana]], with about 136 sworn officers and 80 civilian employees. There are nine police beats.

The Billings Fire Department was first founded in 1883 as a volunteer fire company named the Billings Fire Brigade. In 1886, the Yellowstone Hook and Ladder Company was founded; that company was disbanded in 1888 after the mayor criticized the group for how that handled a fire, leaving the town without a fire department for almost six months.<ref>{{cite web|title=History of the Billings Fire Department|url=http://ci.billings.mt.us/index.aspx?NID=851|publisher=City of Billings|accessdate=24 February 2013}}</ref> The last volunteer fire company, Maverick Hose Company, served as the city's fire department until 1918.<ref>{{cite web|title=Taking Off|url=http://ci.billings.mt.us/index.aspx?NID=1789|publisher=City of Billings|accessdate=24 February 2013}}</ref> The modern fire department has seven stations, employs 114 people, and has been given a class three rating by ISO.<ref>{{cite web|title=The Modern Era|url=http://ci.billings.mt.us/index.aspx?nid=1792|publisher=City of Billings|accessdate=24 February 2013}}</ref>

[[American Medical Response]] (AMR) provides emergency medical services at the [[paramedic]] care level in Billings, and supports other agencies throughout Yellowstone County.

== Tallest buildings in Billings ==

The tallest building in Billings and Montana as well as a five state region is the [[First Interstate Center]], which stands at 272 feet (83 m) and 20 floors above ground level.<ref name="emporis.com" />

Billings is also home to the tallest load-bearing brick Building in the world, the [[Crowne Plaza Hotel Billings|Crowne Plaza]], which stands 256 feet (78 m). With a floor count of 22 floors above ground level the Crowne Plaza is the tallest hotel in the city and state.

The Wells Fargo Building formerly the Norwest Bank Building was the tallest building in Montana from 1977 till 1980.<ref>{{cite web|title=Wells Fargo Plaza|url=http://www.emporis.com/building/wellsfargoplaza-billings-mt-usa|publisher=Emporis GmbH|accessdate=27 March 2013}}</ref>

{{main|List of tallest buildings in Billings}}

== Economy ==

The geographic location of Billings was essential to its economic success. Billings' future as a major trade and distribution center was basically assured from its founding as a railroad hub due to its geographic location. As Billings quickly became the region's economic hub it outgrew the other cities in the region. The Billings trade area serves over a half million people.<ref name="autogenerated1" /> A major trade and distribution center, the city is home to many regional headquarters and corporate headquarters. With Montana having no sales tax, Billings is a retail destination for much of Wyoming, North and South Dakota as well as most of Montana. $1 out of every $7 spent on retail purchases in Montana is being spent in Billings.The percentage of wholesale business transactions done in Billings is even stronger, Billings accounts for more than a quarter of the wholesale business for the entire state, these figures do not include Billings portion of sales for Wyoming and the Dakotas.<ref>{{cite web | last =Lutey | first = Tom |url=http://missoulian.com/special-section/montana-economy/billings-ahead-of-almost-everywhere-agriculture-retail-energy-health-care/article_a8dcdecc-2751-11e1-940e-001871e3ce6c.html |title=Billings ahead of almost everywhere: Agriculture, retail, energy, health care driving economy |publisher=Missoulian.com |date=December 18, 2011 |accessdate=2012-08-07}}</ref> Billings is an energy center; Billings sits amidst the largest coal reserves in the United States as well as large oil and natural gas fields.

[[File:Wells Fargo Plaza, Billings, Montana.JPG|thumb|upright|Wells Fargo Center]]

In 2009, ''Fortune Small Business'' magazine named Billings the best small city in which to start a business.<ref name="billingsgazette.com" /> Billings has a diverse economy including a large and rapidly growing medical corridor that includes inpatient and outpatient health care. Billiings has a large service sector including retail, hospitality and entertainment. The metro area is also home to 3 oil refineries, a sugar beet refining plant, a coal fire generation plant, commercial and residential construction, building materials manufacturing and distribution, professional services, financial services, banking, trucking, higher education (4 campuses, 19 others have a physical presence/classes here), auto parts wholesaling and repair services, passenger and cargo air, cattle, media, printing, wheat and barley farming, sugar beet refining, milk processing, heavy equipment sales and service, business services, consumer services, food distribution, ag chemical mfg and distribution, energy exploration and production, surface and underground mining, metal fabrication, and many others providing a diverse and robust economy.

Corporate headquarters include [[Stillwater Mining Company]], [[Kampgrounds of America]], [[First Interstate BancSystem|First Interstate Bank]], Computers Unlimited, Tire-Rama, Western Plains Machinery, Tractor & Equipment Co., Optimum, Corporate Air, Employee Benefits Management Services, Edwards Jet Service, Waggoners Trucking, Meadowlark Agency, Ryan Restaurant Corp., CTA Architects & Engineers, JGA Architects, HKM Engineering, Electrical Consultants Inc. engineering, WorleyParsons Engineering, Energy Labs, and others.<ref name="bigskyeda-edc" /> Fortune 500 firms with branch operations in Billings include Exxon/Mobil, Wal-mart, GM, CHS Inc, Conoco-Phillips, Ford, Wells Fargo, General Electric, [[USBank]], Travelers, BNSF, Pennsylvania Power & Light, [[MDU Resources]], Sears/K-Mart, [[Target Corporation]], New York Life, Morgan Stanley.<ref name="bigskyeda-edc" />

The [[Billings Canal]], used for irrigation, runs through Billings.

== Infrastructure ==

=== Transportation ===

==== Airports ====

Because of Billings unique geography, [[Billings Logan International Airport]] is located just moments from the heart of downtown; it sits on top of the Rims, a {{convert|500|ft|m|adj=on}} cliff overlooking the downtown core.

