Gardiner
	North Entrance to Yellowstone National Park on US 89 Population: 851

Gardiner Chamber of Commerce PO Box 81 Gardiner, MT 59030 406-848-7971 Fax: 406-848-2446 Website: http://www.gardinerchamber.com

President Theodore Roosevelt visited Gardiner in 1903 to dedicate the arch made of basaltic rock through which travelers could go on their way to the "Yellowstone Wonderland." The arch is inscribed with the words, "For the Benefit and Enjoyment of All People," a quote taken from the congressional act which made Yellowstone a national park in 1872. At one time the Northern Pacific Railroad brought visitors to Gardiner where they could meet the stagecoaches that would carry them throughout the park.

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Attractions:

Yellowstone National Park (See Major Attractions)

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	Glasgow
	NE Montana on US 2, north of Fort Peck Lake Population: 3,253

Glasgow Chamber of Commerce PO Box 832 Glasgow, MT 59230 406-228-2222 Fax: 406-228-2244 Website: http://www.glasgowmt.com

Established in 1887 during the building of the Great Northern Railroad, Glasgow was named in honor of Glasgow, Scotland. The sleepy little shipping station for cattle, sheep, and grain woke up when construction began on Fort Peck Dam in 1933. The Glasgow Air Force Base was an important part of the community from 1955-1968. The town of Fort Peck, planned and built by government engineers, is located 18 miles south of Glasgow.

Activities and/or guided services for this area include boating, resort cabins, hunting, fishing, horseback rides, golf, and bus tours.

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Attractions:

Fort Peck Dam and Museum
US Army Corps of Engineers
PO Box 208
Fort Peck, MT 59223
406-526-3411
Website: http://www.fortpeckdam.com

Fort Peck Dam is one of the world's oldest and largest hydraulic earthfill dams, an earthen structure that stretches across the Missouri from bluff to bluff, a distance of more than four miles. Fort Peck Lake has a shoreline of more than 1,600 miles. The museum at the power plant site includes fossils of dinosaurs, armored fishes and swimming reptiles, as well as artifacts from old Fort Peck. Museum open Memorial Day to Labor Day, 9:00am to 5:30pm. Guided tours of power plant leave on the hour and last approximately 1 hour. Last tour at 4:45pm. There is a 25-person maximum per tour. Admission free.

Fort Peck Summer Theatre
MT 24, Fort Peck
PO Box 973
Glasgow, MT 59230
406-228-9219
Website: http://www.fortpecktheatre.org

Past performances in the historic Fort Peck Theatre have included The King and I, Sweet Charity, Footloose, Hayfever, and Chicago.

Valley County Pioneer Museum
US 2 W and 9th Avenue
Glasgow, MT 59230
406-228-9219

Built on donations of time, money, and artifacts from people in the local community, the museum's theme is, "From Dinosaur Bones to Moon Walk." Our displays are arranged chronologically and feature one of the few remaining original hide tepees and other Indian artifacts. The museum includes the pioneer days of the area as well as the building of Fort Peck Dam and the Glasgow Air Force Base. Not to be missed are the Stan Kalinski Wildlife Collection and historic bar and the museum's machinery lot featuring a caboose from the Great Northern Railroad. There is also a mural by Native American Jesse Henderson depicting Lewis and Clark. The exhibit consists of the wildlife, plant life, and native culture. Open Memorial Day to Labor Day 9:00am to 7:00pm. Open Tuesday during the winter 1:00pm to 5:00pm. Special tours for groups. Minimum time: 1 hour. Admission free.

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	Glendive
	35 miles west of North Dakota on I-94 Population: 4,729

Glendive Chamber of Commerce PO Box 930 Glendive, MT 59330 406-377-5601 Fax: 406-377-5602 Website: http://www.glendivechamber.com

Glendive is the trading and shipping center of an area that produces sugar beets, grain, and forage crops. Energy exploration and development is a growing force in Glendive's economy.

Activities and/or guided services for this area include hikes, river floats, hunting, fishing, cross-country skiing, golf, agate hunting, and paddlefishing.

