Craving wide-open skies and rich frontier history? Head to Great Falls, Montana! Situated along the Missouri River, Great Falls offers a blend of outdoor adventure, historic landmarks, and Western culture. Hike the river trails, dive into Lewis and Clark history, or explore the art of Charlie Russell in this welcoming Big Sky Country town.

Best Time to Visit

The best time to visit Great Falls is from late spring through early fall (May to September). These months bring warm weather perfect for exploring parks, waterfalls, and outdoor events. Winter offers snowy beauty and fewer crowds for museum visits and scenic drives.

How to Get There

  • By Air: Fly into Great Falls International Airport (GTF), just minutes from downtown and serviced by major airlines.
  • By Car: Located along I-15 and US-87, Great Falls is easily accessible from Helena, Billings, and Glacier National Park.
  • By Train: The nearest Amtrak station is in Shelby, MT—about 90 minutes north; rent a car to reach Great Falls.

Where to Stay

  • Hotel Arvon – Stylish boutique hotel with historic character in the heart of downtown.
  • Holiday Inn Great Falls – Full-service hotel with pool and restaurant, close to the river and local attractions.
  • The Gibson Hotel – Newly renovated and modern, with easy access to the Missouri River trail system.

Top Attractions

Trace the Trail of Exploration at the Lewis and Clark Interpretive Center

Trace the Trail of Exploration at the Lewis and Clark Interpretive Center

© Lewis and Clark Interpretive Center

  • What is the Lewis and Clark Interpretive Center?
    • The Lewis and Clark Interpretive Center is a museum built into a bluff overlooking the Missouri River that tells the epic story of the 8,000-mile Lewis and Clark Expedition of the early 1800s.
  • What can visitors expect inside the Interpretive Center?
    • The main hall features a variety of hands-on exhibits that bring the expedition’s history to life.
    • Visitors can also enhance their experience by borrowing a free audio guide.
  • Are there outdoor activities at the center?
    • Yes! Visitors are welcome to explore the interpretive trails surrounding the center.
    • One of the trails even leads to the nearby Giant Springs State Park for those with extra time.
  • What is the admission policy?
    • Admission is free for visitors under the age of 15.
    • Discounts are available for groups of 20 or more.
  • Where is the Lewis and Clark Interpretive Center located?
    • 4201 Giant Springs Rd, Great Falls, MT 59405
    • Phone: 406-727-8733

Celebrate the American West at the C.M. Russell Museum

Celebrate the American West at the C.M. Russell Museum

© C.M. Russell Museum

  • What is the C.M. Russell Museum?
    • The C.M. Russell Museum is dedicated to the life and work of C.M. Russell, the famous "cowboy artist" known for capturing the spirit of the American West.
  • What kind of artwork is featured at the museum?
    • The museum houses one of the largest collections of C.M. Russell’s artwork, including:
      • Landscape paintings
      • Illustrated letters
      • Sculptures of various sizes
    • The museum also hosts temporary exhibitions featuring work from other nationally acclaimed artists.
  • What historic sites are on the museum property?
    • The museum property includes:
      • Russell’s original home
      • His log cabin studio
    • Both buildings contain period furniture and other personal items owned by Russell and his wife.
  • Where is the C.M. Russell Museum located?
    • 400 13th St N, Great Falls, MT 59401
    • Phone: 406-727-8787

Picnic, Hike, and Spot Wildlife at Giant Springs State Park

Picnic, Hike, and Spot Wildlife at Giant Springs State Park

© Anthony/stock.adobe.com

  • What is Giant Springs State Park?
    • Giant Springs State Park is home to one of the largest freshwater springs in the country and offers outdoor recreation opportunities, including hiking, fishing, and wildlife watching.
  • What natural features can be found in the park?
    • The park is known for its remarkably clear spring water.
    • It also boasts four waterfalls, including the Great Falls of the Missouri.
  • What are the best seasons to visit Giant Springs State Park?
    • The park is most popular during the warmer months, when:
      • The 20 miles of trails are ideal for hiking and biking.
    • In the winter, visitors can enjoy spectacular icy scenery, as water vapor from the springs covers the trees in glistening ice.

4803 Giant Springs Rd, Great Falls, MT 59405, Phone: 406-727-1212

Attractions for Couples

Take in the Power and Beauty of Ryan Dam and the Great Falls of the Missouri

Take in the Power and Beauty of Ryan Dam and the Great Falls of the Missouri

© spiritofamerica/stock.adobe.com

  • What is Ryan Dam?
    • Ryan Dam was built in 1915 to control the flow of water over the Great Falls of the Missouri.
    • Due to its scenic beauty, it has become one of the area's most popular picnic spots.
  • Where can visitors park?
    • Visitors can park right at the base of the falls.
  • Is there a way to cross over the dam?
    • Yes! A suspension bridge stretches over the dam, leading to the picnic area on Ryan Island Park.
  • When is the bridge and picnic area open?
    • The bridge and picnic area are open between Mother’s Day and Labor Day.
  • Is there a clubhouse available for private events?
    • Yes! There is an indoor clubhouse that can be reserved for private events free of charge.
  • Where is Ryan Dam located?
    • 160 Ryan Dam Rd, Great Falls, MT 59404-6006