The [[Laurel Municipal Airport]] is a publicly owned public-use airport in [[Laurel, Montana]], which is located eleven miles (17&nbsp;km) southwest of the central business district (CBD) of Billings, Montana. The airport has three runways exclusively serving privately operated general aviation aircraft and helicopters.<ref>{{cite web|url=http://maps.google.com/maps/place?hl=en&client=safari&rls=en&psj=1&um=1&ie=UTF-8&q=airports+yellowstone+county+montana&fb=1&gl=us&hq=airports&hnear=Yellowstone,+Montana&cid=7817700564093957969 |title=Laurel Municipal Airport |publisher=Google |date=January 1, 1970 |accessdate=2012-08-07}}</ref>

==== Public Transportation ====

[[File:Billings, Montana, downtown MET transit center.JPG|thumb|Downtown MET transit center]]

The [[Billings METropolitan Transit]] is the public transit system in Billings. MET Transit provides fixed-route and paratransit bus service to the City of Billings. All MET buses are accessible by citizens who use wheelchairs and other mobility devices. They are wheelchair lift-equipped and accessible to all citizens that are unable to use the stairs. MET buses are equipped with bike racks for their bike riding passengers. There are Westend and Downtown transit centers allowing passengers to connect with all routs.<ref>{{cite web|url=http://ci.billings.mt.us/index.aspx?nid=259 |title=City of Billings, MT&nbsp;– MET Transit |publisher=Ci.billings.mt.us |date=June 8, 2012 |accessdate=2012-08-07}}</ref> There are also numerous Taxicab and Limousine services within the city.<ref>{{cite web|url=http://www.magicyellow.com/category/Taxicabs/Billings_MT.html |title=Billings Taxicabs &#124; Cabs in Billings, MT |publisher=Magicyellow.com |accessdate=2012-08-07}}</ref> The Billings Bus Terminal is served by [[Greyhound Lines|Greyhound]] has well as Rimrock [[Trailways]] which also provides regional and interstate bus service.<ref>{{cite web|url=http://www.greyhound.com/ |title=Home |publisher=Greyhound.com |accessdate=2012-08-07}}</ref><ref>{{cite web|url=http://www.rimrocktrailways.com/ |title=Rimrock Trailways |publisher=Rimrocktrailways.com |date=June 21, 2011 |accessdate=2012-08-07}}</ref>

==== Trail System ====
[[File:Billings, Montana-Swords Park Trail.JPG|thumb|Swords Park Trail]]
Billings has a vast and unique trail system running throughout the metro area. The rapidly expanding trail system known as the Heritage trail system has a large verity of well maintained trails and pathways<ref>{{cite web|url=http://www.prpl.info/parks/trails.html |title=Billings Parks & Rec&nbsp;– Trails |publisher=Prpl.info |accessdate=2012-08-07}}</ref>

''[[Bicycling (magazine)|Bicycling]]'' magazine ranked Billings among the nation's 50 most bike friendly communities ranking above cities like Salt Lake City, St. Louis, Miami, and Baltimore.<ref>{{cite web|url=http://www.bicycling.com/news/featured-stories/bicyclings-top-50 |title=Bicycling's Top 50 &#124; Bicycling Magazine |publisher=Bicycling.com |accessdate=2012-08-07}}</ref> In 2012, the Swords Park Trail was named the Montana State Trail of the Year.<ref>{{cite web|url=http://billingsgazette.com/news/local/swords-park-gets-state-national-honors/article_5e884e31-77e8-5cb7-9db1-c18b227ed2a1.html |title=Swords Park gets state, national honors | publisher = BillingsGazette.com |date=June 10, 2012 |accessdate=2012-08-07}}</ref>

==== Highways ====

[[File:US-87 Billings Heights.JPG|thumb|US-87 in Billings Heights]]

[[Interstate 90]] runs east/west through the southern portion of Billings, serving as a corridor between the Heights, Lockwood and Downtown, South Hills, Westend, Shiloh, and Laurel. East of Downtown, between the Heights and Lockwood, Interstate 90 connects with [[Interstate 94]] which serves as an east/west corridor between Shepherd, Huntley and Heights, Lockwood, Downtown, South Hills, Westend, Shiloh, Laurel via its connection with I-90.

The 2012 Billings area I-90 corridor planning study recommends many improvements to the corridor from Laurel through Lockwood, Among the improvements recommended are construction of a new east and west bound bridges over the Yellowstone River each bridge having three to four traffic lanes. Also recommended are construction of additional east bound and additional west bound traffic lanes from Shiloh to Johnson Lane and reconstruction of many of the bridges, interchanges and on-off ramps along the corridor at a cost of 114 million dollars.<ref>{{cite web|title=Billings Area I-90 Corridor Planning Study|url=http://www.ci.billings.mt.us/DocumentCenter/Home/View/8033|publisher=City of Billings|accessdate=27 March 2013|author=DOWL HKM}}</ref>

The Billings Bypass is a project designed to offer an alterative route into the Billings Heights, to create a new and more direct connection between Billings and [[Lockwood, Montana|Lockwood]] and to connect I-90 with state highway 87 and old highway 312. The study portion of the project is nearing its completion. Right of way acquisition should begin in 2013 along with final design followed by construction.<ref>{{cite web|title=Project Description|url=http://www.billingsbypass.com/index.htm|publisher=Billings Bypass EIS|accessdate=27 March 2013}}</ref>

[[Montana Highway 3]] is a north/south highway that runs along the edge of the North Rims connecting Downtown and the Westend with the Rehberg Ranch, Indian Cliffs and the Heights. [[U.S. Highway 87]] runs through the center of Billings Heights and is known as Main Street within the city limits, this is the busiest section of highway in the state of Montana.<ref>http://www.mdt.mt.gov/publications/docs/datastats/atr/atrbook12.pdf</ref>{{dubious|date=August 2013}} It connects to U.S. Highway 87 East which runs through Lockwood as Old Hardin Road.<ref name="google1" />

