bigtravelbuzzHelena is the capital city of Montana, located in the western part of the state. Here are some things to see and do in Helena:
Montana State Capitol: The Montana State Capitol building is a must-see attraction in Helena. Visitors can take a free guided tour to learn about the state’s history and government.
Gates of the Mountains Wilderness Area: The Gates of the Mountains Wilderness Area is a stunning natural area located just outside of Helena. Visitors can take a boat tour to see the towering limestone cliffs and spot wildlife such as bald eagles and bighorn sheep.
Helena Historic District: The Helena Historic District is a 75-block area in downtown Helena with over 1,000 historic buildings. Visitors can take a self-guided walking tour to learn about the city’s history and architecture.
Cathedral of Saint Helena: The Cathedral of Saint Helena is a beautiful cathedral located in downtown Helena. It features stained glass windows and ornate architecture.
Helena Farmers’ Market: The Helena Farmers’ Market is a popular attraction for locals and visitors alike. It features a variety of vendors selling fresh produce, crafts, and other goods.
Montana Historical Society Museum: The Montana Historical Society Museum features exhibits and artifacts related to Montana’s history and culture. It is located next to the Montana State Capitol building.
Mount Helena City Park: Mount Helena City Park offers hiking trails and stunning views of the city and surrounding mountains. It is a popular spot for hiking and outdoor recreation.
Holter Museum of Art: The Holter Museum of Art features a variety of contemporary art exhibits and programs. It is located in downtown Helena.
Blackfoot River: The Blackfoot River is a popular destination for fly fishing and other outdoor activities. Visitors can book a guided fishing trip or explore the area on their own.
Last Chance Tour Train: The Last Chance Tour Train offers a fun and informative tour of Helena’s historic district. Visitors can hop on and off the train at various stops to explore the area.
Places to Visit in Helena
Here are some places to visit in Helena, Montana:
Montana State Capitol: The Montana State Capitol building is an impressive landmark located in Helena. Visitors can take a free guided tour to learn about the state’s history and government.
Helena Historic District: The Helena Historic District is a 75-block area in downtown Helena with over 1,000 historic buildings. Visitors can take a self-guided walking tour to learn about the city’s history and architecture.
Cathedral of Saint Helena: The Cathedral of Saint Helena is a beautiful cathedral located in downtown Helena. It features stained glass windows and ornate architecture.
Montana Historical Society Museum: The Montana Historical Society Museum features exhibits and artifacts related to Montana’s history and culture. It is located next to the Montana State Capitol building.
Last Chance Gulch: Last Chance Gulch is a pedestrian-only street in downtown Helena that features shops, restaurants, and historic buildings.
Holter Museum of Art: The Holter Museum of Art features a variety of contemporary art exhibits and programs. It is located in downtown Helena.
Gates of the Mountains Wilderness Area: The Gates of the Mountains Wilderness Area is a stunning natural area located just outside of Helena. Visitors can take a boat tour to see the towering limestone cliffs and spot wildlife such as bald eagles and bighorn sheep.
Mount Helena City Park: Mount Helena City Park offers hiking trails and stunning views of the city and surrounding mountains. It is a popular spot for hiking and outdoor recreation.
Archie Bray Foundation for the Ceramic Arts: The Archie Bray Foundation for the Ceramic Arts is a nonprofit organization that supports ceramic artists from around the world. Visitors can tour the studio and gallery space and see the work of resident artists.
Great Northern Carousel: The Great Northern Carousel is a unique attraction in Helena that features hand-carved animals and music. Visitors can ride the carousel or watch the artists at work in the adjacent studio.
Best Time To Visit Helena
The best time to visit Helena, Montana is during the summer months of June to August when the weather is warm and sunny with average high temperatures in the 70s and 80s Fahrenheit (20s to 30s Celsius). This is the peak tourist season, and many of the popular outdoor attractions and activities are open, such as hiking, fishing, and water sports.
Fall (September to November) is also a good time to visit Helena when the weather is cooler and the fall foliage is at its peak. This is a great time for hiking, wildlife viewing, and visiting local farmers’ markets.
Winter (December to February) can be cold and snowy, but it is a great time for winter sports such as skiing, snowboarding, and snowshoeing. Many of the local attractions also offer winter activities and events.
Spring (March to May) can be unpredictable with fluctuating temperatures and weather conditions, but it is a good time to visit if you want to avoid the crowds and enjoy the blooming wildflowers. Some outdoor activities may not be available until later in the season due to snowmelt and muddy conditions.
