Terry MontanaATTRACTIONS & THINGS TO DO
Listed below are the best attractions and things to do near Terry, Montana.
1. Prairie County Museum and Evelyn Cameron Gallery
PIONEER PHOTOGRAPHY AND HISTORY
The Prairie County Museum and Evelyn Cameron Gallery offers an in-depth look at local history and the remarkable life of pioneer photographer Evelyn Cameron. Visitors can explore exhibits featuring Cameron's iconic photographs documenting life in eastern Montana during the late 19th and early 20th centuries. The museum also features artifacts and displays relating to the region's agricultural and cultural heritage.
2. Terry Badlands Wilderness Study Area
STRIKING BADLANDS SCENERY
The Terry Badlands Wilderness Study Area is known for its dramatic rock formations, colorful badlands, and sweeping prairie vistas. Outdoor enthusiasts can hike, birdwatch, and photograph this unique landscape, which serves as an important habitat for wildlife. The area is accessible via the scenic Calypso Trail and offers a serene setting for those seeking solitude and natural beauty.
3. Calypso Trail
SCENIC BACKCOUNTRY DRIVE
The Calypso Trail is a scenic, unpaved route that leads travelers through the heart of the Terry Badlands. This drive provides panoramic views of eroded cliffs, spires, and colorful rock layers unique to the region. The trail is popular with both rock hunters and those simply seeking to experience the rugged beauty of Montana's badlands.
4. Yellowstone River
MONTANA'S HISTORIC WATERWAY
The Yellowstone River winds near Terry, offering excellent opportunities for fishing, boating, and wildlife observation. Its scenic banks provide a picturesque backdrop for picnics and leisurely walks. The river has played a key role in the settlement and development of eastern Montana.
5. Kempton Hotel
HISTORIC BOARDING HOUSE
The Kempton Hotel is one of Montana's oldest continuously operating hotels, welcoming travelers since 1902. Its charming, old-fashioned ambiance and period furnishings offer a glimpse into the hospitality of frontier towns. The hotel has hosted a variety of notable guests and provides a unique overnight experience in Terry.
6. Agate and Rock Hunting
GEMSTONE COLLECTING ADVENTURE
Terry is renowned for its moss agate and other unique rocks found in the nearby Yellowstone River and badlands. Rock hunting is a popular activity, drawing collectors and geology enthusiasts hoping to discover beautiful specimens. The region's rich geological history makes it one of Montana's prime destinations for agate hunting.
7. Prairie County Fair
CLASSIC COUNTY EVENT
The Prairie County Fair is a beloved annual tradition featuring agricultural displays, livestock shows, rodeos, and family-friendly entertainment. Visitors can experience local culture through crafts, food vendors, and community contests. It serves as a festive gathering point for residents and visitors alike.
8. Powder River Historic Point
SITE OF REGIONAL HERITAGE
Powder River Historic Point marks a significant area along regional history routes, related to the exploration and settlement of eastern Montana. The site is tied to events such as the era of buffalo hunting and early cattle drives. Visitors can reflect on Montana's pioneer legacy at this historic location.
9. Old Highway 10
HISTORIC TRAVEL ROUTE
Old Highway 10 is a storied route that once carried travelers and freight across Montana before the advent of the interstate. Today, it offers a nostalgic drive through the prairie landscape, passing by historic sites, old bridges, and remnants of early 20th-century travel. The highway gives insight into the area's transportation history.
10. Buffalo Hunter Graves
FRONTIER ERA MEMORIAL
The Buffalo Hunter Graves commemorate the lives of early hunters who played a pivotal role in the region's frontier era. This site serves as a somber reminder of the individuals who helped shape Montana's early economic activities. It is visited by those interested in the state's pioneer and hunting history.
11. Milwaukee Bridge
HISTORIC RAILROAD BRIDGE
The Milwaukee Bridge stands as a testament to early 20th-century railway engineering and Montana's role in westward expansion. Originally built to support the Milwaukee Road rail line, the bridge remains an impressive structure over the Yellowstone River. It is a popular spot for photographers and history buffs.
12. Warren Through Truss Bridge
MONTANA'S LONGEST BRIDGE
The Warren Through Truss Bridge is notable for being the longest bridge of its kind in Montana, stretching over 1,140 feet. Built in 1944, it exemplifies classic civil engineering and remains a vital link in the region's infrastructure history. The bridge attracts visitors interested in architecture and transportation heritage.
13. Historic Volkswalk Trail
RECREATIONAL WALKING PATH
The Historic Volkswalk Trail offers a gentle, self-guided walking loop through significant sites around Terry. Along the path, visitors can view historic buildings, interpretive signs, and panoramic prairie views. It's a great way to explore Terry's history at a leisurely pace.
14. Evelyn Cameron Heritage-Rialto Theater
HISTORIC THEATER VENUE
The Evelyn Cameron Heritage-Rialto Theater celebrates both the artistic legacy of Evelyn Cameron and the history of early 20th-century entertainment in Terry. The restored venue hosts community events and film screenings, showcasing the town's cultural vibrancy. It stands as a monument to small-town performing arts in Montana.
15. Rosebud County Diner
CLASSIC LOCAL DINING
Rosebud County Diner in nearby Forsyth is a local favorite known for its hearty American classics and welcoming atmosphere. Travelers enjoy traditional breakfasts, homemade pies, and daily specials. The diner is a convenient stop for those journeying along I-94 through southeastern Montana.