=== Healthcare ===

The [[Billings Metropolitan Area]] has two Level II trauma hospitals, St. Vincent Healthcare and the [[Billings Clinic]].<ref>{{cite web|title=Verified Trauma Centers|url=http://www.facs.org/trauma/verified.html|publisher=American College of Surgeons|accessdate=1 February 2013}}</ref>

St. Vincent Healthcare was founded in 1898 by the [[Sisters of Charity of Leavenworth]] as St. Vincent Hospital.  The name was changed to the present name in 2000.<ref>{{cite web|title=History|url=http://svh-mt.org/history|publisher=St. Vincent Healthcare|accessdate=1 February 2013}}</ref> The hospital and its 30 clinics currently employ approximately 2,100 people and experience more that 400,000 patient visits per year.<ref>{{cite web|title=2011 Facts|url=http://svh-mt.org/2011_facts|publisher=St. Vincent Healthcare|accessdate=1 February 2013}}</ref> St. Vincent Healthcare is run by the Sisters of Charity of Leavenworth Health System, which operates health care facilities in California, Colorado, Kansas, and Montana.<ref>{{cite web|title=Our Locations|url=http://www.sclhealthsystem.org/body.cfm?id=8&oTopId=8|publisher=SCL Health System|accessdate=1 February 2013}}</ref>

[[Billings Clinic]] started in 1911 as the general practice of Dr. Arthur J. Movius. By 1939, three new general practitioners had joined Dr. Movius's practice and the name was changed to The Billings Clinic. Billings Deaconess Hospital (founded in 1907) merged with Billings Clinic in 1990 to form the current hospital.<ref>{{cite web|title=History of Billings Clinic|url=http://www.billingsclinic.com/body.cfm?id=969|publisher=Billings Clinic|accessdate=1 February 2013}}</ref> Billings Clinic currently employs around 3,400 people and is one of the largest employers in all of Montana.<ref>{{cite web|title=About Billings Clinic|url=http://www.billingsclinic.com/AboutUs|publisher=Billings Clinic|accessdate=1 February 2013}}</ref> In July 2012, Billings Clinic received a score of 72/100 for patient safety from [[Consumer Reports]], making it the safest hospital out of the 1,159 hospitals rated.<ref>{{cite news|last=Uken|first=Cindy|title=Billings Clinic tops Consumer Reports list for hospital safety|url=http://billingsgazette.com/news/local/billings-clinic-tops-consumer-reports-list-for-hospital-safety/article_4e8f9db4-9592-5d47-b8d1-b5c50b96c192.html|accessdate=7 August 2012|newspaper=Billings Gazette|date=5 July 2012}}</ref> Additionally, in January 2013, Billings Clinic was added to the Mayo Clinic Care Network, only the 12 hospital nationally to be added to the network and the only health system in Montana.<ref>{{cite news|last=Uken|first=Cindy|title=Billings Clinic forms formal relationship with Mayo Clinic|url=http://billingsgazette.com/news/local/billings-clinic-forms-formal-relationship-with-mayo-clinic/article_33b16cdb-a285-5ade-839e-93694a98399d.html|accessdate=1 February 2013|newspaper=Billings Gazette|date=9 January 2013}}</ref>

Other medical facilities include the Northern Rockies Radiation Oncology Center, Rimrock Foundation (addiction treatment both inpatient and outpatient), Advanced Care Hospital of Montana (a 40-bed long term acute care hospital), South Central Montana Mental Health Center, Billings VA Community Based Outpatient Clinic, Billings Clinic Research Center (pharmaceutical field trials, osteoporosis are two long-time focuses), Billings MRI, City/County Public Health's Riverstone Health, HealthSouth Surgery Center and Physical Therapy offices, Baxter/Travenol BioLife plasma collection center, and many independent practices.

== Education ==

=== Primary and secondary ===

==== Public ====

The education needs of the City of Billings are served by three school districts: Billings Public Schools, District 3, and Elder Grove School District. Billings Public Schools consists of 22 elementary schools, 4 middle schools, and 3 high schools (Senior High, [[Skyview High School (Montana)|Skyview High]], and West High). There are around 15,715 students enrolled and 1,850 people employed full-time by the district.<ref>{{cite web|title=About Billings Public Schools|url=http://www.billingsschools.org/site/Default.aspx?PageID=63|publisher=Billings Public Schools|accessdate=28 February 2013}}</ref> District 3 consists of one elementary school, Blue Creek Elementary School.<ref>{{cite web|title=About Us|url=http://www.bluecreek.k12.mt.us/about_us.htm|publisher=Blue Creek School|accessdate=28 February 2013}}</ref> Elder Grove School District also consists of only one elementary school, that being Elder Grove Elementary.<ref>{{cite web|title=District Information|url=http://www.eldergrove.k12.mt.us/index.php/district-info|publisher=Elder Grove School|accessdate=28 February 2013}}</ref>

==== Private ====
* The Billings Catholic Schools operates [[Billings Central Catholic High School]] (grades 9–12), St. Francis Upper (grades 6–8), St Francis Intermediate (grades 3–5), St Francis Primary, (K-2) and St Francis Daycare
* Trinity Lutheran Church operates Trinity Lutheran School, serving grades K-8
* Billings Christian Schools serving grades K-12
* Adelphi Christian Academy serving grades K-12 (Closed at the end of the 2009 School Year)
* Billings Educational Academy serving grades K-12
* Grace Montessori Academy serves Pre-6<ref>h{{cite web|url=http://gmamt.org/ |title=Grace Montessori Academy, a Billings Christian Montessori School }}</ref>

=== Colleges and universities ===

[[File:Billings, Montana Petro Hall MSUB.JPG|thumb|Petro Hall at [[Montana State University Billings]]]]

There are several institutions of higher learning in Billings. These include state schools ([[Montana State University Billings]]) and private schools ([[Rocky Mountain College]] and Yellowstone Baptist College).