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Attractions:

Frontier Gateway Museum
Exit 215 off I-94 on Belle Prairie Frontage Rd.
PO Box 1186
Glendive, MT 59330
406-365-8168

Prehistoric through 20th century life is displayed in this complex, which consists of seven buildings, including a blacksmith shop and fire hall. Murals and major displays show fossils, homesteader life, railroad paraphernalia and farm machinery. Open daily mid-May to mid-September Monday through Saturday 9:00am to 5:00pm (closed during lunch hour) and Sunday 1:00pm to 5:00pm. Guided tours available. Admission free, donations accepted.

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Outdoor Activities:

Makoshika State Park
3 miles southeast of Glendive off I-94
1301 Snyder Avenue
PO Box 1242
Glendive, MT 59330-1242
406-377-6256 (MAKO)
Fax: 406-377-8043
Email: makoshikapark@mcn.net

Makoshika (pronounced ma-KO-shi-ka). The name is a variant spelling of a Lakota phrase meaning "land of bad spirits." Today the badlands of Makoshika are set aside for visitors to enjoy. In addition to the pine- and juniper-studded terrain, picturesque formations sculpted by wind and water can be see from turnouts which overlook a broad vista of badlands. The deep gorges, rugged cliffs, haystack buttes, spires and toadstool formations resulted from millions of years of erosion. The park holds the fossil remains of more than 10 species of dinosaurs. Visitor Center includes dinosaur bones and interpretive displays. Park includes archery and shooting ranges, scenic drives and nature trails, a campground, and picnic sites. Open year-round. Visitor Center open from Memorial Day to Labor Day daily 9:00am to 5:00pm. Labor Day to Memorial Day Monday through Saturday 9:00am to 5:00pm and Sunday 1:00pm to 5:00p. Admission charged.

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	Great Falls
	Central Montana at junction of I-15 and US 87 and 89 Population: 56,690

Great Falls Chamber of Commerce PO Box 2127 Great Falls, MT 59403 406-761-4434 Fax: 406-761-6129 Website: http://www.greatfallscvb.visitmt.com

Known as the "Electric City" because of its numerous dams and power plants. Great Falls was an important stop for Lewis and Clark who, in 1805, discovered and named the Great Falls of the Missouri about 12 miles down river from the city. It was here, too, that famed Western artist Charles M. Russell chose to live and work. Today, Great Falls is the site of Malmstrom Air Force Base, the center of our nation's first Minuteman Missile complex. Located in the center of some of Montana's largest wheat farms, agriculture also plays an important role in this community. Major events that draw visitors to Great Falls are the PRCA Montana Circuit Finals Rodeo in January, the C. M. Russell Auction of Original Western Art in March and the state fair in July.

Activities and/or guided services for this area include ranch vacations and activities, hikes, river floats, hunting, fishing, cross-country skiing, and golf.

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Attractions:

C. M. Russell Museum Complex
400 13th Street North
Great Falls, MT 59401
406-727-8787
Fax: 406-727-2402
Website: http://www.cmrussell.org

View one of the nation's finest collections of Western art and history in spacious, modern surroundings. The Trigg collection is the nucleus of the museum's permanent Russell acquisitions. Highly personal and unique, it shows the wide scope of Russell's works and talents. Some of the most popular exhibits are his illustrated letters, which feature Russell's original spelling, entertaining illustrations and down-to-earth humor and philosophy. Besides Russell's oils, watercolors, sketches and bronzes, the museum has outstanding pieces from Russell contemporaries Seltzer, Sharp, Heikka, Couse and others. The museum shop offers many unique gifts such as jewelry, Russell prints and fine Western books. The complex also includes the former home and log cabin studio of Montana's famous cowboy artist. Preserved as it was in the early 1900s, the studio includes displays of Russell's personal objects used as props and references for accuracy. Open May 1 to September 30 seven days a week 9:00am to 6:00pm. Winter hours are Tuesday through Saturday 10:00am to 5:00pm and Sunday 1:00pm to 5:00pm. Group tours by appointment. Group admission: $6/person.