Things to Do in Helena
Here are some things to do in Helena, Montana:
Visit the Montana State Capitol: Take a free guided tour of the Montana State Capitol building and learn about the state’s history and government.
Explore the Helena Historic District: Take a self-guided walking tour of the Helena Historic District to learn about the city’s history and architecture.
Hike Mount Helena City Park: Enjoy hiking and stunning views of the city and surrounding mountains at Mount Helena City Park.
Visit the Cathedral of Saint Helena: Admire the beautiful architecture and stained glass windows of the Cathedral of Saint Helena.
Tour the Montana Historical Society Museum: Explore exhibits and artifacts related to Montana’s history and culture at the Montana Historical Society Museum.
Take a boat tour of the Gates of the Mountains Wilderness Area: See the towering limestone cliffs and wildlife such as bald eagles and bighorn sheep on a boat tour of the Gates of the Mountains Wilderness Area.
Visit the Holter Museum of Art: See a variety of contemporary art exhibits and programs at the Holter Museum of Art.
Ride the Great Northern Carousel: Ride a unique carousel featuring hand-carved animals and music at the Great Northern Carousel.
Go fishing or water sports: Enjoy fishing, kayaking, paddleboarding, and other water sports on the Missouri River.
Attend a local event or festival: Helena hosts many local events and festivals throughout the year, including the Last Chance Stampede and Fair, the Governor’s Cup Road Race, and the Hometown Helena Farmers’ Market.
How to get around in Helena
Here are some ways to get around in Helena, Montana:
Walk: Helena is a walkable city, and many of the attractions and activities are located within a short walking distance from each other. Walking is a great way to explore the historic district and downtown area.
Bike: Helena has a network of bike trails and lanes, making it easy to bike around the city. There are several bike rental shops in the downtown area.
Drive: If you have a car, driving is also an option for getting around Helena. There are several parking garages and lots in the downtown area.
Public transportation: The Helena Area Transit Service (HATS) provides bus service around Helena and the surrounding area. The bus system has several routes and stops throughout the city.
Taxis and ride-sharing services: There are several taxi companies and ride-sharing services, such as Uber and Lyft, that operate in Helena.
Tour companies: There are several tour companies that offer guided tours of Helena and the surrounding area. These tours can be a great way to explore the city and learn about its history and culture.
Where to eat in Helena
Here are some popular places to eat in Helena, Montana:
The Parrot Confectionery: This historic candy store and soda fountain is a local favorite and has been serving up sweet treats and light meals since 1922.
The Hawthorn Bottle Shop and Tasting Room: This cozy wine bar and restaurant offers a menu of shareable plates and entrees, as well as an extensive selection of wines and craft beers.
The Windbag Saloon & Grill: This casual bar and grill serves up classic American fare, including burgers, sandwiches, and salads, in a lively atmosphere.
Steve’s Café: This family-owned diner has been serving up breakfast and lunch favorites, including pancakes, omelets, and burgers, since 1946.
No Sweat Café: This vegetarian and vegan café offers a menu of healthy and flavorful dishes, including soups, salads, and sandwiches, as well as smoothies and fresh juices.
Lucca’s Italian Deli: This cozy deli and bakery serves up authentic Italian sandwiches, pastries, and coffee in a warm and welcoming atmosphere.
Brewhouse Pub & Grille: This popular brewery and pub offers a menu of classic pub fare, including burgers, sandwiches, and pizzas, as well as a variety of locally brewed beers.
On Broadway: This upscale restaurant offers a menu of New American cuisine, featuring locally sourced ingredients and a variety of wines and cocktails.
Firetower Coffee House: This trendy coffee shop and café offers a variety of coffee drinks, teas, and light bites, as well as a cozy atmosphere and outdoor seating.
Overland Express: This iconic Helena restaurant serves up classic Chinese-American dishes in a retro diner-style atmosphere.
Famous street stalls in Helena
Helena is not particularly known for its street food scene, but there are a few popular food trucks and stands that you can check out:
The Waffle Wagon: This food truck offers a variety of sweet and savory Belgian waffles, such as the “Montana Breakfast Waffle” with bacon, egg, and cheese, and the “Banana Nutella Waffle.”
The Saucy Dogs: This food cart offers a variety of hot dogs and sausages, such as the “Classic Chicago Dog” and the “Jalapeno Cheddar Brat,” as well as a selection of toppings and sauces.
The Bunkhouse Barbecue: This food truck serves up classic barbecue dishes, such as pulled pork sandwiches, smoked brisket, and ribs, as well as sides like coleslaw and baked beans.
The Dumpling Wheel: This food stand offers a variety of homemade dumplings, including pork and cabbage, vegetable, and shrimp and pork, as well as dipping sauces.
