Things to do & places to visit in Great Falls, Montana, United States

Anyone with an interest in history and a love of the great outdoors will enjoy a getaway to Great Falls. Steeped in the traditions of the Old West and chock-full of historic buildings and important landmarks, the city itself is a living museum. But there are also real museums to explore. Check out the Lewis & Clark National Trail Interpretive Center which has interactive exhibits and videos that help you retrace the steps of the famous explorers. The C.M. Russell Museum Complex displays the work of the "Cowboy Artist" Charlie Russell. Families should stop at the Children's Museum of Montana for hours of entertainment. Or walk into the past of the Northern Plains at First People’s Buffalo Jump, where Native Americans used to stampede buffalo over cliffs. Visitors can also take advantage of a wide array of outdoor recreation opportunities. With a fantastic view of the Missouri River, the 24-mile River's Edge Trail is great for walking, biking, in-line skating or jogging. Bird watchers will enjoy the Benton Lake Wildlife Refuge, and hiking, biking and camping opportunities in nearby mountain ranges offer even more outdoor fun.

Great Falls city in Montana, United States. Timezone: America/Denver, current date and time: Saturday, May 04, 2024, 1:24.

Top things to do (26)

Top places to visit (30 attractions) view more »

5.0 Lewis and Clark Interpretive Center (888 reviews)
- Great History Lesson
Saturday: 9:00 AM - 5:00 PM Historic Walking Areas • Theaters

Located on a bluff overlooking the Missouri River in Giant Springs Heritage State Park, this visitors center provides information and exhibits about Lewis and Clark's famous journey and the historical significance of the United States' westward expansion. See more..
5.0 St. Ann Cathedral (10 reviews)
- Beautifully restored cathedral
Churches & Cathedrals

This cathedral was restored in the past 10 to 15 years, and very nicely done. Instead of a moderninzing "wreckovation" of the interior, the designer kept much of what was pleasing from 100 years ago and improved on it. The organ is a magnificent instrument and the windows are a beautiful and unusual example of late Victorian glass art. Go to Mass at St. Ann Cathedral. See more..
5.0 Dearborn River (7 reviews)
- Peaceful, Natural Beauty.
Bodies of Water

Lewis and Clark crossed this great fishing river in 1806. See more..
5.0 Ursuline Centre (6 reviews)
- A must see stop in Great Falls
Spent < 1 hour History Museums

A school, conference center, dorms, theater events, foreign exchange student room and board program, the chapel and much more See more..
5.0 The Crooked Falls (2 reviews)
- Visiting the Crooked Falls
Spent 2-3 hours Waterfalls

Several people told us to follow the South Shore Trail Trail head, it will lead to the Crooked Falls. We listened to them and we went. It took is a long time to get there. We were glad that they were local. Once we were on the Giant Springs Road, we could not miss the Crooked Falls. They had waterfalls as well and it was attractive. They were not huge, but really a huge large shower. We had made it and now you can do it too. A must see! See more..
5.0 Great Falls Library, Grand Falls (2 reviews)
- A visit in the library with quilts.
Spent 1-2 hours Libraries

I first view the outside. I liked the 8 pillars. The half round was also attractive. Inside in the library they had lots of quilts. They were very pretty. I didn't hear any noise in this library. There were lots of books, videos, computers and more. The librarians were great. There were also a lot of chairs and tables. We enjoyed our trip in the Great Falls Library. Worthwhile to see! See more..
5.0 Great Falls Ice Plex (2 reviews)
- Hockey!
Arenas & Stadiums
The Great Falls Ice Plex is owned and operated by the Great Falls Community Ice Foundation, a 501(c)3 non-profit organization. The Ice Plex is the only indoor ice rink in Great Falls, MT and it is open from late September through March. Public skating is usually held Sunday afternoons, followed by stick & puck. The Great Falls Figure Skating club offers skating lessons as well as a figure skating program. The Great Falls Ice Plex is also home to multiple hockey programs (youth, men's and women's recreational, NA3HL hockey, college hockey, and a sled hockey program for people with disabilities). Information on youth and adult hockey tournaments held at the Ice Plex can be found on our website. See more..
5.0 Cascade County Courthouse (2 reviews)
- A beautiful Courthouse to enjoy!
Spent 1-2 hours Historic Sites • Government Buildings