Great Falls Historic Trolley
156 Woodland Estates
Great Falls, MT 59404
406-452-9216 or 888-707-1100
Website: http://www.greatfallshistorictrolley.com

Make history when you climb aboard a climate-controlled, motorized replica trolley for a two-hour journey along the Lewis and Clark Trail. Hear fascinating lore as you see the C.M. Russell Museum, Lewis and Clark Interpretive Center, Giant Springs, three waterfalls, Paris Gibson Square, historic homes and railroad districts, saloons, the original town site, and chuches. Tours daily June through September. Monday through Thursday 10:00am and 4:00pm. Friday through Sunday 10:00am, 1:00pm, and 4:00pm. Admission charged. Christmas luminaria evening tours begin in early December. days.

Lewis and Clark National Historic Trail Interpretive Center
4201 Giant Springs Road
PO Box 1806
Great Falls, MT 59403-1806
406-727-8733
Fax: 406-453-6157
Website: http://www.fs.fed.us/r1/lewisclark/lcic/

On a bluff overlooking the Missouri River and its uppermost waterfall, the Lewis and Clark National Historic Trail Interpretive Center features the expedition's portage around the Great Falls of the Missouri River. Through the 6,000-square-foot exhibit hall, retrace the expedition's route and explore their interaction with Plains and Pacific Northwest Indians.Exhibits are self-guided. A 30-minute introductory feature film shows hourly in the 158-seat theater. Audio tours available for $3 in English, Spanish, German, French, and Japanese. Costumed interpreters year round conduct demonstrations of events from this memorable journey west. Journey back 200 years and relive adventure of the Lewis and Clark Expedition. Experience these early explorers' struggles and successes as they journeyed across the uncharted heartland of North America. Open Memorial Day to September 30 daily 9:00am to 6:00p. October 1 to Memorial Day Tuesday through Saturday 9:00am to 5:00pm and Sunday 12:00pm to 5:00pm. Minimum time: 2 hours. Admission: $5/adult, $4/senior (62+), $4/college students with valid identification, $2/youth (6-17), children under 6 free. Group rates may be available by prearrangement only, two weeks in advance.

Malmstrom Air Force Base Museum and Air Park
East end of 2nd Avenue North inside base main gate
Great Falls, MT 59405
406-731-2705
Fax: 406-731-2769
Email: museum@malmstrom.af.mil
Website: http://www.malmstrom.af.mil

Inside the museum you will find one of the largest military model aircraft displays in the northwest. The museum displays a World war II barracks reconstruction, a dirorama depicting the base's involvement in the Lend Lease program, an AIR-2A Genie Rocket, Semi-Automated Ground Equipment (SAGE), an MK-11 Re-Entry Vehicle, and much more. Open year-round Monday through Friday 10:00am to 4:00pm and on weekends from Memorial Day to Labor Day. Admission free.

Montana Cowboys' Association Museum
311 3rd Street Northwest
Great Falls, MT 59401
406-761-9299

The Cowboys' Museum takes a look at what Montana was like during the days of those unsung heroes, the cowboys, stockmen, and pioneers. The museum is housed in an authentic log cabin with double fireplaces and hitching posts. It is filled with Old West relics such as branding irons, rawhide ropes, and ox yokes. More than 500 mementos are on display. Open daily 11:00am to 2:00pm, except Christmas and Thanksgiving. Admission free.

Paris Gibson Square Museum of Art
1400 1st Ave. North
Great Falls, MT 59401
406-727-8255
Fax: 406-727-8256
Website: http://www.the-square.org

Named for the founder of Great Falls and originally built in 1895 as a high school, this beautiful building, constructed from sandstone quarried near Helena, is designated as a National Historic Landmark. The interior features Carolina Oak wainscotting, ornate brass door fixtures and hardwood floors. Open year-round Tuesday through Friday 10:00am to 5:00pm, Tuesday evening 7:00pm to 9:00pm, and weekends 12:00pm to 5:00pm. Winter Monday through Friday 10:00am to 5:00pm, Tuesday evening 7:00pm to 9:00pm, and Saturday 12:00pm to 5:00pm. Minimum time: 1 hour. Admission free, donations accepted.

