Things to do in Great Falls, Montana: 50+ Activities & Attractions

You’ll find plenty of things to do in Great Falls, Montana, especially if you visit from the late spring through early fall.

Whether you’re visiting someone stationed at Malmstrom Air Force Base, on a cross-country road trip, or looking to learn more about Western history or the Lewis and Clark Expedition, this list is sure to include a few things that fit your interests.

Great Falls is also a decent-sized city to use as a base, if you’re looking to explore Montana’s natural beauty, but also come home to a nice hotel and restaurant at the end of your day.

Glacier National Park Tours 

First, there are a couple of Glacier National Park tour options I’d recommend if you’re basing yourself in Great Falls. It’s about 2.5 hours to the park’s east entrance from Great Falls. If you’re not into tours and would rather drive yourself, you’ll find more information on those options down in the “Day Trips” section.

➡️ Click to Book: East Glacier Tour

• Private Tour
• Park Fees Included

➡️ Click to Book: Glacier National Park Rafting

• From West Glacier
• Raft down the Flathead River

Explore History Around Great Falls

The Great Falls area is rich with history, pertaining to Native American tribes, western exploration, the US military, and more.

The Lewis and Clark Interpretive Center

The Lewis and Clark Interpretive Center is a museum and educational facility located in Great Falls, on a cliff above the Missouri River. It is dedicated to preserving and sharing the history of the Lewis and Clark Expedition, one of the most significant journeys of exploration in American history. 

The Lewis and Clark Interpretive Center was established to commemorate the journey of Meriwether Lewis and William Clark, who, along with their Corps of Discovery, embarked on an expedition to explore the newly acquired Louisiana Purchase and find a route to the Pacific Ocean. The expedition took place between 1804 and 1806, and played a crucial role in expanding knowledge about the American West.

The Interpretive Center features a variety of exhibits which provide insights into the Lewis and Clark Expedition. Visitors can learn about the challenges, discoveries, interactions with Native American tribes, and the scientific and geographical contributions of the journey. The exhibits often include artifacts, maps, historical documents, interactive displays, and multimedia presentations.

Malmstrom Air Force Base Museum

Malmstrom Air Force Base is a huge source of pride for Great Falls.

When I was working in Great Falls, my friend (an Airman in the Public Affairs wing at Malmstrom) took me down into the “Ace in the Hole.” President Kennedy gave the first underground missile alert facility (near Great Falls) that nickname during the Cuban Missile Crisis. I know I have the video somewhere, and I’ll post it here eventually. 

While the missile silos aren’t open to the public, Malmstrom does have a museum you can visit.

The “Malmstrom Museum and Air Park” offers insights into the history and operations of the base, as well as the broader history of the U.S. Air Force. Much of it centers on the base’s involvement in missile operations and Cold War history. 

Today, visitors can check out the visitor center, and then take a hike through the prairie, up a trail to the cliffs along the butte. There are signs and displays along the way, to help you understand this ancient hunting method.

Still, the dams along the Missouri are interesting to visit, and each has exhibits about its history.

These dams collectively form a historic and engineering marvel, playing a significant role in the development of Great Falls and the surrounding region. They transformed the Missouri River from a natural obstacle into a controlled waterway, enabling economic growth and providing a source of hydroelectric power.

Additionally, they have had an impact on the natural environment and recreational opportunities in the area.

1. Ryan Dam: The first dam in the series, located farthest upstream, is Ryan Dam. It was constructed in the early 1900s and was initially built to provide hydroelectric power for the local area.
2. Morony Dam: The second dam downstream is Morony Dam, which was completed in 1930. It was named after Major Peter Ronan, also known as “Morony,” who was an Indian Agent in Montana during the late 1800s.
3. Cochrane Dam: Following Morony Dam is Cochrane Dam, completed in 1930. It was named after the Cochrane family, who played a role in the development of hydroelectric power in the region.
4. Rainbow Dam: The fourth dam in the series is Rainbow Dam, completed in 1910. It was named after the Rainbow Power Company, which was involved in the dam’s development.
5. Black Eagle Dam: The final dam in the series is Black Eagle Dam, completed in 1890. It was the first dam built on the Missouri River in Great Falls. The dam’s name comes from the Black Eagle Falls, a spectacular natural waterfall that was partially submerged when the dam was constructed.

