Stanford
Judith Basin County Museum
Opened in 1967, the Judith Basin County Museum depicts the rich history of the county which saw the transition from open range cattle ranching to sheep-herding and the coming of the homesteaders. There were also the colorful cowboys of the Judith Basin Pool, including cowboy artist Charlie Russell.
Basin Trading Post
Whether you’re in need of supplies, gifts, or a bite to eat, the Basin Trading Post is the place to be. The building houses several local businesses, an art gallery, and a one-room museum. Here you’ll find Stanford’s most popular attraction—the legendary white wolf—stuffed and on display. The creature is so significant to the history of the area that in 2018, it was inducted into the Montana Cowboy Hall of Fame.
Hobson
Hobson Museum
The Hobson Museum was constructed in 1909 to house the Cook and Dunn Drugstore, which operated for nearly forty years. After World War II, with the return of many veterans, the building was purchased and remodeled by the American Legion Post 76 and the American Legion Auxiliary and served as their meeting place for over 50 years. Today, you’ll find a wide variety of photographs and displays outlining the cattle and farming industries which brought people to the area over a century ago.
Ackley Lake State Park
Spanning 290 acres, Ackley Lake State Park
is a popular spot for trout fishing and offers opportunities for other water recreation such as boating, jet skiing, and swimming. Visitors can enjoy beautiful views of the Little Belt and Big Snowy Mountains from sunrise to sunset at one of the park’s many campsites.
Lewistown
Charlie Russell Chew Choo
Hop aboard the Charlie Russell Chew Choo for an evening filled with rolling hills, vast ranchlands, and breathtaking views of Big Sky Country. This scenic 56-mile round trip includes a prime rib dinner and dessert, no-host cash bar, and music by local area entertainers. (Be sure to watch out for the masked bandits; rumor has it hold-ups can occur when you least expect them!)
Big Spring Creek
Big Spring Creek bubbles out of the ground from one of the world’s largest fresh water springs. Historically known as a sacred site to Native American tribes, the creek was later recorded as a valued resource for Lewistown’s early settlers. The spring and creek also support Big Spring Trout Hatchery, which produces thousands of brown, rainbow, and cutthroat trout each year. These new fish are distributed throughout Montana, replenishing other waterways around the state.
Montana Tavern
Constructed in 1911 as the Mackey Building, the Montana Tavern maintains much of its original facade, including the original Mackey Building sign in the colorful exterior checkerboard masonry work. While its architecture is notable, one particular feature has made the bar famous—a Plexiglas window which provides patrons a view into Spring Creek directly below.