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Outdoor Activities:

Giant Springs Heritage State Park
4 miles northeast of downtown Great Falls on Missouri River Drive
4600 Giant Springs Road
PO Box 6610
Great Falls, MT 59406
406-454-5840

Giant Springs is the largest freshwater springs in the world. First discovered by Lewis and Clark in 1805, the springs flow at a measured rate of 192,602,431 gallons every 24 hours, a veritable underground river. Lovely picnic grounds and a state fish hatchery are adjacent to this site. If planning a picnic please call two weeks in advance, group user fees may apply. Open year-round, daily. Minimum time: 30 minutes. Admission charged.

Great Falls of the Missouri

Many visitors to the city ask, "Where are the Great Falls?" There are actually several waterfalls on the Missouri. The "Great Falls" are now the site of Ryan Dam. Take US 87 north from Great Falls and follow the signs to Ryan Dam. The dam is operated by Montana Power Company and arrangements can be made to use their clubhouse facility and outdoor picnic area. Crooked Falls and Rainbow Falls remain almost in their original state and can be viewed from River Drive just outside the city. Black Eagle Falls can be seen from River Drive en route to Giant Springs Heritage State Park.

Ulm Pishkun State Park
342 Ulm Vaughn Road
PO Box 109
Ulm, MT 59485
406-866-2217

Ulm Pishkun Buffalo Jump celebrates a rich cultural history dating back 1,500 years. Prehistoric Native Americans hunted bison by driving them over a cliff. Ulm Pishkun may be one of the largest buffalo jump sites in the world. Inside the visitor center colorful exhibits display hands-on information, drawing visitors into the world of the Northern Plains people, who existed hundreds of years ago. The visitor center shows how the people used the buffalo jump and the gifts of the buffalo to sustain their way of life. This site captures the hearts and imagination of historian and tourist alike. Open summer daily 9:00am to 5:00pm. Winter Wednesday through Saturday 10:00am to 4:00pm and Sunday 12:00pm to 4:00pm. Special tours for groups available. Admission charged.

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Hamilton (See Bitterroot Valley)

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	Hardin
	43 miles southeast of Billings on I-90 Population: 3,384

Hardin Chamber of Commerce and Agriculture 10 East Railway Street Hardin, MT 59034 406-665-1672

Located where the Bighorn and Little Bighorn rivers converge on the edge of the Crow Indian Reservation, Hardin is the county seat of Big Horn County. The town is surrounded by productive ranches and farms, including the largest wheat farm in the world. Coal mining has also contributed greatly to the local economy.

Activities and/or guided services for this area include boating, river floats, hunting, fishing, and golf.

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Attractions:

Big Horn County Historical Museum and Visitor Center
I-90, Exit 497
Rt. 1, Box 1206A, Hardin, MT 59034
406-665-1672
Website: http://www.museumonthebighorn.org

The museum complex consists of 20 authentic historic structures and two exhibit buildings filled with horse-drawn equipment and restored tractors and farm equipment. Buildings include a farmhouse, a log cabin, a church, a school, a store, a depot, a barn, camping cabins, a slaughterhouse, a doctor's building, a service station, a blacksmith shop, and farming buildings. The grounds are great for picnics, and the main building features rotating exhibits, a gift shop, and travel information. Open year-round. June through August Monday through Saturday 9:00am to 8:00pm and Sunday 9:30am to 3:30pm. September through May Monday through Saturday 9:00am to 5:00pm and closed Sunday. Minimum time: 1 hour. Admission free.

Little Bighorn Battlefield National Monument (See Major Attractions)

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Outdoor Activities:

Apsaalooke Tours
1 Forestry Lane
PO Box 370
Crow Agency, MT 59022
406-638-3100
Fax: 406-638-3157
Website: http://www.lbhc.cc.mt.us

Custom tours of the Crow Indian Reservation. Options include the Little Bighorn Battlefield National Monument, Bighorn River floats, Indian cultural presentations, dance performances, Indian food and more. Tours are arranged by the Little Big Horn College tourism department. Tours offered June­Sept. Rates vary. Notify at least 10 days in advance.

