While sleek, modern hotels are fun to enjoy, sometimes nothing tops staying in one of Montana's historic gems. Livingston's first hotel, The Murray, dates back to 1904. Not only is it still going strong, it's better than ever... you just might have to share your space with a few friendly ghosts. It seems as if this place is so perfect, some guests never leave.
The Murray Hotel was originally called the Elite Hotel upon its 1904 completion.
The Elite's construction was financed by the family of James E. Murray, a Montana Senator.
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The hotel was built to accommodate passengers from the Northern Pacific Railway.
The railroad brought a wide variety of guests to the property from all over the country.
In the 1920s, the hotel expanded to four floors and 66 rooms.
During that decade, the Murray family foreclosed on Josephine Kline, the hotel's owner and founder. The property was renamed The Murray Hotel.
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These days, the hotel is a historic treasure and a vintage lover's dream come true.
Everything has been restored and renovated, although the rooms still have a nostalgic charm.
In 2016, The Murray received quite a shout-out from the late, great Anthony Bourdain, who spent a few nights there during his travels.
He loved it so much, he later returned for a visit and requested the same room.
Of course, with a property this old, you're bound to hear some ghost stories, and this place is no exception.
Hotel staff and guests alike claim the property is full of ghosts. Some think one of the spirits may be the mistress of a railroad magnate’s son. The sound of girls' giggling has woken some guests up at night, and sometimes passersby will spot a woman in a second-story window who vanishes when they take a second look.
Whether or not you believe in ghosts (or would like to see one), The Murray Hotel is truly a fantastic place to stay.
You might even spot a celebrity at the on-site Murray Bar. It has been known to happen!
Doesn't this place look delightful? Book your next staycation here.
Planning your next trip and trying to find the best hotels in Montana that fit the bill? From picturesque mountain resorts to trendy boutique hotels, we’ve made a list of some of the top hotels in Montana. So, follow along as we show you the perfect places to stay in Big Sky Country.
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Best Unique Hotels to Stay in Montana
1. The Historic Murray Hotel, Livingston
Address: 201 W Park St, Livingston, MT 59047
Price: $279/night
Amenities: Free wifi, parking, onsite restaurant, and pet-friendly.
Ratings: 4.5 stars
Originally built in 1904 as a railroad hotel, The Murray Hotel is an authentic western hotel in the heart of Livingston. Conveniently, the hotel also has an onsite restaurant, bar, and coffee shop, so you won't have to venture too far. The 25 rooms and suites are classically furnished and have modern amenities such as wifi, microwaves, mini-fridges, and coffeemakers.
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2. The Wren, Missoula
Address: 201 E Main St, Missoula, MT 59802
Price: $118/night
Amenities: Free wifi, parking, air conditioning, and pet-friendly (extra charge).
Ratings: 4.9 stars
The Wren is situated in Missoula and conveniently located near several state parks. The central location is perfect for exploring the city and venturing into nature. Close by are restaurants, bars, art galleries, and music venues, making it easy to get a taste of everything this vibrant area offers. After a day of exploring, return to The Wren and kick back in your modern and funky guest room. Enjoy comfy pillow-top beds and walk-in tile showers. Each room has flat-screen TVs, plush robes, and complimentary wifi.
Best Hotel Pools in Montana
In search of a relaxing holiday? Consider booking a hotel with a pool. From an infinity pool to a heated outdoor pool, here are some of the best hotels in Montana with pool facilities.
Amenities: Complimentary breakfast, wifi, parking, and pet-friendly.
Ratings: 4.3 stars
The rustic and elegant Rainbow Ranch Lodge is located on the Gallatin River with a picturesque backdrop of the Rocky Mountains and Gallatin National Forest. It's halfway between Bozeman and Yellowstone National Park, making it a fantastic location for outdoor adventures. Travelers can rest easy in their comfortable guest rooms. Each one offers a variety of amenities ranging from cozy bathrobes to fireplaces and flat-screen TVs. The outdoor infinity pool hot tub provides spectacular views of the starry sky. Also, dine at their onsite restaurant specializing in local and seasonal fare from Montana producers.
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4. Triple Creek Ranch, A Montana Hideaway, Darby
Address: 5551 W Fork Rd, Darby, MT 59829
Price: $1,300/night
Amenities: Free breakfast, wifi, pool, and spa.
