We love our small towns in Montana, but there are still a few things we prefer them to have... great restaurants, attractions, and nearby nature, just to name a few. This charming town may only have a population of about 2,000 people, but there's plenty to see and many things to do in Stevensville Montana.

If you're wondering "where is Stevensville?" it is located in Ravalli County, surrounded by the Bitterroot and Sapphire mountains.

It's about 30 miles south of Missoula, and it makes a great weekend escape from the city.

Stevensville is a historic town. In fact, it was the first permanent settlement in the state.

And that means this little city is a gem for history buffs.

The St. Mary's Mission was established in 1841 by Jesuit priests.

The state of Montana grew from those early beginnings. The mission is now on the National Register of Historic Places.

This is definitely a community of art lovers.

Aside from the beautiful public art, River's Mist Gallery and Gifts,

Stevensville Art & Sculpture, and several other galleries support local artists.

When you visit Stevensville, come hungry, because you'll have plenty of tasty restaurant options.

Aside from the beloved local date night spot, Mission Bistro, there's the upscale Catered Table, a casual Mexican spot (located in an old church) called Flavorful, and comfort food from the Frontier Cafe, just to name a few.

While you won't find a wild nightlife scene here, you will find excellent local beer and live music at Blacksmith Brewing Company.

The building is an old steam laundry and blacksmith shop that dates back to 1908, but these days it's a place to grab a cold beer and listen to some talented local musicians.

And if you love shopping — particularly for antiques — you'll fall in love with this little town.

The Creamery Antique Mall is fantastic, and there are several other great shops like Front Porch Antiques and Red Willow.

Should you need to spend time in nature, you can head to the nearby Lee Metcalf National Wildlife Refuge.

Coyotes, bald eagles, marmots, muskrats, whitetail deer, and geese call this beautiful refuge home (among many other species).

This tiny town truly has a little bit of everything.

The Montanans who live here are lucky indeed.

Check out this cute little driving tour of Stevensville to get a better idea of what the town is like.

Have you ever been to Stevensville? Some of our most charming towns also happen to smallest towns in Montana.