[[Montana State University Billings]] was founded in 1927 as Eastern Montana Normal College. The name was shortened to Eastern Montana College in 1949, and it was given its present name when the Montana State University System reorganized in 1994.<ref>{{cite web|title=History & Overview of MSU Billings|url=http://www.msubillings.edu/geninfo/history.htm|accessdate=August 8, 2012|author=Montana State University Billings}}</ref> The university offers Associate/Bachelor/Master degrees and certificates in various fields such as business, education, and medicine.<ref>{{cite web|title=Degrees, Programs, & Minors|url=http://www.msubillings.edu/future/degrees.asp|accessdate=August 9, 2012|author=Montana State University Billings}}</ref> Currently around 5,000 students attend MSU Billings.<ref>{{cite web|title=Full and Part Time Enrollment|url=http://www.msubillings.edu/InstitutionalResearch/default.htm#Full_and_Part_Time_Enrollment_|work=Institutional Research|accessdate=August 8, 2012|author=Montana State University Billings}}</ref>

City College at MSU Billings was established in 1969 as the Billings Vocational-Technical Education Center. Its governance was passed to the Montana University System Board of Regents in 1987, when it became known as the College of Technology. It was officially merged with [[Montana State University Billings|MSU Billings]] (then known as Eastern Montana College) in 1994.<ref>{{cite web|title=About the College|url=http://citycollege.msubillings.edu/General_info.htm|publisher=Montana State University Billings|accessdate=September 19, 2012}}</ref> The name was changed to the present name in 2012.<ref>{{cite web|last=Pickett|first=Mary|title=Regents approve new COT names|url=http://billingsgazette.com/news/state-and-regional/montana/regents-approve-new-cot-names/article_cc31edf1-b58e-50fe-b48e-fb3e1cdbb4be.html|publisher=The Billings Gazette|accessdate=September 19, 2012}}</ref> It is known as the "comprehensive two-year college arm" of MSU Billings,<ref>{{cite web|title=City College Home|url=http://citycollege.msubillings.edu/|publisher=Montana State University Billings|accessdate=September 19, 2012}}</ref> and currently offers degrees and programs in a variety of fields including automotive, business, computer technology, and nursing.<ref>{{cite web|title=Degrees and Programs|url=http://citycollege.msubillings.edu/Programs.htm|publisher=Montana State University Billings|accessdate=September 19, 2012}}</ref>

Through the marriage of three institutions of higher learning [[Rocky Mountain College]] is Montana’s oldest College. Rocky Mountain College (or RMC) was founded in 1878.<ref name="About RMC">{{cite web|title=About RMC|url=http://www.rocky.edu/about-rocky/|publisher=Rocky Mountain College|accessdate=31 January 2013}}</ref> The college that would later become RMC college was originally known as the Billings Polytechnic Institute, and in 1947, the BPI joined with the [[College of Montana|Montana Collegiate Institute]] in Deer Lodge (Montana's first institution of higher learning) and Wesleyan College in Helena to form one entity, with the name later being changed to Rocky Mountain College.<ref name="RMC history">{{cite web|title=History of RMC|url=http://www.rocky.edu/about-rocky/HistoryOfRMC.php|publisher=Rocky Mountain College|accessdate=31 January 2013}}</ref> During the 2012 fall semester, there were 1,087 students attending Rocky Mountain College.<ref>{{cite web|title=Fall 2012 Student Body Profile|url=http://www.rocky.edu/about-rocky/institutional-research/pdf/Fall2012_StudentBodyProfile.pdf|publisher=Rocky Mountain College|accessdate=31 January 2013}}</ref> There are currently 50 majors offered in 24 different fields including art, education, music, psychology, and theater.<ref>{{cite web|title=RMC - Majors|url=http://www.rocky.edu/academics/academic-programs/undergraduate-majors/|publisher=Rocky Mountain College|accessdate=31 January 2013}}</ref> RMC is currently affiliated with the [[United Church of Christ]], the [[United Methodist Church]], and the [[Presbyterian Church (U.S.A.)]].<ref>{{cite web|title=General Information|url=http://www.rocky.edu/academics/course-catalog/GeneralInformation.php|publisher=Rocky Mountain College|accessdate=31 January 2013}}</ref>

[[Yellowstone Baptist College]] is a small private Christian college located in western Billings. Currently, the YBC only offers one degree, that being a Bachelor of Arts in Christian Studies/Leadership.<ref>{{cite web|title=Degree Offerings|url=http://ybc.dustinhorne.com/Academics/DegreeOfferings.aspx|publisher=Yellowstone Baptist College|accessdate=31 January 2013}}</ref> The YBC is current affiliated with the [[Southern Baptist Convention]] and has close ties with [[Oklahoma Baptist University]] in [[Shawnee, Oklahoma|St. Shawnee, Oklahoma]].<ref name="YBI opening">{{cite news|last=Olp|first=Susan|title=Yellowstone Bible Institute to open its doors in January|url=http://billingsgazette.com/lifestyles/faith-and-values/religion/yellowstone-bible-institute-to-open-its-doors-in-january/article_5803691b-08c0-528d-ac7e-d342a6585137.html|accessdate=31 January 2013|newspaper=Billings Gazette|date=15 December 2012}}</ref> The YBC also has plans to open up a nondenominational branch called the Yellowstone Bible Institute in early 2013.<ref name="YBI opening"/>

