Museums
While the seemingly untouched natural treasures of the Bitterroot would seem to say otherwise, there is no denying some important people have passed through this valley before. From explorers to tycoons, history is as thick through this part of Montana as the smoke from a campfire.
| Visit the grand home and expansive grounds of Montana`s famous copper king, Marcus Daly. Open May-October, 10am-3pm daily |
| Location: |
Hamilton, MT |
| Phone: |
(406) 363-6004 |
| Originally one of the first hand-hewn homestead cabins built in the area this museum is a depository for the extensive collection of both home and business artifacts saved by the many pioneer families in the area. Open June-September, 1-5pm daily |
| Location: |
Darby, MT |
| Phone: |
(406) 821-3753 |
| Artifacts, maps and photographs tell the story of the rugged individuals who staffed this isolated ranger station. These pioneer foresters during the pre-World War II period were responsible for maintaining telephone lines, trails, and suppressing fires. Open May-October, 9am-4:30pm M-Sat |
| Location: |
Darby, MT |
| Phone: |
(406) 821-3913 |
| A center for art, history, events, and community gatherings. The museum is a wealth of local art and history located in the old courthouse. Open Tu-Fri 10am-4pm, Sat 9am-1pm |
| Location: |
Hamilton, MT |
| Phone: |
(406) 363-3338 |
| The first permanent settlement in Montana, Historic St. Mary`s Mission, was founded in 1841 by Fr. Pierre DeSmet, a Jesuit priest. The Mission complex includes a visitor center, gift shop, chapel, cabins, museum and a park. Guided tours are available and large groups are encouraged to make reservations. Open April-October Tu-Fri 10am-5pm, Sat 11am-3pm |
| Location: |
Stevensville, MT |
| Phone: |
(406) 777-5734 |
| The museum offers a complete overview of this historic town flanked by the Bitterroot and Sapphire Mountains. The museum focuses on a history deeply entrenched in the missionary movement in the Northwest and the establishment of settlements along the Bitterroot River emerging from the timber and mining industries. Open Wed-Sat 11am-4pm |
| Location: |
Stevensville, MT |
| Phone: |
(406) 777-1007 |
| The Victor Heritage Museum strives to preserve the proud and noble heritage of the community, which includes mining, railroads, schools, churches, businesses, agriculture, and natural resources. Native Americans, pioneer settlers, and those who followed are represented here. Open Tue-Sat 1-4pm |
| Location: |
Victor, MT |
| Phone: |
(406) 777-1007 |