Hoglund’s Western Wear

Hoglund’s has been a mainstay in downtown Great Falls. The owners set up shop in 1951, and really converted it into the business we know now about 10 years later.

It’s long been a “go-to” place for farmers and ranchers in this part of Montana, but it’s also become a popular stop for tourists looking for cowboy hats and other authentic western wear. 

You can explore their three floors and 14,000 square feet of hats, boots, belts, buckles, and much more.

The Gibson Park Gardens

Gibson Park is considered “the gem” of the City of Great Falls’ park system. It’s an expansive park along Park Drive and the Missouri River, beginning at Central Avenue. 

You’ll find a pond with ducks, geese, and swans, walking paths which connect to the River’s Edge Trail, and beautiful flower gardens in the summer.

The park, which is named after Paris Gibson, the founder of Great Falls, also has some history. The historic Vinegar Jones Cabin, the only building still standing from the original townsite in 1884, is in Gibson Park.

The park hosts weddings, concerts, and other special events, in addition to everyday families having picnics and taking walks.

By the way, this might be the best deal around when it comes to a wedding venue. Renting the flower paths and gardens for a wedding or other event is only $75 for two hours!

Explore the Outdoors Around Great Falls

One of my favorite things to do in Great Falls, Montana, is to explore the stunning natural environment. The city is a great base to use for a trip to Glacier National Park, a fishing trip on the Missouri River, or a camping trip in the mountains.

Glacier National Park

I remember the first time I drove from Great Falls to Glacier, and (having just moved from New York) couldn’t believe my eyes. The park was partially obscured from a wildfire that year, but the views were still jaw-dropping.

A day trip from Great Falls to Glacier is very easy, with no traffic. Depending on the season, and whether you have a permit for Going-to-the-Sun Road, you can head to these entrances:

• Two Medicine: 150 miles (2.5 hours)
• Going to the Sun Road: 155 miles (2.5 hours)
• East Glacier Park: 140 miles (2+ hours)
• Many Glacier: 180 miles (3 hours)

Sluice Boxes State Park is a scenic and rugged state park located in central Montana, near Great Falls. The park is known for its dramatic cliffs, deep canyons, and Belt Creek, which flows through it. 

Belt Creek carved deep limestone canyons, creating dramatic cliffs with hiking trails both along the creek and up along the cliffs’ edges.

It’s a popular spot for swimming, fishing, photography, and hiking.

Hiking or Camping in the Highwoods

The Highwood Mountains are close to Great Falls, and are home to a few trails and a large camping area called Thain Creek.

The highest point in the Highwood Mountains is Mount Baldy, which reaches an elevation of around 8,914 feet. It’s visitable from Great Falls.

The hikes in the Highwoods start at the Thain Creek Campground, which is an easy 40-mile drive from the city. 

The 7-mile Windy Mountain Loop starts in the campground, labeled as Trail 413, and is probably the most well-known trail.

Memorial Falls is a very pretty hike, which is family-friendly in the Lewis & Clark National Forest.

It’s a nice drive south of Great Falls to the trailhead. You’ll find a large parking lot with restrooms. The trail itself is rocky and fairly steep in spots, but there are hand railings to help you up.

The waterfall itself isn’t huge, but the area is a great spot for a picnic or to cool off on a hot day.

You’ll find a beautiful area 30 miles south of Great Falls, near Cascade, Montana. The prairie turns mountainous here, thanks to the remnants of ancient volcanoes.

The most prominent rock is known as Tower Rock. It was an important marker for the Lewis and Clark expedition in 1805, and is a state park today.

There’s a trail you can follow around the park area, which is very pretty and scenic. The drawback is: you’re also adjacent to the interstate. 

South of Tower Rock, you’ll find another scenic overlook area off the side of the I-15.

I’d head there, and then take the next exit, and the “Recreation Road,” which follows Hardy Creek. The wide creek, winding its way through the rocks, will provide the best views of the day. This is a popular spot for fly-fishing, kayaking, and float trips. 

