As local travel experts, we know what travelers are looking for when it comes to finding the perfect accommodations for their next trip. To compile our lists, we scour the internet to find properties with excellent ratings and reviews, desirable amenities, nearby attractions, and that something special that makes a destination worthy of traveling for.

From our treehouses to the enchanting hobbit house in Trout Creek, there’s definitely no shortage of unique accommodations in Montana. And while these local places (and many others) are incredible, they don’t quite have the interesting history of our most one-of-a-kind hotel, the Izaak Walton Inn in Essex.

Believe it or not, this hotel was once intended to be an official entrance point to Glacier National Park.
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The building was constructed in 1939 for the use of railroad personnel.
The plan to make the hotel a southern gateway to Glacier National Park never materialized.
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However, plenty of tourists who visit Glacier every year spend their nights here.
The Izaak Walton Inn is currently the only flag stop along the route of Amtrak's Empire Builder.
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You can take the train to this stop, where you'll be met by a shuttle van that will take you to the hotel.
Accommodation options here range from classic Empire Builder Rooms to family suites and cabins.
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You can even stay in a luxury railcar or a cute little caboose.
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The onsite restaurant is called The Dining Car, and hotel guests tend to love it.
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They serve local cuisine like Flathead valley meats, vegetables and dairy. Occasionally they have special events, such as their upcoming Easter brunch.
The The Izaak Walton Inn is open year-round, except for a brief closure during the off season.
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This makes an incredible and relaxing getaway you can reach by train, which is part of what makes it so unique.
While you're there, don't forget to relax in the amazing outdoor hot tub that will soothe your tired muscles and warm you up when there's a chill in the air...
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... and venture out to see some of the beautiful scenery that surrounds you.
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This hotel truly couldn't be in a more visually stunning place.

Have you ever stayed at the Izaak Walton Inn? It definitely tops our list of unique Montana accommodations.

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