Ultimate 3-Day Helena Itinerary: Best Things to Do & See

Start your Helena adventure with a stroll through the iconic Last Chance Gulch. This pedestrian-friendly historic main street is lined with colorful buildings, local boutiques, and public art, offering a vibrant introduction to the city’s gold rush roots.

Last Chance Gulch

Pop into the impressive Montana State Capitol for a self-guided tour. Admire its grand rotunda, beautiful murals, and learn about Montana’s political history from engaging exhibits and local guides.

Montana State Capitol

Enjoy lunch at The Parrot Confectionery, a Helena institution since 1922, renowned for its old-fashioned soda fountain, hand-dipped chocolates, and classic lunch counter fare.

The Parrot Confectionery

Unwind with a locally brewed pint at Blackfoot River Brewing Company. This inviting community hub offers a rotating selection of craft beers and a friendly, laid-back atmosphere perfect for mingling with locals.

Blackfoot River Brewing Company

Begin with the breathtaking Cathedral of St. Helena. Modeled after Vienna’s Votivkirche, this Neo-Gothic marvel features soaring spires, intricate stained glass, and a serene, awe-inspiring interior.

Cathedral of St. Helena

Explore the creative spirit of the region at the Holter Museum of Art, an acclaimed contemporary art space featuring thought-provoking exhibits and regular hands-on workshops.

Holter Museum of Art

Refuel with a delicious lunch at No Sweat Cafe, a cozy eatery beloved by locals for its scratch-made comfort food and vegetarian-friendly options.

No Sweat Cafe

Head out to Mount Helena City Park for an early evening hike. Choose the 1906 Trail for stunning panoramic views of the city and surrounding mountains, especially magical at sunset.

Mount Helena City Park

Step into the past at the fascinating Original Governor's Mansion. This beautifully preserved Victorian home offers guided tours that reveal stories of Montana’s early governors and Helena’s gilded age.

Original Governor's Mansion

Discover quirky local history at the ExplorationWorks science center, featuring interactive exhibits for all ages and a rooftop garden overlooking the Great Northern Town Center.

ExplorationWorks

For lunch, try Lucca's, an intimate Italian bistro known for creative pasta dishes and warm hospitality in a cozy historic building.

Lucca's

Cap off your Helena journey with a sunset cruise on the Gates of the Mountains. This unforgettable boat tour winds through dramatic limestone cliffs and pristine wilderness along the Missouri River, just a short drive north of town.

Gates of the Mountains