The city of Great Falls has some of the most intriguing history of any city in Montana.  An area touched first by the hands of the Lewis and Clark Expedition, Great Falls is reflective of its Old West roots.  This historic area was home to famed cowboy artist C.M. Russell.  Today, visitors can experience the C.M. Russell Museum, a world class facility that reflects Russell’s artwork and lifestyle.  The Montana Cowboys Museum, also located in Great Falls, takes a real look at what Montana was like during the day of those unsung heroes – the cowboys, stockmen and pioneers.

The Lewis and Clark Expedition spent nearly a month in the area around “the thundering Great Falls of the Missouri” in the year 1805.  As part of the Lewis and Clark National Historic Trail, an interpretive center was constructed along the Missouri River that overlooks the falls.  The Center brings to life the experiences of the Expedition through hands-on exhibits, displays, interactive presentations and guides who help visitors explore the newly purchased Louisiana Territory as the Corps of Discovery did.

Great Falls is the proud home of Malmstrom Air Force Base and the center of our nation's first Minuteman Missile Complex. Malmstrom AFB houses a wonderful museum and air park that explains the history of the base, from its role in World War II to the present. Displays at the air park include a "Huey" helicopter, a Stratotanker used for in-flight refueling, a Minuteman intercontinental ballistic missile and many aircraft used as fighters and bombers.

  




 
 

1. C.M. Russell Museum
The C.M. Russell Museum owns one of the most complete collections of Charles Russell art and personal objects in the world. The permanent collection is comprised of over 12,000 art works and objects. View one of the nation's finest collections of Western art and history in spacious, modern surroundings.  Contact the museum for a current schedule of exhibitions, workshops, and programs. Admission fees: adult $9.00, student $4.00, senior $7.00 and children 5 and under are free.  406-727-2402.

2. The Lewis and Clark National Historic Trail Interpretive Center 
In 1804, Lewis and Clark set out to explore the newly purchased Louisiana Territory.  The Expedition's 8,000-mile journey across western North America brought them to Great Falls, now home to the Historic Trail Interpretive Center. Built into a scenic bluff with spectacular views of the Missouri River, the center's exhibits and ranger programs bring alive the indomitable spirit of exploration. Entry fee is $8.00 and children under the age of 16 are free. Call
406-727-8733 for more details.

3. Montana Cowboys Association Museum & Bar
The Cowboys Museum is one of the many projects the Montana Cowboys Association has undertaken to perpetuate the historical importance of our western heritage.  Inside it is filled with Old West relics. Actual items with which cowboys, stockmen, and pioneers worked are on display, including rawhide rope, branding irons and ox yokes.

4. Children’s Museum of Montana
The Children's Museum of Montana exists to ignite a lifelong passion for learning through hands-on interactive exploration of science, math and culture. The Children's Museum of Montana is full of innovative, hands-on activities and interactive exhibits. It offers the most fun per square foot for the young and the young at heart.  Visit www.childrensmuseumofmt.com for more information.

 

  

 






   
 



Great Falls Convention & Visitors Bureau
1106 9th Street South, P.O. Box 3208, Great Falls, MT 59403-3208 
1-800-735-8535

  
   

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