Great Falls: The Electric City of Montana

• HelloHowdy
  [HOU-dee]
• GoodbyeSee ya
  [SEE yuh]
• YesYup
  [YUHP]
• NoNope
  [NOHP]
• Please/You're welcomePlease/You're welcome
  [Please/You're welcome]
• Thank youThanks
  [THANKS]
• Excuse me/SorryPardon me
  [PAR-dn mee]
• How are you?Howdy, how ya doin'?
  [HOU-dee, how yuh DOO-in']
• Fine. And you?Fine. And you?
  [Fine. And you?]
• Do you speak English?Ya speak English?
  [Yuh speak ING-lish?]
• I don't understandI ain't gettin' it
  [I aint GET-tin it]

• I'd like to see the menu, pleaseCan I check out the menu, please
  [Can I chek out the menu, please]
• I don't eat meatI don't eat meat
  [I don't eat meat]
• Cheers!Cheers!
  [Cheers!]
• I would like to pay, pleaseI'd like to settle up, please
  [I'd like to SET-tl up, please]

• Help!Help!
  [Help!]
• Go away!Git outta here!
  [Git outta here!]
• Call the Police!Call the Cops!
  [Call the Cops!]
• Call a doctor!Get a doc!
  [Get a doc!]
• I'm lostI'm lost
  [I'm lost]
• I'm illI'm sick
  [I'm sick]

• I'd like to buy...I wanna buy...
  [I wanna buy...]
• I'm just lookingJust browsing
  [Just BROW-zin]
• How much is it?How much does it cost?
  [How much duz it cost?]
• That's too expensiveThat's too spendy
  [That's too SPEN-dee]
• Can you lower the price?Can ya knock the price down?
  [Can ya knock the price down?]

• What time is it?What time is it?
  [What time is it?]
• It's one o'clockIt's one o'clock
  [It's one o'clock]
• Half past (10)Half past (10)
  [Half past (10)]
• MorningMornin'
  [Mornin']
• AfternoonAfternoon
  [Afternoon]
• EveningEvenin'
  [Evenin']
• YesterdayYesterday
  [Yesterday]
• TodayToday
  [Today]
• TomorrowTomorrow
  [Tomorrow]
• 1One
  [Wun]
• 2Two
  [Too]
• 3Three
  [Three]
• 4Four
  [For]
• 5Five
  [Fyv]
• 6Six
  [Siks]
• 7Seven
  [SEV-in]
• 8Eight
  [Ayt]
• 9Nine
  [Nyn]
• 10Ten
  [Tin]

• Where's a/the...?Where's the...?
  [Where's the...?]
• What's the address?What's the address?
  [What's the address?]
• Can you show me (on the map)?Can you show me (on the map)?
  [Can you show me (on the map)?]
• When's the next (bus)?When's the next (bus)?
  [When's the next (bus)?]
• A ticket (to ....)A ticket (to ....)
  [A ticket (to ....)]

The Lewis and Clark Expedition, also known as the Corps of Discovery Expedition, passed through the Great Falls area in 1805. The explorers, led by Meriwether Lewis and William Clark, were on a mission to find a water route to the Pacific Ocean. They encountered a series of five waterfalls on the Missouri River, which they named the 'Great Falls of the Missouri.' The expedition's route through the region left a lasting legacy, and today, the Lewis and Clark Interpretive Center commemorates their journey with exhibits and educational programs.

Great Falls was founded in 1883 by Paris Gibson, a visionary entrepreneur who saw potential in the area's natural resources. Gibson, along with James J. Hill, the 'Empire Builder,' envisioned Great Falls as an industrial hub powered by the hydroelectric potential of the Missouri River. The city was strategically plotted, with wide streets and parks, reflecting Gibson's grand vision. The establishment of the Boston and Montana Company smelter in 1892 further cemented Great Falls as a center for industry and commerce in Montana.

