Wild About the National Discovery Center
Your trip starts here.
What you’ll find
Interactive exhibits: The prairie ecosystem explained through hands-on displays. Stay a while and take a deep dive into the wildlife, geology, and history of this iconic landscape.
Live black-footed ferret exhibit: Our black-footed ferret, Bandit, is one of North America’s most endangered mammals and also one of the cutest. Come see Bandit in person and be sure to grab a black-footed ferret stuffed animal on your way out!
Ken Burns Theater: Stop in and choose from a selection of films highlighting the work American Prairie has accomplished over the past 25 years, different ways you can enjoy the prairie, and what we hope to see in the next 25 years and beyond.
Night Sky Theater: This exibit places you on the prairie at night around the campfire. Hear the coyotes sing and learn more about what happens on the prairie after the sun goes down. This is a great way to practice slowing down and listening before you experience the prairie in person.
Kids Center: The Talpins Children’s Center is a great place to get the wiggles out and introduce the next generation of conservationists to the sights, sounds, and smells of the prairie.
Maps, books, gear, and merch: We have all the info you need before heading out, and a few things to bring back.
Rotating art collection: Prairie-inspired work from regional artists. The land seen through different eyes.
Why start here
The prairie is more interesting when you understand what you’re looking at. After an hour at the Discovery Center, you’ll better understand the value prairie dogs provide to a thriving ecosystem, grassland management, and the scale of what American Prairie is attempting comes into focus.
Open Thursday-Saturday 10am to 4pm, it’s the perfect place to make a prairie game plan. Our knowledgeable staff can answer questions about current road conditions, wildlife activity, and which property best suits the experience you’re after.
Lewistown
Lewistown sits in the Judith Basin with the Judith Mountains on the skyline. It remains true to it’s roots in the face of the rapid development seen in other parts of the state. Big Spring Creek runs through town and is an anchor for outdoor activities including fly-fishing or hopping on a trail. Grab a bite at a local restaurant, pick up a few groceries, and top off your fuel tank before heading north.
Lewistown is a gem in the heart of Central Montana. Be sure to spend some time here and enjoy all this incredible town has to offer.