The Cascade County Courthouse has 3-story English Renaissance Revival Structure. It was built in 1901-1903. It is gorgeous. It is a national historic place. There is a dome at the top and four pillars. There are stairs to enter in the building. There are huge trees. A must see! See more..
5.0 Replica of the statue of Liberty, Great Falls (1 review)
- A welcome to the statue of Liberty at Great Falls
Spent < 1 hour Monuments & Statues

This replica of the statue of Liberty is shorter compared to the one in New York. The pedestal is all white. It felt good to see it! Worthwhile to see! It reminded me of New York. Still attractive! See more..
4.5 C.M. Russell Museum (487 reviews) from $15.26
- The Best Cowboy Art
Saturday: 10:00 AM - 5:00 PM Spent 2-3 hours Speciality Museums • Art Museums

The C.M. Russell Museum will be closed to the public from 2 pm on December 24 through January 5. We look forward to seeing you when we reopen at 10 am on January 6. Charlie Russell documented the West that was vanishing before his eyes, telling the story of the American West as no artist had before. Many of the stories Russell told through Russell's art and life resonate even today. The first museum dedicated to Western art, the C.M. Russell Museum houses Charles Marion Russell's original studio, the home where he lived, and many paintings and bronzes created by Russell and his contemporaries. It also includes a compelling exhibition of Browning Firearms, featuring information on John Moses Browning (1855-1926), one of the world's most important and innovative gun makers. Now allowing photography except for specific pieces (no flash photography). Find out why the C.M. Russell Museum is the art and soul of the American West. See more..
4.5 Giant Springs State Park (467 reviews)
- The perfect place for a perfect day~
Saturday: 8:00 AM - 7:00 PM Spent 2-3 hours State Parks • Nature & Wildlife Areas

See. Do. Explore. The possibilities at Giant Springs State Park are limitless- there is so much to see & do with over 4600 acres of front & backcountry & 20 miles of trail. Most people come for the beautiful springs (first described by Lewis and Clark in 1805), BUT there is so much more to do! Giant Springs offers opportunities for Biking, Hiking, Picnicking, Fishing, Hunting, Boating, Bird/wildlife watching, Photography. There is also much to see: The Springs, River Overlooks, the Fish Hatchery, The Falls and More! Visit the ranger station for guided tours/walks, children's activities, summer programming or for questions. See more..
4.5 Ryan Dam - Great Falls of the Missouri (266 reviews)
- Scenic place along the river
Saturday: 9:00 AM - 7:00 PM Dams • Waterfalls

Ryan Island is a pretty little scenic spot to visit during the day. You walk across a bridge out to the island and there’s some walking paths and picnic areas. You can see the dam well from there. The island is only open during the summer and they do close the island during the night. See more..
4.5 River's Edge Trail (172 reviews)
- some paved, some single track
Hiking Trails

Yes, you CAN ride from the city of Great Falls on teh soutn side of the river all the way to the Great Falls themselves. You have to ride some pretty challenging single track up and down the canyon (and endure some pretty aggressive daytime mosquitos, too, on the single track). It makes for an all-day adventure of about 32 miles from the center of the city...but a great way to see the town and the river during COVID See more..
4.5 Gibson Park (122 reviews)
- Lots of Ducks
Parks

We have gone to this park for over 50 years, always relaxing and fun to feed the ducks. No bread please, bad for the Water foul. See more..
4.5 Malmstrom Museum and Air Park (83 reviews)
- AWESOME for families
Saturday: Spent 1-2 hours Military Museums

