Visit the five waterfalls that surround the town of Great Falls and enjoy some of the Missouri River’s most spectacular sights. Each waterfall has a hydroelectric dam, giving Great Falls the nickname of Electric City.
The waterfalls that give Great Falls its name were discovered by the explorers Lewis and Clark on their famous 1804 expedition. Learn about their journey at the Lewis and Clark Interpretive Centre. Historic photo galleries and guided tours let you witness this pivotal period in America’s history.
Explore Giant Springs State Park, home to one of the country’s largest freshwater springs, with nearly 200 million gallons (760 million litres) of water rushing from these springs every day. You will also find a selection of local wildlife and one of the shortest rivers in the world the Roe River is only 201 feet (61 metres) long. Walk around Ryan Dam for spectacular views over the Missouri River.
For one of the nation’s finest exhibitions of American Western art, visit the C.M. Russell Museum in the town centre. Russell’s “cowboy art” is displayed here as well as Browning rifles and artifacts from Northern Plains Indians. Paintings from a variety of artists will take you back in time to the Wild West.
Younger family members will enjoy the Children’s Museum of Montana, which offers a unique look at the city through an assortment of hands-on exhibits.
Stroll around Gibson Park’s picturesque walks, picnic spaces and children’s play areas. Kids will enjoy a day at the Electric City Waterpark, where the Flow Rider wave machine and Lazy River offer all-day entertainment.
With many of Great Falls’ attractions located outside the town centre, having your own transportation is the best way to get around. The regular bus service is a good option for those who don’t want to drive. The climate is cool year-round, with the waterfalls at their most spectacular as the snow melts in spring.
