Great Falls City Guide

Local dishes include Montana beef and huckleberry products. Some international options like Mexican and Italian exist. Vegetarian and vegan options are growing. Late-night food options are limited.

Nightlife mainly consists of local bars, breweries, and a casino, with a casual vibe rather than clubs.

Local cafes and national chains offer decent coffee focused on convenience and community gathering.

Tipping is expected for most services. Around 15-20% at restaurants and taxis, $1-2 per drink for bartenders.

SIM cards are available at AT&T, Verizon, T-Mobile stores, and Best Buy. AT&T and Verizon offer best coverage. Pre-paid plans require less ID than post-paid.

Streets are generally clean and waste pickup is regular, including recycling.

Some 24/7 convenience stores and pharmacy drive-thrus exist, but overall limited 24/7 services and food options.

Major supermarkets like Albertsons, Smith's, and Walmart offer standard groceries. Stores usually open early and close late, with some reduced hours on Sundays.

Most places accept cards, so cash is not needed for many transactions, but cash is accepted everywhere.

ATMs are common at banks like US Bank, Wells Fargo, and Stockman Bank. Out-of-network fees usually range from $2.50 to $5.00 per use.

Great Falls Public Schools serve the area with instruction in English. No notable international schools.

A small and growing digital nomad scene exists but formal meetups are rare. Coworking spaces and cafes provide some community.

Parks like Gibson Park and River's Edge Trail give ample green space for walking, running, and relaxing.

Running is popular on the River's Edge Trail along the Missouri with good safety and scenic views.

Several gyms offer standard fitness facilities and classes.

Public tennis courts are available at parks and schools with informal booking.

Padel courts are not common in Great Falls.

Several yoga studios with English-speaking instructors offer various styles and drop-in classes.

Dojos offer Taekwondo, Karate, and MMA. English-speaking instructors are common.

Showdown Montana ski area is about an hour away with slopes for all skill levels and rentals onsite.

Missouri River offers kayaking and paddleboarding in calm areas with local rentals available.

No ocean access, so no surfing available.

No diving or snorkeling opportunities in the area.

Benefis Health System is the main hospital with English-speaking staff. Pharmacies like CVS and Walgreens have common medications. Quality care is accessible.

Tap water meets all federal and state safety standards and is safe to drink.

Playgrounds and kid-friendly attractions like Children's Museum of Montana are available. Baby supplies sold at stores like Walmart.

Generally accepting with local groups but fewer large events. State-level legal protections exist.

Pet-friendly with many dog-friendly parks and some pet-friendly accommodations. Vet services and pet stores are common.