Great Falls, Montana: Cowboy Art, Lewis & Clark & River Trails
Thinking about a trip to Great Falls, Montana? You’ll find a blend of natural beauty, fascinating history, and a good mix of things to do. If you’re into hiking, kayaking, or just wandering through museums, this city has a little something for everyone.
The best things to do in Great Falls include checking out gorgeous waterfalls, digging into local history at museums, and spending time in parks and trails along the Missouri River. Maybe you’ll dive into the Lewis and Clark Interpretive Center or just kick back at Giant Springs State Park—either way, there’s plenty to fill your days.
Top Places to Stay in Great Falls, MT
| Hotel | Reviews |
|---|---|
| Updated Great Falls Home with Fire Pit, Deck and Yard! Great Falls, 59401-1835, United States of America | 38 |
| Historic Hotel Arvon 118 1st Avenue South, Great Falls, MT 59401, United States of America | 239 |
| MainStay Suites Great Falls Airport 520 Country Club Blvd, Building B, Great Falls, 59404, United States of America | 159 |
| Best Western Plus Riverfront Hotel and Suites 600 River Dr. S , Great Falls, 59405-1886, United States of America | 649 |
| SpringHill Suites by Marriott Great Falls 421 3rd Street NW, Great Falls, 59404, United States of America | 141 |
| Sleek and Modern Great Falls Gem Hot Tub, Yard Great Falls, 59404-1623, United States of America | 39 |
| Crystal Inn Hotel & Suites - Great Falls 3701 31st Street Southwest, Great Falls, MT 59404, United States of America | 517 |
| Staybridge Suites Great Falls, an IHG Hotel 201 3rd Street Northwest, Great Falls, MT 59404, United States of America | 125 |
| Hampton Inn - Great Falls 2301 - 14th Street SW, Great Falls, MT 59404, United States of America | 104 |
| Sleep Inn Great Falls Airport 520 Country Club Blvd, Building A, Great Falls, 59494, United States of America | 159 |
| Days Inn by Wyndham Great Falls 101 14th Avenue Northwest, Great Falls, MT 59404, United States of America | 197 |
| The Great Falls Inn By Riversage 1400 28th Street South, Great Falls, MT 59405, United States of America | 750 |
| Downtown Great Falls Apartment Above Brewery! Great Falls, 59401-3116, United States of America | 7 |
| Loft-Style Apartment in Downtown Great Falls Great Falls, 59401, United States of America | 7 |
| Adorable and Cozy Bungalow - ALL NEW INTERIOR 12th Street South 215, Great Falls, 59405, United States of America | 6 |
| Inviting Missouri River Vacation Rental 2 Mi Away Great Falls, 59404-2715, United States of America | 3 |
| Inviting Great Falls Home with Wraparound Deck! Great Falls, 59404-3699, United States of America | 3 |
| Pet-Friendly Great Falls Home Walk to Downtown! Great Falls, 59401, United States of America | 3 |
| Comfort Inn & Suites Market - Airport 1801 Market Place Drive, Great Falls, MT 59404, United States of America | 127 |
| Spacious Home with Hot Tub, about 3 Mi to Giant Springs! Great Falls, 59401, United States of America | 2 |
| The Gibson Hotel Great Falls, Ascend Hotel Collection 621 Central Ave, Great Falls, MT 59401, United States of America | 1 |
| Holiday Inn Express and Suites Great Falls, an IHG Hotel 1625 Marketplace Drive, Great Falls, MT 59404, United States of America | 363 |
| Charming Great Falls Cottage about 2 Mi to Downtown Great Falls, 59401, United States of America | 5 |
| Cozy Great Falls Retreat Near Golfing and Hiking! Great Falls, 59401, United States of America | 2 |
| Historic Great Falls Apt, Walk to Downtown! Great Falls, 59401-3116, United States of America | 1 |
| Scenic Great Falls Retreat On Missouri River! Great Falls, 59405, United States of America | 4 |
| Plaza Inn 1224 10th Avenue South, Great Falls, MT 59405, United States of America | 6 |
| Hilton Garden Inn Great Falls 2520 14th Street South West, Great Falls, MT 59404, United States of America | 64 |
| Extended Stay America Suites - Great Falls - Missouri River 800 River Drive South, Great Falls, MT 59405, United States of America | 268 |
| Imperial inn 601 2nd Avenue North, Great Falls, MT 59401, United States of America | 12 |
| Aisling Suites - The Midtown 526 2nd Avenue North, Great Falls, MT 59401, United States of America | 14 |
| Heritage Inn 1700 Fox Farm Road, Great Falls, MT 59404, United States of America | 784 |
| Comfort Inn Great Falls 1120 9th Street South, Great Falls, MT 59405, United States of America | 205 |
| Ski's Western Motel 2420 10th Avenue, Great Falls, MT 59405, United States of America | 21 |
| Central Motel 715 Central Avenue West, Great Falls, MT 59404, United States of America | 22 |
| Wingate by Wyndham Great Falls 1000 9th Avenue South, Great Falls, MT 59405, United States of America | 423 |
| Motel 6-Great Falls, MT 2 Treasure State Drive, Great Falls, MT 59404, United States of America | 187 |
| Holiday Inn Great Falls-Convention Center, an IHG Hotel 1100 5th Street South, Great Falls, MT 59405, United States of America | 306 |
| Grizzly Inn 1214 13th Street South, Great Falls, MT 59405, United States of America | 464 |
| Travelodge by Wyndham Great Falls 220 Central Ave, Great Falls, 59401, United States of America | 892 |
| Cozy Great Falls Studio on the Missouri River! Great Falls, 59405-8405, United States of America | — |
| Great Falls Getaway Convenient Downtown Location! Great Falls, 59401-3116, United States of America | — |
Explore the Iconic Waterfalls and Dams
The waterfalls and dams along the Missouri River near Great Falls are worth a visit—great views, a bit of history, and plenty of spots to walk or picnic. Each waterfall feels a little different, and the dams shape both the river and the scenery. It’s easy to find a quiet place to soak it all in.
