Things To Do
in Great Falls
Great Falls is a city located in the state of Montana in the United States. It is known for its stunning waterfalls on the Missouri River, which give the city its name. Great Falls offers a variety of outdoor recreational activities, including hiking, fishing, and boating.
The city also has a rich cultural history, with museums and historical sites to explore.
Prices
- 🏠 Accommodation (per night): $80 - $150
- 🍽️ Meal at a Restaurant: $10 - $30
- ☕ Coffee: $2 - $5
- 🚌 Public transport ticket (single journey): $1 - $3
- 🛒 Grocery shopping (per week): $50 - $100
- 🏋️♂️ Gym Membership: $30 - $60
Day Trips
Spend a day exploring around
Start your day at Great Falls Park, taking a leisurely hike on the trails to enjoy stunning views of the waterfalls. Bring your camera to capture the beautiful scenery and wildlife.
Have lunch at a local café, followed by a visit to the Great Falls Historical Museum to learn about the area’s rich history. Spend some time exploring the exhibits and artifacts.
Wrap up your day with dinner at a dine-in restaurant nearby. Enjoy the local cuisine while sharing your favorite moments of the day.
Rent a bike and explore the River's Edge Trail, a scenic path that runs along the Missouri River. Stop at some lookout points to soak in the natural beauty.
Visit the Great Falls Civic Center for local art exhibitions or community events. Grab a quick bite at a food truck or nearby eatery.
Enjoy the sunset views by the riverfront before having dinner at a pub. Relax with a craft beer and reflect on your adventurous day.
Strengths and Weaknesses
- Stunning natural beauty with access to outdoor activities like hiking and fishing.
- Strong sense of community and friendly residents.
- Lower cost of living compared to many other parts of the United States.
- Rich history and cultural attractions, including museums and local events.
- Proximity to national parks and wildlife areas.
- Limited job opportunities in certain industries.
- Harsh winters with heavy snowfall.
- Limited access to some modern conveniences and amenities.
- Potentially lower quality healthcare compared to larger cities.
- Limited nightlife and entertainment options.
Best Activities in Great Falls
Outdoor fun you shouldn't miss!
Enjoy the scenic trails and see the world's shortest river, the Roe River.
Experience the beautiful waterways and stunning views.
Walk, run, or bike along the 60-mile trail system, passing by waterfalls, bridges, and diverse landscapes.
Cast a line and relax in the serene surroundings.
Tours
Uncover the best of Great Falls with these unforgettable tours.
Places to Visit in Great Falls
Visit one of these nice places.
Offers stunning views of the spring and the Missouri River, as well as great photo opportunities of the natural scenery.
Provides panoramic views of the surrounding landscape and opportunities to capture the beauty of the mountains and plains.
Features picturesque views of the dam and the Missouri River, making it a great spot for photography enthusiasts.
Food in Great Falls
Great Falls Famous Food
Signature dishes, delicacies and famous food
A must-try local favorite, the Bison Burger offers a taste of the American West with its flavorful and lean bison meat patty. Recommended at The Celtic Cowboy.
Must-Try!
Indulge in the unique and delicious Huckleberry Pie, a regional specialty made with sweet wild huckleberries. Find it at Roadhouse Diner.
Savor the rich and tender Montana Beef Steak, known for its quality and robust flavor. Try it at Jakers Bar and Grill.
Unique Experiences
Get to know Great Falls better with these unique experiences.
Food Markets
Explore local food markets
Explore a vibrant array of fresh local produce, artisanal goods, and street food vendors offering diverse culinary delights every Saturday from May to October.
Visit the brewery for a selection of craft beers, along with food trucks parked outside offering a variety of delicious street food options.
Weather
How to Behave
Tips on cultural norms and respectful behavior
In Great Falls, it's important to be mindful of personal space, so giving people some physical distance is considered respectful.
Being on time is highly valued in Great Falls, so it's important to arrive promptly for appointments and social engagements.
It's customary to leave a 15-20% tip at restaurants and to tip service providers such as taxi drivers, hairstylists, and hotel staff in Great Falls.