Fly Fishing in the Missouri River

The Missouri River is known for its excellent fishing opportunities, particularly for trout species such as rainbow trout, brown trout, and mountain whitefish. 

If you’re traveling with your own gear, there are a number of areas to wade in around Tower Rock. This stretch of Hardy Creek is a popular spot for fishing (even though it’s not technically the Missouri River.

You’ll also find several outfitters who will get you the gear you need. 

There are multiple access points along the Missouri River near Great Falls, making it relatively easy for anglers to find suitable spots for fishing. Public access areas, boat ramps, and fishing access sites are typically well-marked and provide opportunities for both wading and fishing from a boat.

You can use an interactive map to find fishing access sites in the Missouri River around Great Falls.

You can find licensing information from Montana’s Fish Wildlife & Parks.

There are a number of fly fishing shops and guides in Craig, which is south of Great Falls. Check out: Head Hunters’ Fly Shop .

 The Mayhem Bike Trails

These trails along the Missouri River’s cliffs are for serious mountain bikers. Local cyclists created them in conjunction with the City of Great Falls. They begin on the south side of the Missouri, at the eastern end of Giant Springs State Park.  

The trails are part of the River’s Edge Trail system. The trails are well-marked, and range in level-of-difficulty. They wind through about 300 acres of land above the Missouri.

Click here to see all of the Montana State Parks with mountain biking trails.

Fishing at Wadsworth Park

Just northwest of Great Falls, you’ll find a public reservoir which is a popular spot for fishing. The City of Great Falls installed a dock to fish from, or you can take a kayak out into the water.

Walleye, perch, black bullhead, largemouth bass, and rainbow trout all call the lake home. It’s stocked annually with rainbow trout and walleye.

Rafting & Float Trips

Several outfitters and guides are available to take you rafting down the Missouri River and other smaller rivers in this part of Montana.

Click here for a popular option.

Wildflower Season

The melting snowpack each spring leads to the first wildflowers of the year. Glacier lilies are especially common up north.

You’ll find a wide range of wildflowers in Montana, blooming all summer. Some, known as Arrowleaf Balsamroot, look like mini sunflowers.

Harebells, Lupines, Indian Paintbrush flowers, Fireweek, and much more can be found blooming in the summer.

Wildlife Spotting

When I lived in Great Falls, three bison went running through the downtown streets one day. Wildlife spotting won’t always be that easy, but you’ll find plenty of creatures to check out as you drive and hike around.

On my last visit, we watched beavers in the Missouri River and Hardy Creek, and watched (from a safe distance) a rattlesnake uncoil and slither into its rocky den at First People’s Buffalo Jump in Ulm.

Plus, a drive or hike through Glacier may very likely lead to a grizzly bear spotting, while a drive anywhere will likely lead to deer spotting.

Big Sky Sunsets

It’s a simple idea, but I do love a Montana sunset. Find a spot along the Missouri to relax (with bug spray) and enjoy a relaxing end to your day near Great Falls.

I’d suggest these spots:

• Hardy Creek (behind Tower Rock State Park)
• Rainbow Dam Overlook
• Broadwater Bay Park

Holter Lake

Holter Lake is part of the Missouri River, an hour south of Great Falls. It’s a popular destination for boating, kayaking, canoeing, and other water sports. It’s home to a variety of fish species, including rainbow trout, brown trout, walleye, and more. Anglers can fish from boats or from the shore.

There are also campgrounds and picnic areas around the lake.

The area holds historical importance, as part of the Lewis and Clark Expedition in 1805. Meriwether Lewis named the place “Gates of the Mountains” due to the awe-inspiring appearance of the mountains.

Guided boat tours offer beautiful views of the lake and surrounding cliffs.

Visit the Great Falls

Great Falls, Montana, got its name from the series of waterfalls located on the Missouri River near the city. These waterfalls are collectively known as the “Great Falls of the Missouri.” 

The city of Great Falls developed around these falls due to their potential for providing water power for industries and transportation. The falls themselves are partially dammed for hydroelectric power generation. The dams, while important for power generation, obscure the natural beauty of the rocky waterfalls.

Still, you can explore several great spots along the river.