Great Falls and Ryan Dam
Just east of town, Great Falls itself is the biggest and most well-known waterfall on the river. You can drive up Ryan Dam Road and walk across a suspension bridge for a sweeping look at the falls.
Ryan Dam sits right by the falls, managing the river’s flow. It’s a shady spot under cottonwoods—perfect for a picnic. From Ryan Island Park you get a close-up of the roaring water and a nice view down the river.
Black Eagle Falls and Black Eagle Dam
Black Eagle Falls sits right in the urban part of Great Falls. Here, the Sun River meets the Missouri, and the drop is pretty dramatic. The river trail lets you look down on the falls and watch the water crash below.
Black Eagle Dam, humming away, generates hydroelectric power. Nearby, Black Eagle Memorial Island gives you a calm overlook for photos or just watching the water. The dam’s turbines add a steady, low rumble to the air.
Rainbow Falls and Rainbow Dam
Rainbow Falls is another gem, easy to spot from city trails. Colter Falls used to be nearby, but it’s now underwater because of Rainbow Dam.
Rainbow Dam helps keep the water levels steady and powers the area. The whole spot feels peaceful—you can walk close by and listen to the water rush past, or just hang out by the quieter stretches.
Crooked Falls and Colter Falls
Crooked Falls stands out for its rugged, uneven shape, much like when Lewis and Clark first saw it. It’s close to town and not hard to reach. The water tumbles over rocks in a way that’s oddly mesmerizing.
Colter Falls, once between Crooked and Rainbow Falls, now lies underwater thanks to Rainbow Dam. Still, the Crooked Falls area draws folks looking for a less developed slice of the river. Trails nearby offer good views and chances to spot birds or cast a line.
Connect with Lewis and Clark History
Great Falls sits right on the Lewis and Clark National Historic Trail. You’ll find exhibits, sites tied to the expedition, and hands-on programs that make history actually feel alive. It’s surprisingly easy to get caught up in the story of Lewis and Clark around here.
Lewis and Clark Interpretive Center
The Lewis and Clark Interpretive Center is a big museum perched on a bluff above the Missouri. The views are almost as good as the displays inside.
Inside, you’ll find maps, artifacts, and stories about the explorers’ long portage around the Great Falls. There’s even a grizzly bear skull and info about the wildlife they met along the way.
One quirky highlight—Buddy, a therapy dog who stands in for Seaman, Lewis’s Newfoundland. Buddy drops by twice a week, and there’s a statue of Seaman outside. It’s a fun way to connect with the expedition’s story.
Lewis and Clark Expedition Sites
Great Falls is famous for the portage around five falls on the Missouri. The expedition spent more time here than almost anywhere else outside winter camp.
You can visit historic spots where Lewis and Clark camped and traveled. Giant Springs State Park and Black Eagle Dam are both close to the Interpretive Center.
Walking these sites, you get a sense of the challenges the explorers faced. The rugged views help you imagine their journey through this wild landscape.
Visitor Center Experiences
The Interpretive Center offers films, ranger talks, and exhibits that dig deeper into the expedition.
You can catch a feature film about the journey or chat with staff who know their stuff. Sometimes there are reenactors or Native American demonstrations during special events.
The small gift shop has books and souvenirs for history buffs. It’s a solid stop if you want to get a feel for how Lewis and Clark shaped American history—and the natural world around here.
Enjoy State Parks and Outdoor Activities
Outdoor lovers will find plenty to do in Great Falls. There are unique parks, scenic trails, and lots of ways to get close to Montana’s wild side. Walking, biking, or just soaking up the scenery—it’s all here.
