Experience the Heart of Helena. Shop, Dine, and Play in Montana’s Hometown.

Immerse yourself in Helena’s downtown Walking Mall on The Last Chance Gulch and discover old-world architecture, restaurants, breweries, galleries, museums, retail shops, daily live music, and so much more! Start your adventure right here, in the heart of Downtown Helena.

Helena was founded as a gold mining camp during the Montana Gold Rush in 1864. With the rush, Helena became a wealthy city with approximately 50 millionaires inhabiting the area by 1888. Main Street was named “The Last Chance Gulch” by some of the first miners to strike it rich along Last Chance Stream. The historic downtown features a walking mall filled with art, water features, retail shops, restaurants, historic landmarks and more.

Today, locals and visitors can discover indigenous, pioneer, and women’s history throughout our historic downtown. Explore historic sites and stories like Reeder’s Alley, Guardian of the Gulch (Fire Tower), and St. Helena’s Cathedral.

Enjoy your visit to Helena’s historic and thriving downtown! Don’t forget to smile and share your adventures on social media and tag us!  Looking for more information about downtown, head to Helena’s Visitor Center in Reeder’s Alley for the latest information.

There’s Something For Everyone In Downtown Helena!

Explore the Trails

Over 70+ miles of trails for mountain bikers, runners, hikers, and even birders the Helena trail system offers outdoor access to all abilities. Discover why Helena was rated a Silver-Level Ride Center from International Mountain Biking Association.

Reeder’s Alley

Learn about Helena’s roots by exploring the original Pioneer Cabin built in 1864 and walk through the brick Alley built by Louis Reeder, used to house miners looking to strike it rich during the 1880s gold rush boom.

Downtown Walking Mall (Last Chance Gulch)

This historic district is home to restaurants, breweries, and local shops. Explore the architecture, see where the stream still flows, and take a selfie by the Guardian of the Gulch (Helena’s historic Fire Tower).

Great Northern Town Center

The gateway to downtown is a walking mall near the Great Northern Premier Hotel is a great place to take families. Discover the Lewis & Clark Interpretative Trail, Helena’s historic Carousel, eXplorationWorks!, and Centennial Park.

In Downtown Helena Free Fifteen Minute Parking is in effect Everywhere!

Please visit a physical Kiosk to enter your license number to ensure you receive your free fifteen minute parking.

Passport meter/kiosks are located throughout Downtown and accept cash or credit card. You can also download the app.

For more details on parking click on the link below for our Getting To and Around Helena resource page.