Much of the state’s ethnic groups comprise historic mining-oriented communities like the ones at Butte. The farming-dominated communities originally attracted people of Scandinavian and Scots-Irish ancestry. The Hispanic people are significantly centred in south-central Montana. The Gold Rush also shaped much of the state’s culture and society.

The Hell Creek Formation became an archaeological paradise with the excavation of several dinosaur fossils. Much of these can be found at the Museum of the Rockies. The Cathedral of St Helena is an architectural beauty built in Gothic-style and has stained glass, white marble altars and majestic twin spires. Also visit the Glacier National Park (the site of the Battle of Little Bighorn) and revisit American history.

In late June, the town of Pioneer comes to life with the Pioneer Days and Antique Show (featuring a vaudeville show and an antique car and tractor parade). Montana is also famous for its unusual food fares like Lewistown’s Chokecherry Festival during Labour Day week and the annual Billings Wine and Food Festival held in May. The Montana State Fair in late July is always a guaranteed action-packed event each year.