See the “Great Falls of the Missouri”

These are the natural waterfalls which are still visible (or at least partially visible) today:

1. Black Eagle Falls: Black Eagle Falls is located right in Great Falls, Montana. 
2. Rainbow Falls: Rainbow Falls is downstream from Black Eagle Falls 
3. Ryan Dam:  View the falls from Ryan Island, accessible from the north side of the Missouri River.

Walk/Bike/Run the River’s Edge Trail

The River’s Edge Trail stretches for approximately 53 miles, offering a variety of segments that wind through the city of Great Falls and its surrounding areas. The trail provides access to natural landscapes, urban parks, historical sites, and cultural points of interest.

The trail is designed for a range of activities, including walking, jogging, biking, and even horseback riding in some sections. It’s a multi-use trail that caters to different preferences and fitness levels

The River’s Edge Trail is not just a trail; it’s a community resource that brings residents and visitors together. It hosts various events throughout the year, such as fun runs, walks, bike rides, and outdoor festivals.

The trail is designed to accommodate a range of users, including those with mobility challenges. Some segments are paved, making them accessible to people using wheelchairs, strollers, or other mobility devices.

The park is home to one of the largest freshwater springs in the United States. The springs produce a substantial volume of crystal-clear water that flows into the Missouri River. The water remains at a constant temperature year-round, making it a unique natural feature. 

Visitors can’t swim in the spring. You can only check it out from viewpoints and walking paths.

Giant Springs State Park is a larger area around the spring, with opportunities for outdoor activities such as picnicking, birdwatching, and walking along the well-maintained trails.

Art in Great Falls

If you’re into art, especially Western painting and sculptures, you’ll find plenty of things to do in Great Falls, Montana.

Russell Museum

The C.M. Russell Museum is a renowned art institution located in Great Falls, Montana, dedicated to the preservation and celebration of the life and artwork of Charles Marion Russell, often referred to as “C.M. Russell” or “Charlie Russell.” He was a prominent Western artist and one of the most well-known painters of the American West.

➡️ Click to Book: Russell Museum

Russell’s art primarily depicted the landscapes, wildlife, and culture of the American West, particularly during the late 19th and early 20th centuries. His paintings, sculptures, and sketches capture scenes of cowboys, Native Americans, and the rugged lifestyle of the West.

The Russell Museum houses an extensive collection of Russell’s artwork. It also includes Russell’s original home and log studio, providing visitors with a glimpse into the environment where he created many of his iconic artworks. This adds a sense of authenticity and intimacy to the experience.

The museum also hosts an annual Western Art Auction, which is one of the biggest events of the year in Great Falls.

In 2022, sales nearly reached $2.5 million.

Paris Gibson Square Art Museum

The art exhibits and galleries at Paris Gibson Square Museum are free and open to the public!

Named after Paris Gibson, the founder of Great Falls, the museum is housed in a historic building and is dedicated to promoting the arts and cultural heritage of the region. The museum is situated in the former Great Falls High School building, which was constructed in 1896. The building itself is a piece of history and architecture, contributing to the museum’s unique atmosphere.

You’ll find temporary art exhibits, a permanent collection, and a sculpture garden outside.

Paris Gibson Square Museum also hosts a number of events throughout the year for adults, and workshops for budding young artists as well.

ArtsFest Montana

ArtsFest Montana is an annual event each summer, which brings renowned artists to Great Falls. The murals they create each August have brought new life and pride into the downtown area. 

For a week each August, since 2019, you’ll find the artists up on platforms turning drab buildings into colorful masterpieces. Some are abstract, while others tell a story or represent something cultural or historical. 

The rest of the year, you can walk the streets and alleys to find these creative bursts of color.

I was especially excited to see the Native American artist, known as La Morena, take part. She lives in the Phoenix area, and helped design the art for the Super Bowl graphics when Arizona hosted the game in 2023.

Sports in Great Falls

You’ll find many sporting opportunities under the Big Sky in Great Falls.

Golf in Great Falls

Great Falls is home to two municipal golf courses.

Anaconda Hills is in Black Eagle, and originally opened as a 9-hole course for workers at the smelter. The city acquired the course decades ago, and expanded it to an 18-hole course.

