Hotels in Helena

Helena: A Cultural Odyssey Amidst Nature's Splendor

Nestled in the heart of Montana, Helena is a captivating blend of rich history and stunning natural beauty. Known for its impressive museums, including the Montana Historical Society, this charming city invites exploration of its gold rush past. Stroll through the historic district, marvel at the majestic Cathedral of St. Helena, and savor the local flavors at unique eateries. Surrounded by the enchanting Helena National Forest, outdoor enthusiasts can hike, bike, and fish in breathtaking landscapes. Just a short drive away, Great Falls offers additional attractions. Discover Helena—a hidden gem where culture and nature intertwine beautifully. For the best hotel rates in Helena, be sure to check out Hotels.com's Last-Minute DealsOpens in a new window on travel.

Top locations to stay in Helena

Some of the best places to stay in Helena are Montana City, East Helena and Boulder. Montana City, East Helena, and Boulder each offer unique charm for travelers. Montana City is quaint and close to nature, East Helena features local history, and Boulder is known for its outdoor activities. Accommodations in these areas range from cozy inns to comfortable motels, providing a variety of options for every budget. For first-time visitors, East Helena is ideal due to its accessibility to Helena's attractions and amenities, making it a great base for exploring the region. Here are some of the most popular hotels with our guests in Helena:

1. Montana CityOpens in a new window: Montana City is an excellent destination for travelers interested in outdoor activities and cultural exploration. Visitors can enjoy the historic Montana State Capitol, the beautiful Cathedral of St. Helena, and the modern Carroll College. For accommodations, DoubleTree by Hilton Helena DowntownOpens in a new window offers a 4.0-star experience with business amenities and family-friendly services, making it ideal for both business and leisure travelers. The Carolina Bed & BreakfastOpens in a new window and Sanders - Helena's Bed and BreakfastOpens in a new window are 3.5-star Bed & Breakfast options, both catering to business travelers with meeting rooms and business centers, ensuring comfort and convenience during your stay.
2. East HelenaOpens in a new window: East Helena is perfect for those who enjoy outdoor adventures and cultural sites. Key attractions include Carroll College, Montana State Capitol, and the Cathedral of St. Helena. For lodging, Home2 Suites by Hilton HelenaOpens in a new window provides a 3.0-star experience that welcomes pets and offers business amenities, ideal for business and pet owners alike. Delta Hotels by Marriott Helena ColonialOpens in a new window and Residence Inn by Marriott HelenaOpens in a new window are also 3.0-star hotels that cater to families and adventure seekers, featuring various recreational activities and business facilities, ensuring a memorable stay for all guests.
3. BoulderOpens in a new window: Boulder is a wonderful spot for travelers who appreciate outdoor activities, beautiful scenery, and cultural experiences. With attractions like Elkhorn State Park and the Mineral Museum, there’s plenty to explore. Finlen Hotel and Motor InnOpens in a new window, a 3.5-star hotel, is perfect for business travelers with its conference space and meeting rooms. Best Western Plus Butte Plaza InnOpens in a new window offers a unique casino experience along with family-friendly amenities, while Copper King Convention Center, Ascend Hotel CollectionOpens in a new window combines business and family-friendly options, catering to pet owners as well. These hotels ensure a comfortable stay while enjoying the natural beauty of Boulder.

Things to do in Helena for first time

Helena offers travelers a captivating blend of natural beauty and cultural experiences. Surrounded by majestic mountains and lush forests, visitors can enjoy hiking, boating, and sightseeing. The vibrant local scene invites you to explore shops and take part in guided tours, making it a perfect getaway for adventure and relaxation. Here's a quick itinerary to make the most of your trip to Helena:

