Looking for cheap Flights to Great Falls, Montana, USA (GTF) airport?

Great Falls, accessible via cheap flights to GTF airport (Great Falls International Airport), is a vibrant cultural hub in central Montana, known for its historic role along the Missouri River and as a gateway to the Lewis and Clark National Historic Trail. Attracting over 300,000 visitors annually, it offers outdoor recreation, art galleries, and historic landmarks like the C.M. Russell Museum. Explore Great Falls hidden gems like the C.M. Russell Museum at 400 13th St N, Great Falls, MT 59401, and enjoy Great Falls local culture through local eateries like Roadhouse Diner at 613 15th St N, Great Falls, MT 59401.

History of Great Falls, Montana

Great Falls’ history began with the Blackfeet and Salish tribes, with European settlement in the 1880s driven by the Great Northern Railway and hydroelectric power. Founded in 1884 and named for the Missouri River waterfalls, it grew as an industrial and cultural center. The C.M. Russell Museum (400 13th St N, Great Falls, MT 59401) preserves this legacy, with exhibits on Native history and Western art. The Lewis and Clark Interpretive Center, built in 1998, is a city icon. Events like the Western Art Week highlight Great Falls historical exploration.

• C.M. Russell Museum: 400 13th St N, Great Falls, MT 59401.
• Lewis and Clark Interpretive Center: 4201 Giant Springs Rd, Great Falls, MT 59405.
• Great Falls History Museum: 422 2nd St S, Great Falls, MT 59405.
• First Peoples Buffalo Jump State Park: 3420 Buffalo Jump Rd, Ulm, MT 59485.

Geography and Climate of Great Falls, Montana

Great Falls spans 22 square miles, primarily land, along the Missouri River. It’s 170 miles from Billings, MT, and 90 miles from Helena, MT, connected by I-15 and US-87. Gibson Park (1700 River Dr N, Great Falls, MT 59401) offers Great Falls outdoor activities. The Rocky Mountains and Giant Springs State Park enhance its scenic appeal.

• Gibson Park: 1700 River Dr N, Great Falls, MT 59401.
• Giant Springs State Park: 4803 Giant Springs Rd, Great Falls, MT 59405.
• Missouri River Access: 100 River Dr S, Great Falls, MT 59405.

Great Falls has a cold semi-arid climate (Köppen BSk), with warm summers (average high 85°F in July) and cold winters (average low 12°F in January). Record highs reach 102°F (July 2007), and lows hit -36°F (January 1994). Annual precipitation is 15 inches, with 55 inches of snow. Spring and fall are ideal for exploring Great Falls nature trails, with vibrant river views.

Key Demographics & Statistics in Great Falls, Montana

Great Falls’ 2023 population is 60,400 (2020 census: 60,442; 2024 estimate: 60,500), with a median age of 39. It’s 85% White, 6% Native American, 4% Hispanic, 5% Other. 95% are citizens, 93% U.S.-born. Households: 25,000 (median income $58,000). 46% married, 34% never married. Poverty rate: 14%. Workforce: 65% white-collar, 8% entrepreneurs. Commute: 15 minutes. Education: 32% bachelor’s, 38% high school. Healthcare and retail shape Great Falls demographics.

Great Falls spans zip codes like 59401, 59404, 59405, covering neighborhoods: Downtown (59401), West Hill (59404), and Riverview (59405), aiding navigation for residents and visitors exploring Great Falls neighborhood guides.

Local Neighborhoods & Districts in Great Falls, Montana

Downtown Great Falls is vibrant with historic buildings and dining, West Hill is residential with park access, and Riverview is scenic along the Missouri River, key for Great Falls neighborhood guides. The Historic District features 19th-century architecture and cultural events.

• Roadhouse Diner: 613 15th St N, Great Falls, MT 59401.
• Historic District: 200 Central Ave, Great Falls, MT 59401.
• Gibson Park: 1700 River Dr N, Great Falls, MT 59401.

Economy and Employment in Great Falls, Montana

Great Falls’ economy thrives on healthcare, retail, and tourism, driven by Benefis Health System and Malmstrom Air Force Base. The unemployment rate is 3.5%, below the national average, with growth in hospitality and education, boosting Great Falls job opportunities. The city supports over 5,000 healthcare-related jobs.