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	Harlowton
	Central Montana at junction of US 12 adn 191 Population: 1,062

Harlowton Chamber of Commerce 17 South Central PO Box 694 Harlowton, MT 59036 406-632-4694 Fax: 406-632-5803 Website: http://www.harlowtonchamber.com

Harlowton was born in 1900 as a mainstay of the Jawbone Railroad, which was built by Richard Harlow from whom the town received its namesake. The town later became the hub for electric engines for the Mikwaukee Railroad. Nestled amongst three mountain ranges, Harlowton, known as the "Heart of the Good Life," offers fresh air, easy access to recreation, two nearby lakes, and is within easy travel distance of four major Montana cities. Its people are warm and friendly.

Activities in this area include ranch vacations, fishing, hunting, golf, and shopping.

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Attractions:

Upper Musellshell Museum
11 South Central
PO Box 364
Harlowton, MT 59036
406-632-5519
Fax: 406-632-5644

The museum features the dinosaur replica Avacertops lammersi and other dinosaur bones discovered in the area. It also features Indian artifacts, gun collections, a schoolroom, a pioneer bedroom, and a general store, as well as Mikwaukee Railroad history. Open May 15 to September 15 daily 10:00am to 5:00pm. Closed Monday, but will arrange opening for groups. Minimum time: 2 hours. Admission: $2.

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	Havre
	The exact center of the east-west expanse of Montana on US 2 Population: 9,621

Havre Chamber of Commerce 518 1st Street PO Box 308 Havre, MT 59501 406-265-4383 Website: http://www.havremt.com

Located in the rolling plains of north central Montana, Havre was founded more than 100 years ago. The economy is diversified with farming, ranching, hospital and health services, education, professional and retail businesses and the railroad. Havre is the home of MSU-Northern and the headquarters for the Montana Division of the Burlington Northern Santa Fe Railroad. Havre is surrounded by the Milk River, wheat fields and the Bear Paw Mountains. Self-guided walking tours of historic sites and homes in downtown Havre are available from the Chamber of Commerce.

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Attractions:

Bear Paw Battleground
16 miles south of Chinook on US 240
PO Box 26
Chinook, MT 59523
406-357-3130
Fax: 406-357-3140

One of Montana's three units of the Nez Perce National Historic Park, the battleground memorializes the last major encounter between American Indians and the U.S. Cavalry. It was here that Chief Joseph of the Nez Perce made his famous speech: "From where the sun now stands, I will fight no more forever." There is an interpretive trail. Open year-round. Summer open daylight hours; September through May by appointment. Full-time park ranger available mid-May to September. Minimum time 1.5 hours. Admission free.

H. Earl Clack Memorial Museum
306 3rd Avenue
Havre, MT 59501
406-265-4000
Fax: 406-265-5487

The H. Earl Clack Memorial Museum interprets the history of Havre and the Hi-Line from prehistoric times to the mid-twentieth century. Exhibits ranging from dinosaurs to Native American cultures can be experienced along with several dioramas depicting life and events as they once were, with two created by nationally known artist Bob Scrivner of Browning. An art gallery featuring artists of various media is also located in the museum. Open Labor Day to Memorial Day Tuesday through Saturday 10:00am to 6:00pm. Special tours for groups. Minimum time: 30 minutes. Admission free, donations accepted.

Fort Assinniboine Historic Site
Guided tours only
PO Box 308
Havre, MT 59501
406-265-4000 or 406-265-4383

Fort Assinniboine was the largest military post in Montana and was one of the largest in the US, rivaling Ft. Leavenworth in Kansas. It was on early assignment of first Lt. John J. Pershing, later Army General Pershing, with the Black 10th Cavalry. The fort stands today as a monument to our state's exciting past. Open June 1 to September 1. Tours daily 5:00pm from the Clack Museum. Special tours also available. Minimum time: 2 hours. Group admission: $5/adult, $2/student, children free.

Havre Residential Historic District
306 3rd Avenue
406-265-6233
Fax: 406-265-5487

The Havre/Hill County Historical Preservation Commission invites you to stroll into yesteryear by taking a self-guided tour of our beautiful Residential Historic District. Maps are available at the Heritage Center, Havre Beneathe the Streets, and the Havre/Hill County Library. The Commission offers a guided tour of a portion of the District every Saturday evening at 7:00pm during the summer months weather permitting. The tour starts and ends at the Heritage Center. Tours are free, but donations are accepted.