Ratings: 4.9 stars
Award-winning Triple Creek Ranch is on 50 acres surrounded by Bitterroot National Forest in Darby, Montana. The luxury resort is all-inclusive, so all meals and drinks are included, as are activities like horseback riding, fly fishing, and skiing. There’s a gourmet restaurant, wine cellar, tennis court, spa services, and a heated outdoor pool. Breezy, rustic suites, log cabins, and lavish houses feature fireplaces, coffeemakers, wet bars, and mini-fridges. As an added bonus, all rooms on the ranch have private or shared hot tubs.
5. Mountain Sky Guest Ranch, Emigrant
Address: 480 NF-132, Emigrant, MT 59027
Price: $430/night
Amenities: Pool, spa, complimentary breakfast, and wifi.
Ratings: 4.7 stars
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Mountain Sky Guest Ranch is an upscale resort on a 1929 dude ranch 35 miles from the destination city of Livingston. Cozy one to three-bedroom cabins features en suite bathrooms, with many having fireplaces and living rooms with sofa beds. Amenities at the resort include dining, a golf course, guided horseback riding, and fly fishing. There's an impressive spa with a heated outdoor pool, hot tub, and sauna. There is also a tennis court and a fitness center.
Best Luxury Hotels in Montana
Luxury hotels are on a whole other level in Montana. Whether you're interested in indulging your senses at an all-inclusive resort or want to do something different and stay in a glamping tent, we've got it all for you.
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6. The Ranch at Rock Creek, Philipsburg
Address: 79 Carriage House Ln, Philipsburg, MT 59858
Price: $450/night
Amenities: Complimentary breakfast, wifi, parking, and outdoor pool.
Ratings: 4.8 stars
The Ranch at Rock Creek in Philipsburg is an all-inclusive ranch resort on a 19th-century homestead in the Rock Creek Valley. Four distinct accommodation styles range from rooms in the main lodge, private cabins with living areas, upscale tents, and a loft in a historic barn. Activities like horseback riding, mountain biking, and stagecoach rides are included, as are the archery range and rifle shooting. Other amenities include a restaurant, a saloon, an outdoor pool, and a hot tub. Spa services are available at an additional cost.
7. The Resort at Paws Up, Greenough
Address: 40060 Paws Up Rd, Greenough, MT 59823
Price: $2182/night
Amenities: Complimentary breakfast, wifi, parking, air conditioning, and accessibility.
Ratings: 4.5 stars
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The Resort at Paws Up is a luxe all-inclusive resort on a pristine 37,000 acres on a working cattle ranch in Greenough. Accommodations range from high-end log cabins with stone fireplaces and private hot tubs to posh glamping tents with en suite bathrooms and heated floors. Resort fees cover meals at the two restaurants, horseback riding, fitness center, and yoga. There is also a lake for swimming and boating.
Best Boutique Hotels in Montana
Boutique hotels in Montana are the perfect places for visitors to return to after a busy day of exploring The Great Outdoors. They provide an upscale look and feel and are in prime locations, making them perfect for those looking for convenience and style.
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8. The Firebrand Hotel, Whitefish
Address: 650 E 3rd St, Whitefish, MT 59937
Price: $349/night
Amenities: Free wifi, parking, spa, and hot tub.
Ratings: 4.3 stars
The Firebrand Hotel is in downtown Whitefish just steps away from dining and nightlife, as well as easy access to golfing and skiing, and within driving distance of Glacier National Park. The well-maintained rooms have wifi, flat-screen TVs, and USB charging stations. Some suites feature bar areas and fireplaces, while others boast living spaces with scenic views. There is a coffee shop and lounge serving breakfast and light bites. As well as various amenities, including the rooftop patio with a hot tub and fire pit, fitness center, and spa.
9. Kimpton Armory Hotel Bozeman, Bozeman
Address: 24 W Mendenhall St, Bozeman, MT 59715
Price: $414/night
Amenities: Airport shuttle, free wifi, and air conditioning.
Ratings: 4.6 stars
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Located in the heart of downtown Bozeman is the Kimpton Armory Hotel Bozeman. This boutique hotel is in a 1941 art deco building just a mile from Montana State University. Spacious rooms come complete with wifi, flat-screen TVs, and minibars. Suites offer a living area with sofa beds, and upgraded suites have a wet bar and balcony. The hotel has an onsite restaurant, a whiskey lounge, a concert hall, and a rooftop bar with a pool.
Best Mountain Resorts in Montana
Check in to any of these mountain resorts, and you will not be disappointed. With exceptional views and outstanding accommodations, experience the best Montana has to offer.
