Marias Museum of History and Art - Shelby

Located in the heart of Shelby, MT, the Marias Museum of History and Art is a must-visit destination for travelers exploring Montana’s Hi-Line. This community-run museum offers a rich glimpse into the region’s past, featuring carefully curated exhibits that highlight local history, agriculture, Native American heritage, and the early pioneers of Toole County.

Housed in a historic home, the museum features period-appropriate furnishings, vintage photographs, early newspapers, railroad memorabilia, and artifacts from daily life on the northern plains. Visitors can walk through immersive themed rooms, including a restored schoolhouse, a doctor and dentist office, homestead kitchen, parlor, bedroom, barber shop, country store, and working blacksmith shop—each capturing the essence of early life in Central Montana.

The Marias Museum is also a hub for community events and educational programming. Whether you're tracing family roots, studying Montana’s railroad expansion, or simply enjoying a quiet stop along your Montana road trip, this museum offers an authentic, welcoming, and informative experience.

A visit to the museum pairs perfectly with nearby attractions like the Carousel Rest Area of Shelby, local shops, dining, and a stroll through the Shelby Roadrunner Recreation Trail. It's an ideal stop for history buffs, families, and curious travelers looking to deepen their connection to Montana’s diverse heritage.