7 Old-Timey General Stores In Montana
Montana has some of the most unique and memorable general stores in the United States. Each store across the state is completely distinct. The Silver Gate General Store sits where bighorn sheep wander past. The Cooke City General Store still uses a hand-cranked cash register. The General Mercantile in Helena keeps children entertained tossing fish food to fish in a koi pond. Whether you are seeking out these one-of-a-kind stops or just happen to be traveling to nearby destinations like Yellowstone or Glacier National Park, these seven general stores in Montana are bound to leave you feeling nostalgic.
Polebridge Mercantile and Bakery, Polebridge
Just outside Glacier National Park, in the remote wilderness of Polebridge lies the Polebridge Mercantile and Bakery. The drive up is remarkable, the scenery is vast, and the views are wide. In proximity to either North Road near Columbia Falls or the Camas Road near West Glacier, this is a wonderful stop for anyone traveling through. Built in 1914, its bright red building with western-style font outlining its name in bold white letters along the top is hard to miss. Beyond the regular amenities you would see in any general store, they sell books, auto supplies, firewood, and groceries. What truly makes them special, though, are their freshly baked pastries. Their most famous item on the menu is the huckleberry bear claw, a local favorite. They are also well known for their cinnamon buns, sticky buns, croissants, cookies, freshly made pizzas, and freshly baked breads.
As with many general stores, Polebridge Mercantile and Bakery sells Polebridge and Montana-related gifts. Shelves are also lined with many locally made huckleberry products, the state berry. If you visit in the chillier seasons, you will notice their wood-burning stove in the center of the room. The soft glow of the fire and the earthy rustic smell of burning wood invite you in, leaving you feeling warm and welcomed.
Silver Gate General Store, Silver Gate
The Silver Gate General Store is a tiny log cabin with a rustic and historical character. Adirondack chairs invite you to sit out on the front lawn, and a spotting scope is set out so you can view mountain goats and bighorn sheep as they pass by. During summertime, a fire is frequently going outside, allowing visitors and locals to gather around the area and share stories with one another. The gorgeous Amphitheater Mountain sits in the backdrop, towering 10,800 feet above the store. This is not only a general store; it is also a post office. In the 1930s, famous author Ernest Hemingway used to visit Silver Gate, and this is where he would mail out drafts of his books. Many locally Montana-made products and gifts are for sale here, making it a great place to purchase souvenirs and support the local community.
Allen's Manix Store, Augusta
If you grew up in a small town where the main store had everything you would ever need and more, this store's motto, "If we don't have it, you don't need it," can leave you reminiscing about old times. Their doors opened back in 1902, and have been a local hit ever since. They try to embrace their motto to the fullest by carrying not only household goods, liquor, groceries, and clothing, but also hunting and fishing licenses and the gear that goes with them. One of the more connection-driven aspects of general stores is when they share local goods. Allen's Manix Trading Post sells a variety of Montana-made gifts to bring back as a souvenir for yourself or your family. They are known for their maple bars, a delectable treat you must try if you are in the area. If maple bars are not your thing, they offer a large variety of freshly made muffins, pastries, and doughnuts. A beautiful backdrop of the Rocky Mountain Front makes this a dreamy stopping point.
Canyon Creek Country Store, Canyon Creek
Between Helena and Lincoln, located off HWY 279, is home to one of the oldest operating post offices in all of Montana. This post office was relocated to Canyon Creek from the nearby town of Georgetown in 1887, and has resided there ever since. There is more going on inside than you would imagine from the exterior, and its diversity draws all types of travelers in. Canyon Creek Country Store has that old-time Montana character that locals love. Beyond being able to procure groceries, coffee, snacks, and the regular amenities you may find at a general store, you can experience a whole lot more. Inside this unique building, the space is filled with a fascinating array of antiques and collectibles. The 1950s-style ice cream and soda fountain bar is what really draws in the crowds. Ice cream sundaes, floats, and an extensive ten-cent candy collection are a massive hit. With community-centered seating and old-school style swivel seats, this unique part of the Canyon Creek Country Store is what really sets it apart from others.
Cooke City General Store, Cooke City
Sitting in a gorgeous high mountain valley, this general store is worth the scenic drive alone. Cooke City, Montana, is the merging point of the east entrance of Yellowstone National Park and the west end of Beartooth Highway. Originally built in 1886, it was listed on the National Register of Historic Places in 1986. The building has maintained many original historic features, such as its oak shelving and floor-to-ceiling rolling ladders. Two of the store's most memorable and unique features are its original hand-crank cash register and its 1904 scale. The area has an extensive mining history and is a well-known hub for miners working nearby. Due to its remote location, it is only open May through September. The large variety of necessities serves locals and visitors alike. You can get everything you need for hunting and fishing, sporting goods, liquor, Montana-centric gifts, and even penny candy, which is a highlight for children stopping by. This general store is two stories tall, with a bright red exterior, and sits in the heart of the Beartooth Mountains.
Fishtail General Store, Fishtail
A small red and white building with a sign reading "A little bit of everything since 1900," the Fishtail General Store is one of Montana's oldest operating general stores. It has been a crucial meeting point for many community members since it first opened. It has been a post office, a stagecoach stop, and known by locals as their unofficial community center. It is not just a general store, it is a true gathering spot. They hold events, can assist in first aid, and provide all the essential supplies you would need without ever having to leave town. The deli offers a unique variety of foods and drinks like kombucha on tap, freshly-made sandwiches, and homemade sausages. Make sure to head to the back near the deli to sign your name on the table and date your visit. Look at all the writing until you find a "will you marry me?" proposal scribed into the table, and beneath that, a "yes." The owners really do appreciate every person who has stopped by over the years, as visitors are what make this store what it truly is. Opening early at 5:00 am, the smell of fresh-brewed coffee and their famous cinnamon rolls fills the air. You may even be lucky enough to get them while they are still warm.
General Mercantile, Helena
Established in 1971, this coffee, tea, and gift emporium is one of the most beautiful and warmest general stores in Montana. It is warm and welcoming inside, and its character shines brightly through. It is located in an area called Last Chance Gulch, which is historically known for its gunfights and gold strikes. This store has a few quirky features, one being that they name their coffee selection after their locals. For example, they sell the Roger, an espresso topped with steamed cream named after Amos Roger's Little III, a dedicated mercantile board member, or a Coach on Ice, named after one of their long-time loyal customers. Another quirky feature is their indoor koi pond, known as Treasure Cove. Beyond these unique choices, this general store offers everything that comes with an authentic general store. Handmade gifts created by locals in the area can be purchased here. This includes greeting cards, lotions, handmade soaps, and a variety of classic candies. You will also see classic board games set out everywhere. The warm and rustic atmosphere of the General Mercantile allows you to mingle with the locals and spend time relaxing somewhere that feels like a home away from home.
Montana's Old-Timey Character
These 7 Montana general stores offer unprecedented amounts of character. All standing true to their individuality and unique features that make every single one special in their own way. They are all absolutely worth a visit, as you will see wildlife, scenic views, procure fresh baked delicacies, and bring home souvenirs that you will treasure forever. General stores highlight such a diverse array of the local community, as well as provide a rich history of the towns they are located in. All of the architecture, interior decor, and the goods they sell showcase every store's individual personality. They are incredibly useful for all visitors and tourists stopping by, but for locals, they are more than useful; they are meaningful. Hopefully, after visiting these 7 stores, they will become meaningful to you, too.