Havre Beneath the Streets
100 3rd Avenue
PO Box 1605
Havre, MT 59501
406-265-8888

Wander beneath Havre and visit the Sporting Eagle Saloon, an opium den, (one of three known to exist in the early days) a Chinese laundry, bakery, bordello, barbershop and more. All look as they did at the turn-of-the-century. Open Memorial Day­Labor Day, daily 9am­5pm. Winter, noon­5pm. Special tours upon request. Minimum time: 1.5 hours.

Wahkpa Chu'gn Buffalo Jump
c/o Hill County Courthouse
3993 6th Street West
Havre, MT 59501
406-265-6417 or 406-265-4000
Fax: 406-265-3675

One of the largest prehistoric Indian bison kill and campsites. The site was frequently used from approximately 2,000 to 600 years ago. Discovered in the fall of 1961, the site, situated on county land, has been kept in it's natural state. The walking tour will provide a unique and unequaled view of the area's cultural history. Tours daily 10:00am to 5:00pm. Evening tour at 7:00pm except Sunday. Off-season tours available anytime, weather permitting, by calling 406-265-6417. Minimum time: 1 hour. Group admission: $5/adult, $4/senior, $2.50/student.

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	Helena
	Western Montana at junction of 1-15 and US 12 Population: 25,780

Helena Chamber of Commerce 225 Cruse Street, Suite A Helena, MT 59601 406-447-1530 or 800-743-5362 Fax: 406-447-1532 Website: http://www.helenacvb.visitmt.com

Helena (pronounced HEL-ah-na) owes its existence to the gold discoveries in Last Chance Gulch by four prospectors in the summer of 1864. The discovery of placer gold, quartz gold and silver, as well as lead, created an overnight boom town. In 1875, Helena became the capital of Montana Territory. When Montana became a state, the fight for location of the state capital pitted "Copper King" Marcus Daly of Anaconda against rival William A. Clark, who supported Helena. Helena won, and in October 1898, ground was broken for the new Capitol. Helena, still the seat of Montana's state government, is famous for more than government and politics. Every year, visitors are drawn by the Last Chance Stampede and Fair, the Western Rendezvous of Art, Jazz Jubilee, and Mt. Helena Music Festival.

Activities and/or guided service for this area include natural hot springs, hikes, boating, resort cabins, river floats, hunting, fishing, digging for sapphires, golf, cross-country and downhill skiing, and snowmobiling.

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Attractions:

Cathedral of St. Helena
Corner of Lawrence and Warren
530 North Ewing Street
Helena, MT 59601
406-442-5825

The Cathedral of St. Helena was constructed at the turn of the century during the episcopate of Bishop John Carroll. It is an outstanding example of decorated, or geometrical Gothic architecture, patterned after the church of the Sacred Heart in Vienna, Austria. Stained glass windows, white marble altars, statues and genuine gold leaf decorate the sanctuary. Outside, majestic twin spires rise 230 feet above the street. Open year-round, daily 7:15am to 6:00pm. Daily Mass Monday through Friday 7:15am, and at noon on Tuesday, Wednesday, and Thursday. Pre-arranged guided tours take 1 hour, $10 donation requested.

Grandstreet Theater
325 North Park Avenue
PO Box 1258
Helena, MT 59624
406-442-4270 (business office)
406-443-3311 (reservations 12:00pm to 5:00pm)
Website: http://www.grandstreet.net

Grandstreet Theater is an amateur year-round community theater dedicated to establishing and maintaining standards of artistic excellence in the Helena community by producing live theatrical entertainment. Seven fully-staged productions are offered each season in the historic theater. Discount packages on group tickets. Special tours for groups. Curtain time at 8pm, Thurs­Sat. June­Aug, Tues­Sat shows, 7pm.

