Western Heritage Center
Western Heritage Center – Exploring the History and Culture of the Yellowstone River Valley
Located in the beautifully preserved 1901 Parmly Billings Memorial Library building, the Western Heritage Center offers an immersive look at the people, places, and events that have shaped the Yellowstone River Valley and the Northern Plains. This Smithsonian-affiliated museum combines historic charm with dynamic exhibits that change throughout the year, ensuring there is always something new to discover.
Inside, you’ll find an impressive collection of artifacts, photographs and oral histories that tell the stories of Native Americans, early settlers, ranchers and railroad pioneers. Displays explore topics such as frontier life, agriculture, the arrival of the Northern Pacific Railroad and the evolution of local industries. You might see everything from intricate beadwork and traditional regalia to antique tools, vintage household items and rare maps. Hands-on exhibits and multimedia presentations make the history engaging for visitors of all ages.
Beyond its galleries, the Western Heritage Center hosts lectures, school programs and guided walking tours of downtown Billings, offering deeper connections to the region’s past.