== Culture ==

=== Arts ===

[[File:HK TST K11 mall 122 Deborah Butterfield - Captain.JPG|thumb|[[Deborah Butterfield]] Sculpture&nbsp;– Captain]]
* Alberta Bair Theater
* Babcock Theatre
* [[Billings Public Library]]<ref>Daniel F. Ring, "Men of Energy and Snap: The Origins and Early Years of the Billings Public Library," ''Libraries & Culture'' (2001) 36#3 (2001) pp 397-412</ref>
* [[Billings Studio Theater]]
* [[Billings Symphony Orchestra]]
* Rimrock Opera Company
* Venture Theatre
* [[Yellowstone Art Museum]]
* Yellowstone Chamber Players
* Yellowstone County Museum
* [[Western Heritage Center]]

=== Recreation/events ===

[[File:Red Lodge Palisades.jpg|thumb|The Palisades on the north end of the ski area at [[Red Lodge Mountain Resort]]]]

Activities in and around Billings include hiking, [[rock climbing]], skiing, mountain climbing, fishing,  [[disc golf]], the Downtown Skateboard Park, boating, motorcycle trails, golf, [[mountain biking]], rappelling, extensive walking and bike trails, art walks, concerts, food fairs and [[rodeos]]. Some annual events include:
* Wine & Food Festival at MSU Billings: May
* Strawberry Festival under [[Skypoint]]: June
* SummerFair at North Park: July
* July 4 Parade in [[Laurel, Montana]]: July
* Gay Pride Weekend (some years)<ref>{{cite web|last=Ussin|first=Katie|title=My Gay Pride Weekend|url=http://www.kulr8.com/news/local/20611289.html|publisher=KULR8|date=20 June 2008|accessdate=18 February 2013}}</ref> 
* Alive After 5 concerts: Thursdays June&nbsp;– September
* Battle of the Little Big Horn Re-enactment near [[Crow Agency, Montana]]: June
* Farmers Market under Skypoint: Every Saturday July to October
* Big Sky State Games&nbsp;– July
* Great American Championship Motorcycle Hill Climb - July
* Skyfest (Hot air balloons): July/August
* MontanaFair (August) at the MetraPark fairgrounds<ref>{{cite web|url=http://www.montanafair.com |title=MontanaFair in Billings |accessdate=September 13, 2010}}</ref>
* Magic City Blues Festival: August in [[Downtown Billings]]
* [[Crow Fair]] & Rodeo in [[Crow Agency, Montana]]: August
* Burn the Point (classic car show): September in Downtown Billings
* Harvest Fest: October
* Christmas Parade in Downtown Billings: November 24
* Festival of Trees: December
* The Christmas Stroll in Downtown Billings: December
* Billings Artwalk
* First Friday (Show openings at some of the downtown galleries on the first Friday of each month).

=== Breweries ===

With ten microbreweries in the metropolitan area Billings has more breweries than any community in Montana. The downtown breweries are The Montana Brewing Co, Yellowstone Valley Brewing Co, Himmelberger Brewing Co, Angry Hank's, Angry Hank's Tap Room, Carters Brewery, and Überbrew.  Bones Brewing is located in midtown Billings. Two nearby breweries are Fat Jack's Tap Room in Laurel and in [[Red Lodge, Montana|Red Lodge]], Red Lodge Ales Brewing Co.<ref>{{cite web|author=Jan Falstad |url=http://billingsgazette.com/business/thirst-for-craft-beers-prompts-a-boom-in-billings-brew/article_a34df020-6670-518e-af72-d61e9eac3c14.html |title=Thirst for craft beers prompts a boom in Billings brew pubs : Business | publisher = BillingsGazette.com |date=April 29, 2012 |accessdate=2012-08-07}}</ref> Downtown Billings also has a distillery that makes a variety of handcrafted spirits. Trailhead Spirits is located in the former train depot complex.<ref>{{cite news|last=Howard|first=Tom|title=Trailhead Spirits: Distilling Montana's essence into memorable beverages|url=http://billingsgazette.com/business/features/trailhead-spirits-distilling-montana-s-essence-into-memorable-beverages/article_b905b1cd-9ff7-54e3-82e9-7da96733121d.html|newspaper=Billings Gazette|date=1 February 2013}}</ref>

=== Media ===

{{main|Media in Billings, Montana}}

Billings is the largest media Market in Montana and Wyoming. Billings is serviced by a variety of print media. Newspaper service includes [[The Billings Gazette]] which is a daily morning broadsheet newspaper printed in Billings, Montana and owned by [[Lee Enterprises]]. It is the largest daily newspaper in Montana, with a Sunday circulation of 52,000 and a weekday circulation of 47,000. The paper publishes in three editions: the state edition, which circulates in most of Eastern Montana and all of South Central Montana; the Wyoming edition, which circulates in Northern Wyoming; and the city edition, which circulates in Yellowstone County. Other publications include the Billings Outpost,<ref>{{cite web|url=http://www.billingsnews.com/ |title=The Billings Outpost Frontpage |publisher=Billingsnews.com |accessdate=2012-08-07}}</ref> a weekly publication, and the alternative publication The Grindstone,<ref>{{cite web|url=http://www.facebook.com/Grindstonemagazine |title=Grindstone Magazine |publisher=Facebook |accessdate=2012-08-07}}</ref> which is published monthly. As well as other more specialized weekly and monthly publications, Billings also has several community magazines amongst them are Magic City Magazine<ref>{{cite web|author=Lee DMS Group |url=http://magiccitymagazine.com/ |title=Magic&nbsp;– Billings' City Magazine Since 2003 |publisher=Magiccitymagazine.com |date=April 24, 2009 |accessdate=2012-08-07}}</ref> and Yellowstone Valley Woman.<ref>{{cite web|url=http://yellowstonevalleywoman.com/ |title=Yellowstone Valley Woman |publisher=Yellowstone Valley Woman |accessdate=2012-08-07}}</ref>