Giant Springs State Park Adventures
Giant Springs State Park is a must. It’s home to one of the biggest freshwater springs in the country. You can wander along paved paths and watch the crystal-clear water pour into the Missouri.
The fish hatchery is a cool stop, especially for kids. You’ll see how trout and other fish are raised. There are picnic tables with river views, too, if you want to take a break.
First Peoples Buffalo Jump State Park
First Peoples Buffalo Jump is a powerful historic site. Native tribes used the steep cliffs here to hunt bison for centuries. The site is peaceful, but you can almost feel the history in the air.
Marked trails and signs explain how the hunts worked and the culture behind them. It’s a place that connects you to Montana’s deeper past.
River’s Edge Trail Cycling and Walking
The River’s Edge Trail runs for miles along the Missouri, perfect for biking or walking. It’s an easy, scenic path that cuts right through the heart of Great Falls.
You’ll pass parks, wildlife spots, and plenty of places to stop and take in the view. Locals and visitors alike love this trail for a bit of exercise or just some time outside.
Hiking Trails Near Great Falls
Trails around Great Falls suit all kinds of hikers. You can stick close to town or venture out to spots like the Bob Marshall Wilderness.
Some trails are easy riverside strolls, others climb into the hills. Along the way, you’ll spot wildlife, wildflowers, and get some impressive looks at the Missouri’s cliffs. Bring decent shoes and water—Montana’s terrain isn’t always gentle.
Experience Local Art, Museums, and Culture
Great Falls has a handful of museums and historic sites that really show off its art and culture. If you want to get a feel for early Montana or just see some great Western art, you’ve got options.
C.M. Russell Museum
If Western art is your thing, don’t miss the C.M. Russell Museum. You’ll see paintings and sculptures by Charles M. Russell, who captured life on the frontier better than just about anyone. His work brings cowboys, Native Americans, and wildlife to life.
The museum tells the story of Russell’s life and his influence on American art. Special exhibits often spotlight other Western artists, so there’s usually something new. It’s a solid way to get a sense of the region’s culture through art.
Paris Gibson Square Museum of Art
The Paris Gibson Square Museum of Art mixes contemporary and traditional works in a cool old building downtown. Exhibits rotate, so you might catch something different every time. Local and regional artists get plenty of space here.
The museum also runs workshops, classes, and community events. If you want to meet artists or try something creative yourself, it’s a welcoming spot.
Vinegar Jones Cabin and Historic Sites
If you’re curious about Montana’s early days, swing by the Vinegar Jones Cabin near downtown. This old cabin shows what settler life looked like in the 1800s.
Other historic sites nearby help fill in the city’s backstory. You’ll find original buildings and artifacts that make Great Falls’ roots feel real—not just another modern city. It’s a different angle on the area’s past.
Discover Family Fun and Kid-Friendly Attractions
Great Falls has plenty for families. Kids can play, learn, or just burn off energy, whether it’s in a museum, a water park, or a quiet park. Each spot has its own vibe, so you’ll probably find something that clicks.
Children’s Museum of Montana
The Children’s Museum of Montana is packed with hands-on exhibits for little ones. Art stations, play zones, and interactive displays keep kids busy and curious.
It’s geared toward younger children, but honestly, parents usually end up joining in too. The museum runs special events and programs that change throughout the year, so you might stumble on something new.
Electric City Water Park and Mitchell Pool
If water fun is your thing, head to Electric City Water Park. There are big slides, a lazy river, and even a climbing wall. It’s busiest in summer, full of families cooling off and having a blast.
Mitchell Pool is nearby and offers a quieter, more classic swimming experience. It’s a good spot for swim lessons or just relaxing in the water. Both places are supervised and safe for kids to splash around.
Gibson Park Activities
Gibson Park is a go-to for families. You’ll find picnic tables, playgrounds, open spaces, and walking trails. It’s easy to spend an afternoon here, whether you’re strolling or playing on the grass.
Just across from the park, Black Eagle Memorial Island offers peaceful walks and bird watching. It’s a calm spot with nice views—a perfect way to wind down after a busy day.
Nature Watching and Scenic Excursions
Looking for a quieter side of Great Falls? There are plenty of spots to watch wildlife and soak up the scenery. These places let you slow down and see Montana’s wild side up close.
Benton Lake National Wildlife Refuge
Benton Lake National Wildlife Refuge stretches out over 12,000 acres of wetlands. Birdwatchers love this place, especially during migration—there’s a good chance you’ll spot something new every time.
Walking trails and viewing decks let you watch waterfowl, shorebirds, and sometimes deer. It’s peaceful, perfect for photos or just listening to nature do its thing.
If you’re hoping to spot birds up close, bring binoculars and a camera. The refuge stays open all year, but spring and fall are best for catching those big bird migrations.