Green fees are $22 to $37 for 18 holes, depending on the day of the week and time of day.

Voyagers Baseball Games

The Great Falls Voyagers are part of the Pioneer League. Their stadium, the Centene Stadium, is the oldest in the league, dating back to the early 1940s.

It seats 3,000 fans, and the season typically runs from late May through early September.

Tickets generally run $13 to $16 for the games.

Ski / Snowboard at Showdown

Winter is more of a challenge in Great Falls, since it gets downright cold and windy! 

While ski resorts closer to Bozeman get most of the attention, Showdown Mountain is an option south of Great Falls. It’s just over an hour’s drive, near the small town of Neihart, Montana.

There are three chairlifts and 39 runs. The average snowfall at Showdown is around 20 feet.

Showdown usually opens around Thanksgiving and closes in early April.

The Electric City Speedway

The Electric City Speedway is in Black Eagle (across the river from Great Falls). Big crowds turn up for the dirt bike races on a clay oval track. The grandstand seats 2,000 fans. 

The races run from spring through late summer.

 The Big Sky Rodeo

The Professional Rodeo Cowboy’s Association (PRCA) hosts its finals in conjunction with the Montana State Fair, held each year in Great Falls.

The rodeo runs for several nights, each with different activities and themes.

The pricing is usually $16 for adults and $10 for kids for a night at the Montana ExpoPark.

Riverside Railyard Skate Park

The skatepark in Great Falls is pretty impressive, and draws skaters from across the Pacific Northwest.

Over a 27,000-square-foot area, you’ll find several bowls, a full pipe, half pipes, a clamshell, and a street course. 

It’s free for skateboarders and rollerbladers.

Take a Barre Class

Working out isn’t my idea of a vacation (unless it’s a hike) but Studio Barre is in downtown Great Falls, and they’d gladly welcome a newcomer.

Bars & Breweries in Great Falls

Great Falls, Montana, is home to a number of unique bars and breweries. 

The Sip ‘N Dip Lounge

The Sip ‘N Dip, located in the O’Haire Inn, is a quirky landmark in Great Falls. 

Aside from the tiki theme, you can pull up to the bar and watch mermaids swim behind the glass walls.

The Sip lost some of its magic, when longtime organist “Piano Pat” Spoonheim passed away, after 50 years entertaining the crowd.

It’s still an entertaining spot, and worth a stop-in for a drink!

Annie’s Taphouse

Annie’s is a great spot in downtown Great Falls, featuring a long list of local brews made in different parts of Montana.

“Annie” is Annie Busby, an original settler in Great Falls. She’s the great-grandmother of two of the owners of the taphouse that now bears her name on Central Avenue.

The friendly staff is full of knowledge about the 24 different brews they have on tap.

The Breweries in Belt

The first beer growler I ever purchased came from the Belt Creek Brew Pub! It’s 20+ years old, and I still have it.

Belt is a 20-mile, 30-minute drive from Great Falls. 

The Harvest Moon Saloon is another brewery also in Belt. The “Beltian” White is a favorite!

Celtic Cowboy

The Celtic Cowboy is a mix of modern-day and Great Falls history, right in the heart of the downtown area.

The building dates back to the 1890s, when it was built to house a stable, offices, a boarding house, and a market. The owner, a Welsh immigrant, gained the nickname “The Celtic Cowboy.”

Today, the old brick buildings have new life, as a hotel and a bar/restaurant. 

Mighty Mo Brewing Company

Located in downtown Great Falls, the Mighty Mo Brewing Company offers a selection of craft beers brewed on-site.

They often have a variety of styles, from IPAs to stouts, and the brewery has a taproom where you can sample their creations.

Black Eagle Brewery

Right across the river from Great Falls, you’ll find the Black Eagle Brewery.

They feature a variety of brews, from blondes to wheat bears to cream ales to IPAs.

Fifth & Wine

Fifth & Wine is a nice restaurant in a historic old building downtown. It was originally a furnace shop, and the restaurant owners wove its industrial bones into its modern design. They have good food, a great weekend brunch, and an outdoor patio in the summer.