• Benefis Health System: 1101 26th St S, Great Falls, MT 59405.
• Malmstrom Air Force Base: 3410 10th Ave S, Great Falls, MT 59401.
• Great Falls Public Schools: 1100 4th St S, Great Falls, MT 59405.

Innovation & Technology in Great Falls, Montana

Great Falls supports healthcare and agricultural tech, with the Great Falls Development Authority (405 3rd St NW, Great Falls, MT 59404) fostering startups in medical tech and agribusiness. High-speed internet via Spectrum covers 90% of the city, enabling remote work. Challenges include tech talent retention, but grants from the Montana Department of Commerce and partnerships with the University of Providence promote innovation, supporting Great Falls remote work.

Great Falls’ tech scene grows with startups in healthcare and renewable energy. The University of Providence mentors entrepreneurs in medical tech and sustainable agriculture. Broadband expansion supports telecommuting and online education, with 5G in Downtown. Collaborations with Bozeman drive investment in tech. Future priorities include smart tourism and green energy, shaping Great Falls technology trends.

Government & Public Services in Great Falls, Montana

Great Falls operates under a commission-manager government with 5 commissioners. Public services include police, fire, water, and waste, managed by the City of Great Falls. The Great Falls Police Department has 90 officers, and fire operates 5 stations. The city maintains 50 parks, 40 miles of trails, and a library system. Economic development focuses on tourism and healthcare, with incentives for sustainable businesses via the Great Falls Green Initiative, supporting Great Falls public services.

Legal & Civic Services in Great Falls, Montana

The Cascade County Courthouse (415 2nd Ave N, Great Falls, MT 59401) handles legal matters, with legal aid at Montana Legal Services Association (616 Helena Ave, Great Falls, MT 59404). Civic engagement thrives through the Great Falls Area Chamber of Commerce, offering voter registration at City Hall (2 Park Dr S, Great Falls, MT 59401). The Great Falls Public Library hosts forums. Local elections occur every two years, with voter guides online via the Montana Secretary of State.

Great Falls encourages participation via community boards like the Great Falls Sustainability Committee, funding eco-projects. The Elections Office provides materials in English and Blackfeet. Volunteer opportunities exist with groups like Friends of Great Falls Parks. Public meetings at City Hall are open, with virtual access for inclusivity, fostering transparency and supporting Great Falls community resources.

Infrastructure and Utilities in Great Falls, Montana

Great Falls’ infrastructure supports its tourism and healthcare economy. The City of Great Falls manages water and electricity, with 15% renewable energy from wind and hydro. High-speed internet via Spectrum covers 90% of the city, with 5G in Downtown. Waste collection is weekly, with a recycling program. The city maintains 120 miles of roads, 50 parks, and 40 miles of trails. Public services include a 90-officer police force and 5 fire stations. Recent I-15 upgrades enhance connectivity, supporting Great Falls infrastructure.

Educational Centers & Learning Opportunities in Great Falls, Montana

Higher Education and Trade Schools in Great Falls, Montana

Great Falls’ higher education includes universities and trade programs, supporting career growth, ideal for Great Falls school districts.

• University of Providence: 1301 20th St S, Great Falls, MT 59405.
• Great Falls College MSU: 2100 16th Ave S, Great Falls, MT 59405.

K-12 and Adult Education in Great Falls, Montana

Great Falls Public Schools serves 10,000 students across 15 schools with a 14:1 student-teacher ratio. Adult education at Great Falls College MSU offers certifications in healthcare, IT, and trades, with evening classes.

• Great Falls High School: 1900 2nd Ave S, Great Falls, MT 59405.
• North Middle School: 2601 8th St NE, Great Falls, MT 59404.

Deeper Cultural and Community Content in Great Falls, Montana

Downtown Great Falls features Great Falls murals celebrating Western and Native heritage. The Paris Gibson Square Museum of Art has installed over 10 murals since 2015. Walking tours start at the Historic District, showcasing Great Falls art tours.

• Downtown Great Falls Murals: 200 Central Ave, Great Falls, MT 59401.
• Paris Gibson Square Museum of Art: 1400 1st Ave N, Great Falls, MT 59401.

Great Falls’ agricultural roots include wheat and cattle. The Great Falls Farmers Market and nearby ranches offer local produce and immersive experiences, supporting Great Falls farm tours.

• Great Falls Farmers Market: 2 Park Dr S, Great Falls, MT 59401.
• Missouri River Farms: 1000 25th St N, Great Falls, MT 59401.