Monday - Friday: 10:00am-4:00pm. Closed all US Federal Holidays. We are located on the east side of Great Falls, Montana, at the east end of 2nd Ave North, just inside the Malmstrom AFB main gate to the right. Because Malmstrom Museum and Air Park are within the Malmstrom AFB perimeter, public access or non-US DoD cardholders will need to process through the Visitor Control Center located outside and just to the right of the 2nd Ave. N. Gate (6220 Goddard Dr.). A valid US or Canadian Driver's License or ID card is required for public access. Children 16 and over will require a valid photo ID (e.g., Driver's License, State or Gov't ID, School ID). Accompanied children less than 16 years of age do not require an ID card for access. Non-US/Canadian Driver's License/ID Card holders may coordinate in advance as Passport or Visa clearances can take up to 72 business-hours to process for entry authorization. Group Visits and Special Arrangements may be coordinated by contacting the museum. See more..
4.5 Great Falls Montana (59 reviews)
- Fine food and Ambiance -a rare find in this small city.
Saturday: Spent < 1 hour Visitor Centers

If you’re looking for a place where you can enjoy a really good meal, with excellent service, a quiet sing ores , or a casual pub - then this is the place. Every time I visit Great Falls I try to dine here. Their a bit off the beaten track, but near the Russell Museum. Closed on Mondays, so be sure to check their hours. They have an avacodo, shrimp sandwich that is superb, great salads and amazing pasta. I’ve nev had their steaks because I keep ordering my favorites ( listed above). Having been born in great falls, I ’ve eaten all over this special town and highly recommend Dante’s. An interesting tidbit; my grandfather was a blacksmith in the mountain town of Augusta and he made the horseshoe that hangs over the entrance. ( I was told a family member founded the restaurant and later gave it up. Adorned with plants and local paintings, it’s charming. I’d love to hear your comments. See more..
4.5 Electric City Water Park (35 reviews)
- Fun
Saturday: 12:00 PM - 6:00 PM Water Parks

Great fun for the whole family. Different pool for various ages. Snack shack. Nice clean dressing rooms. See more..
4.5 Paris Gibson Square Museum of Art (31 reviews)
- Not to be missed Art Museum
Saturday: 10:00 AM - 3:00 PM Art Museums

What a nice art museum. Mostly contemporary. Old school building converted into a art museum. The wooden people permanent exhibit is a real crowd-pleaser for adults and children. Not crowded. Perfect for a hot, cold, rainy day. We were greeted by the Executive Director who is a very nice and knowledgeable woman and added much information and joy to our visit. Staff was very helpful and friendly. Small gift shop with some nice items from local artists. See more..
4.5 The History Museum (30 reviews)
- A surprisingly nice museum
Saturday: History Museums

Recently visited. This is a great museum covering the history of Great Falls and more. It is well laid out. It is not too busy so you will not be crowded. Lighting is nice. It is quiet. Much to see from photos, to clothing, furnishings, sports gear, etc. Nice info on famous people of the past and why they are famous. Great Falls has an interesting history most people do not know. Do not miss this museum whether you are a visitor or GF resident. See more..
4.5 Benton Lake National Wildlife Refuge (20 reviews)
- Educational on importance of these places
Saturday: Nature & Wildlife Areas

We were on holiday and came across this sanctuary, we arrived and didn't realize it was Saturday, as we came from Vermont .A officer came out and noticed where we were from. Asked us if we would like to come in and talked about this facility, and the importance of this area.His name was Tyler . We were amazed at the information he gave us and the exhibits, that were there.They had a dinosaur on one the exhibits And I asked him if I could put my grandsons trex which was going across the states to Canada with us. We saw some birds I'm sure time of year makes a difference, We had a wonderful existence thank you Officer Tyler , CD a d purpose See more..
4.5 Milwaukee Station (16 reviews)
- Absolutely beautiful outdoor area right next to the river
Architectural Buildings

