hey all my family and I will be moving to Miles City in January and I just wanted to get a few opinions on the lifestyle, atmosphere, schools, places to do and things to see and such. thanx

In January, cold.

How cold is it? It is, colder than a tiches witty. It will Bees the thralls off a brass monkey.

But..... The people are warm, the Montana theater is cool. Popcorn is inexpensive and very good. You will need an adventures spirit, all season tires, a block heater, an open mind and an accepting spirit.

Well said Tucker Bolton

Lifestyle: Slow.
Atmosphere: Quiet.
Schools: Average public schools - FYI no buses.
Places to do: Art Museum, Cheap Movie Theatre, ummmmm... that's bout it.
Things to see: hmmmmmmm? Most interesting thing to see is the people at Walmart.

Its not a bad place. Bring a coat stuffed with pink panther insulation for the winter and an extra air conditioner for the summer. If you have the space in your moving van, buy a pallet of mosquito repellant and bring a small baseball bat for the larger 'squitos.

There seems to be a small group of people trying to being a bit more life to the town which is nice to see. Occasional live music and festivities, but if you're coming from a larger city - just prepare to entertain yourself.

With the right attitude, anywhere can be awesome. Miles City has its perks. You can drive from one side of town to the other in about 46 seconds... in "rush hour" traffic.

There is still such a thing as seeing a movie, buying popcorn, a drink and candy for a few dollars.

Welcome...

That said, the above is true if you want to be entertained. There's plenty to do and enjoy. Good churches offer activities. Miles Community College offer activities in the evening. If it is cold, unless there is a prolonged mild winter, there's a skating rink, bowling, walking and exploring spotted Eagle, the library exploring the town ,the Art Center, along with high school and college sports, Amateur theater. The Range Rider museum often has dances and if you are into music, open mic at the Elks. Surely those things didn't disappear since I moved to Denver. I sure missed them.

There is no more open mic at the elks. Create your own environment cultivate your own friends. My fifteen years in Miles city was, enjoyable,trying,comfortable, made good friends, made mistakes, lost good friends and did a pretty fair job of learning how to live in a rural environment.I even tried to leave once and came back. Good Luck, it is an adventure.

What are average public schools? My kids graduated from these schools and were very well educated by dedicated and quality teachers. Well above average,in my opinion! Even without buses and before a district hot lunch program!

Tucker brings up an interesting point.

What is going on with the 537 Elk's Lodge? Has the Order closed the doors for good?

Elks are still plugging along. The Confluence does regular concerts, bringing in artists, out at the Range Riders Museum. Then there is the Barn Players, the community orchestra, great library staff especially in the kids department. While many of the old clubs are fading away they way they are everywhere, some are still functioning. Kiwanis. Woman's Club. History buffs can join the Range Riders. Worlds problems are solved at numerous coffee klatches. Two parochial schools, if you don't like public, but the public are nothing to sneeze at. High school has some excellent programs. Don't know about computer programming but high marks in art, music, and drama.

Upsides and down sides but I love it here.

I just realized out of all the times some hopeful newcomer posts a similar thread, no one ever mentions we are at the confluence of 2 rivers! Lots of opportunity for wildlife interests, be it fishing and hunting or just appreciation.
Yes, Billings is a fair drive for the avid mall shoppers ~ but think of the money you'll save!
Ft Peck reservoir is a little over 2 hours away, but plenty of recreation there.

Speaking of wildlife... If you are lucky there may be the ocassional "Bonine" sighting.

We have lived here for 46 years and can't think of a good reason to live elsewhere! The schools are very good. Both sports and fine arts have earned a positive reputation. We have several professional people who grew up here and have returned to practice their trade and raise their children in this atmosphere. There are many churches, representing various denominations, so it should be easy to find a church home. We have excellent physicians and medical facilities. What there is to do varies with the season, but if you are "just twiddling your thumbs", it is because you choose to sit back for a while. The people are open and friendly. It's a great place! Welcome to the fold.