The Blackfeet legacy is preserved at the Lewis and Clark Interpretive Center, with exhibits highlighting Indigenous history, key for Great Falls native culture. Annual powwows celebrate Native traditions.

• Lewis and Clark Interpretive Center: 4201 Giant Springs Rd, Great Falls, MT 59405.
• First Peoples Buffalo Jump State Park: 3420 Buffalo Jump Rd, Ulm, MT 59485.

Local Artists & Creatives in Great Falls, Montana

Great Falls’ creative scene thrives with muralists in Downtown and artists at the Paris Gibson Square Museum of Art. The museum (1400 1st Ave N, Great Falls, MT 59401) showcases regional artists, including works inspired by the Missouri River. The Historic District hosts galleries, highlighting Great Falls local artists.

The monthly First Friday Art Walk features open studios in Downtown. The Great Falls Public Library displays local photography and hosts artist talks. The Paris Gibson Square Museum of Art mentors young creatives. Artists draw inspiration from the river and Native culture, with events like Western Art Week showcasing local talent. The event hosts over 100 artists annually.

Notable People and Culture in Media in Great Falls, Montana

Great Falls’ culture blends Blackfeet heritage, Western art, and a vibrant community. Notable figures include artist Charles M. Russell and author Jamie Ford. Great Falls features in media like the TV series “Yellowstone,” showcasing its riverfront charm. Local culture thrives in festivals, historic sites, and art galleries, reflecting a vibrant Great Falls local culture.

Hidden Gems and Local’s Perspective in Great Falls, Montana

Beyond the C.M. Russell Museum, locals cherish Great Falls secret spots like Giant Springs State Park and Gibson Park for their unique charm.

• Giant Springs State Park: 4803 Giant Springs Rd, Great Falls, MT 59405.
• Gibson Park: 1700 River Dr N, Great Falls, MT 59401.

Great Falls’ independent scene thrives with eateries and shops offering authentic Montana experiences, from farm-to-table to local crafts.

• Roadhouse Diner: 613 15th St N, Great Falls, MT 59401.
• Clark & Lewie’s: 17 5th St S, Great Falls, MT 59401.

Western Art Week and the Great Falls Farmers Market highlight Great Falls cultural events. Venues like the Mansfield Center for the Performing Arts offer local performances, celebrating Western and Native heritage.

• Mansfield Center for the Performing Arts: 2 Park Dr S, Great Falls, MT 59401.
• Great Falls Public Library: 301 2nd Ave N, Great Falls, MT 59401.

Wine & Culinary Culture in Great Falls, Montana

Great Falls is near Montana’s emerging craft beverage scene, with tasting rooms like Big Horn Brewing Co. (1125 8th Ave N, Great Falls, MT 59401) offering local beers. The Great Falls Farmers Market connects to regional ranches. Annual events like the Montana State Fair, held at 400 3rd St NW, Great Falls, MT 59404, celebrate flavors, boosting Great Falls culinary experiences.

The culinary scene emphasizes Montana flavors, farm-to-table, and craft brews, with restaurants like Roadhouse Diner sourcing local beef, grains, and produce. The Great Falls Farmers Market showcases huckleberries, honey, and artisanal cheeses. Cooking classes at Great Falls College MSU (2100 16th Ave S, Great Falls, MT 59405) teach regional dishes. Western Art Week highlights local chefs and sustainable practices.

Festivals & Events in Great Falls, Montana

Western Art Week in March and the Montana State Fair in July highlight Great Falls annual events, drawing thousands for art, rodeo, and community.

• Western Art Week: 200 Central Ave, Great Falls, MT 59401.
• Montana State Fair: 400 3rd St NW, Great Falls, MT 59404.
• Great Falls Farmers Market Events: 2 Park Dr S, Great Falls, MT 59401.

Museums to Explore in Great Falls, Montana

Museums offer art, historical, and Native exhibits, ideal for Great Falls museum tours.

• C.M. Russell Museum: 400 13th St N, Great Falls, MT 59401.
• Lewis and Clark Interpretive Center: 4201 Giant Springs Rd, Great Falls, MT 59405.
• Paris Gibson Square Museum of Art: 1400 1st Ave N, Great Falls, MT 59401.