The Grub-Stake: This food truck offers a menu of classic American fare, such as burgers, hot dogs, and grilled cheese sandwiches, as well as a variety of sides and desserts.
Note that these street vendors may not be open year-round and may have varying hours of operation, so it’s a good idea to check their social media pages or websites for the most up-to-date information.
Where to stay in Helena
Luxury accommodation
Here are some options for luxury accommodations in Helena, Montana:
The Helena Great Northern Hotel: This historic hotel, built in 1890, has been beautifully restored and offers luxurious guest rooms and suites with modern amenities. The hotel also features a restaurant, lounge, and fitness center.
The Delta Hotels by Marriott Helena Colonial: This modern hotel offers spacious and stylish guest rooms and suites, as well as an indoor pool, fitness center, and on-site restaurant and bar.
The Residence Inn by Marriott Helena: This all-suite hotel offers spacious and comfortable accommodations with fully equipped kitchens, as well as an indoor pool, hot tub, and fitness center.
The DoubleTree by Hilton Helena Downtown: This centrally located hotel offers comfortable guest rooms and suites, as well as a fitness center, indoor pool, and on-site restaurant and lounge.
The Wingate by Wyndham Helena Airport: This hotel, located near the Helena Regional Airport, offers comfortable guest rooms and suites with modern amenities, as well as a fitness center and complimentary breakfast.
The Radisson Colonial Hotel Helena: This hotel offers comfortable guest rooms and suites, as well as a fitness center, indoor pool, and on-site restaurant and lounge.
These luxury accommodations offer a range of amenities and services, and are located in convenient locations throughout Helena. Prices may vary depending on the season and availability, so it’s a good idea to check with the hotel directly for the most up-to-date pricing information.
Where to stay in Helena
Budget accommodation
Here are some options for budget-friendly accommodations in Helena, Montana:
Motel 6 Helena: This motel offers simple and affordable guest rooms with basic amenities, such as free Wi-Fi and cable TV. The motel also features a seasonal outdoor pool and coin-operated laundry facilities.
Howard Johnson by Wyndham Helena: This hotel offers comfortable and affordable guest rooms with basic amenities, such as free Wi-Fi and cable TV. The hotel also features a fitness center and complimentary breakfast.
Super 8 by Wyndham Helena: This hotel offers clean and comfortable guest rooms with basic amenities, such as free Wi-Fi and cable TV. The hotel also features a fitness center and complimentary breakfast.
Baymont by Wyndham Helena: This hotel offers affordable and comfortable guest rooms with basic amenities, such as free Wi-Fi and cable TV. The hotel also features an indoor pool and hot tub, as well as complimentary breakfast.
Jorgenson’s Inn & Suites: This hotel offers clean and comfortable guest rooms with basic amenities, such as free Wi-Fi and cable TV. The hotel also features an indoor pool and hot tub, as well as an on-site restaurant and lounge.
These budget-friendly accommodations offer a range of amenities and services, and are located in convenient locations throughout Helena. Prices may vary depending on the season and availability, so it’s a good idea to check with the hotel directly for the most up-to-date pricing information.
Travel Tips Helena
Here are some travel tips to keep in mind when visiting Helena:
Dress in layers: Helena’s weather can be unpredictable, so it’s a good idea to dress in layers so you can adjust your clothing as needed.
Explore the outdoors: Helena is known for its beautiful scenery and outdoor activities, so be sure to spend some time exploring the area’s parks, trails, and other natural attractions.
Visit in the summer: Helena’s summer months, from June to August, offer the warmest weather and the most outdoor activities.
Check for events: Helena hosts a variety of events and festivals throughout the year, so be sure to check for any events that may be happening during your visit.
Take a guided tour: Helena has a rich history, and there are many guided tours available to help you learn more about the area’s past and culture.
Bring comfortable walking shoes: Helena is a walkable city, so bring comfortable walking shoes to explore the area’s downtown and other attractions.
Rent a car: While it’s possible to get around Helena without a car, renting a car will give you more flexibility to explore the surrounding area and nearby attractions.
Respect the wildlife: Helena is home to a variety of wildlife, including bears and mountain lions, so be sure to practice caution and respect the animals and their habitats.
Bring sunscreen and insect repellent: Helena can be sunny and buggy during the summer months, so be sure to pack sunscreen and insect repellent to protect yourself from the sun and bugs.
Be prepared for changes in altitude: Helena is located at a higher altitude, so if you’re not used to the elevation, be prepared for potential changes in your breathing and physical activity.