With an On-Site Irish Pub and a Boutique Setting, This Historic Montana Hotel Is the Ultimate Destination

Great Falls may not be one of Montana's top tourist destinations, but this little city has a lot to offer. Aside from the beautiful Giant Springs State Park, the C.M. Russell Museum, and a notorious mermaid bar, it's home to a true historic treasure—Hotel Arvon. But while the hotel itself is quite old, the space inside feels modern and inviting, and the on-site Irish pub is fantastic.

Located in the heart of Great Falls, this historic hotel is impossible to miss. It’s a true getaway destination with plenty to love. Here, you’ll find a 33-room boutique hotel, a contemporary art gallery, and even the Celtic Cowboy, an in-house Irish Pub. But this Montana hotel is much more than just somewhere to spend a few days—it’s a destination full of history.  

The hotel first opened in 1890 after being built by Robert Vaughn, a Welsh Immigrant and the original "Celtic Cowboy." Vaughn originally intended for it to be a livery stable, a freight transfer station, a teamster boarding house, and a vegetable and fruit market, all under one roof. And, the Arvon Block, named after Vaughn's daughter Arvonia, was successful for many years. But in 2010, approximately 120 years after first opening, this building became vacant and fell into despair. However, it was purchased by the Jennings family and converted into the boutique hotel we know today.

You’ll still find evidence of this hotel’s past as you walk around Hotel Arvon, from the beautiful architecture to many of the hotel's furnishings. Eleven of the hotel’s suites are historically named, but all 33 rooms are filled with features to ensure ultimate comfort.

There are several room options, ranging from a standard queen room with a single queen-size mattress to a queen suite loft with a living room, a high ceiling, and a skylight. Guest rooms with king-size mattresses are also available at Hotel Arvon, including a handicapped-accessible deluxe king suite. The room type you choose will determine some of the amenities you enjoy.

Plus, when you stay here, you can enjoy many services and features that ensure your stay is relaxing and convenient, like complimentary airport shuttles, guest laundry, secured covered parking, an on-site fitness center, and a house-made continental breakfast. Pet-friendly guest rooms are also available.

One of our favorite features of this boutique hotel is that each guest room houses original art by local artists. You can also take a walk through the Hotel Arvon Gallery to view even more fine art. Throughout the hotel, there are hundreds of original pieces to enjoy, and you can even take a guided tour for a one-of-a-kind experience.

When hunger strikes, just head downstairs and check out the Celtic Cowboy. Named in honor of Robert Vaughn himself, this is a great gathering spot for locals and visitors alike. The Celtic Cowboy serves a weekend brunch, along with lunch and dinner throughout the week. The menus feature Irish pub fare, from delicious appetizers to full entrees. There is a kids’ menu as well, and I also recommend you save some room for the mouthwatering desserts on the menu. Throughout the week, there are events like Happy Hour, Pub Quiz Night, live music, and more.

Of course, you can also just stop by and enjoy a refreshing drink. The drink menu at the Celtic Cowboy is long, with everything from a vast selection of beer to cocktails, whiskey, and non-alcoholic options.

Great Falls' Hotel Arvon is a terrific option for a getaway or staycation destination in Montana. With history, comfort, art, and good food, there is so much to love here. Ready to book your room at the Hotel Arvon and visit the Celtic Cowboy? Learn more, including available rooms, rates, hours, and view menus, on the Hotel Arvon website. Make sure to follow the Hotel Arvon Facebook page for additional news and updates as well.

Feeling inspired? Ready to book your own trip to Great Falls, Montana? Make sure to use Only In Your State's itinerary planner for recommendations on activities and more.