Named by Mountain Sports and Living magazine as the Best Mountain Town in America, Kalispell is located in the middle of the Flathead Valley and is the main business hub and county seat. The majority of the populations lives and works in or around Kalispell. Kalispell is the 7th largest city in the State of Montana with a population of 16,391 and growing. Kalispell has much to offer to either a visitor or year round resident. As with most Montana cities, the activity knows no season. There is always something going on. Kalispell has over 20 parks, many surrounding historic structures, including Depot Park, Courthouse Park and the Conrad Mansion grounds. The largest is Woodland Park located toward the east side of town. In the summer enjoy the brand new recreation facility including water slides, multiple pools and even a skateboard park. It is definitely a great way to spend a hot afternoon. During the winter the ponds that encircle the park freeze over and are a great place to bring the ice skates for an afternoon in the winter wonderland. Throughout the summer season there are many art festivals at the numerous parks as well as outdoor concerts featuring local talents. Just north of Kalispell is the Majestic Valley arena, a major location for entertainment in the Flathead Valley. It sits on over 140 acres with beautiful views in all directions and is the newest and largest premier even centers in Northwest Montana. It has been host to concerts, large banquets, trade shows, expos, rodeos, and national caliber equestrian events. Check the schedule, there is always something going on that is worth seeing. Also north of Kalispell is Raceway Park, bringing short track racing to the valley. They feature races every Saturday evening through September in seven classes - Super Late Models, Limited Sportsman, Hobby Stocks, Bombers, Compacts, Flathead Legends, and Formula 1 Indys. With the cars engines revving, the crowd cheering, and of course the action that unfolds, there is never a lack of entertainment to hold your attention! For a quieter venue, spend a day strolling downtown and the many stores lining Main Street, catch a movie at the new Gateway Theater or the historic Strand or Liberty, or shop at the Kalispell Center Mall. There are also a number of golf courses in and around the city to occupy an afternoon.