All ethnology museums to visit in Montana

Explore the cultural diversity and heritage at 15 ethnology museums in Montana. These museums offer insights into the traditions, customs, and ways of life of various communities.

Are you interested in learning about different cultures and their histories? Here are the ethnology museums to visit in Montana:

  1. Western Heritage Center1

    Western Heritage Center

     Billings, MT
    The Western Heritage Center is a regional museum situated in the historic downtown area of Billings, Montana, in the United States. This location offers visitors the opportunity to explore the rich history of the region while also enjoying the charm of the downtown area.
  2. Mai Wah Museum2

    Mai Wah Museum

     Butte-Silver Bow, MT
    The Mai Wah Museum, situated in Butte, Montana, United States, is dedicated to documenting the history of Asian people in the Rocky Mountains. This unique museum provides a deep dive into the rich cultural heritage and experiences of Asian immigrants in this region, offering a unique perspective on the diverse history of the United States.
  3. Northwest Montana History Museum3

    Northwest Montana History Museum

     Kalispell, MT
    The Northwest Montana History Museum is situated in the restored Central School building in Kalispell, Montana. This historic building serves as the backdrop for the museum's exhibits, providing a unique setting that enhances the visitor's experience. The museum's location in the heart of Kalispell makes it easily accessible for tourists.
  4. Montana Historical Society Museum4

    Montana Historical Society Museum

     Helena, MT
    The Montana Historical Society (MHS) is a historical society located in Montana, USA. Its primary role is to preserve historical resources that are crucial to understanding the history of Montana. The society provides a range of services through six operational programs: Administration, Research Center, Museum, Publications, Historic Preservation, and Education.
  5. Museum of the Rockies5

    Museum of the Rockies

     Bozeman, MT
    The Museum of the Rockies is home to the largest collection of dinosaur remains in the United States. This includes the largest Tyrannosaurus rex skeleton ever discovered, a truly awe-inspiring sight for any visitor. Additionally, the museum houses a Tyrannosaurus femur with demineralized soft tissue remains, a rare and fascinating find that offers unique insights into these prehistoric creatures.
  6. Museum of the Plains Indian6

    Museum of the Plains Indian

     Browning, MT
    This museum collects and displays artifacts and artworks created by the former inhabitants of Northern Plains.
  7. Ravalli County Museum & Historical Society7

    Ravalli County Museum & Historical Society

     Hamilton, MT
    The Ravalli County Museum, located in Hamilton, Montana, is a significant institution managed by the Bitter Root Valley Historical Society (BRVHS). The museum's primary mission is to acquire, preserve, and interpret the historical and cultural heritage of the Bitter Root Valley and its inhabitants. This includes the rich history of Ravalli County, Montana, making it a valuable destination for those interested in understanding the region's past.
  8. 8

    Montana Cowboy Hall of Fame

     Great Falls, MT
    The Montana Cowboy Hall of Fame is a non-profit organization dedicated to honoring the cowboy way of life, American Indian cultures, and the collective Montana western heritage. This organization annually inducts distinguished individuals who have made significant contributions to these aspects of Montana's history and culture. Although it currently lacks a permanent physical museum, the organization has been recognized by the Montana State Legislature and continues to work towards establishing a physical presence.
  9. 9

    Peter Yegen Jr. Yellowstone County Museum

     Billings, MT
    Devoted to preserving and interpreting the history of diverse inhabitants of Yellowstone valley.
  10. 10

    The Charles M. Bair Family Museum

     Martinsdale, MT
    This museum showcases the rich collections of Native Americans' art assembled by the Bair family. The building itself is remarkable.
  11. 11

    Phillips County Museum

     Malta, MT
    This county museum is a hidden gem despite its small size. Unusually rich bricolage of artifacts related to local history.
  12. 12

    Marias Museum of History and Art

     Shelby, MT
    Museum illustrating the life of the first settlers, merchants and miners. More than 10,000 artifacts.
  13. 13

    Ninepipes Museum of Early Montana

     Kicking Horse, MT
    Visit this museum to learn more about the culture of Flathead Indian Reservation as well as the history of the first settlers.
  14. 14

    Lodgepole Gallery

     North Browning, MT
    This complex aims to preserve the unique traditions and culture of Blackfeet Indian tribe. You can even spend your night in a tipi.
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    Museum of Women's History

     Billings, MT
    Captivating retrospective into women's lives. Collection of dresses, hats, dolls etc.