National Attention Arrives in Great Falls

This week, Great Falls, Montana, finds itself in the national limelight as the crew of the acclaimed travel series LOST IN with DJ BBQ films an upcoming episode in the city. The show, which airs on both cable and major streaming platforms, is celebrated for shining a light on America’s small towns and their hidden gems, highlighting the character and charm that make each destination unique.

Hosted by celebrity barbecue chef DJ BBQ, whose real name is Christian Stevenson, the series reaches an estimated 91 million households across the United States. As the production team explores Great Falls, local businesses and venues—such as the legendary Sip ‘N Dip Lounge, Roadhouse Diner, and Bellissimo Dance Studio—are front and center, offering TV audiences a distinctive taste of Central Montana’s community and culture.

A Platform for Local Stories and Unique Attractions

“My favorite part about doing LOST IN is meeting people. Everybody’s got a good story to tell and I like to hear them. We show off these cool towns and people want to go there,” said DJ BBQ during a break from filming. The host’s signature style combines culinary adventure with a focus on authentic interactions and storytelling, allowing viewers to travel vicariously while presenting lesser-known locales as worthy tourist destinations.

The Sip ‘N Dip Lounge, in particular, has a national following for its mermaid performances and retro tropical ambiance, frequently landing on lists of America’s most unique bars. Along with recognized dining spots such as Roadhouse Diner, recently featured in USA Today’s Top 10 Best Burger Joints, and community spaces like Bellissimo Dance Studio, Great Falls is hoping to capitalize on the momentum generated by national media attention.

Economic Impact Expected to Surge

The exposure provided by LOST IN comes at a pivotal time for Montana’s tourism economy. According to the Institute for Tourism and Recreation Research, out-of-state visitors spent an estimated $4.9 billion in Montana in 2023, supporting more than 43,000 jobs statewide. With travel rebounding strongly in the wake of the pandemic, regional cities like Great Falls are redoubling efforts to attract new visitors through media partnerships and content-driven campaigns.

Shannon Newth, Content Director and Film Liaison for Great Falls Montana Tourism, emphasized the tangible benefits: “By highlighting in this show what we have to offer, we bring people to Great Falls and Central Montana to experience it. They spend money here in our local economy.” She adds that collaborations with popular television productions, in addition to direct marketing, are vital for raising Central Montana’s visibility as a ‘film- and visitor-friendly’ destination.

Data from Montana’s Department of Commerce shows towns highlighted in major TV features see as much as a 25% uptick in visitation in the months following a program’s airdate. This translates into increased hotel stays, higher restaurant revenue, and more business for local attractions—critical factors for rural communities aiming to diversify their economies.

Growing Reputation as a Film Location

Beyond immediate tourism benefits, the LOST IN spotlight aligns with a broader movement positioning Montana as a premier filming location. The Montana Film Office reports that film and television production spending exceeded $40 million in 2024—a 15% increase over the previous year. Productions such as Yellowstone and 1923 have driven interest in the region, prompting increased investment in infrastructure, local crew development, and creative partnerships with city tourism boards.

Shannon Newth notes, “The Great Falls area really does have a lot to offer when it comes to film productions, movies, TV shows, whether it’s reality or adventure. We’re taking on a renewed effort to interact with these crews and make their stay here the best it can be.” Recent initiatives include expanded film-friendly permitting, incentive programs, and logistical support by the Great Falls Montana Tourism office and the Montana Film Office.

Preview of the Upcoming Episode & Regional Momentum

The episode of LOST IN featuring Great Falls is slated for broadcast later this year, and anticipation is running high among business owners, civic leaders, and residents alike. As each featured location prepares for a surge in interest, many are enhancing their digital presence and visitor services to capitalize on the influx of tourism generated by the show’s reach.

Great Falls joins a select roster of small cities nationwide to be spotlighted by LOST IN, which has previously covered communities in Texas, the Carolinas, and the Pacific Northwest. The program’s blend of approachable travel guidance, unique culinary experiences, and genuine local interaction continues to resonate with travel-hungry audiences eager for new experiences off the beaten path.

To learn more about the show and its upcoming Great Falls episode, viewers can visit the LOST IN official website. For more information on visiting Great Falls and exploring Central Montana, resources are available via Great Falls Montana Tourism.