When it comes to Montana tourism (both local and for out-of-state guests), there’s no doubt that the western half of the state gets the most promotion. And while no one can deny the otherworldly beauty of places like Flathead Lake, Whitefish, Glacier National Park, and the entire southwest corner, there are plenty of other places to visit that happen to be highly underrated.

If you live in Montana and you’ve never explored the north-central region, you’re really missing out. And we’ll give you nine good reasons to go.

1. First, Fort Benton is one of the most charming places on the entire planet.
Ron Sipherd / Flickr
It's called the Birthplace of Montana for a reason — this little town is chock full of history, and you'll want to see it all.
2. In fact, Fort Benton is worth visiting for the Grand Union Hotel alone.
Don Barrett / Flickr
The hotel's history began in 1882 before Montana even became a state. And although it has been lovingly restored, it still maintains a nostalgic charm... plus, the onsite restaurant is amazing.
3. When you're in Fort Benton, prepare to have your heart melt when you see the Shep Memorial.
Don Barrett / Flickr
Old Shep was the most loyal dog in Montana, and it's fitting that he's immortalized in one of our historic cities.
4. Did you know north-central Montana has a tiny ghost town with a bed and breakfast that dates back to 1912?
Virgelle Mercantile Facebook
The Virgelle Mercantile is a historic gem. After spending many years as a general store, it reopened in 1975 as an antique shop and a bed and breakfast. And it's as charming as it looks.

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5. Havre is ridiculously charming.
Jasperdo / Flickr
It may be a small rural agricultural community, but there's no denying that Havre has a lot of character. If you're a railroad enthusiast or a history buff, you'll feel right at home.
6. Speaking of history, Havre is the only city in Montana with an underground tour.
OJMO / TripAdvisor
Havre Beneath the Streets is a recreation of Havre's history, and it's a tour well worth taking.
7. While you're in Havre, stop by Rod's Drive In on 5th Avenue and order an Ugly Burger.
Hard_Salami / TripAdvisor
It's much, much better than it sounds.
8. Located just 28 miles east of Havre, Chinook is an underrated town.
Holly Hayes / Flickr
Chinook is located on Lodge Creek, where it empties into the Milk River. The Blaine County Museum is full of Native American artifacts, and the Bear Paw Battlefield is worth exploring.
9. The Upper Missouri River Breaks National Monument is a spectacular sight.
Bureau of Land Management / Flickr
And while Montana happens to be full of those, this one is definitely worth seeing. The landscape contains a variety of biological, scientific and historic artifacts as well as lots of local wildlife.

As you can see, this part of Montana is extremely underrated. Check out these other facts about the Virgelle Mercantile.

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