In the late 19th and early 20th centuries, the Anaconda Copper Mining Company played a significant role in the economic development of Great Falls. The company built a massive smelter complex in the city, which became one of the largest non-ferrous metal processing plants in the world. The smelter attracted workers from diverse backgrounds, contributing to the city's cultural mosaic. Although the smelter closed in the mid-20th century, its legacy is still visible in the city's industrial landscape and historical sites.

Malmstrom Air Force Base, established in 1942, is a critical part of Great Falls' modern history. Initially serving as a training base during World War II, it transitioned to a strategic role during the Cold War, housing intercontinental ballistic missiles (ICBMs). Malmstrom remains an active military installation, contributing to the local economy and community. The base is home to the 341st Missile Wing, which maintains a significant portion of the United States' nuclear deterrent.

Great Falls has a rich artistic heritage, with notable contributions from renowned Western artists. The city was home to the famous cowboy artist Charles M. Russell, whose depictions of the American West have left an indelible mark on art history. The C.M. Russell Museum in Great Falls houses a vast collection of his works and personal artifacts, celebrating his life and legacy. Additionally, the city hosts the annual Western Art Week, attracting artists and collectors from around the country.

The River's Edge Trail is a testament to the natural beauty and recreational opportunities in Great Falls. Stretching over 60 miles, this trail system follows the course of the Missouri River and offers stunning views of the river, waterfalls, and surrounding landscapes. The trail is a popular destination for hiking, biking, and wildlife observation, reflecting the community's commitment to preserving and enjoying its natural heritage. The trail also connects several historical sites and parks, providing a comprehensive experience of Great Falls' history and environment.

Great Falls, Montana is accessible by air, road, and rail. The nearest airport is Great Falls International Airport (GTF), which offers connections to major U.S. cities. By road, Great Falls is reachable via Interstate 15, which runs north-south, or U.S. Highway 87. For those preferring rail travel, Amtrak's Empire Builder line stops in nearby Shelby, about 90 miles away, with shuttle services available to Great Falls.

Great Falls offers various transportation options including taxi services, rental cars, and the Great Falls Transit District, which operates a network of bus routes throughout the city. Biking is also popular, with numerous bike lanes and trails. Ride-sharing services like Uber and Lyft are available but may have limited availability.

The official currency is the U.S. Dollar (USD). Credit and debit cards are widely accepted, but it's a good idea to carry some cash for smaller establishments and tips. ATMs are plentiful throughout the city. Contactless payment methods such as Apple Pay and Google Wallet are also becoming more common.

Great Falls is generally a safe city, but as with any destination, exercise standard precautions. Avoid walking alone at night in poorly lit areas. Areas such as the downtown district are usually safe but stay vigilant in neighborhoods like Black Eagle and certain parts of the East Side, which have higher crime rates. Always keep an eye on your belongings in crowded places.

In case of emergency, dial 911 for immediate assistance. Great Falls has several hospitals including Benefis Health System and Great Falls Clinic Medical Center. Pharmacies are available for minor health issues. It is advisable to have travel insurance that covers medical emergencies.

Fashion: Do dress in layers as the weather can change rapidly; casual attire is generally acceptable. Religion: Do respect local customs, but there are no stringent religious dress codes. Public Transport: Do be punctual when using public transport; don't be loud or disruptive. Greetings: Do greet people with a smile and a friendly 'hello'; don't forget to say 'please' and 'thank you.' Eating & Drinking: Do try local specialties like bison burgers and huckleberry products; don't be afraid to ask for recommendations from locals.

To experience Great Falls like a local, visit the Farmers' Market held on Saturdays during the summer months. Take a walk along the River's Edge Trail for stunning views of the Missouri River and the city's famous falls. Don't miss the C.M. Russell Museum for a deep dive into Western art and culture. Additionally, try to catch a local event like the Montana State Fair or the Western Art Week for a taste of local culture and entertainment.