Skip to main content
DESTINATION

Helena

Later a more suitable name, Helena (He-LAY-na), was put to a vote. But the miners and the bullwhackers did not like the name's feminine ring. Consequently, the emphasis was shifted to the first syllable, with the second “e” almost silent, and HEL-e-na became the accepted pronunciation. The gold rush faded quickly, and Helena settled down to become a trade center for the surrounding goldfields.

Reminders of the early days can be found in the architecture of the buildings that line Reeder's Alley off the 200 block of South Park Avenue in southwest Helena. Said to be the oldest structure in Helena, the 1864 Pioneer Cabin, 210 Park Ave., is furnished with pioneer artifacts.

Visitor Centers

Helena Tourism Alliance 105 Reeder's Alley Helena, MT 59601. Phone:(406)449-1270

Self-guiding Tours

The Helena Montana Geocaching Tour, available through the tourism alliance, highlights 38 historic, scenic and cultural sites located in the city and in the surrounding area. The GPS-directed treasure hunt includes the Mansion District, landmark structures such as the Capitol building and the “Guardian of the Gulch” Fire Tower, and Centennial Park.

Shopping

Once the quarters of miners, muleskinners and Chinese laborers during the gold rush, the buildings along Reeder's Alley, 100 S. Park Ave., now contain specialty shops as well as an 1864 cabin furnished with pioneer artifacts.

Things to Do

Archie Bray Foundation for the Ceramic Arts

Cathedral of St. Helena

ExplorationWorks

Holter Museum of Art

Last Chance Tour Train

Montana Historical Society Museum, Library and Archives

Original Governor's Mansion

Montana State Capitol

More Articles

THE VALUE OF TRIP CANVAS

Travel Like an Expert with AAA and Trip Canvas

Get Ideas from the Pros

As one of the largest travel agencies in North America, we have a wealth of recommendations to share! Browse our articles and videos for inspiration, or dive right in with preplanned AAA Road Trips, cruises and vacation tours.

Build and Research Your Options

Save and organize every aspect of your trip including cruises, hotels, activities, transportation and more. Book hotels confidently using our AAA Diamond Designations and verified reviews.

Book Everything in One Place

From cruises to day tours, buy all parts of your vacation in one transaction, or work with our nationwide network of AAA Travel Agents to secure the trip of your dreams!

BACK TO TOP