Emma & Michael
Explore Montana
Glacier National Park
4 hours away from Helena. The Going to the Sun road may not be fully open during this time, but it is worth it to go for the most breathtaking views around! Keep an eye out for grizzlies, wolves, elk, moose, bighorn sheep, and mountain goats. Just watch out for the tourists, they're usually the most dangerous.
Yellowstone National Park Gateway Garden
3-4 hours away depending on what entrance you take. Stop into Yellowstone for an abundance of wildlife and natural wonders of the world. According to Mike, Old Faithful is "underwhelming", but definitely worth checking out anyways. Emma's personal favorite attraction is the Grand Canyon of Yellowstone. Once again, tourists with selfie sticks are your worst enemy. Steer clear.
Gates of the Mountains
30 minutes away from Helena. Channel your inner Lewis and Clark while taking a boat tour on the Missouri River. The Gates of the Mountains were aptly named due to the illusion that the mountains were opening up to the river. Even if you don't take the boat tour, this is a magnificent place to check out.
Mount Helena City Park
In Helena. At most a 5-minute drive to the trailheads. Home to one of the best and closest trail systems in Montana, and the second largest city park behind Central Park. Hike on up Mt Helena, traverse Rodney Ridge, or jump over to Mt Ascension to relive the epic engagement of us two goons.
Vigilante Campground
45 minutes away from Helena. A great spot for days hikes or a quick camp. Be sure to hit up York Bar for their famous burgers before you take a mellow hike through Trout Creek Canyon or test your mettle with Hanging Valley.
Montana Historical Society
In Helena For those history buffs out there, this is for you! A plethora of Montana history and artifacts. Don't miss out on the Helena Tour Train that will take you on an interactive tour through Montana's capital. This museum can give you many historic places in town to visit and tour.
Blackfoot River Brewing Co
Voted "Montana's Best I.P.A", and where Emma and Mike met, the Blackfoot is a Helena favorite amongst locals. Emma worked here for almost a year and a half and may be able to smuggle some free beer here and there. Expect this beer on tap at the wedding.
Downtown Helena
Check out the link above for some input on what to do in Helena. Personally, here are a few of our favorite spots: - Tenmile Creek Brewery (relatively new brewery on the walking mall) - Fire Tower Coffee (coffee) - Hawthorne Wine Bar (wine) - The Myrna Loy Historical Theater (former-jail-turned-movie-theater) - The Windbag Saloon (former-brothel-turned-restaurant) - Montana Wild (Fish and Wildlife museum with MT wildlife exhibits) - Bad Betty's BBQ (voted MT's Best BBQ by Thrillist) - The Staggering Ox (weirdest but best sandwiches in Helena)