Take This Amazing 2-Day Getaway In Montana If You Need A Break From It All
By Jessica Wick|Published April 30, 2016
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Jessica Wick
Author
Jessica Wick is a writer and travel enthusiast who loves exploring new places, meeting new people and, of course, beautiful Big Sky Country and every part of Washington State.
Life is hectic, and sometimes it’s nice to push the pause button on your schedule and hit the open road. Montana is full of peaceful, beautiful destinations to explore, and you’ll have your choice between a secluded location or a more populated place. For a little bit of both, head toward Stevensville.
Stevensville offers stunning scenery, historical landmarks, and a charming small town atmosphere. This town of about 1,900 people was actually the first permanent settlement in Montana, and the nearby Historic St. Mary’s Mission serves as a reminder of its Jesuit roots. Stevensville is perfect for an amazing two day getaway.
Get an early start on your adventure so you can enjoy breakfast at Glen’s Cafe in Florence on your way into town.
Glen’s Cafe is a little log cabin that doesn’t look like much from the road, but once you get inside and order a meal, you’ll understand the appeal. Glen’s is known for their pie, so make sure you save room for dessert (or have pie for breakfast, because this is your vacation).
When you get into town, head to Creamery Antiques Mall on Eastside Highway. Not only is it a wonderful antique mall full of treasures, but it’s also part of Stevensville’s past.
The Historic Creamery Building was once home to the Bitterroot Cooperative Creamery, a place that provided a marketplace for the products from local dairies. The creamery burned down in 1911, and the manager, John Howe, promised the community a big party if they helped rebuild it in 30 days. They delivered.
The Stevensville Hotel was originally built in 1910 by Dr. William Thornton as the first hospital in the Bitterroot Valley. Since 2004, it has been owned by Gene and Robbie, two world travelers who decided to settle down in Montana for a while (and we can’t blame them). The rooms have hospital names like the Recovery Room and the Nurse’s Quarters, and the beautiful onsite gardens will completely relax you.
Listed in the National Register of Historic Places, the St. Mary’s Mission serves as a reminder that Stevensville is "Where Montana Began." It was founded in 1841 by Fr. Pierre De Smet, a Jesuit priest.
Lace up your sneakers or hiking boots and head to Kootenai Creek Trail to get a little exercise.