The Billings area is served by four major non-news television stations, two major news television stations, one community television station, four [[Public Broadcasting Service|PBS]] channels<ref>{{cite web|url=http://www.superpages.com/yellowpages/C-Television+Broadcasting+Companies+%26+Stations/S-MT/T-Billings/ |title=Billings Television Broadcasting Companies & Stations in Billings MT Yellow Pages by SuperPages |publisher=Superpages.com |accessdate=2012-08-07}}</ref> and several Low Power Television ([[LPTV]]) channels. The Billings area is also served by twenty-two commercial radio stations and Yellowstone Public Radio ([[NPR]]).<ref>{{cite web|url=http://www.ontheradio.net/metro/billings_mt.aspx |title=Radio Stations in Billings MT |accessdate=2012-08-07}}</ref>

==Points of interest ==

* Museums
** [[Yellowstone Art Museum]]
** [[Moss Mansion|The Moss Mansion Historic House Museum]]
** [[Western Heritage Center]]
* Historic Areas
**[[Billings Depot]]
** Downtown Historic District
** Boothill Cemetery
** Black Otter Trail
** Yellowstone Kelly’s Grave
[[File:ZooMontana Tiger 01.JPG|thumb|Siberian tiger at ZooMontana]]
* Zoos
** [[ZooMontana]]
* Parks, Monuments, and Recreation Areas
**[[Pictograph Cave (Billings, Montana)|Pictograph Cave National Historic Landmark]]
**[[Little Bighorn Battlefield National Monument]]
**[[Lake Elmo State Park]]
**[[Bighorn Canyon National Recreation Area]]
**[[Pompey's Pillar National Monument]]
**[[Chief Plenty Coups (Alek-Chea-Ahoosh) State Park and Home|Chief Plenty Coups State Park]]
**[[Four Dances Natural Area]]
* Other
**[[Beartooth Mountains]]
**[[Beartooth Highway]]
**[[Red Lodge Mountain Resort]]
**[[Skypoint]]
**Lonnie Bell statue at Rimrock Auto Arena

=== Sports ===

* [[Billings Bulls]] an [[American West Hockey League]] Jr. A Tier III hockey team.
* [[Billings Mustangs]], a [[Pioneer Baseball League|Pioneer League]] Baseball Team affiliated with the [[Cincinnati Reds]]
* Magic City Rollers, an all-female [[Roller Derby]] league
* The NILE (Northern International Livestock Exposition) Rodeo at [[MetraPark Arena]].
* Great American Championship Motorcycle Hill Climb&nbsp;– ''billed as The Oldest, Richest and Biggest Motorcycle Hill Climb in the United States''

=== Venues ===

;MetraPark
[[File:RAA3.JPG|thumb|[[Rimrock Auto Arena]] at MetraPark]]
MetraPark hosts a wide variety of events. The facilities located in this venue include:
* '''[[Rimrock Auto Arena|Rimrock Auto Arena at MetraPark]]''': Originally called the METRA, for "Montana Trade and Recreation Arena." It is a 12,000-seat multi-purpose building completed in 1975. In 2007, the naming rights were sold to Billings-based Rimrock Auto Group and the arena now goes by the name Rimrock Auto Arena at MetraPark,<ref>{{cite web|url=http://billingsgazette.com/news/local/article_8e0c7b98-7dc5-5d29-88cb-53b65b3b3625.html |title=MetraPark Arena naming rights sold | publisher = BillingsGazette.com |date=February 12, 2007 |accessdate=2012-08-07}}</ref> it is still owned by the City of Billings and Yellowstone County. It is the largest indoor venue in Montana and is used for concerts, rodeos, ice shows, motor sports events, and more.<ref>{{cite web|author=Facilities <!-- .entry-content --> |url=http://www.metrapark.com/site/facilities/ |title=MetraPark Facilities &#124; Arena, Expo Center, Montana Pavilion, The Grandstands |publisher=Metrapark.com |accessdate=2012-08-07}}</ref> On June 20, 2010, the building was heavily damaged by  the [[Fathers Day Tornado]].<ref name="cbsnews1" /> According to Metra officials, "the tornado also lifted most of the roof off the arena and collapsed walls." This required extensive repair work and in the process parts of the building were redesigned to improve energy efficiency, parking lot access, acoustics and seating, as well as to add more restrooms and concession areas.  On April 10, 2011, the building reopened with an [[Elton John]] concert.<ref>{{cite web|url=http://billingsgazette.com/news/local/article_7cb6947f-bd6f-52f2-a0bd-d25bd166b79b.html |title=MetraPark construction still aims for April finish | publisher = BillingsGazette.com |date=December 1, 2010 |accessdate=2012-08-07}}</ref><ref>{{cite web|url=http://billingsgazette.com/news/local/government-and-politics/article_9ccc214c-cd11-11df-9b7b-001cc4c03286.html |title=Architects update proposal for arena | publisher = BillingsGazette.com |date=September 30, 2010 |accessdate=2012-08-07}}</ref>
* '''The Grandstand''': a canopied outdoor venue that seats 6,500 for horse racing, rodeos, and other events including outdoor concerts.
* '''The Expo Center''': a {{convert|77400|sqft|m2|adj=on}} multi-purpose arena.<ref>{{cite web|title=The Expo Center|url=http://www.metrapark.com/facility/the-expo-center/|accessdate=August 1, 2012|author=MetraPark}}</ref>
* '''The Montana Pavilion''': a {{convert|28800|sqft|m2|adj=on}} multi-purpose arena.<ref>{{cite web|title=The Montana Pavilion|url=http://www.metrapark.com/facility/the-montana-pavilion/|accessdate=August 1, 2012|author=MetraPark}}</ref>

