About the National Discovery Center
Two of the core tenants of American Prairie are providing education about the prairie and access to the land. The National Discovery Center is a rendezvous point for visitors going to the prairie, a vibrant place for community building and partnership, and an important educational resource on the importance of grassland ecosystems to the health of our planet. The National Discovery Center is located a short drive from the prairie in Lewistown, Montana. It is open to the public and hosts an ever-growing lineup of local, regional, and national activities and programs that stir visitors to love and want to preserve the prairie and all of its inhabitants.
Located in the renovated Power Mercantile building, the National Discovery Center features interactive exhibits about the prairie ecosystem, community meeting spaces, and a film theater. The Exhibit Hall includes interactive exhibits and the Night Sky Theater that explore the nuances of the prairie ecosystem. The Talpins Children’s Center gives kids their own place to play and learn about the prairie. The Clyde Aspevig Event Center, which provides flexible spaces for events, presentations, and meetings with state-of-the-art technology. The Ken Burns American Heritage Theater offers a variety of films that introduce visitors to American Prairie, its mission, and the prairie ecosystem.
Location: 302 W Main St Lewistown, MT 59457
Hours: Thursday-Saturday from 10am-4pm
Upcoming Events
October
1
2023
Traveling Exhibit Title: The Journey of the Resilient Niimiipuu (Nez Perce) People
Oct 1–Dec 31
The story of the Niimiipuu (Nez Perce) people stretches out across the landscape. It is embedded in places, names, and traditions. The Niimiipuu have faced many challenges over the past 150 years. Their history is one of disturbance, loss, and upheaval; but it is also one of resolve, adaptability, and strength. The Journey of the Resilient Niimiipuu (Nez Perce) People, on loan from the Ravalli County Museum & Historical Society, chronicles the journey of the Niimiipuu and offers a glimpse into the living culture of the Niimiipuu today.