Adjacent to the restaurant is a nice wine shop. They feature fancy stuff and “everyday table wine” with prices that’ll suit any budget.  

Family Things to Do in Great Falls

There are plenty of activities for kids in Great Falls. Let’s go through just a few.

The Gibson Park Ducks

Gibson Park, right off Central Avenue in Great Falls, is home to a pond where you’ll find ducks, geese, and swans.

They spend spring, summer, and fall outside, but are rounded up by the city’s Parks and Rec crew to spend their winters indoors.

The roundup of the waterfowl in October, and the release each April always draw crowds of families.

Fun fact: The indoor pond is nicknamed “The Honker Hilton!”

The Children’s Museum of Montana

For more than 25 years, the Children’s Museum of Montana has welcomed families to their facility in downtown Great Falls.

You’ll find interactive exhibits about Montana culture, dinosaur digs, flying airplanes, sailing, medicine, and much more.

The museum has exhibits designed for children ages 0 to 12. It also features a Science, Tech, Engineering, Arts and Math (STEAM) Camp, along with after-school programming.

Berry Picking

All of the “Made in Montana” stores will sell huckleberry products. Huckleberry season in Montana typically occurs during the summer months, but the berries are mostly found west of the Great Falls area.

You *will* find chokecherries to pick around Great Falls. They’re also usually ripe later in the summer (August) and can be turned into jam (with a hefty amount of sweetener).

Great Falls Farmers’ Market

More than 100 vendors show up each Saturday in the summer to the Great Falls Farmers’ Market! They close a few of the streets downtown, as part of a tradition which started more than 40 years ago.

The origin actually began in the 1970s, with Hutterite families selling produce door-to-door. They eventually set up a market outside the Civic Center downtown, and over time it became the official non-profit trade association now known as The Great Falls Original Farmers’ Market.

In recent summers, the market has been attracting around 150 vendors each Saturday. Some of the booths sell produce, handcrafted items, baked goods, and honey or syrups which are native to North Central Montana.

Add to that food vendors, musicians, and much more each weekend.

The Great Falls Farmers’ Market is open every Saturday morning from 8:30. It runs from the first Saturday of June through the last Saturday of September.  

Fish Hatchery

Adjacent to Giant Springs State Park, there’s a fish hatchery operated by Montana Fish, Wildlife & Parks. The facility is dedicated to the propagation and conservation of fish species. It has been operating for several decades with the goal of enhancing fish populations in Montana’s waters and supporting recreational fishing opportunities.

The hatchery primarily focuses on raising rainbow trout, brown trout, and occasionally other fish species that are native or suitable for Montana’s waters.

Paris Gibson Square Museum Arts Classes

The Paris Gibson Square Museum‘s Education Department hosts classes and workshops for children of all ages, from preschool through high school.

They also hold classes for seniors, veterans, and other groups.

The Square’s classes are free, and funded by the Montana Arts Council and the National Endowment for the Arts.

The Montana State Fair

Each summer, the Montana ExpoPark in Great Falls hosts the Montana State Fair.

Nearly a century old, the state fair features the usual fair foods and rides, but there’s an extra emphasis on agriculture and farming. 

It also features a rodeo and concerts.

The fair usually runs for a week in late July and early August.

The Electric City Waterpark

The waterpark near downtown Great Falls features a “Flow Rider” wave pool for “surfing,” plus slides, a lazy river, a tower plunge, and more.

It’s usually open from June through late August. It’s usually $6 for kids and $9 for adults.

Mitchell Pool

Mitchell Pool is the largest heated outdoor pool in Montana. Great Falls has had a public pool at this site for nearly a century! The latest incarnation includes a deep-water extension and two water slides.

It’s usually open from June through late August. The fee is usually $3 for kids and $5 for adults.

Picnic at the Falls

Ryan Island, at Ryan Dam, is a great spot to bring the family.

It’s a 10-mile drive from the city to the parking lot. You’ll walk across a suspension bridge to Ryan Island, for a nice view of the waterfalls and dam.

Great Falls Dog Park

Dogs are part of the family, so I’m including the dog park in this section!

