As someone who’s fascinated with all aspects of Western history, I was excited to visit this little museum.The history of early Chinese immigrants is an elusive piece of the American puzzle. Many Chinese residents were driven out by financial hardships and rampant prejudice in the 1800’s and much of their story was lost. I was delighted to find a piece of it lovingly preserved at the Mai Wah.In addition to exhibits on the experiences of coming to the US from Imperial China, the museum has a replica of the original grocery store, and an exhibit on some of Butte’s first Chinese families. The building itself, with most of the original structure and layout intact, feels like being transported back in time.Also, the staff (both human and feline) was very friendly and helpful!

Great slice of life for the Chinese in Butte but I really enjoyed the noodle parlor upstairs and the raw natural state of decay of which Butte seems to be famous.

Hey any chance the noodle parlor is still open?Yeah its been years... like maybe 25 since I ate there. It was so good!

Soooo glad we finally went. An awesome museum and such an impressive restoration of the store area.

Such a time capsule this building is. Just happened to be driving through town and the only museum open on a Sunday. I really liked the cheater floor of the building!

A cool and significant part of mining city history.

It was great. I learned alot.

Definitely worth your time in Butte. Mostly self guided tour. Tells a very painful story but also interesting.

Very unique history.

At 10:30 it was still closed so I really couldnt tell you what its all about

Friendly, knowledgeable staff. Chinese were an essential part of western history, especially for mining communities--Mai Wah does an excellent job of telling the story of the Chinese merchants, professionals, and miners that helped create the American frontier. Cool T-shirts too!Incredibly beautiful location in historic uptown Butte (check out the views of mountain peaks and headframes/gallows frames). Good restaurants nearby, a great brewpub (the Quarry), and lots of other historic sites and classic industrial American architecture.

A wonderful museum, illuminating an important (and overlooked!) part of Montanas history!

Awesome place to learn some history of Butte. The man at the counter gave us a tour outside and answered many questions. Definitely go there if you can.

Neat museum

Historic