; Alberta Bair Theater
[[File:Alberta bair theater.JPG|thumb| Alberta Bair Theater]]
The Alberta Bair Theater is a 1400-seat performing arts venue it is noted for a 20-ton capacity hydraulic lift that raises and lowers the stage apron for performances.<ref>[http://www.albertabairtheater.org/facility.php Alberta Bair Theater<!-- Bot generated title -->]</ref> It was originally called the Fox Theater, and opened in 1931.  It was named in honor of Alberta Bair in 1987 due to her substantial donations that allowed the building to be renovated.  She was moved to do so because the land now containing the theater was homesteaded by her father, [[Charles M. Bair]], and she had been born in a nearby house that still is standing, not far from the theater.<ref>[http://www.albertabairtheater.org/history.php Alberta Bair Theater History]</ref>

; Shrine Auditorium

The Auditorium is a concert venue built in 1950. These days, the Shrine host national shows that might not be able to play Billings if it were not for this smaller cost effective venue. The Shrine seats 2340 for concerts with off street parking for 550 cars.

; Dehler Park

[[Dehler Park]] is the new multi-use stadium that replaced Cobb Field in the summer of 2008. [[Cobb Field]] was a baseball stadium that was the home of the [[Billings Mustangs]], the [[Pioneer Baseball League|Pioneer League]] Rookie Affiliate of the [[Cincinnati Reds]], since 1948. Cobb Field was named after Bob Cobb, who was responsible for bringing professional baseball with the [[Billings Mustangs|Mustangs]] to Billings. Cobb Field also hosted home games for local [[American Legion|American Legion baseball]] teams. In 2006, Billings voters approved $12 million to be spent on constructing a new multi-use sports facility. Cobb Field was demolished in 2007 and construction of Dehler Park began at the end of the 2007 baseball season. The new park debuted on June 29, 2008, when the Billings Scarlets faced the Bozeman Bucks in American Legion regular season play. The new Dehler Park has a crowd capacity of 3,500 to over 6,000.

; Wendy's Field

Wendy's Field at Daylis Stadium is a local area stadium used for high school games. It is located adjacent to Billings Senior High.

; Centennial Ice Arena

Centennial Ice Arena is home to the Billings Amateur Hockey League, Figure Skating Clubs, Adult Hockey & the Junior A [[Billings Bulls]].

; Babcock Theater

[[File:Billings, Montana. the Babcock Theater.JPG|thumb|upright|the historic Babcock Theater]]

Babcock Theater is a 750-seat performing arts theater in Billings, Montana. It was built in 1907 and at the time was considered the largest theater between Minneapolis and Seattle. Today, after extensive renovations, it hosts a variety of national acts.

; Alterowitz Arena MSU-Billings

The arena is a 4,000-seat venue primarily hosting Yellowjacket sports, local events and occasionally national touring events. This facility contains gyms and racket ball courts as well as an Olympic size pool with bleachers for aquatic events.

; Fortin Center

Fortin Center is a 3,000-seat arena on the campus of [[Rocky Mountain College]] it is primarily used for the Rocky Mountain sports events.

== Notable people ==

More widely famous people who have lived in Billings include:

=== Historical ===

[[File:Charles Lindbergh and the Spirit of Saint Louis (Crisco restoration, with wings).jpg|thumb|upright|Charles Lindbergh]]

* [[Calamity Jane]], frontierswoman
* [[Charles Lindbergh]], aviator
* [[Will James (artist)|Will James]], artist and author
* [[Terry C. Johnston]], western novelist

=== Sports ===

* [[Gary Albright]], wrestler
* [[Jeff Ballard (baseball pitcher)|Jeff Ballard]], [[Major League Baseball]] pitcher
* [[Ed Breding]], former NFL player
* [[Kurt Burris]], former NFL player
* [[Mike Burton (swimming)|Mike Burton]], Olympic gold medalist in swimming
* [[Ruben Castillo (boxer)|Ruben Castillo]], boxer
* [[Jim Creighton (basketball)|Jim Creighton]], former NBA player
* [[Mitch Donahue]], former NFL player
* [[Dwan Edwards]], [[Buffalo Bills]] player
* [[Brad Holland]], former [[National Basketball Association|NBA]] player
* [[Dave McNally]], Major League Baseball pitcher
* [[Roy McPipe]], former [[American Basketball Association (1967-1976)|ABA]] player
* [[Andy Moog]], NHL player
* [[Brent Musburger]], sportscaster
* [[Kirk Scrafford]], former NFL player
* [[Greg Smith (ice hockey)|Greg Smith]], [[National Hockey League|NHL]] player
* [[Leslie Spalding]], [[LPGA]] golfer
* [[Keith Wortman]], former [[National Football League|NFL]] player

=== Arts and entertainment ===

[[File:Arlo Guthrie 2007.jpg|thumb|Arlo Guthrie 2007]]

* [[Arlo Guthrie]], folk singer
* [[Carson Allen]], singer and musician
* [[Phil Amato]], television host
* [[Stanley Anderson]], actor
* [[Katie Blair]], Miss Teen USA 2006
* [[John Dahl]], movie director
* [[Annie Duke]], professional [[poker]] player and author
* [[Bob Enevoldsen]], jazz multi-instrumentalist
* [[Brad Fregger]], author, publisher, and video game producer
* [[Ethel Hays]], [[cartoonist]] and [[illustrator]]
* [[Will James (artist)|Will James]], western artist
* [[Wesley Kimler]], artist
* [[Amanda Kimmel]], former [[Miss Montana USA]] and ''[[Survivor: China]]'' and ''[[Survivor: Micronesia]]'' runner up and ''[[Survivor: Heroes vs. Villains]]'' contestant
* [[Jeff Kober]], actor
* [[Wally Kurth]], actor
* [[Bud Luckey]], famed [[PIXAR]] [[animator]] and [[Academy Award|Oscar]] nominee
* [[T. J. Lynch]], screenwriter
* [[Helen Lynch]], actress
* [[Stan Lynde]], creator of the [[comic strip]] ''[[Rick O'Shay]]'', painter, and novelist
* [[Marlene Morrow]], former ''[[Playboy]]'' [[Playboy Playmate|Playmate]] of the Month
* [[J. K. Ralston]], longtime resident, western painter
* [[Chan Romero]], pioneer of [[rock and roll]] was born in Billings
* [[Rick Rydell]], [[talk radio]] host
* [[Pete Simpson]], musician and television performer in the 1950s in Billings; later member of the [[Wyoming House of Representatives]]; [[Republican Party (United States)|Republican]] nominee for [[governor of Wyoming]] in 1986{{citation needed|date = January 2013}} 
* [[Auggie Smith]], comedian
* [[David Yost]], actor and producer, most notably the Blue Power Ranger on the ''Mighty Morphin Power Rangers''.

