The Yellowstone Art Museum, located here in downtown Billings, is not only filled with unbelievable exhibits and interesting displays but it is also the largest contemporary art museum in Montana. It was originally opened in 1964 in the former Yellowstone county jail built in 1884. Today, after an extensive expansion project, the museum has continued to see exponential growth. Featuring over 7,300 works of historic and contemporary regional art, the Yellowstone Art Museum has continued to mature throughout the years with an emphasis on Western genre art and historic artifacts reflecting the wild west in which it is located. Evidence of the importance this institution has on its state, in 1995 the museum received the Montana Governor’s Award for Service to the Arts. Featuring a restaurant, rotating exhibits along with the permanent exhibits, festivals, lectures and various special events, the Yellowstone Art Museum is a great venue for an afternoon or evening out. They feature a ‘Paint and Sip’ fun time for those wanting to try their creative hand at painting. The first Friday of every month is the ‘Jam at the Yam’ event. Stop by after a long week at work and enjoy a relaxing drink and live music. Of course, visitors are welcome anytime and are encouraged to bring the kids to enjoy the kid friendly activities available to the young art enthusiast. More information for upcoming events and exhibits are available online at the Yellowstone Art Museum website.