24 Hours for the Artist in Helena
An ideal way for the artist or creative person to enjoy Helena, Montana
24 Hours in Helena for the Artist
There is no more eclectic way to start your day in Helena with a trip down to The General Mercantile (413 North Last Chance Gulch). The “Merc” will provide you with a great cup of coffee or an awesome selection of tea. Sit down and one of the tucked-away booths and nibble on a baked good, while the barista prepares your drink. Check out The Merc’s unique post cards, art and vintage gifts in a relaxed atmosphere. The Merc is one of those places where you can pick-up a pack of Blackjack gum so how can you go wrong?
When you’re done at The Merc, Ray or any of his staff can point you around the corner and up the hill to the Holter Museum of Art. The current exhibit in the Sherman Gallery is Magic Carpets: Tribal Sorfas from Turkey – don’t have a clue? Sorfas are rugs made of natural dyes woven by Turkish women and are used in village hospitality and generosity. The colors vibrant and the patterns intricate.
You could really spend all day at the Holter wandering from gallery to gallery, but you’ve only got twenty-four hours, so wander up the Gulch and check out an array of galleries – from traditional to contemporary. If you ever feel a bit turned around or don’t know where to head next, please just ask the gallery-owners and staff. The Helena arts community is close-knit and they’ll be happy to make recommendations.
Take in a delicious meal at Benny’s Bistro (108 E. 6th Avenue). Margaret, who owns the bistro, creates some amazing food using organic ingredients, locally-grown whenever possible. If you’re at Benny’s on a weekend chances are you’ll be dining to live jazz music. Live music, great food, a glass of wine, and great art on the walls – Benny’s is a must for the artist’s trip to Helena.
Insider Tip: Parking in Downtown Helena is free on the weekends so don’t feed the meters or buy the parking coupon.