This has to be one of the prettiest outdoor spots in town! Probably the best outdoor wedding venue in the city limits, and a great place to bring lunch to and enjoy when the weather's nice. See more..
4.5 West Bank Park (8 reviews)
- A walk with a view on the river.
Parks

We liked our walk at the West Bank Park. It was after 6:00 P.M. We were the only ones and we wanted to walk. The river was gorgeous. The trees were beautiful. The path made it easy to walk. We stopped often to admire the river as well as the trees. There was a nice playground as well. There are also restrooms as well. A must see! See more..
4.5 Holy Spirit Catholic Parish (7 reviews)
- A visit to a parish with lots of windows
Churches & Cathedrals

I was taking pictures of the Holy Spirit Catholic Parish and all of a sudden it rained. We waited a bit and I went back for pictures. It is a lovely parish. They had lots of window. Several had four tiers with windows. Amazing! The cross is at the very top. The church was built with red bricks. It was built in 2007. A must see! See more..
4.5 Overlook Flag (2 reviews)
- Wonderful Display
Saturday: 12:00 AM - 11:59 PM Spent < 1 hour Points of Interest & Landmarks

The Great Falls REALTORS® Flag Project members consider this a labor of love. With the help of the MT Air National Guard and many generous sponsors, the 30’ x 50’ Flag has been flying proudly in Great Falls since July 4th, 1984. See more..
4.5 Warden Park (2 reviews)
- What a view!
Parks

A simple park with a cute gazebo and a fantastic view of Great Falls. My kids were highly amused with the disc golf course so bring a frisbee! Also has a hike/bike trail with some hills to get your heart pumping. See more..
4.0 Children's Museum of Montana (55 reviews)
- Good for our 2 1/2 year old.
Saturday: 9:30 AM - 5:00 PM Spent 2-3 hours Children's Museums

We are the largest and oldest children's museum in Montana and proud of how far we have come- our current collection of over 20 exhibits is a must see for all visitors! While the years have passed, the mission remains the same- To Ignite a Passion for Lifelong Learning! Whether they are saving lives as a doctor in the Little Falls Clinic, learning about money in the Giant Springs Credit Union, or living on the homestead of the frontier; hands-on play is the goal and their own imagination is the only limitation! See more..
4.0 Montana ExpoPark (16 reviews)
- State Fair and Rodeo
Horse Tracks

Promotions, contests, live music and special races along with racing and entertainment make Montana Downs a popular attraction with racing fans and visitors. Families are able to enjoy a day at the races, and by catering for a diverse crowd, the park is able to attract people from all walks of life.Live horse racing begins during the Montana State Fair at Montana ExpoPark at the end of July. The race meet features a variety of Thoroughbred and Quarter Horse stakes races with major high stakes events. Parking is FreeGeneral admission is FREE. On fair days general admission is free with purchase of fair admission. See more..
4.0 Sacagawea Springs (8 reviews)
- Hike to Sacagawea Springs
Bodies of Water

This is a bit of a long trail for small kids (4 miles round trip) but my kids (ages 3 and 6) did pretty well. There were a few steep places and a couple places near the edge of a drop off. Once in a while the trails confused us. There was lots of little trails, but they all basically lead to the same place, so it all worked out. We had a great time! See more..
4.0 Great Falls Voyagers (3 reviews)
- Time for exercise
Spent 2-3 hours Arenas & Stadiums

The Great Falls Voyagers is the Advanced Rookie minor league affiliate of the Chicago White Sox. We have games from June-September, featuring special events and promotions including concerts, firework shows, and giveaways. Check out our schedule at gfvoyagers.com! See more..
3.5 Holiday Village Mall (38 reviews)
- Shopping...shopping...shopping!
Saturday: 11:00 AM - 7:00 PM Shopping Malls

Come shop the Holiday Village Mall, the areas ultimate shopping destination featuring Scheels, JC Penney, Ross, Big Lots, Bed Bath & Beyond and many more stores. We are conveniently located at 10th Avenue South and 9th Street South in Great Falls Montana. See more..