Trying to choose a favorite small town in Montana is like trying to choose a favorite flavor of ice cream — it’s not easy. However, there’s something to be said for Fort Benton, a historic gem everyone in the Treasure State seems to adore. If you have yet to discover this wonderful place (or it’s been a while since you’ve been), here’s why you should plan a trip.

At first glance, Fort Benton looks like just another river town in Central Montana.

J. Stephen Conn / Flickr It sits right on the Missouri River in Chouteau County, about 40 miles northeast of Great Falls.

However, this little city is actually loaded with history. In fact, it’s called the Birthplace of Montana.

J. Stephen Conn / Flickr Established as a fur trading post in 1847, Fort Benton holds the title of the first permanent settlement in the state.

Forbes once named Fort Benton one of the “15 Prettiest Towns in America,” and it has earned plenty of both local and national attention.

J. Stephen Conn / Flickr That being said, the small-town charm here is unlike anything else in Montana, which is really saying something.

When you visit, check out the Grand Union Hotel, which is one of the oldest hotels in Montana.

Don Barrett / Flickr The gorgeous, fully renovated hotel is listed on the National Register of Historic Places… and, if you believe the rumors, it’s said to be haunted.

Pay your respects to Old Shep, the monument built to honor an extremely loyal dog.

Jimmy Emerson, DVM / Flickr The story of Shep is engraved on the monument, but ask any local about it and you’ll get a much more in-depth tale.

Fort Benton’s other claim to fame is the Bridge to Nowhere, which has been around since 1888.

Daimon Eklund / Flickr No vehicles have been allowed on the bridge since 1963, but you’re welcome to take a walk on it.

It typically only takes one visit to Fort Benton to fall in love with it.

J. Stephen Conn / Flickr Whether or not you consider yourself a small-town person, this charming little place will steal your heart.

How long has it been since you’ve spent some quality time in Fort Benton?

J. Stephen Conn / Flickr

It sits right on the Missouri River in Chouteau County, about 40 miles northeast of Great Falls.

Established as a fur trading post in 1847, Fort Benton holds the title of the first permanent settlement in the state.

That being said, the small-town charm here is unlike anything else in Montana, which is really saying something.

Don Barrett / Flickr

The gorgeous, fully renovated hotel is listed on the National Register of Historic Places… and, if you believe the rumors, it’s said to be haunted.

Jimmy Emerson, DVM / Flickr

The story of Shep is engraved on the monument, but ask any local about it and you’ll get a much more in-depth tale.

Daimon Eklund / Flickr

No vehicles have been allowed on the bridge since 1963, but you’re welcome to take a walk on it.

Whether or not you consider yourself a small-town person, this charming little place will steal your heart.

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Address: Fort Benton, MT 59442, USA