Outdoor Recreation & Adventures Near Great Falls, Montana

Gibson Park offers biking and picnicking. Giant Springs State Park provides hiking and fishing, and the Missouri River supports kayaking, ideal for Great Falls outdoor adventures. The Benton Lake National Wildlife Refuge, 20 miles away, offers birdwatching.

• Gibson Park: 1700 River Dr N, Great Falls, MT 59401.
• Giant Springs State Park: 4803 Giant Springs Rd, Great Falls, MT 59405.
• Benton Lake National Wildlife Refuge: 922 Bootlegger Trail, Great Falls, MT 59404.

Fishing & Hunting in Great Falls, Montana

The Missouri River is renowned for trout and walleye fishing, with public access at Gibson Park. Benton Lake National Wildlife Refuge allows hunting for waterfowl and deer (permits from Montana Fish, Wildlife & Parks), key for Great Falls fishing spots. The Great Falls Fishing Tournament draws anglers annually.

• Gibson Park: 1700 River Dr N, Great Falls, MT 59401.
• Benton Lake National Wildlife Refuge: 922 Bootlegger Trail, Great Falls, MT 59404.

Unique Places & Wildlife in Great Falls, Montana

The Missouri River and Giant Springs State Park host eagles, deer, and fish, with prime viewing at Gibson Park. The Lewis and Clark Interpretive Center showcases regional ecology. The Benton Lake National Wildlife Refuge offers scenic views, supporting Great Falls wildlife viewing.

• Giant Springs State Park: 4803 Giant Springs Rd, Great Falls, MT 59405.
• Benton Lake National Wildlife Refuge: 922 Bootlegger Trail, Great Falls, MT 59404.

Sports and Recreation in Great Falls, Montana

Electric City Water Park (100 River Dr S, Great Falls, MT 59405) offers fitness classes and sports fields. The Great Falls Voyagers promote community spirit with baseball. The Missouri River hosts kayaking events. Youth sports include Great Falls Youth Soccer. The Mansfield Center for the Performing Arts (2 Park Dr S, Great Falls, MT 59401) supports performances. Community events like the Great Falls Marathon encourage fitness, boosting Great Falls sports activities.

Wellness & Lifestyle in Great Falls, Montana

Great Falls’ wellness scene includes fitness at Electric City Water Park (100 River Dr S, Great Falls, MT 59405) and mental health resources at Benefis Health System (1101 26th St S, Great Falls, MT 59405). Community wellness events like yoga at Gibson Park promote outdoor fitness.

Electric City Water Park offers strength and cardio classes. Benefis Health System provides mental health support groups and teletherapy. Trails like the River’s Edge Trail encourage active lifestyles, with free yoga at the Great Falls Farmers Market. Wellness events like the Great Falls Wellness Expo occur annually, boosting Great Falls wellness programs.

Health Care & Wellness in Great Falls, Montana

Benefis Health System (1101 26th St S, Great Falls, MT 59405) provides 500 beds, offering emergency, orthopedics, and maternity care. Telemedicine supports rural patients. Electric City Water Park (100 River Dr S, Great Falls, MT 59405) offers fitness classes and swimming. Benefis Health System provides mental health support, including crisis intervention. Community health fairs offer free screenings, supporting Great Falls healthcare services.

Homes for the Elderly & Senior Living in Great Falls, Montana

The Great Falls Senior Center (1004 Central Ave, Great Falls, MT 59401) hosts fitness, social programs, and educational workshops. The Lodge Senior Living (1801 9th St S, Great Falls, MT 59405) offers assisted living and memory care. Home health via Benefis Health System supports elderly residents, ideal for Great Falls senior living.

Childcare & Parenting Resources in Great Falls, Montana

Great Falls offers childcare at Electric City Water Park (100 River Dr S, Great Falls, MT 59405) and Little Sprouts Daycare (1500 9th Ave S, Great Falls, MT 59405). The Great Falls Parenting Network hosts support groups and workshops on child development. Family-friendly parks like Gibson Park feature playgrounds. The Paris Gibson Square Museum of Art offers interactive kids’ programs.

The Great Falls Public Library (301 2nd Ave N, Great Falls, MT 59401) hosts storytimes, parenting classes, and summer reading programs. Electric City Water Park provides youth sports and swim lessons. Events like the Montana State Fair include kid zones with crafts and games. The Family Resource Center offers in-home childcare support and parenting classes. Parent meetups thrive in Downtown, supporting Great Falls family resources.