The Trailside Dog Park is maintained by the city, adjacent to the River’s Edge Trail. It’s open from dawn to dusk, and has fenced areas for big and small dogs.

The Best Food in Great Falls

I have a whole separate blog on 40+ restaurants in Great Falls, so I’ll keep this section brief and limited to a few favorites.

Montana Beef

Great Falls is home to several steakhouses, which proudly serve Montana-raised beef.

Cattlemen’s Cut is right in Great Falls. They’re only open for dinner, and reservations are recommended.

Enbar

Enbar is a favorite spot in downtown Great Falls, and is one of the nicest restaurants in town. The menu is limited, but the food is great.

It’s also great for drinks and appetizers, and is one of just a handful of nice restaurants open later at night. After the kitchen closes, you can still grab food next door at The Block and bring it into Enbar to eat while you have a drink at their bar.

Breakfast Diner

Clark & Lewie’s is a diner that serves all meals, but they do breakfast best.

It’s in the O’Hair Motor Inn (home of the world famous Sip ‘N Dip bar)!

Local Coffee Shops in Great Falls

Great Falls is home to a growing number of local coffee shops.

Al Banco

Al Banco is a family-run coffee business, run by a couple of brothers whose grandmother moved from Italy to Great Falls many decades ago.

They also serve breakfast foods and snacks, like avocado toast, breads, and pastries.

Crooked Tree

Crooked Tree is a popular coffee shop in downtown Great Falls, and they also serve smaller breakfast items. I’m hoping they’ll start opening Sundays, too!

Day Trips from Great Falls

Great Falls is a great base for day trips to other parts of Montana. Here are just a few options.

Helena

Helena, the capital city of Montana, is a 90-mile, 90-minute drive south of Great Falls. A day trip to Helena could include:

1. Montana State Capitol: The Capitol features impressive architecture and beautiful artwork.
2. Last Chance Gulch: The historic downtown area of Helena is a pedestrian mall, lined with shops, galleries, restaurants, and cafes. 
3. Reeder’s Alley: This is a preserved historic district, featuring old miner’s cabins and other historical sites.
4. Cathedral of St. Helena: This stunning cathedral is known for its architecture and beautiful stained glass windows. I 
5. Gates of the Mountains: If you’re looking for some natural beauty, consider taking a boat tour of the Gates of the Mountains, a scenic area along the Missouri River. The towering cliffs and serene waters make for a picturesque experience. (PHOTO BELOW)
6. Mount Helena City Park: If you enjoy hiking and nature, head to Mount Helena City Park. There are several trails of varying difficulty that offer panoramic views of the city and surrounding landscapes.
7. Great Northern Carousel: Especially if you’re visiting with kids, the Great Northern Carousel is a fun stop. It features beautifully hand-carved animals that you can ride on.
8. History Museums: Helena has several history-focused museums, such as the Montana Historical Society Museum and the Archie Bray Foundation for the Ceramic Arts, which can provide insights into the area’s cultural heritage. 

Fort Benton

Fort Benton is a historic town north of Great Falls. It’s an easy 45-mile drive. A day trip to Fort Benton can include:

1. The Museum of the Upper Missouri: Exhibits on the history of Fort Benton, the fur trade, and the Lewis and Clark Expedition. 
2. Fort Benton Historic District: The town’s historic district features well-preserved buildings. The Old Fort Park offers a replica of the original fort and beautiful views of the Missouri River.
3. The Riverfront: Spend some time along the Missouri River, enjoying the views and perhaps even taking a relaxing walk or picnic.
4. Fort Benton Bridge: The historic Fort Benton Bridge offers a picturesque view of the river and the town. It’s a great spot for photos.
5. Shep Memorial: Pay a visit to the Shep Memorial, a touching monument to a dog named Shep who famously waited at the train station for years after his owner’s death.

Glacier National Park

A day isn’t enough to explore all of Glacier, but you can see some of the best sites! It’s a 2.5-hour drive from Great Falls. Keep in mind: you’ll need a pass to Going-to-the-Sun Road. Or, you’ll have to arrive early in the morning before rangers arrive to check passes at the gates.

