Montana’s vast landscapes are not only home to stunning natural beauty but also to a rich and diverse history. From the days of Native American tribes to the gold rush and the expansion of the American West, Montana has played a significant role in shaping the country's history. If you're a history buff or just love exploring places with a story to tell, here are some of the top historical sites in Montana you need to visit.
Location: Crow Agency, MT
Why Visit: Site of Custer’s Last Stand
Website: nps.gov/libi
This iconic battlefield marks the site of the 1876 clash between the U.S. Army's 7th Cavalry and the combined forces of the Lakota Sioux, Cheyenne, and Arapaho tribes. Visitors can explore the museum, walk the battlefield trails, and listen to ranger-led talks about the battle’s significance in American history.
Location: Near Ennis, MT
Why Visit: Authentic gold rush ghost towns
Website: virginiacitymt.com
These two well-preserved ghost towns offer a glimpse into Montana’s gold rush era of the 1860s. Stroll through boardwalk-lined streets, tour historic buildings, and even watch live reenactments of frontier life.
Location: Near Dillon, MT
Why Visit: Montana’s first territorial capital
Website: fwp.mt.gov/stateparks/bannack
Bannack, founded in 1862, was the first territorial capital of Montana. Today, it’s a remarkably well-preserved ghost town featuring dozens of original buildings. Visitors can take guided tours and even participate in the annual Bannack Days celebration.
Location: Deer Lodge, MT
Why Visit: Preserves the legacy of Montana’s cattle industry
Website: nps.gov/grko
This working cattle ranch provides insight into the cowboy way of life and Montana’s role in the open-range cattle industry. Visitors can tour the ranch house, see blacksmith demonstrations, and experience a real ranch setting.
Location: Deer Lodge, MT
Why Visit: Explore Montana’s first territorial prison
Website: pcmaf.org
Built in 1871, this historic prison operated for over 100 years and housed some of the state’s most notorious criminals. Today, it offers self-guided and guided tours, complete with eerie stories about past inmates.
Location: Stevensville, MT
Why Visit: Montana’s first permanent European settlement
Website: saintmarysmission.org
Founded in 1841 by Jesuit missionaries, St. Mary’s Mission is a beautifully restored church and museum that showcases the early interactions between European settlers and Native American tribes in Montana.
Location: Bozeman, MT
Why Visit: Home to one of the largest dinosaur fossil collections
Website: museumoftherockies.org
This world-renowned museum houses an incredible collection of dinosaur fossils, including one of the most complete T. rex skeletons ever discovered. It also offers exhibits on Native American history and Montana’s early settlers.
Location: Great Falls, MT
Why Visit: Follow in the footsteps of the legendary explorers
Website: fs.usda.gov/recarea/lcic
This museum details the journey of Lewis and Clark as they navigated the Missouri River and encountered the Great Falls of the Rockies. Interactive exhibits and walking trails make this a great stop for history enthusiasts.
Location: Billings, MT
Why Visit: A glimpse into early 20th-century luxury
Website: mossmansion.com
This historic mansion, built in 1903, showcases the wealth and lifestyle of Montana’s early elite. Guided tours provide insights into the Moss family and the development of Billings as a commercial hub.
Location: Ulm, MT
Why Visit: One of the largest buffalo jump sites in North America
Website: fwp.mt.gov/stateparks/first-peoples-buffalo-jump
This sacred site was used by Indigenous tribes for centuries to hunt bison. The visitor center provides a deep dive into Native American history and the importance of the buffalo in their culture.
Montana’s historical sites tell the story of the state’s fascinating past, from prehistoric fossils and Indigenous heritage to the gold rush and the Wild West. Whether you’re visiting a ghost town, an ancient cave, or a battlefield, each location offers a unique glimpse into Montana’s rich history.
For more travel tips and hidden gems in Montana, explore our other guides on MontanaExplorer.com!