Sheridan MontanaATTRACTIONS & THINGS TO DO
Listed below are the best attractions and things to do near Sheridan, Montana.
1. Nevada City Museum
HISTORIC MONTANA MINING TOWN
The Nevada City Museum showcases the rich mining history of the region through preserved buildings and authentic artifacts. Visitors can step back in time and experience life during Montana's gold rush era. The museum offers an immersive educational experience with interpretive displays and occasionally features live reenactments during peak season.
2. Ruby Valley Brew
LOCAL CRAFT BEER HAVEN
Ruby Valley Brew serves up handcrafted local beers in a friendly, rustic atmosphere in downtown Sheridan. Their rotating selection of microbrews showcases Montana ingredients and brewing traditions. The taproom offers a welcoming environment for both locals and visitors exploring the Ruby Valley region.
3. FishTales Outfitting
PREMIER FISHING ADVENTURES
FishTales Outfitting provides guided fishing expeditions through the pristine waterways of the Ruby Valley. Their experienced guides help anglers of all skill levels enjoy Montana's world-class trout fishing. The outfitter offers customized trips ranging from half-day excursions to multi-day fishing adventures.
4. The Stockman Bar
AUTHENTIC MONTANA WATERING HOLE
The Stockman Bar stands as a beloved local institution serving drinks and camaraderie in Sheridan for generations. This authentic Montana watering hole features rustic decor that reflects the region's ranching heritage. Visitors can enjoy cold drinks while mingling with locals and hearing stories about the area's rich history.
5. Sheridan Town Parks
FAMILY-FRIENDLY OUTDOOR RECREATION
Sheridan Town Parks offer well-maintained green spaces perfect for family gatherings and outdoor recreation. The parks feature playground equipment, picnic areas, and open spaces for sports and games. Visitors can enjoy seasonal events and festivals that bring the community together throughout the year.
6. Rosebud Battlefield State Park
HISTORIC WESTERN BATTLEFIELD
Rosebud Battlefield State Park preserves the site of the June 1876 battle between U.S. Army forces and Lakota and Cheyenne warriors. The battlefield offers interpretive displays explaining the significance of this confrontation that preceded the more famous Battle of Little Bighorn. Visitors can explore the expansive grounds and hiking trails while learning about this pivotal moment in Western American history.
7. Little Bighorn Battlefield National Monument
CUSTER'S LAST STAND
Little Bighorn Battlefield National Monument commemorates one of the most significant battles of the American Indian Wars. The site marks where Lt. Col. George Armstrong Custer and the 7th Cavalry were defeated by Lakota, Northern Cheyenne, and Arapaho warriors in 1876. Visitors can explore the museum, follow the battlefield tour, and view memorial markers honoring fallen soldiers and warriors.
8. Fort Phil Kearny State Historic Site
FRONTIER MILITARY HISTORY
Fort Phil Kearny State Historic Site preserves the remains of a key military outpost from the Bozeman Trail era of the 1860s. The interpretive center features exhibits on the fort's role in the Plains Indian Wars and the famous Fetterman Fight. Visitors can tour reconstructed portions of the fort and learn about this turbulent period in American western expansion.
9. Medicine Wheel National Historic Landmark
SACRED NATIVE AMERICAN SITE
The Medicine Wheel is an ancient Native American sacred site situated at over 10,000 feet elevation in the Bighorn Mountains. The stone structure consists of a central cairn connected to an outer circle by 28 rows of stones resembling spokes on a wheel. Visitors can experience this spiritual site with respect for its ongoing significance to multiple indigenous tribes.
10. Tongue River Canyon
SCENIC MOUNTAIN HIKING
Tongue River Canyon offers breathtaking hiking trails through dramatic limestone cliffs and along the rushing Tongue River. The canyon features diverse ecosystems supporting abundant wildlife and seasonal wildflower displays. Hikers can enjoy various trail options ranging from easy walks to more challenging routes deeper into the Bighorn Mountains.
11. Steamboat Point
MAJESTIC MOUNTAIN VIEWPOINT
Steamboat Point provides one of the most spectacular viewpoints in the Bighorn Mountains with its distinctive rock formation resembling a steamboat. Hikers can reach the summit via a moderately challenging trail that rewards with panoramic vistas of the surrounding mountain landscape. The area is especially popular for photography during sunrise and sunset when the light transforms the rugged terrain.
12. Virginia City Historic District
PRESERVED GOLD RUSH TOWN
Virginia City Historic District transports visitors to the 1860s with its remarkably preserved gold rush-era buildings and boardwalks. The living history town features period-accurate shops, saloons, and museums showcasing authentic artifacts from Montana's territorial days. Visitors can enjoy guided tours, stagecoach rides, and live performances at the historic opera house during summer months.
13. Alder Gulch Short Line Railroad
HISTORIC MINING RAILWAY
The Alder Gulch Short Line Railroad offers nostalgic train rides between Virginia City and Nevada City on vintage steam locomotives. The narrated journey follows the route of one of Montana's richest gold discoveries while providing historical context about the region's mining heritage. Passengers enjoy scenic views of the surrounding countryside and learn about the technological innovations that shaped western mining communities.
14. Shell Falls
THUNDERING MOUNTAIN WATERFALL
Shell Falls showcases the dramatic power of nature as Shell Creek plunges 120 feet through a narrow granite canyon. The interpretive site features accessible viewing platforms and educational displays about the geology and ecology of the area. Visitors can experience the thundering falls and misty spray while learning about the ancient forces that shaped this stunning natural attraction.
15. Cowboy Café
CLASSIC WESTERN COMFORT FOOD
Cowboy Café serves hearty meals with authentic Western hospitality in a charming, rustic setting. The menu features classic American comfort food with regional specialties that celebrate Montana and Wyoming culinary traditions. Visitors appreciate the generous portions, friendly service, and opportunity to dine among locals in this beloved establishment.