Category: Montana

Cowboys Bar and Museum – Great Falls, Montana

Hey there, friends! It’s your favourite floaty companion, BOB the rubber duck, splashing in with exciting news about a must-visit gem—Montana’s Cowboys Bar and Museum! Now, let me save you from the rookie mistake my humans made. We strolled in at 8 a.m. expecting breakfast, completely glossing over the word “BAR” in the name! Oops!

But no worries! The friendly folks at the Cowboys Bar and Museum shared a hearty laugh, offered us a refreshing beer, which we politely declined, and, since we were the only patrons at that hour, treated us to a personal tour.

Imagine being transported back to the wild days of the American West, all within the cozy confines of a charming log cabin from the 1930s.

This unique setting is a goldmine of over 500 fascinating artifacts from the cowboy era, including rawhide ropes, sturdy ox yokes, and gleaming spurs.

The enthusiastic crew from the Montana Cowboys Association runs the museum, and they’re always eager to welcome new friends to celebrate their storied cowboy legacy. If you are curious about cowboy culture, don’t hesitate to reach out or paddle your way over for a visit.

But the Cowboys Bar and Museum is not just about historical exhibits. It’s a place where you can enjoy karaoke nights, tasty cocktails, lively dancing, delicious pizza, and even a casino! It’s a full-blown hoedown that’s sure to get your spirits soaring and keep you entertained.

Now, let’s talk about the museum itself. This stunning log cabin was built by the National Youth Administration in the late 1930s and opened its doors in 1941. You can almost feel the history seeping through the walls.

Once inside, prepare to be amazed! You’ll encounter genuine items once wielded by cowboys, like branding irons and cowpoke saddles. Don’t miss the beautifully crafted custom-made saddles, plus some incredible Native American artifacts.

And how about this—a Kimball reed organ floated down the river from St. Louis to Fort Benton in 1876! Now that’s a tale worth telling!

Gun enthusiasts will delight in the incredible historical pieces on display, including an old muzzleloading shotgun and a stunning flintlock rifle—perfect treasures for spinning a few cowboy yarns! There’s even a great poster from the 1946 Calgary Stampede—these guys have everything, Cowboy!

The list of artifacts does not end; you must see it to truly appreciate the work and camaraderie resulting in the collection housed in this unique setting.

So, rustle up your cowboy spirit and head down to the Cowboys Bar and Museum! It’s an enchanting chapter of the nation’s history and a priceless piece of Montana’s vibrant past.

Never Miss A

May 25, 2025
Sip and Dip Lounge – Great Falls, Montana
As I bobbed happily in the vibrant waters of the O’Haire Inn’s Sip ‘n Dip Lounge, the excitement in the air was almost as thrilling as a bubble bath!

The colourful ambiance was buzzing with energy, drawing guests into a night that promised enchantment, specifically, the much-anticipated mermaid show!

Nestled in my front-row spot, I enjoyed watching the guests sip on colourful, themed cocktails that mirrored the magical spirit of the evening. One glance at the stunning glass wall showcased an indoor swimming pool—my very own aquatic playground! This unique design transformed the bar into a captivating underwater stage from 6:30 to 10 PM, and anticipation rippled through the crowd.

As the clock struck half-past six, the show began to unfold, and I couldn’t help but be mesmerized! Two beautiful mermaids gracefully emerged from the shimmering water, their fluid movements a true spectacle.
They glided through the pool like dolphins, performing acrobatic feats that left the audience, including yours truly, in awe. I swear they were putting on a show just for me!

With charming smiles and playful gestures, I felt my little rubber heart flutter—who knew a duck could blush?
The atmosphere was electric, filled with laughter and cheers as guests united in shared joy. The Sip ‘n Dip is more than just a bar with great drinks; it fosters a sense of camaraderie that turns strangers into friends. Between the tempting appetizer menu, the buzz of slot machines, and attentive bartenders always ready with a friendly smile, this spot delivers a night to remember.

So, if you find yourself quacking for fun in Great Falls, make a splash at the Sip ‘n Dip! Here, every cocktail comes with a sprinkle of magic, and you might find a mermaid or two blowing you kisses, as they did for me, Bob the Rubber Duck!

Never Miss A
April 30, 2025
50000 Silver Dollar – Haugan, Montana
Quacking my way across the highways of adventure, I couldn’t contain my excitement when we rolled up to the 50,000 Silver Dollar Bar in Haugan, Montana! Nestled just off Interstate 90, this vibrant oasis practically screamed “Road Trip!” to my rubber duck soul!

My humans were probably feeling the drag of the long trek from Winnipeg, Manitoba, to Burnaby, BC, so this stop was a perfect splash of fun. The 50,000 Silver Dollar Bar—yes, you heard it right! —is not just any stop; it’s a family-owned gem that has been charming travellers since 1952, all thanks to the adventurous Gerry and Marie Lincoln, who started a fascinating tradition of collecting silver dollars. Now, we’re looking at four generations of coin collecting goodness! Talk about dedication!

Legend has it that the bar originally got its name when locals, who were paid in silver dollars, began leaving their coins embedded in the bar as a fun way to contribute to the place. The name changed as they reached milestones—starting at 2,000 and evolving all the way to the mighty 50,000! When I floated in, the count was an incredible 87,214! I can’t wait to see it hit 99,999—imagine the celebratory splash party!

