6 Things to Do in Helena for Art and History Lovers
Helena, Montana, has often been called “The Best Little Art Town in America,” and for great reason. There’s a whole slew of community-oriented art and culture institutions in town. Galleries, theaters, and shops showcasing work from local makers fill the downtown streets. But Helena’s creative energy doesn’t exist separately from its past; the city’s identity is rooted in Montana history. As the state capital, it’s a place where historic buildings, public spaces, and statewide stories are part of the everyday landscape. There’s also a world-class ceramics institution in Helena, a fact many travelers might not expect.
Whether you’re here for a quick weekend or just looking for a reason to explore your own backyard, these six spots capture what Helena does best: art, history, and a creative community you can actually step into.
1. Holter Museum of Art
Located in the heart of downtown is the Holter Museum of Art. The museum is a hub for contemporary art in the region, with 25-30 rotating exhibits annually across its five galleries. These exhibits span all forms, from textile work to photography, sculptures, and mixed media. The Holter goes beyond exhibitions; it also serves the local community through programs and education. The museum’s gift shop celebrates contemporary art, stocking works by local and regional artists, including handmade jewelry, stationery, ceramics, prints, and more. There’s even a fun station inside the shop to design your own t-shirt, a fun and interactive activity for kiddos and adults to get their hands dirty.
2. Montana State Capitol Building
If you like historic architecture, murals, and little design details, the Montana State Capitol will absolutely deliver. It was built in 1902 and delivers that classic turn-of-the-century opulence in its architecture and grounds. Inside, marble pillars and floors glisten, gold leaf adorns the walls, stained-glass windows cast color-tinted light, and murals stretch across the walls. The State Capitol is open to the public, and it’s definitely worth a quick visit. The Montana Historical Society offers guided and self-guided tours, as well as a scavenger hunt for kids at the information desk.
3. Montana Heritage Center
For a deep dive into Montana’s people, places, and defining moments, the Montana Heritage Center is the perfect place to begin. The museum has three galleries, anchored by the largest, the Homeland Gallery. It’s an immersive, walk-through journey that takes you back more than 10,000 years and ends in modern-day Montana. Along the way, Montana’s story unfolds through interactive displays and unique artifacts that highlight mining boom-and-bust cycles, Native American history, defining cultural and political moments, and much more.
But the Heritage Center doesn’t stop there. There are two more galleries, after all. The Russell Gallery features dozens of works by Charlie M. Russell, exploring his story and impact on Montana and Western art, and includes some of his most famous pieces. The third gallery, dedicated to rotating exhibits, opens with the Poindexter Collection of Modern Art. No matter what’s featured in the rotating gallery when you visit, there will surely be something curious to discover.
4. The Archie Bray Foundation
Among Helena’s art and culture gems is The Archie Bray Foundation. It’s a world-class ceramic institution that offers residencies to ceramic artists. The campus is located on a former brickyard listed on the National Register of Historic Places. The campus spans over 20 acres and boasts quite a few buildings, including the resident studios and galleries, but the real magic lies somewhere between them, outside, on the property. Take a self-guided tour, and you’ll weave between the historic brickyard buildings and past still-standing brick piles. You’ll find hundreds of ceramic sculptures and artifacts dotting the way. Alum residents created these works. Some are hidden behind brush, while some are dramatic and right in plain sight.
During business hours, visitors are welcome to explore the campus, visit the galleries, and potters can stop by the retail building to purchase ceramic supplies. The public is welcome to stroll the resident studios, with respect for the artists. The Archie Bray Foundation also hosts events, like hands-on workshops to make your own pottery and exhibitions.
5. The Painted Pot
If a burst of creativity strikes, or if you’re traveling with kids who need a hands-on break, definitely head over to The Painted Pot. It’s a classic paint-your-own pottery studio, and it’s an experience that’s just as fun for adults as it is for kids.
When you arrive, you get to choose between a huge selection of pottery pieces, from mugs and bowls to piggybanks and knick-knacks. After you’ve chosen your blank canvas, you get to pick your paint colors from a wall of paint pots. And since the color you see in the pot might not match the exact hue after it’s been through the kiln, each paint is paired with a sample tile, so you can see exactly how the color will look once it’s fired.
Once you’ve finished painting your ceramic masterpiece, The Painted Pot team takes it from there. They keep your piece, apply a protective clear overglaze, and kiln-fire it for you. Your pottery will be available for pick-up about five days later, and if you’ll already be out of town, no need to worry. They’ll ship it to you!
6. Catch a Live Show
After dark, Helena’s art scene doesn’t wind down; it just moves to the stage. Check what’s on at The Myrna Loy, a longtime downtown favorite for concerts, films, comedy, and community events. And in the lobby, you’ll find another art gallery with rotating visual art from local artists. If you’re after some drama, Grandstreet Theatre is a go-to to catch a play or musical. If you’re visiting without a specific show in mind, a quick look at our local event calendar can point you to something happening that week.
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