Last Chance Tour Train
Ride through Helena's history on an open-air train, exploring mansions and landmarks with engaging narration.
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Pleasant weather, fewer crowds
Last Chance Tour Train
Best Time
Pleasant weather, fewer crowds
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Ride through Helena's history on an open-air train, exploring mansions and landmarks with engaging narration.
"An unforgettable moment, and definitely a must-do while in Helena."
🎯 Book tickets in advance
Tours can fill up, especially in summer. Secure your spot early!
🧥 Dress for the weather
It's an open-air train, so layers are key. Sunscreen and hats are a good idea.
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences
Historic Mansion District
Downtown Helena
Marvel at the grandeur of Helena's historic homes and architecture.
Cathedral of St. Helena
Downtown Helena
Admire the stunning Gothic architecture of this iconic landmark.
Governor's Homes
Downtown Helena
Get a glimpse of the official residences of Montana's governors.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Book Ahead for Peak Season
Embrace the Open-Air Experience
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
🎯 Book tickets in advance
Tours can fill up, especially in summer. Secure your spot early!
🧥 Dress for the weather
It's an open-air train, so layers are key. Sunscreen and hats are a good idea.
🤓 Listen to your guide!
Conductors are knowledgeable and share fun historical details.
📸 Great for families
Kids and adults alike enjoy the narrated historical journey.
Tips
from all over the internet
🎯 Book tickets in advance
Tours can fill up, especially in summer. Secure your spot early!
🧥 Dress for the weather
It's an open-air train, so layers are key. Sunscreen and hats are a good idea.
🤓 Listen to your guide!
Conductors are knowledgeable and share fun historical details.
📸 Great for families
Kids and adults alike enjoy the narrated historical journey.
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Visitors consistently praise the Last Chance Tour Train for its engaging historical narration and fun, family-friendly atmosphere. The guides are frequently highlighted for their knowledge and entertaining delivery, making it a highly recommended experience for all ages. While the tour is short, it provides a great introduction to Helena's rich history and landmarks.
"As always the Last Chance Tour Train tour never fails to make for a great afternoon event with family or friends. Each season I take my grandchildren on this tour and I always learn something new about Helena and its vast history. This year my grandson who is 11 didn't want the tour to end, he was completely absorbed in listening to the conductor and the fun details about Helena he was sharing with us. I highly recommend this 1 hr tour to learn about Helena and its rich history."
Toni Thomas
"A big shout-out to Teresa — a knowledgeable, fun, and fantastic locomotive engineer and guide! She made our ride truly special by getting everyone onboard to sing “Happy Birthday” to my 11-year-old granddaughter.
An unforgettable moment, and definitely a must-do while in Helena.
Until next time — yeehaw!"
Rita Grau
"Excellent introduction to Helena and a fun tour. It rivals anything I've done in larger markets. Teresa was a fun and informative guide and ticket prices were completely reasonable for a 1 hour tour."
Bruce Packer
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
The Last Chance Tour Train typically departs from downtown Helena. Parking is available in the downtown area. Many visitors find it convenient to park and then walk to the departure point.
While Helena has public transportation options, the tour's central departure point in downtown makes it easily accessible by car or on foot for those staying in the city center.
The tour usually begins in the heart of downtown Helena, often near the walking mall area, making it a central and convenient starting point for exploring the city.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
Ticket prices are considered very reasonable for a one-hour tour, offering great value for the historical insights and entertainment provided.
While same-day tickets may be available, it's highly recommended to book in advance, especially during peak season (May-September), to guarantee your spot.
The train typically operates from May through September, with tours running throughout the day. It's best to check their official website for the most current schedule.
Information on group rates or specific child discounts is best obtained directly from the tour operator. However, reviews suggest the pricing is generally affordable for families.
🎫 🧭 Onsite Experience
The narrated tours are approximately one hour long, providing a comprehensive yet concise overview of Helena's history and landmarks.
You'll see historic attractions, including the Mansion District, Governor's homes, and the Cathedral of St. Helena, all while learning fascinating historical stories.
Absolutely! The tour is consistently praised for being engaging and fun for children, with guides who share details in an entertaining manner.
The train is open-air, offering unobstructed views. Seating arrangements are designed to accommodate passengers comfortably for the one-hour duration.
Yes, the open-air format is perfect for photography. You'll have plenty of opportunities to capture the historic sights of Helena.
🍽️ 🍽️ Food & Dining
The Last Chance Tour Train is primarily a sightseeing experience and does not offer food services onboard. It's recommended to dine before or after your tour.
Downtown Helena has a variety of dining options. For a local recommendation, consider The Windbag Saloon & Cafe, known for its historical write-ups.
📸 📸 Photography
The entire route offers great photo opportunities, especially as you pass by the ornate mansions and the impressive Cathedral of St. Helena.
Yes, the open-air design allows for clear, unobstructed shots. Just be mindful of other passengers and hold on to your camera or phone.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
Tips for families:
* Book tickets in advance to avoid disappointment.
* Dress in layers as the train is open-air.
* Bring snacks and drinks for before or after the tour, as none are served onboard.
💰 Budget Travelers
It's a great option for getting an overview of the city without spending a lot of money. You can learn about key landmarks and historical context, which can then inform your independent exploration of other attractions.
📸 Photography Enthusiasts
Photography tips:
* Be ready with your camera as you pass by key landmarks.
* Consider a polarizing filter to enhance skies and reduce glare on windows.
* The morning light can be particularly beautiful for capturing the historic buildings.
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
A Journey Through Helena's History
Key historical areas covered include the Mansion District, showcasing the opulent homes of Helena's early wealthy residents, and significant landmarks like the Cathedral of St. Helena. The tour provides context for the city's development, from its mining boom days to its present-day charm. It's an excellent introduction for first-time visitors and a delightful refresher for locals.
Travelers frequently praise the guides, often referred to as conductors or engineers, for their enthusiasm and informative delivery. Some guides even go the extra mile, like leading birthday songs for passengers, creating unforgettable moments and a truly personalized experience.
Family Fun on Rails
Parents and grandparents often mention how their children are completely absorbed by the stories and historical tidbits shared by the guides. It's a fantastic way to introduce younger generations to local history in a fun, accessible way, making it a must-do activity for families visiting Helena.
Beyond the educational aspect, the tour is simply a joyful experience. The relaxed pace and scenic route provide a pleasant outing, and the guides' friendly demeanor ensures everyone feels welcome and entertained. It’s an activity that doesn't take up the whole day but leaves a lasting positive impression.
Social
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit