Butte, Montana: Best Things to Do - Top Picks

Are you ready to explore Butte, Montana? This city is a true gem in Big Sky Country. It offers outdoor adventures, cultural experiences, and family-friendly attractions. From underground mine tours to historic walking tours, there's something for everyone.

Key Takeaways

• Discover Butte's colorful mining history through underground tours and historic walking/trolley tours
• Immerse yourself in the cultural heritage of the Chinese community at the Mai Wah Society & Museum
• Explore the iconic Berkeley Pit, a massive open-pit copper mine that offers a glimpse into Butte's industrial past
• Admire the towering Our Lady of the Rockies statue, the tallest religious statue in the USA
• Indulge in Butte's vibrant festivals and events, like the St. Patrick's Day Parade and the Covellite International Film Festival

Explore Butte's Colorful Mining History

Butte, Montana, is rich in mining history. Visitors can dive into this fascinating past through various activities. These include underground mine tours and guided walks and trolley tours of the historic uptown district.

Underground Mine Tours

Put on a hard hat and explore the Orphan Girl Mine. You'll see how a real mining operation worked. These tours offer a rare look at the hard work and tough conditions of Butte's mining days.

Back then, Butte was famous for its copper, silver, and gold. It was called the "Richest Hill on Earth."

Historic Walking and Trolley Tours

Discover Butte's history on guided walking and trolley tours. See famous landmarks like the Roaring 20s Rookwood Speakeasy hotel. Also, visit the grand Copper King Mansion.

Learn about Butte's rich history. From its diverse cultures to its tough mining days, there's a lot to explore.

"Butte, Montana is described as the smallest big town in the state, offering a unique blend of urban and outdoor experiences."

Mai Wah Society & Museum: Chinese Heritage

In the heart of Butte, Montana, the Mai Wah Society Museum shows the city's Chinese history and culture. It's in the old Wah Chong Tai Mercantile building. This place takes you back to the late 1800s, when Chinese immigrants first came to Butte.

The museum has amazing artifacts and displays from 1897. You can see everything from old cabinets to cultural items. Each piece tells a story of the Chinese people's hard work and creativity in Butte's early days.

The Chinese New Year parade is a big event here. It happens with colors, music, and traditions. You can see it on February 5, 2022, and January 28, 2023. It celebrates the Year of the Tiger and the Year of the Rabbit.

The museum is open Tuesday to Saturday in the summer. It's a great place for history lovers and culture fans. A visit here is a must when you're in Butte.

"The Mai Wah Society Museum is a true gem, offering visitors a unique and immersive experience into the rich history and cultural heritage of Butte's Chinese community. It's a must-visit for anyone interested in exploring the diverse tapestry of the American West."

Old Butte Historical Adventures

Dive into Butte, Montana's fascinating history with Old Butte Historical Adventures. This local tour company lets you explore the city's lively past. They offer three walking tours of uptown Butte, each covering a different time period from the 1890s to the 1950s.

Walking Tours of Uptown Butte

These family-friendly walking tours take you back in time. You'll see famous landmarks that show Butte's mining history. Highlights include the Roaring 20s Rookwood Speakeasy hotel and the Dumas Brothel, the longest-running brothel in the U.S.

Trolley Tours with Local Experts

The Butte-Silver Bow Chamber of Commerce also has trolley tours. These two-hour tours are led by local experts. They give a detailed look at Butte's mining and cultural history, starting in the mid-19th century.

On these tours, you'll see grand mansions and important buildings. Attractions include the World Museum of Mining and the Berkeley Pit. Whether walking or riding a trolley, these tours are a great way to learn about Butte's mining history. You'll also enjoy the walking tours Butte and trolley tours Butte.

The Berkeley Pit: A Massive Open-Pit Mine

The Berkeley Pit in Butte, Montana, is a huge open-pit copper mine. It's 7,000 feet long, 5,600 feet wide, and 1,600 feet deep. Started in 1955, it was a cheaper way to get copper from the "richest hill on earth."

The open-pit mine Butte stopped in the 1980s. But its damage to the environment still affects us today. The Berkeley Pit Butte is now a Superfund site Butte because of the toxic water in it. This water is a big danger to the area's plants and animals.

People visiting Butte can see the Berkeley Pit Butte from a special viewing area. There, they can learn about its history and the efforts to fix the environmental problems. The Berkeley Pit Butte shows Butte's mining history and the community's strength.

"The Berkeley Pit is a lasting reminder of the toll that mining can take on the environment, but it also represents the resourcefulness and determination of the people of Butte who have worked tirelessly to address its challenges."

Butte, Montana: Best Things to Do - Top Picks

Butte, Montana is a historic mining town full of experiences. You can explore its mining past, enjoy outdoor adventures, and take part in cultural events. There's something for everyone.

Begin your journey by learning about Butte's history. Underground mine tours let you see what miners faced. Then, take historic walking and trolley tours to see Uptown Butte's architecture and stories.

For a cultural dive, check out the Mai Wah Society & Museum. It honors Butte's Chinese community. Learn about their history and how they shaped the city.

Butte is great for outdoor lovers too. You can hike, bike, or see the Ringing Rocks. The city also hosts fun events like the St. Patrick's Day Parade and Covellite International Film Festival.

Butte, Montana, has something for everyone. History buffs, culture lovers, and outdoor fans will all find something special. Come and see why Butte is a unique gem in Big Sky Country.

Our Lady of the Rockies Statue

The Our Lady of the Rockies statue sits atop the Continental Divide. It's a favorite spot for visitors from everywhere. This 90-foot tall Virgin Mary statue is the third tallest in the U.S., standing 3,500 feet above Butte.