=== Political ===

* [[James Franklin Battin]], former Congressman from Montana
* [[Jim Battin]], a [[California State Senator]]
* [[John Bohlinger]], current [[Lieutenant Governor of Montana]]
* [[Roy Brown (Montana politician)|Roy Brown]], former Montana State Senator for District 25 and former gubernatorial candidate.
* [[Conrad Burns]], who served in the United States Senate from 1988 to 2007.
* [[Ray Metcalfe]], member of the [[Alaska House of Representatives]]
* [[Henry L. Myers]], [[United States Senator]] and justice of the [[Supreme Court of Montana]]
* [[Denny Rehberg]], Congressman from Montana and former Lieutenant Governor of Montana
* [[Tom Stout]], former Congressman from Montana and editorial writer for the ''Billings Gazette''
* [[Burt L. Talcott]], former Congressman from California

== Miscellaneous ==

* Billings was named ''The Magic City'' because of the city's seemingly overnight appearance and early growth.
* ''Montana's Trailhead'' is Billings' branding and ''Star of the Big Sky Country'' is Billings' motto.
* Billings is often referred to on social networking sites as B-Town.
* Billings was the first stop on the 11th leg of ''[[The Amazing Race 8]]''
* Although the city was named after him, [[Frederick Billings]], the railroad baron, never actually stayed there overnight.

== See also ==
{{portal|Geography|North America|United States|Montana}}

* [[Not In Our Town]]&nbsp;– community based effort to stop hate crimes in Billings in the mid-1990s

== References ==

{{reflist
| colwidth = 30em
| refs =

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| publisher = [[United States Postal Service]]
| accessdate = November 10, 2007
}}
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<ref name="autogenerated1">
{{cite web
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}}
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<ref name="BillGaz 2010-12-26">
{{cite web
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{{cite web
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| title = Pictograph Cave State Park
| publisher = Custer.visitmt.com
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<ref name="autogenerated2">
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}}
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<ref name="NCDC Billings Airport">
{{cite web
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| url = http://cdo.ncdc.noaa.gov/climatenormals/clim20/mt/240807.pdf
| format = PDF
| publisher = National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration
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<ref name="HKO">
{{cite web
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}}
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<!--
<ref name="quick facts yellowstone">
{{cite web
|title=Yellowstone County, Montana
|url=http://quickfacts.census.gov/qfd/states/30/30111.html
|publisher=United States Census Bureau
|accessdate=27 March 2013}}
</ref>
-->

<!--Unused citations
<ref name="billingsguide.com">
{{cite web
| url = http://www.billingsguide.com/Visguide13.html
| title = Billings Historic Site Tour
| publisher = Billingsguide.com
| date = June 20, 2010
| accessdate = 2012-08-07
}}
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-->
}}
<!--NOT USED 
<ref name="census.gov SUB-EST2011-01">
{{cite web
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| url = http://www.census.gov/popest/data/cities/totals/2011/tables/SUB-EST2011-01.csv
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| accessdate = August 8, 2012
}}
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<ref name="census.gov SUB-EST2011_30">
{{cite web
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| publisher = [[United States Census Bureau]]
| accessdate = August 8, 2012
}}
</ref> -->

==Further reading==
* Van West, Carroll. ''Images of Billings: A Photographic History'' (Billings: Western Heritage Press, 1990)
* Wright, Kathryn. ''Billings: The Magic City and How It Grew'' (Billings: K. H. Wright, 1978)
* ''An Illustrated History of the Yellowstone Valley, State of Montana'' (Spokane, Wash.: Western Historical Publishing Company, 1907)

== External links ==

{{Commons category|Billings, Montana}}
* [http://www.cityofbillings.net/ City of Billings]
* [http://www.billingschamber.com/ Billings Chamber of Commerce]
* [http://www.billingscvb.visitmt.com/ Billings, Montana Convention and Visitors Bureau]
* [http://www.billingsschools.org/ Billings Public Schools]
* [http://www.usacitiesonline.com/mtcountybillings.htm#statistics Billings Statistics]

{{Geographic location
| Center    = Billings (central city)
| North     = [[Roundup, Montana]]
| Northeast = [[Shepherd, Montana]]
| East      = [[Lockwood, Montana]]
| Southeast = [[Crow Agency, Montana]]
| South     = [[Pryor, Montana]]
| Southwest = [[Laurel, Montana]]
| West      = [[Bozeman, Montana]]
| Northwest = [[Helena, Montana]]
| image     = 
}}

{{Billings, Montana}}
{{Yellowstone County, Montana}}
{{Montana}}
{{Montana Regions and Towns with Breweries}}

[[Category:Cities in Montana]]
[[Category:Cities in Yellowstone County, Montana]]
[[Category:Billings Metropolitan Area]]
[[Category:County seats in Montana]]
[[Category:Populated places established in 1877]]
[[Category:1877 establishments in Montana]]
[[Category:Billings, Montana| ]]