I’ve done this day trip drive from Great Falls to Glacier’s eastern entrance:

1.  St. Mary Visitor Center: Stop at the St. Mary Visitor Center to gather information, learn about the park’s natural and cultural history, and get advice on current trail conditions and highlights.
2. Going-to-the-Sun Road: This iconic road is one of the highlights of Glacier National Park. Drive along the Going-to-the-Sun Road to experience breathtaking views of glaciers, alpine meadows, and rugged mountains. Keep in mind that the road can be busy, so plan for extra time.
3. St. Mary Lake: Enjoy the beautiful views of St. Mary Lake and the surrounding mountains. There are pull-offs where you can take photos and admire the scenery.
4. Virginia Falls: Take a hike up the mountain to beautiful Virginia Falls! (PHOTO BELOW)
5. Logan Pass: If time permits, visit the Logan Pass Visitor Center, which is roughly halfway along the Going-to-the-Sun Road. Explore the exhibits and make sure to take a hike from the area along the Highline Trail. You’ll immediately see stunning scenery, and you’ll likely see mountain goats along the way!

Music in Great Falls

Big names in music have passed through Great Falls. When I was working there I interviewed everyone from Yo Yo Ma to Charlie Daniels. They play at two main venues downtown.

Concerts at the Newberry

The Newberry lands some pretty big names in many genres of music.

The main hall has floor space for 1,000 people standing, plus a bar. 

The mezzanine holds another 150 people.

Mansfield Center for the Performing Arts

The Great Falls Civic Center complex dates back nearly a century, and includes the Mansfield Center for the Performing Arts.

The theater seats nearly 1,800 people for the Great Falls Symphony, ballet, musicals, operas, and other shows.

Gibson Park Band Concerts

From June through August, the Great Falls Municipal Band performs every Wednesday at 7:00 p.m. in the Gibson Park “clamshell” pavilion.

It’s free for the public!

FAQ’s About Things to do in Great Falls, Montana

What is Great Falls, Montana, known for?

In general, North Central Montana is known for a wide range of outdoor activities, from hiking to camping to fishing and hunting. 

Many of the outdoorsy activities center around the Missouri River, which played a crucial role in the Lewis and Clark Expedition. Great Falls visitors can explore the Lewis and Clark National Historic Trail and learn about the expedition’s interactions with Native American tribes and the landscape they traversed.

Native American culture and “cowboy culture” influence festivals, rodeos, and art around Great Falls.

As a region, this part of Montana is known for its wheat farms and cattle ranches.

Great Falls is also known as the home of Malmstrom Air Force Base, which houses intercontinental ballistic missiles. 

What’s the elevation of Great Falls, Montana?

The city’s elevation is about 3,330 feet above sea level.

How big is Great Falls, Montana?

Great Falls covers about 22 square miles, and is home to around 60,000 people.

Why is it called Great Falls?

Great Falls, Montana, is named after the series of five waterfalls located on the Missouri River near the city. These waterfalls are collectively known as the “Great Falls of the Missouri.” 

The Lewis and Clark Expedition, which was an expedition to explore the western portion of the United States in the early 19th century, encountered the Great Falls on their journey. The explorers found the waterfalls to be both challenging and awe-inspiring. 

The city of Great Falls, Montana, developed around these falls due to their potential to provide water power for industries and transportation. The falls themselves are now partially dammed and obscured, to produce hydroelectric power.

Is there Uber in Great Falls?

Yes, Uber operates in Great Falls, but there are only a few drivers. If you’re in need of a car, you might want to book one in advance. Uber Eats is also available in the city.

What’s the famous mermaid bar in Great Falls?

The Sip N Dip, the tiki bar in Great Falls, has a special place in my heart! It’s nationally known for the mermaids who swim in a pool behind the main bar. 

For me, it’ll always be home to the late “Piano Pat” Spoonheim, an organist who played pop favorites several nights a week for 50 years to an adoring crowd.

Are There Enough Things to Do in Great Falls, Montana?

I’ve been making visits to Great Falls for the last 20 years. If you’re looking for a lower-key trip to Montana, away from the crowds, you should consider a trip here. 

Great Falls is a great gateway to hiking trails, Glacier National Park, and a lot of history and culture surrounding the American West.