5 Best Hotels in Helena, Bozeman, and Southwest Montana, Montana

Fine dining and an 1890s saloon are two of the attractions of this classic Western hotel, listed on the National Register of Historic Places, in downtown Big Timber. The attractive 1890 Room ($$$$) serves steaks, seafood, and lamb for dinner, plus decadent desserts. For lunch, the 1890 Saloon claims to have served "cattlemen, cowboys, sheepherders, miners, railroad men, and travelers" for more than 100 years. Guest rooms are small, clean, and comfortable, with period furnishings—the kind of accommodations you might find over the Longbranch Saloon in Gunsmoke.

William Clark (of Lewis and Clark) cooked his dinner in the hot springs near the site of this spacious log lodge decorated with elk antlers, a stuffed mountain lion, and other critters. Accommodations are in cabins, many with fireplaces, and there's also tent and RV camping. The Olympic-size outdoor pool is filled with artesian hot water that averages 103°F year-round. The dining room specializes in surf and turf.

This rustic, yet comfy, B&B is perfect for exploring nearby Nevada City, which is within walking distance. Hosts John and Carma are also more than happy to play concierge and arrange for tours. All three rooms are in the main house, but there are also two cute, rustic cabins available. Property amenities include a hot tub, outdoor firepit, large yard with horseshoes, bikes, and free Wi-Fi.

At Georgetown Lake, this simple, clean lodge has views of the Pintler Mountains and is 4 miles from skiing and across the road from fishing. The restaurant ($–$$$) serves simple fare such as pressure-fried chicken and burgers; there's also a salad bar.

This pet-friendly, mom-and-pop motor inn is right off I–90 and within walking distance of the Grant-Kohrs Ranch National Historic Site. It offers a free continental breakfast, and room options include the unicorn of hotel rooms: a three-queen bed. Each room has a microwave, mini-refrigerator, coffeemaker, air-conditioning, free Wi-Fi, and cable TV.