Birdwatching and Wildlife Viewing
Great Falls is a real hotspot for birdwatching, with plenty of easy spots to catch different species. Besides Benton Lake, spots along the Missouri River are great for seeing herons, eagles, and ospreys up close.
Hiking the nearby trails, you might bump into deer or even a fox if you’re lucky. Early mornings and late afternoons tend to be the best times—animals just seem more active then.
Bring comfy shoes, water, and maybe some binoculars if you have them. Try not to get too close to the animals—it’s their home, after all. Just take it all in and enjoy the calm of these outdoor escapes.
Day Trips and Regional Adventures
If you’re itching to get out of town, there are some amazing day trips within reach. The scenery is wild, the wildlife is everywhere, and honestly, Montana’s natural beauty just never gets old.
Glacier National Park Excursions
Glacier National Park sits about three hours from Great Falls. There are more than 700 miles of trails, lakes so clear you can see the rocks at the bottom, and mountains that just tower over you. Whether you’re hiking, watching for wildlife, or just staring at the view, it’s hard not to be impressed.
Lake McDonald and Logan Pass are two must-see spots. Bring layers—the weather flips fast up there. If you want some quiet, go early. And keep an eye out for mountain goats and deer; they’re everywhere along the trails.
Going To The Sun Road Highlights
Going To The Sun Road is one of those drives you just have to do in Glacier. It stretches 50 miles right through the park and the views—valleys, glaciers, meadows—are unreal.
There are plenty of pullouts for quick photos or a short hike, like Hidden Lake Overlook. Wildlife like bears or bighorn sheep sometimes wander onto the road, so keep your camera ready. The road usually opens sometime between late June and mid-October, depending on snow. Definitely check before you head out.
Eat, Drink, and Relax in Great Falls
Great Falls has a mix of cozy local spots and lively places for food and drinks. From old-school diners to fun pubs, you’ll find flavors worth trying.
Restaurants in Great Falls
There are plenty of places for breakfast, lunch, or dinner. If you’re into breakfast, Clark & Lewie’s serves up a mean eggs benedict and some seriously good caramelized French toast. For Italian-style coffee and pastries, Al Banco on Central Avenue is a solid pick.
Downtown, you’ll find unique spots like Enbar Craft Cocktail Lounge with their salmon and chicken tacos. Or swing by Kellergeist, a German pub with bratwurst and a big beer selection.
Pizza lovers have options too—MacKenzie River Pizza sits near the Missouri River, and Howard’s Pizza is known for thin-crust pies made fresh every day.
Black Eagle Brewery Tasting
If you like craft beer, you’ve got to stop at Black Eagle Brewery. They brew their own beers right there, so you get a real taste of Great Falls.
The place has a chill vibe—perfect for sampling their lineup, which changes with the seasons. It’s a good spot to meet locals or just relax after a busy day.
Try a glass or grab some bottles to go. The staff is friendly and more than happy to help you find something you’ll like. Makes the whole experience pretty easygoing.
Frequently Asked Questions
Great Falls has a lot to offer—nature, food, history, art. There’s stuff to do for families and plenty of local events all year long.
What are some popular outdoor activities in Great Falls?
You can wander 53 miles of trails along the Missouri River. Floating the river, hiking at Sluice Boxes State Park, and fishing are all favorites. In winter, people hit the slopes at Showdown Montana or snowshoe at Silver Crest Trails.
Where can I find the best local cuisine in Great Falls?
Downtown is packed with places serving up local flavors. There’s a mix of cafes, restaurants, and bars that use fresh Montana ingredients. Try buffalo or trout if you get the chance—they’re local classics.
Can you recommend family-friendly attractions in Great Falls?
Definitely. Take the kids to Electric City Water Park or Hi-Line Climbing Center. The Great Falls Buffalo Hunt is a blast, and Brush Crazy lets kids get creative with art. Baseball games with the Great Falls Voyagers are always a good time too.
What historic sites should I visit in Great Falls?
Check out the Lewis and Clark Interpretive Center for stories about early American exploration. The C.M. Russell Museum is full of Montana art and history. There are also museums that dig into the area’s Native American and pioneer roots.
Where are the best places to experience the arts in Great Falls?
Paris Gibson Square Museum of Art always has something new, with rotating exhibits and events. Downtown murals pop up and change all the time, bringing color to the city. You can catch live music at summer events or browse local art fairs, too.
What seasonal events are a must-see in Great Falls?
Montana’s State Fair always draws a crowd in the summer, and honestly, it’s tough to beat that energy. Downtown Summer Jams bring live music right outside—sometimes you just stumble into a set you didn’t expect. When winter rolls around, you’ll find ski competitions and those quirky star parties up at Showdown Montana. Oh, and if you’re up for it, the bird migration at Freezeout Lake is something you shouldn’t skip, even if it’s freezing.