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Capital city of Montana, United States
Photo: w:en:User:SWD, Public domain via Wikimedia Commons
Helena is the state capital of Montana, in the Western Central part of the state. Visitors come to see Helena’s historic Last Chance Gulch, and its mansion district once home to Helena’s gold mining millionaires. The city has 75 mi of running or biking trails. The mighty Missouri River is not far, with opportunities for rafting and fly-fishing.
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Variety of art exhibits in 5 galleries.
This neoclassical building was constructed between 1896 and 1902 out of Montana sandstone and granite. The dome is covered with copper and topped with a feminine statue affectionately dubbed Montana. Much of the building is accessible to visitors, and an information desk offers brochures and occasional walking tours. Inside, four circular paintings surround the massive rotunda, surrounded by paintings depicting Montana's early history. More artwork decorates the House and Senate chambers.
Guardian of the Gulch
A wooden fire tower that was built in 1874 overlooking the downtown district, in response to a series of devastating fires that swept through the early mining camp. When a 2016 arson attack severely damaged the tower, it was rebuilt using the same methods as in its original construction.
In the 1870s, a brick and stonemason named Louis Reeder built over 30 brick and stone one-room tenements for miners. This hillside pocket avoided redevelopment over the years, leaving it the oldest intact piece of early Helena. It now houses offices, non-profits and a few artist studios. Tours available.
18-hole course, open and thriving since 1925.
Interactive children's science museum
A ski and snowboard area north of Helena. 1,500 acres (610 hectares) with summit elevation of 7,330 feet (2,230 m).
Hand-carved carousel, featuring native Montanan animals. They also feature delicious homemade ice cream with flavors like Missouri River Mud, Frog Mint, and Buffalo Jump.
Enjoy an ice-hockey game at the Helena Ice Arena. The Bighorns play in the NA3 hockey league.
Built by Alltec
Large city park featuring several hiking trails, also suitable for mountain biking. The 1906 trail takes about 2 hours to reach the summit.
Hyzer Hills
Disc golf course with 18 holes. Variety of holes make it a good course for most skill levels.
Enjoy the beauty of the Gates of the Mountains from aboard one of two tour boats - the "Sacajawea" (named after the only woman and indigenous person on the Expedition), and the "Hilger Rose" (named after Nicholas Hilger, who began the tours in 1886 on a vessel named "Rose of Helena"). The 105-minute cruise starts at the marina in the foothills of the Rocky Mountains.
Montana's third largest lake. You can enjoy all the water activities from the marina, or one of several campsites.
Traditional Greek lunch menu
Classic drive-in doing business since 1948.
Authentic Italian restaurant. Multi-course meals with menu changing to make use of in-season fresh produce. Outdoor seating available. Reservations recommended, can be booked on website.
6 categories of main courses. 5 types of steaks with different portion size options. Extensive wine list.
The last bordello in Helena. Pub-style food. Several microbrews. Outdoor seating available.
Deli lunch spot.
Artisan roaster. Beans available for retail purchase.
Coffee shop.
Bottle shop with a tasting room, fine wines with a down to earth touch.
Popular downtown bar, with live music and DJs.
Hand-crafted beer. Outside food is welcome. Pets allowed in downstairs outdoor area.
Locally sourced ingredients. Casual, family-friendly. 5 flagships plus rotators.
Makes ales, lagers and seltzers. Best known for award winning Miner's Gold. Live music and game room.
Balcony views.
Occasional market days featuring small local businesses, live music every so often.
Live music and events. Featuring variety of ales, sour, and fruit flavors.
Distillery and cocktail bar using local ingredients.
Basic hotel with good location at the city center. Microwave/fridge in room.
A friendly hotel in the city center with breakfast, bar/restaurant, casino, and indoor pool.
Restored mansion filled with authentic items. Each room has a private bath, gourmet breakfast.
A walking outdoor mall including a walk through Helena's history, a small playground and an old train car.
By plane
There is no public transportation available from the airport into town. You can go by taxi, ride hailing (Uber is available) or rental car.
By bus
A small bus network is provided by Capital Area Transit Service, fares cost $1.50. Also, there's a free shuttle between Capitol Hill Mall and the Capitol Building.
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Helena · Regional · HLN
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