These Historic Towns In Montana Are Worth Exploring
Montana is a vast expanse of rugged landscapes and untamed beauty that draws visitors from far and wide. While the natural beauty may be the immediate draw, the state is also full of rich history. For those looking for an adventure, Montana's small towns are well worth visiting. Journey from Virginia City to Scobey to see just how unique each town's history is and how each played into the creation of the Old West. From the remnants of gold rush-era settlements to the enduring spirit of pioneer communities, these towns stand as living museums, waiting for you to explore.
Virginia City
Virginia City is an impressive relic of Montana's gold rush days, immersing visitors in the life of the mid-19th century. The Virginia City Historic District is home to a well-preserved collection of 19th-century buildings, giving visitors a glimpse of what life in the town was like. The Nevada City Museum is just a stone's throw away and is worth adding to your trip due to its extensive outdoor exhibits. It's home to the largest collections of Old West artifacts outside of the Smithsonian and also has one hundred buildings dating from 1863 to early 1900. The Bale of Hay Saloon is Montana's oldest watering hole and is a great way to end your visit to Virginia City with an authentic taste of the Wild West.
Hamilton
Hamilton is located in the heart of the Bitterroot Valley, charming visitors with its agricultural heritage. It also has several historical sites of interest, including the Daly Mansion. The mansion was once the residence of copper magnate Marcus Daly and stands as a symbol of Hamilton's gilded age. For those looking for regional history, head to the Ravalli County Museum. It's home to an expansive collection with exhibits focusing on the area's history. The historic downtown district has an assortment of locally-owned shops and eateries for you to enjoy before you make your way out of town.
Stevensville
Nearby in the Bitterroot Valley, adventurers can visit the small town of Stevensville. The town is the oldest permanent white settlement in Montana and is a great visit for anyone interested in America's pioneers. St. Mary's Mission was established in 1841 and is a pivotal landmark educating visitors and reminding them of the influence of the Jesuit missionaries. There's also the Stevensville Historical Museum, housed in a former school building with a selection of artifacts and stories for visitors to view. Before leaving, be sure to stroll Stevensville's Main Street, which is lined with historic buildings.
Miles City
Miles City is mostly known for one thing: cowboys! The town epitomizes the essence of Montana's cowboy culture and history. Visitors can check out the Range Riders Museum, founded in 1939, which pays homage to the region's ranching and rodeo heritage. On the historic Main Street, visitors will find Western-style storefronts that capture the spirit of Miles City's frontier days. The Miles City Saddlery, a local institution since 1909, echoes the town's commitment to traditional craftsmanship. Known as the "Cow Capital of the West," Miles City is the place to be for anyone who loves the history of American cowboys.
Fort Benton
Fort Benton is situated along the Missouri River and holds the title of "Birthplace of Montana." The Fort Benton Historic District is anchored by the reconstructed fort, which invites visitors to explore the town's origins as a fur trading post. The Museum of the Upper Missouri is dedicated to preserving the river's history and adds a unique maritime perspective to Fort Benton, which is uncommon in the state. The Grand Union Hotel, a Victorian-era establishment, is a reminder of the town's prosperity during the steamboat era.
Bannack
Bannack is a unique town in that it is a ghost town today. However, for those seeking historical towns, it is a must-visit as it preserves the remnants of Montana's earliest gold rush days. Bannack State Park encompasses the ghost town and allows visitors to wander through abandoned structures frozen in time. The Meade Hotel, one of Bannack's surviving buildings, stands as a haunting reminder of the town's boom and bust. Grasshopper Creek, where gold was first discovered in 1862, marks the spot that sparked Montana's first major gold rush. Bannack, with its eerie silence and dilapidated buildings, provides an unparalleled glimpse into Montana's mining history.
Scobey
Scobey is located in the northeastern part of Montana and embodies the agricultural spirit that sustains the state. The Daniels County Museum showcases the region's farming and ranching history with a selection of historic artifacts. While the town is small, its vast fields and close-knit community are a representation of the idealism of Montana's rural towns. If you feel like getting outdoors, you can always head to the scenic Bowdoin National Wildlife Refuge, just outside Scobey, which provides a natural retreat for birdwatching and outdoor activities.
With a population that cherishes its pioneer heritage, Montana encourages travelers to explore and learn about the state's unique history. From the rugged mountains to the sweeping plains, Montana's towns stand as reminders of a legacy that shaped the American West. So what are you waiting for? It's time to get exploring.