Hidden Gems
Discover the hidden gems of Great Falls with these exclusive activities.
Safety
Tipping in Great Falls
Ensure a smooth experience
In Great Falls, United States, tipping is a common practice in the service industry. It is customary to tip around 15-20% of the total bill at restaurants, bars, and for services such as hairdressing and taxi rides.
Payment in Great Falls, United States is generally made using credit/debit cards or cash. Most establishments accept major credit cards, and contactless payment methods are becoming increasingly popular. Cash is also widely accepted for transactions.
Top Things To Do
Engage in these activities to dive deeper into Great Falls.
Best Time to Visit
And what to expect in different seasons...
Mild temperatures, blooming wildflowers, and increased water flow in the falls make spring a popular time to visit Great Falls.
Warm weather, ideal for outdoor activities such as hiking, biking, and picnicking. The falls are still impressive, but water levels may be lower than in the spring.
Stunning foliage colors as the surrounding trees and foliage change, making for picturesque views around the falls. It is generally less crowded compared to the summer months.
Cold temperatures and occasional snowfall can create a serene and peaceful environment around the falls. It's a great time for photography and enjoying the scenic beauty with fewer tourists.
Great Falls at Night
Hiking in Great Falls
Immerse in an unforgettable hike.
A scenic park featuring waterfalls and hiking trails along the Potomac River, offering various levels of hiking difficulty.
A popular trail in the C&O Canal National Historical Park known for its rugged terrain and beautiful views of the Potomac River.
This preserve offers hiking trails through lush forests and along the stream, leading to a lovely waterfall.
Located along the C&O Canal, Carderock features numerous trails and rock climbing areas, perfect for outdoor enthusiasts.
This park features several miles of trails through wooded areas, as well as access to the Potomac River, ideal for nature walks.
Unforgettable Journeys
Delve deeper into Great Falls through these rare and unique activities.
Aiports
How to reach Great Falls by plane.
Located in Bozeman, Montana, approximately 110 miles from Great Falls.
Located in Billings, Montana, approximately 130 miles from Great Falls.
Located in Missoula, Montana, approximately 185 miles from Great Falls.
Located in Spokane, Washington, approximately 280 miles from Great Falls.
Walkability
Demographics
Explore demographics in this area.
The largest demographic group in Great Falls, representing a significant majority of the population.
The second largest demographic group, contributing to the cultural diversity of the city.
A prominent indigenous population that plays a vital role in the local heritage.
A smaller but important demographic group that adds to the social fabric of Great Falls.
A minority demographic group, representing various cultures and communities.
Individuals identifying with multiple races, reflecting increasing diversity.
A very small demographic group within the city, contributing to the overall multicultural community.
The Soul of Great Falls
Discover the essence of Great Falls through these truly unique experiences.
Popular Sports
Explore popular sports in region.
A popular sport in Great Falls, with a strong local high school and collegiate presence. The community actively supports teams at various levels.
Basketball is widely played in schools and community leagues, with both boys' and girls' teams participating in regional competitions.
Baseball has a long-standing tradition in Great Falls, featuring youth leagues, high school teams, and local adult leagues.
Soccer is growing in popularity, with youth leagues and school teams contributing to a vibrant soccer community.
Ice hockey has a dedicated following in Great Falls, featuring youth programs and local adult leagues, as well as high school teams.
Rodeo is a significant part of the cultural identity in Great Falls, with various events taking place throughout the year.
Running events and community races are popular, with locals participating in various organized runs and marathons.
Traffic
Accomodations
Find the best place to stay when visiting Great Falls.
Dietary Restrictions
Tips for restricted diets.
Many restaurants in Great Falls offer a range of vegetarian and vegan dishes, such as flavorful salads, plant-based burgers, and creative vegetable entrees.
Visitors with gluten sensitivities can find dedicated gluten-free menus at various eateries, ensuring a satisfying dining experience without sacrificing dietary preferences.
Local establishments prioritize allergen awareness and are often accommodating to special dietary needs, with staff knowledgeable about ingredient details and preparation methods.
Cultural Immersions
Experience the heart and soul of Great Falls with these cultural adventures.