Pet-Friendly Spots in Great Falls, Montana

Great Falls is pet-friendly, with Gibson Park (1700 River Dr N, Great Falls, MT 59401) and Giant Springs State Park offering trails. Petco (1601 Market Pl Dr, Great Falls, MT 59404) provides supplies. Veterinary care at Skyline Veterinary Clinic (3700 10th Ave S, Great Falls, MT 59405). The Great Falls Animal Shelter (1010 25th Ave NE, Great Falls, MT 59404) hosts adoption events. Pet-friendly trails at the River’s Edge Trail are ideal for Great Falls pet-friendly spots.

Great Falls Animal Shelter facilitates adoptions with monthly events and low-cost spay/neuter clinics. Pet-friendly cafés like Roadhouse Diner welcome dogs on patios. The Great Falls Dog Training Club offers obedience classes. Hotels like Staybridge Suites Great Falls are pet-friendly, with pet amenities available.

Best Shops & Boutiques in Great Falls, Montana

Great Falls Farmers Market and Downtown shops offer local goods, from handmade crafts to artisanal foods, enhancing Great Falls boutique shopping.

• Great Falls Farmers Market: 2 Park Dr S, Great Falls, MT 59401.
• Dragonfly Dry Goods: 504 Central Ave, Great Falls, MT 59401.
• Candy Masterpiece: 120 Central Ave, Great Falls, MT 59401.

Top Dining Options in Great Falls, Montana

Camping & Lodging in Great Falls, Montana

Giant Springs State Park offers camping with river views. Lodging options provide comfort for visitors, from historic hotels to modern inns.

• Giant Springs State Park Campground: 4803 Giant Springs Rd, Great Falls, MT 59405.
• Staybridge Suites Great Falls: 201 3rd St NW, Great Falls, MT 59404.
• Hotel Arvon: 118 1st Ave S, Great Falls, MT 59401.

Real Estate & Cost of Living in Great Falls, Montana

Great Falls’ real estate is affordable, with median home prices at $280,000, below the U.S.’s $350,000. Annual appreciation is 4%. Rentals average $1,200/month for a one-bedroom. The cost of living index is 90, below the national average, driven by reasonable housing costs. Median household income is $58,000. The market favors buyers due to tourism and healthcare growth, key for Great Falls real estate.

Urban Development & Future Plans in Great Falls, Montana

Great Falls is pursuing sustainable development through the Great Falls Green Initiative, with projects like Downtown revitalization adding mixed-use spaces and public art. The Great Falls 2040 Plan aims for carbon neutrality by 2040, focusing on renewable energy and riverfront restoration. The Missouri River cleanup enhances recreational spaces and flood resilience.

The Downtown Master Plan expands the Historic District with new event spaces and public art. The Great Falls International Airport expansion improves connectivity with plans for additional flights. The University of Providence drives medical tech innovation. Challenges include housing affordability for workers, but grants from the EPA and Montana Department of Commerce fund solar projects and smart city initiatives, shaping Great Falls urban development.

Travel Tips for Great Falls, Montana

Great Falls International Airport (GTF) serves airlines like Delta, United, and Allegiant, with connections to Denver, Salt Lake City, and Las Vegas. Downtown and the Historic District are walkable, with free parking at attractions. I-15 and US-87 connect to Billings and Helena. Spring (April–June) and fall (September–October) are ideal for outdoor activities and festivals, with mild weather. Summer offers river activities at Giant Springs. Pack layers and sturdy shoes for trails. Check festival schedules for tickets, especially for Western Art Week. Fuel stations and ATMs are abundant. Respect cultural sites like Blackfeet exhibits. Book lodging early for summer festivals, key for Great Falls travel tips.

Transportation and Getting Around in Great Falls, Montana

Great Falls International Airport (GTF) serves Delta, United, and Allegiant, with flights to Denver, Salt Lake City, and Las Vegas. Great Falls Transit offers bus routes with $1 fares. Taxis and Uber are available. I-15 and US-87 ensure access to regional cities. The River’s Edge Trail supports biking and hiking. Free parking at attractions is abundant. Bike rentals at Bighorn Outdoor Specialists (206 5th St S, Great Falls, MT 59405) enhance Great Falls transportation options.

Article Published on August 27, 2025, Last Modified on September 23, 2025. Content subject to change at any time.