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10. Big Sky Resort, Big Sky
Address: 50 Big Sky Resort Rd, Big Sky, MT 59716
Price: $609/night
Amenities: Complimentary breakfast, wifi, parking, air conditioning, and outdoor pool.
is a year-round mountain destination located through the Gallatin National Forest south of Bozeman. The resort offers 300 runs, ski lessons, and rentals. Winter activities also include snowboarding, terrain parks, and snowshoeing. Summer attractions include zip-lining, hiking, and mountain biking trails. With a large variety of lodging options, you're sure to find something that suits you. Amenities include access to pools, hot tubs, and fitness areas. When you're finished on the ski slopes, the resort grounds have plenty of activities, dining, and shopping to explore. Big Sky Resort is an experience and destination that should totally make your bucket list.
11. Sage Lodge, Pray
Address: 55 Sage Lodge Dr, Pray, MT 59065
Price: $429/night
Amenities: Complimentary wifi, breakfast, parking, and business center.
Ratings: 4.6 stars
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Sage Lodge is the perfect getaway for those looking for luxury and tranquility. With its close proximity to Yellowstone National Park, this property is a must-stay for anyone visiting Montana. The lodge offers a variety of activities, like cross-country skiing, that is perfect for anyone looking to spend a day outdoors. Guest rooms at Sage Lodge have a cozy ambiance. Premium rooms offer fireplaces and patios with scenic views, while cabins have living and dining areas with full kitchens. While staying at the lodge, you can also enjoy a full-service spa, restaurant, and bar.
12. Lone Mountain Ranch, Big Sky
Address: 750 Lone Mountain Ranch Rd, Big Sky, MT 59716
Price: $550/night
Amenities: Complimentary breakfast, wifi, parking, pet-friendly, and room service.
Ratings: 4.6 stars
Lone Mountain Ranch is a luxurious resort on a sprawling ranch built in 1915. The property is a short drive from Highway 191 and 32 miles from Yellowstone National Park. Cabins at the Lone Mountain Ranch have a rustic, chic atmosphere featuring porches and fireplaces, with some having claw-foot tubs. Amenities include a restaurant and pub and activities such as horseback riding, fly fishing, and skiing.
Have you been to any of these beautiful hotels in Montana? Do you think they are some of the best hotels in Montana to spend your holiday? Let us know what you think. We’d love to hear from you!
Are you on the search for more top hotels in Montana to plan your next vacation? Check out this list of hotels that are so beautiful you’ll want to move in.
Montana is known as the Last Best Place for a reason. And whether or not you actually call the Treasure State home, it's the perfect place to go when you need an escape. After all, there's nothing like being immersed in nature—while also being surrounded by luxury—for a few days to leave you feeling rested and replenished. Welcome to the Wilderness Club Resort, one of the most remote getaways in Montana.
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For your next great escape, give the Wilderness Club Resort a try. Not only is its remote location appealing, but it has a little bit of everything, so you can enjoy bringing the whole family or making it a romantic getaway.
The Wilderness Club Resort is located just outside of of Eureka, one of the most remote small towns in Montana, about five miles south of the Canadian border.
The property spans 550 beautiful acres near the Kootenai National Forest and is bordered by Lake Koocanusa.
This secluded resort in Montana is extremely remote—it's not uncommon for Eureka residents to drive over 50 miles to Kalispell or Whitefish to do their shopping.
Come prepared to truly get away from it all.
Although this is a true wilderness retreat, you won't exactly be roughing it.
Accommodations here are quite luxurious, whether you choose a suite in the resort or rent a cottage.
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The resort suites are perfect for couples, offering all the comforts of home (including cozy robes).
If you're traveling as a family or with a group, one of the luxury cottages or larger group cottages would be a better fit for you.
The resort has quite a few amenities, so you'll love coming "home" to a quiet bath after a long day.
Better yet, the luxury cottages come with private hot tubs.
The Wilderness Club is famous for its golf course, which is the highest-rated golf course in the state.
The 7,200-yard layout presents a challenge to players of all skill levels.
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The gorgeous pools and hot tubs overlook Wilderness Lake and the surrounding mountains.
And for younger guests, the on-site water park is a real summertime treat.
Treat yourself to a stay at this remote resort in any season and you'll fall in love with Montana all over again.
We never have to leave our own backyard to have a beautiful vacation.
Have you ever stayed at the Wilderness Club Resort, one of the most remote getaways in Montana? Share your experience with us in the comments!
Taking a road trip to Eureka or another remote small town in Montana? Take a look at our Ultimate Road Trip Packing List for everything you'll need!