Discover 10 Must-Visit Destinations in Great Falls, Montana

Courtesy of Great Falls Montana Tourism

Great Falls has long been a destination for outdoor enthusiasts, history buffs and visitors in search of a good meal and a fun shopping experience in the heart of an authentic Montana town.

“If you want to experience authentic and genuine Montana, Great Falls is your place to go,” says Shannon Newth, content director for Visit Great Falls, Montana.

Here are a few ways to engage with the authentic spirit of Great Falls, whether through supporting a local business or learning more about the area’s natural history.

Lewis and Clark National Historic Trail Interpretive Center

With 13 different museums to explore, Great Falls is the museum capital of Montana. Overlooking the Missouri River, the Lewis and Clark National Historic Trail Interpretive Center encompasses the entire 8,000-mile journey of explorers Lewis and Clark and their Corps of Discovery.

“This is a really wonderful facility that is built into the landscape. Its design was intended to merge with the landscape,” Newth says.

C.M. Russell Museum

Another of Great Falls’ top museums pays homage to artist Charles Marion Russell and his wife, Nancy, who helped her husband market his paintings. Showcasing nearly 1,000 works by Russell, the C.M. Russell Museum also includes thousands of pieces of Western art that showcase the art and culture of the region.

Courtesy of C.M. Russell Museum

“The C.M. Russell Museum truly is a world-class facility,” Newth says. “So much of our artistic heritage is rooted in Charles Russell and the legacy he’s left here.”

River’s Edge Trail

This 53-mile trail system allows residents to explore the great outdoors right in Great Falls. Tracing the Missouri River, the River’s Edge Trail is perfect for biking, running, walking or skating. On the Urban Loop, visitors can enjoy over 30 works of public art that make the view even more special.

Giant Springs State Park

True to its name, the Giant Springs State Park is home to one of the largest freshwater springs in the U.S. Its trails link to the River’s Edge Trail system, making it a perfect area for hiking as well as fishing, biking and learning more about the natural history of the area. Open all year, the springs become a wintry spectacle when snow and ice coat the area.

Matt Ehnes

“Giant Springs is stunning year-round. I always tell people that it is actually a magical winter wonderland when it’s about 20 below out,” Newth says.

Montana Museum of Railroad History

Fun for all ages, this railroad-themed museum traces the locomotive history of Montana, which dates to the 1880s. Packed with model trains and a real steam locomotive used at the Anaconda Copper Mining Company in Great Falls, train enthusiasts and history lovers will have plenty to enjoy at the Montana Museum of Railroad History.

First Peoples Buffalo Jump State Park

The First Peoples Buffalo Jump State Park features an archaeological site, a museum and interpretive trails that trace some of the state’s Indigenous history. The grassy high plains, in view of the Rocky Mountains and Missouri River, were once prolific hunting grounds inhabited by buffalo.

Matt Ehnes

Roadhouse Diner

The Roadhouse Diner is both a local favorite and a destination for out-of-town visitors. Justin Bieber famously dined here in 2025, giving the diner even more to boast about. The beef at this retro-style diner is locally sourced from McCafferty Ranch, and its burgers have won numerous state and national awards. From the classic “Old School” burger to a unique PB&J burger for adventurous diners, the Roadhouse Diner has a range of specialty burgers to enjoy within its log cabin-style interior.

Mighty Mo Brewing Co.

Thanks to its location in the Golden Triangle, Great Falls produces high quality wheat and barley, nourished by fresh water in the region. Mighty Mo Brewing Co. uses these quality ingredients in its beers and house-made pizza and pretzel doughs.

Bighorn Outdoor Specialists

This locally owned outdoor store is a one-stop shop for outdoor enthusiasts looking to explore the natural beauty of the area. Stocked with local guidebooks, maps, outdoor weather gear, climbing and mountaineering supplies, and much more, Bighorn Outdoor Specialists has served the area for over 45 years. The knowledgeable staff can help guide visitors toward their next big adventure.

Dragonfly Dry Goods

Great Falls is also home to the largest dry goods store in Montana. Stocked with everything from coffee, jewelry and clothing to Great Falls-themed souvenirs and other fun finds, Dragonfly Dry Goods has served the community for decades from the heart of downtown.