Things to Do in Great Falls This Summer: Your Complete Local Guide
Great Falls, Montana transforms into an outdoor paradise during summer months, offering visitors an incredible blend of natural beauty, rich history, and modern attractions. Whether you're staying with us at the Aisling Hotel for business or pleasure, this comprehensive guide will help you make the most of your time in Montana's Electric City.
Discover the Great Falls: Nature's Power on Display
The Great Falls of the Missouri River - the city's namesake - should be your first stop. These five magnificent waterfalls showcase the raw power of the Missouri River as it drops over 600 feet in less than 10 miles.
Rainbow Dam and Overlook: Summer visitors can witness spectacular rainbows dancing in the mist during morning and late afternoon hours. The short walk to the overlook provides Instagram-worthy photos and a perfect introduction to Great Falls' natural splendor.
Giant Springs State Park: Home to one of the largest freshwater springs in America, Giant Springs maintains a constant 54°F temperature year-round. Summer is ideal for exploring the visitor center, walking the riverside trails, and learning about Lewis and Clark's historic journey.
Lewis and Clark Trail: Step Into History
Lewis and Clark Interpretive Center: This world-class facility brings the Corps of Discovery expedition to life through interactive exhibits and stunning dioramas. Summer programming often includes special demonstrations and outdoor activities that make history engaging for all ages.
What Makes It Special:
Detailed portage route displays
Authentic expedition artifacts
Spectacular Missouri River views
Climate-controlled comfort during hot summer days
River's Edge Trail: This 60-mile trail system connects Great Falls' major attractions while following the Missouri River. Summer cycling or walking along paved sections offers scenic views and historical markers that tell the story of Lewis and Clark's challenging 18-day portage around the Great Falls.
Cultural Attractions and Museums
C.M. Russell Museum: Charlie Russell's Western art comes alive in Montana's premier art museum. Summer exhibitions often feature special collections, and the beautiful sculpture garden provides a peaceful outdoor experience.
Summer Highlights:
Rotating special exhibitions
Sculpture garden perfect for warm weather strolls
Educational programs for families
Gift shop with authentic Western art
Paris Gibson Square Museum of Art: Housed in a beautifully restored 1896 high school, this museum showcases contemporary art in a historic setting. Summer exhibitions frequently highlight Montana artists and regional themes.
Outdoor Recreation Paradise
Missouri River Activities: Summer transforms the Missouri River into a playground for water enthusiasts:
Float Trips: Gentle sections perfect for families
Fly Fishing: World-class trout fishing just minutes from downtown
Kayaking and Canoeing: Rental equipment available locally
River Walks: Scenic trails along the riverbank
Anaconda Hills Recreation Area: Just minutes from the Aisling Hotel, this area offers:
Mountain biking trails for all skill levels
Hiking with panoramic city views
Wildlife watching opportunities
Cool evening breezes and sunset viewing
Gibson Park: Great Falls' premier city park features:
Swimming pool complex
Tennis courts and basketball courts
Picnic areas perfect for summer gatherings
Playground equipment for families
Beautiful mature trees providing shade
Summer Events and Festivals
Western Art Week (March, but planning starts in summer): While the main event occurs in March, summer visitors can explore galleries and studios preparing for this nationally recognized celebration of Western art.
Farmers Markets: Multiple weekly farmers markets throughout summer offer:
Fresh local produce
Handcrafted items
Live music
Community atmosphere
Perfect Saturday morning activity
Downtown Great Falls: Summer brings outdoor dining, street festivals, and extended shopping hours to the historic downtown district.
Day Trips from Great Falls
Glacier National Park (2 hours): Use Great Falls as your comfortable base camp for Glacier National Park adventures. Summer is peak season for:
Going-to-the-Sun Road (fully open July-September)
Hiking opportunities for all abilities
Wildlife viewing
Photography opportunities
Little Belt Mountains: Less than an hour's drive offers:
Cooler temperatures during hot summer days
Hiking and camping opportunities
Scenic drives through mountain landscapes
Historical mining sites
First Peoples Buffalo Jump State Park: This archaeological site provides insight into Native American history and offers:
Interpretive trails
Visitor center with exhibits
Panoramic prairie views
Educational programs
Unique Great Falls Experiences
Malmstrom Air Force Base: While base access is restricted, the nearby Malmstrom Museum and Air Park offers summer visitors:
Historical aircraft displays
Cold War history exhibits
Military heritage presentations
Family-friendly educational experience
Calumet Refinery Tours: Industrial heritage tours showcase Great Falls' economic history and modern energy production (check seasonal availability).