Holter Museum of Art
12 East Lawrence Street
Helena, MT 59601
406-442-6400
Fax: 406-442-2404
Website: http://www.holtermuseum.org

The Holter presents a program of visual arts exhibitions for the education, inspiration and enrichment of the public. Permanent and temporary exhibitions show both contemporary and historic pieces from local, regional, national and international sources. Open year-round. June through September Monday through Saturday 10:00am to 5:00pm. and Sunday 12:00pm to 5:00pm. Winter Tuesday through Friday 11:30am to 5:00pm and Saturday through Sunday 12:00pm to 5:00pm. Minimum time: 30 minutes. Admission free.

Montana Club Historic Tours
24 West 6th Avenue
PO Box 637
Helena, MT 59624
406-442-5980
Fax: 406-442-0276

For the first time, the century-old Montana Club is open for tours. The private club traces its history back to an era when quiet elegance was expected. While viewing the city and the club, guests will hear stories rich in detail about the "good old days," including underground tunnels and hidden closets for prohibition liquor. The club's reputation was made by people most of us know only from history books, including copper kings, billionaires, and politicians who hosted notables such as Mark Twain and Theodore Roosevelt. Montana's past is alive at the Montana Club. Call for rates and to arrange a tour.

Montana Historical Society
225 North Roberts
Helena, MT 59620
406-444-4789
Website: http://www.montanahistoricalsociety.org

Founded in 1865, the Montana Historical Society is the state's premiere historical museum. One of the country's most important collections of Charles M. Russell art is on view in the Mackay Gallery. and changing exhibits are presented in the Northeast Gallery, the Reflections Gallery, and the lobby. The Montana Homeland exhibit spans a period of 12,000 years and explores the ways people interacted with the environment, and how their everyday activities reflected that interation. The state archives and historical library are also in the building. The Museum Store features books on Montana and the West, Charles M. Russell prints, and variety of gift items. Open May 1 to September 30 Monday through Saturday 9:00am to 5:00pm, Thursday until 8:00pm, closed Sundays and holidays. Open October 1 to April 30 Tuesday through Saturday 9:00am to 5:00pm, Thursday until 8:00pm, closed Sundays, Mondays, and holidays. Minimum time: 1 hour. Admission charged.

Original Governor's Mansion
304 North Ewing
c/o Montana Historical Society
225 N. Roberts
PO Box 201201
Helena, MT 59620-1201
406-444-4789
Website: http://www.montanahistorical society.org

Constructed in 1888 for wealthy industrialist W. A. Chessman, this building served as the Helena home for nine Montana governors from 1913 to 1959. It contains 20 rooms and seven fireplaces, all restored to turn-of-the-century elegance with period furnishings. Tours, conducted on a regular basis, concentrate on the families who lived in the house, the architecture, and its furnishings. During warm weather, tours include the mansion's carriage house. Open May 1 to September 30, Tuesday through Sunday 12:00pm to 4:00pm. October 1 to April 30 Saturday 12:00pm to 4:00pm. Public tours hourly, minimum time: 45 minutes. Admission charged. Group tours by appointment.

State Capitol
Montana Avenue and Sixth Avenue
c/o Montana Historical Society
225 North Roberts
Helena, MT 59620
406-444-4789
Website: http://www.montanahistoricalsociety.org

On a gentle slope surrounded by 10 acres of spacious lawns and other state buildings, Montana's Capitol looks north over the beautiful Prickly Pear Valley. The building is constructed of sandstone and granite. A statue depicting Liberty sits atop the copper dome. A walk through the Capitol will allow you to view many beautiful paintings, including Charles M. Russell's magnificent historical depiction of Lewis and Clark meeting the Indians at Ross' Hole on September 5, 1805. The main section of the Capitol was completed in 1902 and the two wings in 1912. Self-guided tours available daily from 9:00am to 5:00pm. Guided tours May 1 to September 30 Monday through Saturday 9:00am to 3:00pm and Sunday 12:00pm to 4:00pm. October 1 to April 30 Saturday 10:00am to 2:00pm. Legislative session (odd-numbered years) January 1 to April 30 Monday through Saturday 9:00am to 3:00pm. Closed holidays. Tours hourly. Minimum time: 45 minutes. Admission free.

