Helena, Montana Attractions

On Broadway is an upscale dining establishment that prides itself on its service and atmosphere as well as its food quality. The menu is a nice combination of seafood, steaks and pasta dishes. There are also a number of vegetarian entrees and a weekly vegetarian special. The wine list is broad and prices for bottled wines are very reasonable. The restaurant is smoke free. Chef Clint creates one or two specials daily.

The Holter Museum of Art serves Montana and neighboring states with a quality visual arts exhibition program that includes all media; brings national and international exhibitions into the region; provides a much-needed venue for local and regional artists; and collects, preserves, and interprets significant contemporary Northwest art. Seeking to nurture the creative spirit and to make the arts accessible to all, the Holter is committed to promoting participation by diverse audiences through outreach, innovative educational programming, and collaboration with other organizations. The facility is considered one of the finest in the state with five exhibition galleries, an Education Center, and a Collections and Research Center. The annual exhibit schedule is curated to appeal to the broad and diverse constituency that the Holter Museum serves. Exhibited art ranges from historical to modern to contemporary. The primary focus is on contemporary art with twelve exhibitions presented annually. In addition to the galleries, the Holter's museum shop is a regional showcase for fine art and crafts that includes the Artworks Gallery highlighting the works of about ten local artists each year.

Gates of the Mountains provides popular two-hour boat tours through the beautiful scenery along the Missouri River, offering a special Dinner Cruise every Friday night from July 11, 2008 through August 15, 2008.

The beautiful Cathedral of St. Helena was recently renovated, beginning in 2002 under the direction of Bishop Robert C. Morlino continues today under Bishop George Leo Thomas.

Travel the city of Helena aboard the Last Chance Tour Train. More of a train-shaped bus than an actual locomotive, the tour takes passengers through downtown. During the tour, the "engineer" relates the town history while pointing out various sites. If you're new to Helena, it's a fun way to get oriented.

In the late 1800s, Montana taxpayers funded the nearly $500,000 State Capitol Building. While a hefty sum, especially for the time, the money spent on this grandiose structure has made it one of the most magnificent government houses in the West. Visitors can tour its halls and learn more about its history by taking either a guided or unguided tour.

Established in 1865, the Montana Historical Society is one of the oldest institution of its kind west of the Mississippi River, incorporating Montana's Museum, the Montana Historical Society Press, Montana The Magazine of Western History, the Montana State Historic Preservation Office, and the MHS Research Center.

The Archie Bray Foundation for the Ceramic Arts is a public, nonprofit, educational institution founded in 1951 by brickmaker Archie Bray, who intended it to be "a place to make available for all who are seriously and sincerely interested in any of the branches of the ceramic arts, a fine place to work." It's primary mission is to provide an environment that stimulates creative work in ceramics.

The Great Northern Carousel is a modern hand built menagerie carousel reminiscent of turn-of-the century carousels. Besides the traditional horses, frogs, and rabbits, there are native Montana wildlife such as antelope, grizzly bears, bobcats, a buffalo, and even a cutthroat trout! Connected to the 40' carousel is the Great Ice Cream Company featuring homemade ice cream and fudge. The gift shop offers a wide array of gifts, toys, and collectables for people of all ages.

Mount Helena City Park at its peak is 5,468 feet above sea level and about 1,300 feet above the Last Chance Gulch Mall. Parking lot with information kiosk available at the trailhead. There are many trails on Mount Helena including the 1906 Trail, the Prairie Trail, The Backside, Trail, The Hogback Trail, The Prospector Shafts Trail, and The West End Trail.

In the winter, soft-as-down snow piles up on the slopes of the Great Divide Ski Area. Snowboarders and skiers enjoy both slow groomers and steep pitches at this economical ski area. Make sure you know what you're doing before getting out there, though - with no beginner slopes Great Divide doesn't cater to the uninitiated.

The Brewhouse is one of Helena's most respected restaurants, with its friendly service, fun atmosphere, exceptional menu and fine brew selections.

Established in historic downtown Helena in 1974, Bert & Ernie's offers the best in simple, classic American food and fine beers and wines. Their recipes have been designed over many years with top quality the constant goal. They feel that their service is as important as the food, and we're proud of our reputation for both.

Lucca's offers an upscale yet casual environment, exquisite food presentations, and a knowledgeable and friendly staff just waiting to exceed your expectations. Lucca's is a dinner-only, fine dining Italian restaurant.

MacKenzie River Pizza Company's dough is made from scratch daily and they offer a variety of delectable crusts. Try one of their Montana-sized sandwiches prepared on their unique sourdough bread, or one of the incredible salads, served with a selection of homemade dressings. To complement the menu choices, select from a variety of microbrews and fine wines.

Silver Star Steak Company is a full service restaurant - open seven days a week for dinner and six days a week for lunch (no lunch on Sunday). The Silver Star prides itself on gourmet food, steak and seafood combined with a warm, rich atmosphere lending itself to a fine dining experience. They have a private dining room available for large groups.

Jade Garden offers authentic Chinese cuisine and atmosphere, with excellent menu selections and daily specials.

The Mediterranean Grill entrees are updated on a regular basis to reflect the flavors of Spain, France, Italy, Greece, Turkey, Middle East, and Northern Africa to Morocco.

This family-friendly bar and grill specializes in beef, fish, chicken, pasta, seafood, and ribs. Stop by for some classic Montana fare.

Located in historic downtown Helena and featuring locally grown produce and Montana raised meats Benny's Bistro has something for everyone. Rent the Gallery for small private dinners or rent the whole restaurant. Benny's Bistro will also deliver to your home or office.