Great Falls, Montana: Best Things to Do – Top Picks

Did you know Great Falls boasts five magnificent waterfalls along a 10-mile stretch of the Missouri River, with a combined vertical drop of over 500 feet? This natural wonder gave the city its name and provides the backdrop for some of Montana’s most spectacular outdoor adventures. Whether you’re chasing waterfalls, exploring Lewis and Clark history, or discovering vibrant local culture, Great Falls offers a perfect blend of natural beauty and small-city charm.

Getting to Great Falls

Great Falls International Airport (GTF) offers daily flights from major hubs including Denver, Minneapolis, and Salt Lake City. For those driving, Interstate 15 runs north-south through the city, while Highway 87 and Highway 89 provide east-west access.

Many visitors include Great Falls as part of a larger Montana road trip. The city is positioned perfectly between Glacier National Park (about 2.5 hours northwest) and Yellowstone National Park (about 4 hours south), making it an ideal stopover on a Montana national parks tour.

Best Time to Visit Great Falls

Summer at Giant Springs State Park offers perfect weather for outdoor exploration

Great Falls experiences four distinct seasons, each offering unique attractions:

For the best balance of pleasant weather and manageable crowds, consider visiting in late May to early June or September when temperatures are comfortable and most attractions are open.

5 Best Things to Do in Great Falls Montana

Rainbow Falls is one of five spectacular waterfalls along the Missouri River

1. Explore the Great Falls of the Missouri

The city’s namesake waterfalls are spread along a 10-mile stretch of the Missouri River. Visit Ryan Dam for views of the Great Falls, Rainbow Dam for Rainbow Falls, and Black Eagle Dam for the closest falls to downtown. The falls are best viewed from designated overlooks along River’s Edge Trail, with Ryan Island Park offering particularly impressive views via a suspension bridge.

2. Giant Springs State Park

One of Montana’s most visited state parks features one of the largest freshwater springs in the country, pumping 156 million gallons of crystal-clear 54°F water daily. The park is also home to the Roe River, once listed in the Guinness Book of World Records as the world’s shortest river at just 201 feet long. Enjoy picnic areas, fishing ponds, and easy walking trails.

3. Lewis and Clark National Historic Trail Interpretive Center

Perched on a bluff overlooking the Missouri River, this impressive center brings to life the challenges faced by the Lewis and Clark Expedition. Interactive exhibits highlight the 1804-1806 journey, with special emphasis on the arduous 18-mile portage around the Great Falls. Don’t miss the two-story diorama showing expedition members hauling boats up steep terrain.

Interactive exhibits at the Lewis and Clark Interpretive Center bring history to life

4. River’s Edge Trail

This 60-mile multi-use trail system follows both sides of the Missouri River, connecting many of Great Falls’ major attractions. The paved portions are perfect for walking, jogging, and biking, while unpaved sections offer more challenging terrain for mountain bikers and hikers. Along the way, you’ll find art installations, historical markers, and spectacular river views.

5. First Peoples Buffalo Jump State Park

Located just 10 miles southwest of Great Falls, this archaeological site features one of the largest buffalo jump cliff sites in North America. Native peoples used this mile-long sandstone cliff for nearly 600 years to hunt bison by driving them over the edge. The visitor center offers exhibits on Native American culture and buffalo hunting techniques, while hiking trails provide access to the jump site and spectacular prairie views.

First Peoples Buffalo Jump State Park preserves an important Native American hunting site

Museums and Cultural Attractions

The C.M. Russell Museum houses an impressive collection of Western art

C.M. Russell Museum

Dedicated to the works of famed cowboy artist Charles M. Russell, this museum houses the most complete collection of Russell’s art and personal items. The complex includes Russell’s original home and studio, preserved as they were during his lifetime. With over 4,000 pieces of Western art, it’s a must-visit for art and history enthusiasts.

The History Museum

Explore the rich history of north-central Montana through exhibits on Native American culture, early settlers, and the region’s economic development. The museum’s collection includes over 50,000 photographs documenting the area’s past.

Paris Gibson Square Museum of Art

Housed in a historic 1896 sandstone building that was once Great Falls’ first high school, this contemporary art museum features rotating exhibits by regional artists. The building itself, named after Great Falls’ founder, is on the National Register of Historic Places.

Children’s Museum of Montana

Perfect for families, this hands-on museum offers interactive exhibits that encourage learning through play. Kids can explore a miniature town, conduct science experiments, and engage with educational displays designed for young minds.

Outdoor Recreation

The River’s Edge Trail offers miles of scenic cycling routes

Biking and Hiking

Beyond the River’s Edge Trail, Great Falls offers numerous outdoor recreation opportunities. Rent bikes from local outfitters to explore the extensive trail system, or venture to nearby Sluice Boxes State Park for more challenging hiking through limestone canyons.

Fishing

The Missouri River provides excellent fishing opportunities, particularly for rainbow and brown trout. Local fishing access sites include Broadwater Bay and Giant Springs. Fishing licenses are required and can be purchased online or at sporting goods stores throughout Great Falls.

