The shining star of the Hi-Line, Havre is the largest city in Montana’s Hill County, in the state’s north-central region. With a population of fewer than 10,000, Havre is believed to have been named after the French city of Le Havre.
A rural agricultural community with plenty of cultural attractions to behold, Havre lies along Highway 2, which cuts right through its downtown area.
The city is surrounded by striking landscapes and wilderness that Montana is famous for. As the biggest town on the Hi-Line, it also serves as the business and commercial center of the area, making it a popular stop for travelers.
Though Havre has been standing for over 100 years, many of the local buildings have been renovated and refurbished. The city also boasts the only college in the Hi-Line area: Montana State University-Northern.
Havre also happens to have the widest selection of accommodation options in the Hi-Line area, and there are a few bed and breakfasts that provide a home away from home while you explore the historic town.
Travel Tips for Staying in Havre
The most popular time to visit Havre is during the summer, between June and August, due to the pleasantly warm weather. This is also when you’ll encounter the most other tourists in town, although Havre isn’t typically over-crowded as it tends to be one of Montana’s hidden gems.
If you do want to visit Havre in the winter, be sure to incorporate a trip to the Bear Paw Ski Bowl into your visit. Just 29 miles south of town, the ski area features 24 trails for skiing and snowboarding.
Havre doesn’t have its own airport; the closest is Great Falls International Airport, which is two hours away by road. The airport connects to Denver, Las Vegas, Minneapolis, Phoenix, and Salt Lake City. Glacier Park International Airport is four hours away from Havre but offers a wider selection of airports and destinations.
As the most prominent location along the Hi-Line, Havre is easy to get to by train. The Havre Amtrak Station is conveniently located on Main Street. Additionally, North Central Montana Transit services many of the communities along the Hi-Line, including Havre. Just be sure to book your tickets in advance.
There are shopping opportunities both in the downtown area of Havre and along the town’s edges. Visitors can explore Havre’s retail outlets and eateries in these areas, along with some of the more famous cultural attractions.
The Triple Dog Brewing Company is Havre’s go-to brewery. Offering a selection of homemade beers, the brewery also has a small gift shop where you can pick up some merchandise to commemorate your trip to Havre.
Fort Assiniboine is one of the most iconic landmarks in the area. Montana’s largest military post, the fort was built in the late 19th century and used up until 1911. During the summer months, visitors can take guided tours of the fort, and there are also special events held on the premises throughout the year.
If you want to learn more about Havre’s history, or the legacy of the Montana Dinosaur Trail, be sure to visit the H. Earl Clack Memorial Museum. The museum exhibits several displays that chronicle the history of Hill County, including paleontological artifacts and relics from Fort Assiniboine. Native American history is also documented and preserved at the museum.
You can learn more about Native American History at the Wahkpa Chu’gn Buffalo Jump.
Situated on the edge of town, this archeological site is the best preserved Native American Buffalo Jump in North America, and was once used to hunt large amounts of buffalo by driving them off the side of the cliff. Children under five can enter for free, and there are discounts available for seniors, youth, and families.
To further immerse yourself in the history of Havre, the historical underground tour Havre Beneath the Streets is a must.
The tour takes guests to a subterranean network of display stores which convey what Havre was like when many businesses moved below ground following a deadly fire in 1904. Along the tour, you will witness replicas of the Sporting Eagle, Wah Sing Laundry, Shorty Young’s Office, and the Gourley Brothers Bakery.
For a quiet getaway during your trip to Havre, escape to the nearby Bears Paw Mountains, which are just 10 miles south of town. In the wilderness of the mountains, you’ll find Beaver Creek Park, which boasts two man-made lakes. This is an ideal setting for a camping or fishing trip.
Four miles to the east of Havre, you’ll find more outdoor adventures at the Prairie Farms Golf Course. The 9-hole course is tucked away along the serene banks of the Milk River on a charming family farm. After a morning on the green, guests can kick back with a slice of pizza and a beer at the clubhouse.
During the year, Havre plays host to several annual events that fill the town with an air of festivity. Many of these, including the Great Northern Fair and July 4th celebrations, take place during the summer months.
However, if you happen to visit during winter, time your trip with the magical Community Tree Lighting, which welcomes the start of the festive season.
Whatever the reason for visiting, make sure you check out our recommendations for bed and breakfasts in Havre for the best stay possible.
The Top Bed and Breakfasts in Havre, Montana
1. Super 8 by Wyndham – Havre – $-$$
Located right on US Highway 2 West, Super 8 by Wyndham is a great central accommodation choice that allows you to easily explore what Havre has to offer. More of a hotel than a bed and breakfast, Super 8 features comfortable homely rooms and offers a free breakfast item to go in the morning.
Several other amenities are also available at the hotel, including a 24-hour front desk, vending machines selling food and drinks, and fax and photocopying services. Pets are allowed at the hotel upon request, and all rooms have a private bath. The hotel also offers free Wi-Fi and dry cleaning service.
There’s a selection of affordable eateries nearby, including Coffee Hound, and RJ’s Lounge, and the Milk River is only a short distance away.
2. Montana Style Events – Havre – $$
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