The Small Town in Montana That Feels Straight Out of Hallmark’s ‘When Calls the Heart’

First off, I must confess that I don’t spend a lot of time watching TV. However, every once in a while, I do find myself getting sucked into a wholesome, feel-good show, and one of my favorites is the popular Hallmark show, “When Calls the Heart.” This historical romance takes place in the early 20th century in a small rural town with quite a mining history. There are many reasons why I love this show, but I particularly love that its setting reminds me of the small towns that dot Montana, such as the town of Philipsburg.

What Makes Philipsburg so Special?

Philipsburg is located in western Montana, approximately 75 miles southeast of Missoula and 55 miles northwest of Butte. It’s a small town with a population of less than 1,000 residents, but it’s one filled with stories, adventures, and mines—just like in “When Calls the Heart.”

Philipsburg first began as a trading post and a mining camp in the 1860s, but then quickly grew when silver was discovered in the area. In fact, by the end of 1867, more than 1,500 people lived in the town, and it became a popular mining community. And silver wasn’t the only thing being sought after—they were also digging for sapphires. Unfortunately, however, in the 1890s, a silver crash occurred, significantly impacting the economy, and many residents turned to logging and ranching to make a living.

Things to See and Do in Philipsburg, Montana

Today, when you visit Philipsburg, you’ll feel like you are walking through a town straight out of the early 20th century. Restored historic buildings line the main streets, making you feel like you've taken a step back in time. Even the vibe is slower-paced, charming, and community-focused, which is something you don’t find every day—it’s most often seen in the scenes of a Hallmark show.

As you walk around town, you can visit the local shops and meet the friendly community. While I love the scenery and atmosphere of town, I also recommend you dive deeper into its history by spending a few hours in the Granite County Museum. Granite Ghost Town State Park is another destination worthy of a visit, as you can walk around the historic ruins and abandoned structures, learning more about this incredible time in Montana's history.

And, if you visit during the summer months, you can actually get your hands dirty while searching for sapphires at the Gem Mountain Sapphire Mine. Here, you will learn how to properly search for sapphires with a team of experts who will assist you every step of the way. You’ll want to visit the Gem Mountain Sapphire Mine website for current hours and visiting information.

Of course, outdoor lovers will also find plenty of activities to fill their schedules, such as adventures to Georgetown Lake, a beautiful destination where you can fish, boat, and admire the views. Or, head to Discovery Ski Area for a day on the slopes in the winter or on the seat of a mountain bike in the summer and fall.

Of course, no trip to Philipsburg would be complete without visiting The Sweet Palace, one of the best candy stores in the U.S. Here, you’ll find all types of nostalgic candy, unleashing your inner child. You’ll find more than 1,000 options here, ranging from gummies and caramels to fudge and salt water taffy.

“When Calls the Heart” is a show that focuses on community, hard work, history, and natural beauty. That’s exactly what you’ll find in Philipsburg. This Montana town may be small, but it’s an escape to when life was a little simpler and the most important things in life were front and center.