Local Businesses
Photo courtesy: Philipsburg Chamber
Go Gem Mining!
Opera House
Go Fishing!
Downtown
Photo courtesy: John Ansotegui
Located on the Pintler Veteran's Memorial Scenic Highway and more or less surrounded by the Beaverhead-Deerlodge National Forest, Philipsburg lives up to its picturesque surroundings.
Philipsburg began as a trading post and mining camp in 1866. The discovery of silver in the area, and the construction of the Hope Mill, Montana's first silver mill, ensured that Philipsburg would continue as a trading hub in the region. The town was named after Philip Deidesheimer, the engineer who designed the Hope Smelter. The region boomed during the late 1800s, and in addition to the painstakingly renovated National Historic Business District, be sure to visit the many ghost towns in the region to explore Montana's history. Granite Ghost Town State Park, once the richest silver mine on earth lies just to the east of Philipsburg. Don't have time to explore all the ghost towns in the area? Stop by the Ghost Town Hall of Fame in Philipsburg's Granite County Museum and Mine Exhibit. Get a taste of the thrill and rush of striking it rich while prospecting for sapphires at one of Philipsburg's sapphire mines. If you love the sapphires but aren't a big fan of the work, check out Philipsburg's unique jewelry stores.
Outdoor enthusiasts can find something to do at Georgetown Lake, just ten miles south of town, whatever the season. In the summer months, enjoy the fishing, boating, and camping of Georgetown. The winter months find the lake spotted with the tents and huts of avid ice-fishermen. Or, speed down the slopes of nearby Discovery Ski Area. Camping, fishing, hiking, skiing, exploring ghost towns, visiting museums, prospecting for sapphires, and taking in live shows at Montana's oldest functioning Opera house are all excellent ways to spend your time in Philipsburg, but whatever else you do, be sure to stop by the famous Sweet Palace. With fudge, caramel, and taffy made in shop and over one thousand selections of candies, this premier Victorian candy emporium must be on everyone's list. Once a roaring mining camp, today Philipsburg, MT offers a treasure trove of events and activities.
