Looking for Old West charm and riverside beauty? Discover Fort Benton, Montana! Walk along the scenic Missouri River, step into pioneer history, and experience the warmth of Montana’s oldest settlement. Whether you're a history buff, nature lover, or road tripper, Fort Benton offers small-town hospitality with a legendary past.
Best Time to Visit
The best time to visit Fort Benton is from late spring through early fall (May to September). Warm temperatures make it ideal for riverfront walks, museum visits, and scenic drives along the Missouri River Breaks.
How to Get There
- By Car: Located along U.S. Highway 87, Fort Benton is about 40 minutes from Great Falls and 2 hours from Helena.
- By Air: The nearest major airport is Great Falls International Airport (GTF), with rental car options for the drive to town.
- By RV: Fort Benton is RV-friendly, with several parks and hookups near the riverfront and town center.
Where to Stay
- Grand Union Hotel – Historic 1882 hotel on the riverfront with period décor and a fine dining restaurant.
- Benton RV Park & Campground – Shaded, well-kept park perfect for RV travelers and tent campers.
- Union Street Lodging – Cozy B&B in a restored 1860s home, steps from museums and shops.
Top Attractions
More Local Attractions
- Fort Benton Historic District – Stroll past restored buildings and riverfront statues that tell the town’s frontier story.
- Museum of the Northern Great Plains – Explore pioneer life, agriculture, and homesteading history through immersive exhibits.
- Old Fort Benton – Reconstructed 1846 trading post showcasing fur trade artifacts and guided tours.
- Missouri River Breaks Interpretive Center – Learn about the wild landscape, Lewis and Clark’s journey, and local wildlife.
- Shep Memorial – Visit the statue honoring a loyal dog whose story has become Montana legend.
Where to Eat
- Union Grille Restaurant – Refined Montana fare in a historic setting, known for steaks and seasonal menus.
- Wake Cup Coffee House – Local favorite for breakfast, coffee, and light lunches with river views.
- Palace Bar & Lobo Lounge – Classic Old West-style bar with hearty eats and friendly locals.
Local Events
- Summer Celebration (late June) – Annual festival with parades, live music, street food, and fireworks.
- Fort Benton Farmers Market – Held Saturdays in summer, featuring fresh produce and local crafts.
- Chouteau County Country Christmas (December) – Holiday market, tree lighting, and small-town cheer.
Day Trips Within 30 Minutes of Fort Benton, Montana
- Loma (10–15 min) – Visit Decision Point, hike along the Missouri River, or enjoy peaceful prairie views.
- Carter (15–20 min) – Fish the Missouri, explore farmland backroads, or watch the sun set over open plains.
- Upper Missouri River Breaks National Monument (25–30 min) – Paddle wild river stretches, hike rugged bluffs, or spot bald eagles and bighorns.
- Highwood (25–30 min) – Hike scenic canyons, picnic beneath mountain peaks, or enjoy small-town charm and vistas.
- Shonkin (25–30 min) – Discover red shale cliffs, scenic drives, and quiet prairie landscapes in this historic ranching area.
- Virgelle (20–25 min) – Cross the Missouri by historic ferry, browse the old Mercantile, or stay in a restored homestead.
- Geraldine (30 min) – Visit historic elevators, wander quiet streets, or explore nearby trails and birdwatching spots.
- Teton River Confluence (20–25 min) – Kayak calm waters, photograph wildlife, or enjoy solitude at this scenic meeting point.
FAQ
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Why is Fort Benton a great weekend destination?
- Steeped in history and surrounded by mile after mile of beautiful landscape, Fort Benton is a wonderful destination for a weekend break.
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What makes Fort Benton a special small town?
- The town has often been nominated as one of the prettiest small towns in the US and has something to offer everyone.
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What historical buildings can be found in Fort Benton?
- The Fort Benton Historic District is lined with interesting old buildings like the Grand Union Hotel (1882), the Bank of Northern Montana, and the Masonic Lodge.
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What museums can visitors explore in Fort Benton?
- There are several museums that tell the exciting history of the steamboat era and the 1880’s Gold Rush.
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What outdoor activities are available near Fort Benton?
- Close by, you can go canoeing or floating down the Missouri River to see the famous White Cliffs in the Upper Missouri River Breaks National Monument.
At a Glance
Best Time to Visit
Places to Stay
Tips for Visiting
Spring (March-May) – Pleasant temperatures and wildflowers blooming along the Missouri River.
Grand Union Hotel – A beautifully restored historic hotel with riverfront views.
Visit the Museum of the Northern Great Plains – Learn about the region’s rich history and early settlers.
Summer (June-August) – Warm and ideal for outdoor adventures.
Fort Benton Motor Inn – A comfortable and convenient stay near top attractions.
Explore the Missouri River – Go canoeing, fishing, or take a scenic boat tour.
Fall (September-November) – Crisp air and golden landscapes, perfect for sightseeing.
Rustic Lodge Bed & Breakfast – A cozy and charming retreat.
Walk along the Historic Fort Benton Riverfront – Enjoy stunning views and visit historical landmarks.
Plan Your Trip