Shop, Snack, or Browse at Holiday Village Mall

Shop, Snack, or Browse at Holiday Village Mall

© Photoboyko/stock.adobe.com

  • What is the Holiday Village Mall?
    • The Holiday Village Mall is a two-story shopping center established in 1959.
    • It features more than 60 shops and several anchor stores, including:
      • PetSmart
      • Hobby Lobby
      • Bed Bath & Beyond
  • Is the Holiday Village Mall a good place for shopping?
    • Yes! The mall is a great place to shop for various needs.
    • Many stores offer regular sales, which can be viewed on the mall's website before visiting.
  • Does the mall offer complimentary Wi-Fi?
    • Yes! Complimentary Wi-Fi is available throughout the entire mall during opening hours.
  • Are wheelchairs available at the mall?
    • Yes! Wheelchairs are available upon request.
  • What other amenities does the Holiday Village Mall have?
    • The mall features:
      • A small food court
      • A children's play area
      • Two ATMs for convenience
  • Where is the Holiday Village Mall located?
    • 1200 10th Ave S, Great Falls, Montana 59405
    • Phone: 406-727-2089

Catch Events, Fairs, and Exhibits at Montana ExpoPark

Catch Events, Fairs, and Exhibits at Montana ExpoPark

© Danil Nikonov/stock.adobe.com

  • What is Montana ExpoPark?
    • The Montana ExpoPark is a 133-acre fairground previously known as the North Montana State Fairgrounds.
    • It features a horse racing track, an arena, and a spacious exhibition hall.
  • What major event is held at Montana ExpoPark?
    • It is the proud home of the annual Montana State Fair, which takes place during the last week of July.
  • What other events take place at Montana ExpoPark?
    • The venue hosts dozens of events throughout the year, including:
      • Rodeos
      • Trade shows
      • Livestock events
  • Where can visitors purchase event tickets?
    • Tickets for most events can be purchased online or over the phone.
  • What additional attraction is located at Montana ExpoPark?
    • Visitors can explore the Montana Museum of Railroad History, which is open:
      • Thursday evenings
      • Saturday afternoons during the summer
  • Where is Montana ExpoPark located?
    • 400 3rd St NW, Great Falls, MT 59404
    • Phone: 406-399-4143

If You Appreciate Regional Art, Visit the Paris Gibson Square Museum of Art

If You Appreciate Regional Art, Visit the Paris Gibson Square Museum of Art

© Paris Gibson Square Museum of Art

  • What is the Paris Gibson Square Museum of Art?
    • The Paris Gibson Square Museum of Art is one of the most important art and cultural centers in the area.
    • It is housed inside a distinctive sandstone building built in 1896 as a high school.
  • What does the museum’s permanent collection include?
    • The museum features more than 800 pieces of artwork, including a wide variety of contemporary American pieces.
    • A major highlight is a collection of over 200 unique sculptures created by Lee Steen.
  • Does the museum offer interactive experiences?
    • Yes! Visitors are welcome to use the on-site ceramic studio.
    • The museum also hosts art classes and workshops for all ages and skill levels.
  • Where is the Paris Gibson Square Museum of Art located?
    • 1400 1st Ave N, Great Falls, MT 59401
    • Phone: 406-727-8255

Where to Eat

  • Mighty Mo Brewing Company – Local craft beer and hearty pub fare in a lively downtown space.
  • Fire Artisan Pizza – Creative wood-fired pizzas and fresh salads in a hip, casual setting.
  • Roadhouse Diner – Popular spot for gourmet burgers made with local Montana beef.

Local Events

  • Western Art Week (March) – Celebrates Western art with gallery shows, auctions, and cultural events.
  • Montana State Fair (Late July–Early August) – Carnival rides, rodeos, concerts, and agricultural exhibits.
  • Christmas Stroll (December) – Downtown holiday celebration with lights, shopping, and festive cheer.

More events and activities

Day Trips Within 30 Minutes of Great Falls, Montana

  • First Peoples Buffalo Jump State Park (25–30 min) – Walk along dramatic cliffs and learn how Indigenous peoples once hunted bison here.
  • Benton Lake National Wildlife Refuge (20–25 min) – Spot waterfowl, hawks, and prairie wildlife in this expansive wetland ecosystem.
  • Centene Stadium (5–10 min) – Catch a Great Falls Voyagers baseball game and enjoy a relaxed small-town sports atmosphere.
  • Paris Gibson Square Museum of Art (5–10 min) – View contemporary regional art inside a historic school building turned gallery.
  • Sun River Valley (25–30 min) – Take a scenic drive through farmland and foothills, and stop to fish or hike near the Sun River.
  • Fort Benton (Historical Note) – Though just over 30 minutes, it’s worth the drive to visit this iconic "Birthplace of Montana" along the Missouri River.

FAQ

  • What is Great Falls, Montana known for?
    • Great Falls is sometimes referred to as the "Electric City" due to the many dams and power plants in the area.
  • Where can visitors learn about the history of Great Falls?
    • Visitors can explore the Lewis and Clark Interpretive Center to learn about the first American exploration of the area.
  • What cultural attractions are in Great Falls?
    • Those interested in arts and culture can visit:
      • The Paris Gibson Square Museum of Art
      • The C.M. Russell Museum
  • Are there good picnic spots in Great Falls?
    • Yes! Several of the dams along the Missouri River provide excellent picnic spots.
  • What dining options are available in Great Falls?
    • The town offers a variety of restaurants, including:
      • Mexican cuisine
      • Texan BBQ
      • Made-from-scratch burgers

Great Falls, Montana Weather by Month

Month High (°F) Low (°F) Precip. (in) Conditions
January 30 10 1.0 Cold & Snowy
February 35 15 1.2 Cold & Snowy
March 45 25 1.5 Chilly & Wet
April 60 35 1.8 Mild & Rainy
May 70 40 2.1 Pleasant
June 80 50 1.8 Warm & Dry
July 85 55 1.2 Hot & Dry
August 82 53 1.0 Warm & Dry
September 70 40 1.5 Mild & Pleasant
October 55 30 1.8 Cool & Crisp
November 40 20 1.5 Chilly & Rainy
December 30 12 1.2 Cold & Snowy

Plan Your Trip