The story of this statue is one of hard work and unity. It started in 1979 by Butte's Bob O'Bill. For six years, people from all walks of life worked together. By 1985, the statue was finished and placed at the Continental Divide, thanks to Guy Ossello's land donation.

Butte visitors can take a 2.5-hour tour to see the Our Lady of the Rockies statue. The tour includes a 30-minute video and a scenic drive. Afterward, guests can shop for souvenirs at the Butte Plaza Mall.

"The Our Lady of the Rockies statue is a testament to the spirit and resilience of the people of Butte. It's a true symbol of the community's strength and faith."

The Our Lady of the Rockies Virgin Mary statue is a must-see in Butte, Montana. Its stunning location and inspiring story make it unforgettable.

Copper King Mansion: A Gilded Age Gem

In the heart of Butte, Montana, the Copper King Mansion shines. It shows off the city's mining history and the luxury of the Gilded Age. Built from 1884 to 1888, it was for William A. Clark, a top copper mine owner and very rich man.

The mansion is on the National Register of Historic Places. It still looks amazing, with fancy chandeliers, detailed woodwork, colorful stained glass, and fancy furniture. Guests can see it all on guided tours, which run seasonally. They get to see the luxury of the Gilded Age up close.

The mansion is not just a look into the past. It's also a bed and breakfast. This lets visitors really feel the mansion's grandeur. They can sleep in Clark's bedroom or rooms of his kids or butler. It's a unique and memorable stay.

If you love history or just admire old homes, the Copper King Mansion is a must-see. Its beautiful design and deep history make it a true Gilded Age gem. It leaves a lasting impression on everyone who visits.

Festivals and Events in Butte

Butte, Montana, is known as the "Festival City." It hosts many lively events all year. These events celebrate the city's rich heritage. From the St. Patrick's Day Parade in March to the Montana Folk Festival in July, there's always something exciting.

St. Patrick's Day Parade

The St. Patrick's Day Parade in Butte is a must-see. It features kilt-wearing bagpipers, lively music, and a festive atmosphere. Join the locals in wearing green and marching through the streets to celebrate Butte's Irish roots.

Montana Folk Festival

The Montana Folk Festival, held in July, is a favorite among families. It's an outdoor celebration with traditional music, dance, and cultural performances from around the world. It's a great experience for visitors of all ages.

An Ri Ra Irish Festival

In August, the An Ri Ra Irish Festival brings Irish spirit to Butte. Enjoy traditional Irish music, dancing, and a 5K run. Also, try delicious local cuisine and drinks that reflect the city's Celtic heritage.

Covellite International Film Festival

Each September, the Covellite International Film Festival showcases over 100 films from around the world. It includes documentaries, feature-length, and short films. This festival is a celebration of cinematic excellence, attracting film enthusiasts and industry professionals to Butte.

Butte's festivals and events offer something for everyone. Whether you're into parades, folk music, or films, there's something for you. Plan your visit to explore the city's vibrant cultural scene and make memories that will last a lifetime.

The World Museum of Mining

In the heart of Butte, Montana, the World Museum of Mining is a key part of the city's mining history. It shows off a huge collection of old and new mining tools in over 65 exhibits. This museum gives a deep look into Butte's mining past.

The museum is on the site of the old Orphan Girl Mine, which worked from the 1860s to the 1970s. It's a chance to see what a real underground mine was like. Visitors can wear a hard hat and take a mine tour. There are two options: a 65-foot level tour that lasts 45-60 minutes, or a 100-foot level tour that takes 1.5 hours.

Butte is known as the "richest hill on Earth" because of its huge mineral resources. The World Museum of Mining lets visitors see the equipment, technology, and stories that made Butte's mining industry so important.

If you love history, mining, or just want to learn about Butte's past, you must see the World Museum of Mining. It has amazing exhibits and underground tours. It's a great way to explore the mining history that made this city so special.

Outdoor Adventures Near Butte

Butte, Montana, is in the heart of the Rocky Mountains. It's a gateway to endless outdoor adventures. Just a short distance from the city, you'll find many natural wonders to explore.

Thompson Park

Thompson Park is located just south of Butte. It offers a picturesque setting for outdoor activities. Pack a picnic and explore the trails, where you'll find signs about the area's history and nature.

Whether you want a leisurely stroll or a challenging hike, Thompson Park has it all. It delights every outdoor enthusiast.

Ringing Rocks

The Ringing Rocks are about 18 miles east of Butte. These rocks produce a chiming sound when tapped with a hammer. It's a mesmerizing and otherworldly experience.

Explore the Ringing Rocks and marvel at this unique natural phenomenon. Butte's surrounding lands offer more outdoor adventures. You can fish, go river rafting, snowmobiling, or enjoy the mountain scenery.

Pack your bags, lace up your boots, and get ready for outdoor fun in Butte, Montana. From Thompson Park's serene landscapes to the Ringing Rocks' unique wonders, this region is a true haven for outdoor lovers.

Conclusion

Butte, Montana is a place full of wonder. It has a rich historic mining town heritage and exciting outdoor adventures. This vibrant community has something for everyone.

Looking for cultural experiences, events, or natural beauty? Butte is the place to be in Montana tourism. It offers family-friendly activities, unique local cuisine, and amazing Butte attractions. It's a city that will leave a lasting impression.

Ready to explore Butte, Montana? Start planning your trip. You'll see breathtaking landscapes, learn about fascinating history, and meet a warm community. Your adventure in Butte is waiting!