• Gates of the Mountains Marina: Experience breathtaking views as you explore the stunning Gates of the Mountains, a natural landmark known for its dramatic cliffs and scenic beauty. Take a boat tour to learn about the area's history and wildlife, or enjoy some fishing and kayaking on the serene waters.
• Elkhorn State Park: Discover the beauty of Montana's wilderness at Elkhorn State Park. This park offers hiking trails that lead you through lush forests, past wildlife, and to picturesque vistas. It's a perfect spot for a picnic or a leisurely walk, allowing you to immerse yourself in the tranquility of nature.
• Holter Lake: Holter Lake is an outdoor enthusiast's paradise, where you can engage in activities like boating, swimming, and birdwatching. The lake is surrounded by stunning landscapes, making it a great place for photography or simply relaxing by the water's edge.
• Holter Dam: Visit the Holter Dam to learn about its significance in hydroelectric power generation. The dam provides unique opportunities for fishing and recreational activities, and the views of the surrounding mountains are absolutely captivating. Don't miss the chance to take a guided tour to understand its engineering marvel.

5 tips to find a great Helena hotel deal

1. Book for the cheapest times: For budget-conscious travelers looking for great value for money, the best time to visit Helena is during January, November, and December when hotel prices are more affordable. If you're traveling internationally, it’s wise to book your flight at least 8 months in advance to secure cheaper rates. To truly experience the main attractions in Helena, plan to stay for at least 2-3 days. Notable highlights include its fascinating museums, which offer a rich glimpse into the local culture and history.
2. Look for last-minute deals on Hotels.com: If you're looking for last-minute deals in Helena, check out the DealsOpens in a new window or Last-Minute DealsOpens in a new window section on Hotels.com. You could find excellent hotel rates that offer great value as your travel date approaches. To maximize your chances of snagging the best prices, consider enabling email alerts or push notifications from Hotels.com to stay informed about flash sales and special promotions. This way, you’re more likely to catch any opportunities to save on your hotel stay in Helena.
3. Be flexible with dates: Hotel prices can fluctuate due to factors like the location, star rating, and the time of year. Thus, if you're flexible with your travel dates, you may save on hotel expenses in Helena.
4. Consider your location: Staying near the city center and local attractions in Helena is usually more expensive. However, if you opt for accommodations further away, you can utilize transportation options like driving, walking, biking, or taking the trolley to explore the area while saving on costs.
5. Upgrade with One Key: Make your next reservation in Helena and be a part of Hotels.com's free One Key program, which enables members to take advantage of reward points for hotel bookings. Progress through the tiers of Blue, Silver, Gold and Platinum to unlock advantages like room upgrades when available, discounted rates, and exclusive offers for members. Start earning reward points now.

What to eat in Helena

Here are some famous dishes in Helena, Montana, United States of America:

• Bison Burger: A true Montana classic, the bison burger is a lean and flavorful alternative to the traditional beef burger. Often grilled to perfection and served on a toasted bun, it can be customized with local toppings like huckleberry BBQ sauce or smoked cheddar, giving it a unique twist that reflects the region’s ranching heritage.
• Huckleberry Jam: Made from the small, sweet huckleberries that thrive in Montana’s mountains, this jam is a delightful spread for breakfast or dessert. Enjoy it on warm biscuits or pancakes, and savor its vibrant flavor that captures the essence of the wild and natural beauty of the area.
• Trout: Freshly caught from Montana's pristine rivers, trout is often pan-fried or grilled, showcasing its delicate flavor. Local restaurants frequently serve it with seasonal vegetables and wild rice, making it a wholesome meal that brings a taste of the outdoors to your plate.

Best time to go to Helena

Helena experiences its lowest average temperature in December, at 19.9°F (-6.7°C), while July is the hottest month, with an average temperature of 68.2°F (20.1°C). June is typically the wettest month. If you’re looking to soak up the lively atmosphere in Helena, June to August are the peak months to visit, bustling with fellow travelers. During this peak period, the weather is mostly sunny, accompanied by dry to light rainfall. However, if you prefer a more relaxed experience, January, November, and December are perfect for a quieter getaway, marked by dry rainfall and mostly sunny conditions.