Visiting the Fort Benton Museums & Heritage Complex

The “birthplace” of Montana, Fort Benton has a deep-rooted history cherished by all. From our beloved property, the Grand Union Hotel, to full displays at the Fort Benton Museums & Heritage Complex, there are boundless opportunities to learn. Today, we will be searching through these museums and discussing what makes the Fort Benton Museums & Heritage Complex unique. Let’s dive in.

The Museums

In total, there are eight locations that make up the Fort Benton Museums & Heritage Complex, each unique in what they display and the information they provide. Let’s learn more about each of these locations:

The Montana Agricultural Center

Featured as a hub for community gatherings, the Montana Agricultural Center boasts a premier auditorium, the Lippard Auditorium. It is a stunning location, great for weddings and other seasonal events. The cost is affordable, and allows you to use vendors that you like at no additional charge. It also contains the Elliot Room, another great space for small gatherings, like company meetings.

Old Fort Benton

Old Fort Benton is like stepping back into the Wild West. Built back in 1846, it originally was a trading post. Today, it serves as a museum and brings all that history back to life. You can check out exhibits on frontier life, see old trading artifacts, and imagine what it would have been like during the early days of Montana. If you’re a history buff or just love a good story, this is the place for you!

Starr Gallery of Western Art

The Starr Gallery of Western Art features prints and sculptures detailing Montana’s scenery and Indian cultures from the 1830s. It perfectly captures the spirit of the Old West, depicting early Native American life and early settlers. This gallery showcases perfect artistry and storytelling that make it worth seeing.

Museum of the Northern Great Plains

Check out the last hundred years of life on the Montana plains in this great museum. Here, you can see everything from vintage tractors and farm equipment to exhibits on the pioneering farmers. See how the region was shaped, and get a feel for the hard work that was put into settling the Northern Great Plains.

Hornaday Smithsonian Buffalo

Witness a preserved bison, one of the few remaining examples from early Smithsonian conservation efforts. Located within the Museum of the Northern Great Plains complex, you can see some impressive western art made by various artists in the 19th century. The group of six buffalo is one of the most significant collections within the United States.

Homestead Village

Experience a typical 1900s rural community in the Homestead Village. Located within the Museum of the Northern Great Plains and Montana Agricultural Center complex, you can see the accurately restored buildings from the great Wild West. Explore these historic buildings, such as a one-room schoolhouse, a blacksmith shop, and a homestead cabin, each filled with artifacts and furnishings from that time period. 

Museum of the Upper Missouri

Focusing on the Missouri River, see how it played a role in shaping the region, especially during the height of the fur trade and westward expansion. You can see exhibits on river travel, early fur traders, and more. It’s an exciting way to see how the mighty river was truly the “highway” of the frontier. 

Missouri River Breaks Interpretive Center

Our last stop is the Missouri River Breaks Interpretive Center, which explores the great Missouri River Breaks. Through interactive exhibits and guided programs, you can learn more about the wildlife, geology, and history of the area.

The Fort Benton Museums & Heritage Complex brings the region to life, showcasing its diverse history and offering something for everyone. Whether you’re into art, nature, history, or are just looking for a good time, it’s the perfect spot to witness the spirit of the American West!