Water Activities

During summer months, enjoy kayaking, canoeing, or paddleboarding on the Missouri River. Broadwater Bay offers calm waters perfect for beginners, while more experienced paddlers can explore longer stretches of the river with local outfitters.

The Missouri River offers excellent fishing opportunities near Great Falls

Wildlife Viewing

Benton Lake National Wildlife Refuge, located just 14 miles north of Great Falls, provides habitat for over 240 bird species and numerous mammals. Spring and fall migrations bring thousands of waterfowl to the refuge, making it a paradise for birdwatchers.

Where to Eat in Great Falls

Great Falls restaurants often feature locally-sourced Montana beef and produce

Local Favorites

Great Falls offers diverse dining options that showcase Montana’s agricultural bounty. For classic Montana beef, try Cattlemen’s Cut Supper Club or Clark & Lewie’s. Enjoy locally-brewed craft beer at The Mighty Mo Brewing Company or Jeremiah Johnson Brewing Company, both offering food menus alongside their brews.

Casual Dining

For casual meals, Celtic Cowboy Pub offers Irish-inspired fare in a historic building, while Roadhouse Diner serves award-winning burgers made with local beef. Sip ‘n Dip Lounge provides a unique experience with its famous “mermaids” swimming in a pool visible behind the bar.

Coffee and Treats

Morning Light Coffee Roasters and Electric City Coffee serve locally-roasted beans and fresh pastries. For dessert, don’t miss Big Dipper Ice Cream’s handcrafted flavors or the Montana-sized cinnamon rolls at Tracy’s Family Diner.

Where to Stay

Many Great Falls hotels offer comfortable accommodations with mountain views

Hotels and Motels

Great Falls offers accommodations for every budget. For upscale stays, consider the Best Western Plus Riverfront Hotel with its river views, or the Hampton Inn with its convenient central location. Mid-range options include the Crystal Inn Hotel & Suites and La Quinta Inn & Suites.

Bed and Breakfasts

For a more intimate experience, the Historic Mansion Bed & Breakfast offers elegant rooms in a 1908 mansion, while O’Haire Motor Inn provides the unique experience of staying above the famous Sip ‘n Dip Lounge.

Camping and RV Parks

Dick’s RV Park offers full hookups and amenities for RV travelers, while Giant Springs State Park provides more rustic camping opportunities closer to nature. The KOA campground offers cabins for those wanting a camping experience without the equipment.

Day Trips from Great Falls

Glacier National Park makes a spectacular day trip from Great Falls

Glacier National Park

Just 2.5 hours northwest of Great Falls, Glacier National Park offers some of America’s most spectacular mountain scenery. Drive the famous Going-to-the-Sun Road, hike to hidden lakes, and watch for wildlife including mountain goats and grizzly bears.

Helena

Montana’s capital city is just 1.5 hours southwest of Great Falls. Visit the impressive State Capitol building, explore the historic Last Chance Gulch downtown area, and hike the trails on Mount Helena for panoramic city views.

Bob Marshall Wilderness Complex

For adventurous travelers, “The Bob” offers over 1.5 million acres of pristine wilderness about 2 hours west of Great Falls. Day hikes along the eastern edge provide access to spectacular mountain scenery without requiring overnight backcountry trips.

Montana’s State Capitol in Helena makes for an interesting day trip from Great Falls

Practical Travel Tips

Downtown Great Falls offers shopping, dining, and local character

Getting Around

While Great Falls has a public bus system (Great Falls Transit), having your own vehicle is highly recommended for exploring the city and surrounding attractions. Most major car rental companies operate at the airport. Downtown Great Falls is walkable, but distances between major attractions often require transportation.

Weather Considerations

Great Falls experiences temperature extremes, with hot summers and cold winters. The area is known for its wind—the city’s nickname is “The Electric City” partly due to the wind’s potential for power generation. Pack layers even in summer, as evenings can be cool. Winter visitors should bring proper cold-weather gear.

Local Events

Check the city’s event calendar when planning your visit. The Montana State Fair (late July/early August), Western Art Week (March), and Fourth of July celebrations offer special opportunities to experience local culture. The weekly Farmers’ Market (June-September) showcases local produce and crafts.

Great Falls Map and Location

Great Falls is located in central Montana, making it an ideal base for exploring the state

Experience the Best of Great Falls

Sunset over the Missouri River creates unforgettable Great Falls moments

Great Falls may not be Montana’s most famous destination, but those who visit discover a perfect blend of natural wonders, rich history, and authentic Montana culture. From the thundering waterfalls that gave the city its name to world-class museums and endless outdoor recreation, Great Falls rewards travelers with experiences that capture the essence of Big Sky Country.

Whether you’re tracing the footsteps of Lewis and Clark, admiring Western art masterpieces, or simply enjoying the majesty of the Missouri River, Great Falls offers a genuine Montana experience without the crowds of more touristy destinations. Pack your hiking boots, bring your camera, and prepare to be surprised by the Electric City’s natural beauty and welcoming spirit!