Deer Lodge MontanaATTRACTIONS & THINGS TO DO
Listed below are the best attractions and things to do near Deer Lodge, Montana.
1. Old Montana Prison Complex
HISTORIC PRISON MUSEUMS
The Old Montana Prison Complex in downtown Deer Lodge served as the main prison for Montana for over 100 years, beginning in 1871. Today, the 9-acre complex houses five separate museums: the Prison Museum, Montana Auto Museum, an antique toy museum, Frontier Montana, and the Powell County Museum. Reputed to be haunted, the museum also offers ghost tours and frequently appears on paranormal TV shows.
2. Grant-Kohrs Ranch National Historic Site
WORKING HISTORIC RANCH
Grant-Kohrs Ranch has been a working ranch since Canadian fur-trapper Johnny Grant first brought his herd of cattle to the area in 1862. Visitors to the ranch get to see a cross-section of the history of agriculture in Montana from the earliest days to the present, including cowboys and haying crews in action. The ranch, operated by the National Parks Service, offers ranger- and self-guided tours, a museum, a working blacksmith shop, and an interactive chuckwagon.
3. Montana Auto Museum
VINTAGE CAR COLLECTION
The Montana Auto Museum is located within the Old Montana Prison Complex in Deer Lodge. This specialty museum showcases a collection of vintage and classic automobiles that highlight the evolution of American car culture. Visitors can explore the extensive exhibit of well-preserved vehicles spanning different eras of automotive history.
4. Immaculate Conception Catholic Church
HISTORIC RELIGIOUS ARCHITECTURE
Immaculate Conception Catholic Church stands as one of the notable religious landmarks in Deer Lodge. The church features distinctive architecture that reflects its historical significance in the community. Visitors appreciate the church both for its spiritual importance and its architectural beauty.
5. Powell County Court House
HISTORIC GOVERNMENT BUILDING
The Powell County Court House is an important government building in Deer Lodge with historical significance. The building represents the civic development of the region and showcases period architecture. Visitors interested in local government history find the courthouse to be an intriguing stop in Deer Lodge.
6. Old Prison Cow Ice Cream
LOCAL SWEET TREATS
Old Prison Cow Ice Cream is a popular dessert spot in Deer Lodge offering American treats. The eatery is known for its delicious ice cream and casual dining atmosphere. Visitors often stop here for a sweet treat after touring the nearby Old Montana Prison Complex.
7. Broken Arrow Steak House & Casino
WESTERN DINING EXPERIENCE
Broken Arrow Steak House & Casino offers a classic American steakhouse experience with bar options in Deer Lodge. The establishment combines dining with entertainment through its casino section, making it a versatile destination for visitors. Guests appreciate the hearty steakhouse meals in an authentic western Montana atmosphere.
8. Sesame Wok
ASIAN FUSION DINING
Sesame Wok provides diners with Chinese, Asian, and Thai cuisine options in Deer Lodge. The restaurant offers a diverse menu that brings international flavors to this Montana town. Visitors seeking variety in their dining experiences gravitate to Sesame Wok for its Asian fusion offerings.
9. 4B's Restaurant
CLASSIC AMERICAN DINER
4B's Restaurant is a classic American diner in Deer Lodge known for affordable, homestyle cooking. The restaurant offers a casual, family-friendly atmosphere and traditional diner fare. Visitors appreciate the nostalgic dining experience and comfort food that 4B's provides.
10. 406 Coffee Cabin & Kaffeination Station
LOCAL COFFEE RETREAT
406 Coffee Cabin & Kaffeination Station serves as Deer Lodge's local café destination for coffee enthusiasts. The establishment offers a cozy atmosphere where visitors can enjoy specialty coffee drinks and light café fare. Both locals and tourists frequent this coffee spot for a caffeine boost while exploring the Deer Lodge area.
11. Hi-Country Trading Post
MONTANA SOUVENIRS & GIFTS
Hi-Country Trading Post is a distinctive shopping destination in the Deer Lodge area offering Montana-themed souvenirs and gifts. The trading post features local products, crafts, and memorabilia that capture the essence of Montana culture. Visitors often stop here to purchase unique keepsakes and authentic Montana merchandise to remember their trip.
12. Sculpture in the Wild
OUTDOOR ART INSTALLATION
Sculpture in the Wild is an impressive outdoor art installation located near Lincoln in the greater Deer Lodge area. The installation features large-scale sculptures created by international artists using materials from Montana's logging industry. This unique cultural attraction combines art with nature, creating an immersive experience that celebrates the region's industrial heritage.
13. Garnet Ghost Town
PRESERVED MINING SETTLEMENT
Garnet Ghost Town is a well-preserved mining settlement near the Deer Lodge area that offers visitors a glimpse into Montana's gold rush era. The abandoned town features dozens of historic buildings including a hotel, store, and cabins that have been maintained to showcase life in a turn-of-the-century mining community. Visitors can explore this atmospheric ghost town through self-guided tours that bring Montana's mining history to life.
14. Our Lady of the Rockies
MONUMENTAL MOUNTAIN STATUE
Our Lady of the Rockies is a 90-foot statue overlooking the town of Butte, not far from the Deer Lodge area. The statue began as a promise made by Bob O'Bill and has since become an iconic landmark visible from miles away. Visitors can take tours to the statue which offers spectacular views of the surrounding landscape and represents an impressive feat of construction at high elevation.
15. Mount Helena
SCENIC HIKING DESTINATION
Mount Helena stands 5,468 feet tall and offers great views over the city of Helena, within driving distance from Deer Lodge. The mountain serves as the epicenter of a set of trail loops, with no fewer than four ways of hiking to the summit. Outdoor enthusiasts appreciate the accessible hiking options and panoramic vistas that reward those who reach the top.