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Outdoor Activities:

Archie Bray Foundation for the Ceramic Arts
2915 Country Club Avenue
Helena, MT 59602
406-443-3502
Fax: 406-443-0934
Email: archiebray@archiebray.org
Website: http://www.archiebray.org

Recipient of the 2001 American Craft Council Award of Distinction, the Archie Bray Foundation for the Ceramic Arts was founded in 1951 as the first artist residency program in the United States devoted solely to ceramic art. The Bray is located on the grounds of the former Western Clay Manufacturing Company, which is on the National Historic Register and draws ceramic artists throughout the US, Europe, and Asia to Montana to work. Former directors include Peter Voulkos, Rudy Autio, Ken Ferguson, David Shaner, and current director Josh DeWeese. This stimulating, creative community offers visitors free access to some of the finest ceramic artin the world. The Bray Gallery offers work for sale daily and the Warehouse Gallery exhibits a variety of ceramic art from June through August. The 26-acre site features site-specific outdoor sculpture, self-guided walking tours, and guided tours by appointment.

Gates of the Mountains Boat Tours
16 miles north of Helena off I-15
PO Box 478
Helena, MT 59624
406-458-5241
Website: http://www.gatesofthemountains.com

This area was named by Captain Lewis of the Lewis and Clark Expedition in 1805. Towering cliffs appeared to block the way up the Missouri River. As they neared the cliffs and changed directions, the cliffs seemed to pull apart like a huge gate. This spectacular gorge is reached only by boat or trail. Ninety and 49-passenger excursion boats operate from Hilger Landing and make a stop at the Meriwether Picnic Ground. You may stay at the picnic area and catch another excursion boat back. Open Memorial Day weekend through late September. Charter service available for groups of 20 or more, and starts May 1. Minimum time: 2 hours. Group admission $10/adult, $9/senior, $6/child.

Last Chance Ranch Wagon Ride Dinners
2884 Grizzly Gulch
Helena, MT 59601
406-442-2884 or 800-505-2884
Email: bruce@lastchanceranch.biz
Website: http://www.lastchanceranch.biz

Travel back in time via horsedrawn wagons to Montana's largest tipi. Enjoy our best-in-the-west prime rib dinner complete with huckleberry cheesecake and cowboy coffee. Singing, cowboy poetry, and a musical Lewis and Clark tribute by Montana singer/songwriter Bruce Anfison top off this memorable evening. Located 9 miles above historic Helena. Transportation provided. Open June through September daily 5:00pm to 10:00pm. Special tours for groups. Call for rates.

Last Chance Tour Train
225 Cruse Avenue, Suite A
Helena, MT 59601
406-442-1023 or 888-423-2023
Fax: 406-442-1003
Website: http://www.lctours.com

The tour train features informative, entertaining tours of the city. The tour begins at the Montana Historical Society and covers most of the major points of interest in the city. The Pioneer Cabin, the Old Fire Tower and the elegant 19th century mansions constructed by Helena's wealthy miners and merchants are just a few of the things one can see on this tour. Step-on guides available year round. Tours May through September daily. Depart on the hour from the Historical Society. Minimum time: 1 hour. Admission $6/adult, $5/senior, $5/child. Group rates available.

Tizer Gardens
38 Tizer Lake Road
Jefferson City, MT 59638
406-933-8789
Fax: 209-633-6109
Email: info@tizerlakegardens.com
Website: http://www.tizerlakegardens.com

Our gardens are filled with over 600 roses, 150 varieties of clemantis, perennials, herbs, vegetables, annuals by the thousands, and much more. We encourage our guests to taste the herbs and veggies, smell the flowers, inhale the clean mountain air, or stick their toes in the creek. Bird watchers are also delighted when they encounter the many varieties of birds, squirrels, and chipmunks. The hummingbirds, however, are always the biggest hit. Allow us to arrange a traditional high tea served on lace and with fine china by the creek. Or perhaps an old-fashioned picnic complete with red checkered table cloths, ice cold lemonade, and a tasty lunch. Open April 15 to September 31 Wednesday through Sunday 10:00am to 6:00pm. Friday until 9:00pm. We will open on Monday or Tuesday if prearranged. Special tours for groups. Admission: $4/person. Driver/escort is complimentary.

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