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Why is Great Falls Called the Electric City?

Find out this answer and other interesting facts about this sparkling city in Montana.

By Livability on February 9, 2022

Black Eagle Falls
Bryan Hann

If you love waterfalls, you’ll absolutely adore Great Falls, MT. But this Montana city is so much more than its breathtaking vistas and outdoor recreation. People who move here tend to stay for the affordable living, vibrant downtown scene, divine dining options, wealth of career opportunities, and the friendly neighbors.

Ready to learn a little more about Great Falls? Let’s go!

Why “Electric City”?

While a high quality of life and great job opportunities are enough to ignite a “spark of excitement” in residents, Great Falls’ nickname actually derives from its numerous hydroelectric dams. The Missouri River is harnessed by five dams in the region as it flows its way through Montana.

Paris Gibson Square Museum of Art
Ginny Emery | Visit Great Falls

You’ll Love the Museums in Great Falls

With over a dozen destinations that chronicle the city’s history, heritage and native culture, it’s no wonder Great Falls is called the “Museum Capital of Montana.” Local favorites include the Paris Gibson Square Museum of Art and C.M. Russell Museum.

Creativity Abounds Here

Each year, a five-day Western Art Week transforms Great Falls into the visual “Western Art Capital of the World” where people can enjoy art shows, auctions, live music, artist interactions, and much more. This annual event began in 1969 and is a must-visit for residents and visitors alike.

Enjoy the scenic highways and byways in and around Great Falls, MT
Elizabeth E. Moore

Enjoy the Open Roads

If you enjoy scenic rides, you’ve come to the right place. In the Great Falls region, you’ll enjoy miles and miles of highways and byways that showcase Montana’s stunning scenery. Plus, Great Falls offers an excellent road and interstate system for residents to easily get to where they need to go (and without the heavy traffic of big cities!).

Get Ready to Soar

Just southwest of Great Falls is the popular Great Falls International Airport, which offers passengers direct flights to Denver, Las Vegas, Minneapolis, Phoenix, Salt Lake City, and Seattle. And the airport even offers banquet facilities.

Speaking of Soaring …

Great Falls is home to Malmstrom Air Force Base and the 341st Missile Wing as well as the Montana Air National Guard.

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