The Grand Union Hotel in Fort Benton, Montana, is a historic landmark and the state’s oldest operating hotel, opened on November 2, 1882.
Built during the peak of Fort Benton’s prosperity as a steamboat hub on the Missouri River, it was once considered the finest hotel between St. Louis and Seattle.
Designed by architect Thomas Tweedy in the Victorian Italianate style, the three-story brick building cost $50,000 to construct, with an additional $150,000 for furnishings. Its grand opening hosted over 300 prominent guests, marking it as a social and cultural centerpiece.
Listed on the National Register of Historic Places since 1976, the hotel has been meticulously restored, notably under the supervision of the National Trust for Historic Preservation, the U.S. Parks Department, and the Montana State Historic Preservation Office.
It was purchased in 1995 by James and Cheryl Gagnon, who reopened it in 1999 after restoration, and acquired in June 2022 by Colette and Tony Longin, who continue to preserve its legacy.
The hotel offers 26 elegantly restored guest rooms, including Deluxe Singles, Deluxe Doubles, Junior Suites, and a Master Suite, many with views of the Missouri River.
Amenities include free Wi-Fi, free parking, air-conditioned rooms with cable TV, and a non-smoking environment (pets are not allowed).
It’s Union Grille is renowned for farm-to-table dining, featuring local ingredients like trout and tenderloin, with seasonal outdoor seating by the river. The saloon offers craft beers and fine wines, and the Lewis and Clark room caters to events like weddings and conferences.
Located at 1 Grand Union Square, the hotel is steps from attractions like the Fort Benton Bridge, Shep Memorial, and the Historic Old Fort Benton.
Guests praise its historic charm, modern comforts, and exceptional staff, with Tripadvisor reviews rating it 4/5 and ranking it #1 of 2 hotels in Fort Benton.
Room rates start around $172, with a cancellation policy varying by season (14 days in summer, 48 hours in winter).
The hotel also has a reputation for paranormal activity, with reported sightings of ghosts like the “Staircase Shooter,” a cowboy shot while riding a horse up the stairs, and a female spirit in Room 202.
Guests have reported hearing hooves, music, or seeing orbs and apparitions, adding to its mystique.
For bookings or inquiries, contact (406) 622-1882 or visit www.grandunionhotel.com.