Black Eagle Dam: Historic hydroelectric facility offers:
Engineering marvel viewing
Historical significance
Scenic Missouri River views
Photography opportunities
Food and Dining Scene
Summer in Great Falls brings expanded outdoor dining options:
Local Favorites:
Breweries: Great Falls has developed an impressive craft beer scene
Farm-to-Table: Restaurants featuring local Montana ingredients
Barbecue: Perfect for summer outdoor dining
Ice Cream Shops: Essential for hot summer days
Dining Districts:
Downtown: Historic charm with modern cuisine
10th Avenue South: Family-friendly chain and local options
Riverside: Scenic dining with Missouri River views
Recreation for Business Travelers
Golf Courses: Great Falls offers several excellent golf courses perfect for summer business entertainment:
Anaconda Hills Golf Course: Championship 18-hole course
Eagle Falls Golf Club: Scenic course with Missouri River views
Municipal Golf Course: Affordable option for quick rounds
Fitness and Wellness: Summer activities for maintaining your routine:
River's Edge Trail: Perfect for jogging or cycling
Local Gyms: Day passes available
Outdoor Yoga: Seasonal classes in city parks
Swimming: Multiple pool facilities
Shopping and Entertainment
Holiday Village Mall: Montana's largest enclosed shopping center offers:
Climate-controlled comfort during hot days
Wide variety of stores
Dining options
Entertainment venues
Antique and Local Shops: Great Falls' downtown district features unique shopping:
Western antiques and collectibles
Montana-made crafts and gifts
Local art galleries
Specialty bookstores focusing on regional history
Practical Summer Tips for Visitors
Weather Considerations:
Summer temperatures range from 60-85°F
Afternoon thunderstorms are common
Pack layers for temperature variations
Sunscreen essential at Montana's altitude
Transportation:
Car rental recommended for day trips
Downtown attractions walkable from many hotels
Ride-sharing services available
Bicycle rentals for River's Edge Trail
Local Services:
Full-service grocery stores
Pharmacies and medical facilities including Benefis Health System
Banking and ATM services
Visitor information center downtown
Extended Stay Advantages
Why Choose Great Falls as Your Base:
Central location for exploring Montana
Full-service city amenities
Reasonable accommodation costs compared to tourist destinations
Authentic Montana experience without tourist crowds
Easy access to both outdoor recreation and urban conveniences
Weekly and Monthly Activities: For extended stays, Great Falls offers:
Community Events: Regular festivals and gatherings
Volunteer Opportunities: Connect with local community
Adult Education: Summer classes at Great Falls College
Sports Leagues: Join local recreational activities
Getting the Most from Your Stay
Planning Your Days:
Morning: Explore outdoor attractions while temperatures are cool
Midday: Visit museums and air-conditioned attractions
Evening: Enjoy riverside dining and sunset viewing
Night: Experience Great Falls' growing nightlife scene
Local Insights:
Locals are friendly and helpful with directions and recommendations
Many attractions offer combination tickets for savings
Summer is peak season - book activities in advance
Great Falls serves as an excellent jumping-off point for statewide exploration
Your Great Falls Summer Adventure Awaits
Great Falls, Montana offers the perfect blend of natural beauty, rich history, and modern amenities for an unforgettable summer experience. Whether you're here for business, passing through on a Montana adventure, or planning an extended stay, our city provides countless opportunities for recreation, education, and relaxation.
From the thundering waterfalls that give our city its name to the world-class museums that preserve our heritage, from outdoor adventures along the Missouri River to comfortable urban amenities, Great Falls delivers an authentic Montana experience without the crowds and high costs of traditional tourist destinations.
Ready to explore everything Great Falls has to offer this summer? The Aisling Hotel provides the perfect home base for your Montana adventure, combining comfortable accommodations with easy access to all the attractions and activities that make Great Falls special.
Start planning your Great Falls summer experience today – Montana's Electric City is ready to energize your vacation with unforgettable memories and genuine Western hospitality.
