The downtown area of Billings hasn’t fared so well as shoppers have deserted older businesses in favor of newer shopping centers with chain stores on the city’s fringes. A few older businesses persist in their original locations.

Billings is a good place to get outfitted with Western goods. Lou Taubert Ranch Outfitters (114 N. Broadway, 406/245-2248) is an established Western store with a wide selection of boots, hats, and gear. Al’s Bootery (1820 1st Ave. N., 406/245-4827) offers a wide selection of boots as well as silver jewelry.

Several art galleries in Billings emphasize Western and Montana art. Flatiron Gallery (2 Custer Ave., 406/256-7791) features contemporary Montana artists. Thomas Minckler Gallery (2511 Montana Ave., 406/245-2969) offers historic Western art and artifacts plus rare books. Toucan Gallery (2505 Montana Ave., 406/252-0122, 10 a.m.–5 p.m. Mon.–Sat.) is located in the historic district and features contemporary local arts and crafts.