The moment I waddled into the bar, I was captivated. The walls are a dazzling display of coin holders stacked from floor to ceiling. It’s like being in Scrooge McDuck’s treasure vault! And each shiny coin has a story behind it; they’re all donated by visitors, with their names on display. How cool is that? These walls are updated annually every February, showcasing all the shiny tokens added over the year. If only they could talk, I bet they’d have some wild tales to tell!

But that’s not all—this place has everything! The 50,000 Silver Dollar Bar boasts the largest gift shop in Montana, making it the perfect spot to find quirky souvenirs. Plus, there are tasty restaurants to recharge my humans, a small casino for those feeling lucky, and an Inn a stone’s throw away for tired travellers. It’s a treasure trove of fun!

Imagine over 5,000 square feet filled with goodies for every age! From local crafts to worldly finds, there’s something for everyone, all at reasonable prices. My humans were in hog heaven exploring the aisles, and they left with treasures that will always remind them of our epic road trip!
And let me take a moment to quack about the staff! They were not just friendly, but they made us feel like we were part of their story. Their eagerness to share their experiences and listen to ours turned a simple stop into a memorable encounter.

So, if you ever find yourself cruising down Interstate 90, don’t just zoom by—swing into the 50,000 Silver Dollar Bar! You’ll leave with a heart full of adventure and maybe a glistening coin of your own. Quack-tastic, right?

NEVER MISS A
April 30, 2025
O’Haire Inn – Great Falls, Montana
Greetings, fellow adventure seekers! It’s your pal Bob, back again to share tales from my latest escapade at the one-of-a-kind O’Haire Inn in Great Falls, Montana!

As I floated Great Falls with my human companions, it became evident that the O’Haire Inn is more than just a hotel; it’s a vibrant community hub. Everywhere we roamed, friendly locals eagerly asked if we’d visited the famous O’Haire’s Sip ‘n Dip bar and their beloved Clark and Lewie’s Pub and Grill. Their excitement was contagious, and it was clear that this was a spot where both visitors and residents came together to create lasting memories.

From the moment I waddled through its tall, welcoming doors, I was enveloped in a unique charm that felt like a warm embrace. The vibrant decor, each corner whispering stories of past guests and cherished memories, added to the Inn’s allure.

Upon our arrival, the dedicated staff greeted us like old friends, their faces lighting up with enthusiasm as they introduced us to the inn’s wonderful features. And then, they revealed the star of the show: SID, their very own rubber duck celebrity! SID is quite a phenomenon, and his legacy is nothing short of extraordinary.

Back in 1996, Sandy, a staff member who would later become the owner, had a whimsical idea: why not include rubber ducks in the guest rooms? The result? A quacking success! Guests fell in love with SID’s offspring and began taking them on adventures around the globe, snapping photos along the way. Can you believe it? SID boasts over 50,000 offspring now exploring places like Mexico, France, Budapest, and beyond—now that’s what I call a rubber duck dynasty!
It warmed my little rubber heart to witness the connections that the O’Haire Inn fosters among families and friends through these whimsical duck tales. Listening to the staff recount the adventures of SID’s offspring sparked my imagination, and I could picture the happiness they brought to countless faces around the world.

With every delightful sip at the Sip ‘n Dip and every mouthwatering dish at the Clark and Lewie’s, I felt a little piece of the O’Haires’ magic infuse my very being. This isn’t just a hotel; it’s a tapestry where nostalgia weaves seamlessly with community spirit, and love resonates in every detail.

So, if you ever find yourself in Great Falls, don’t miss out on the chance to visit the O’Haire Inn. Make a friend of SID, and who knows? You might find yourself embarking on your very own quacky adventure! Get ready for some unforgettable memories that will make you quack with joy!

Never Miss A
April 30, 2025
Veteran’s War Memorial – Great Falls, Montana

As I found myself perched on the edge of the Veterans War Memorial in Great Falls, Montana, a profound sense of duty washed over me. This hallowed ground, overlooking the Missouri River, serves as a solemn reminder of the sacrifices made by countless individuals to preserve freedom for all.

The mission of this memorial is deeply resonant:

“To honor and recognize all Veterans of all branches of military service to the United States of America in peace and war. A veteran is defined as any man or woman of any age who has served in any branch of the military of the United States of America in any capacity. To equally honor Veterans living or deceased.”

Known as “A Place of Honor,” the memorial is thoughtfully designed featuring striking sculptures, benches for contemplative reflection, and spaces for families to gather.

Most notably, it features over 8,500 name plaques dedicated to both women and men who have valiantly served in the United States military.

Throughout the history of the United States, the toll of war has been heavy, with more than 650,000 military personnel lost in conflicts since the Revolutionary War. This number grows exponentially when we account for those injured or affected by the ravages of war. Thus, while the 8,500 name plaques represent a significant tribute, they are but a fraction of the many who have selflessly dedicated their lives to service.

Great Falls, home to five military installations, is prominently reflected within this memorial. Moreover, the memorial embodies inclusivity, welcoming anyone across the nation to submit the names of their loved ones —past or present, living or deceased —to be honored on its walls.

As I floated among the rows of name plaques, I couldn’t help but ponder the enormity of their contributions. The bravery of these individuals has safeguarded not only a nation, but also the ideals of freedom and safety that many often take for granted. Though I am but a rubber duck, I am acutely aware of the value of friendship between nations, particularly between Canada and the United States.

With gratitude, I acknowledge the sacrifices of those who have fought bravely. Thank you, United States, for the freedom you diligently strive to preserve.

A Reflective

April 29, 2025