For Families

Fort Benton is a great place to slow down, stretch your legs, and spend time together. With parks, museums, open spaces, and plenty of room to explore, families can easily fill a day—or several—with memorable experiences.

Start with a Little History

Begin at the Historic Old Fort Benton, where kids can explore a reconstructed frontier fort and imagine what life was like when Fort Benton was a busy trading post on the Missouri River.

From there, take a walk along the Levee Trail. The trail is mostly flat, easy to navigate, and full of interesting sights. Along the way you’ll find the Old Walking Bridge, public art, historic landmarks, and plenty of opportunities to stop and explore.

Play & Cool Off

When the weather is warm, head to Old Fort Park and the Fort Benton Pool for an afternoon swim. Families can also enjoy local parks and playgrounds throughout town.

If you’re looking for a little friendly competition, stop by B Social Bar & Lanes for bowling and family fun.

B Social Bar and Lanes

B Social Bar and Lanes

It’s part bowling alley, part gathering place—and a great option for families, groups, or a laid-back night in town.
Fort Benton Pool

Fort Benton Pool

On warm summer days, the Fort Benton Pool is a favorite place to cool off.
Historic Old Fort Benton

Historic Old Fort Benton

A reconstructed river fort that tells the story of Fort Benton’s beginnings.
Shep’s Gravesite

Shep’s Gravesite

Shep’s grave marker with views overlooking Fort Benton
The Shep Memorial

The Shep Memorial

Fort Benton’s most enduring story isn’t about steamboats or trails – it’s about loyalty.

Discover the Museums

Fort Benton’s museums offer hands-on opportunities to learn about frontier life, steamboats, wildlife, agriculture, and the Missouri River.

Kids often enjoy exploring Homestead Village, seeing the Hornaday Buffalo exhibit, and discovering the many stories found throughout the museums.

The Missouri River Breaks Interpretive Center is also a popular stop for interactive exhibits and displays of Missouri River wildlife.

Historic Old Fort Benton

Historic Old Fort Benton

A reconstructed river fort that tells the story of Fort Benton’s beginnings.
Homestead Village

Homestead Village

Walk through a turn-of-the-century prairie town filled with restored homestead-era buildings. Located inside the Museum of the Northern Great Plains.
Upper Missouri River Breaks National Monument Interpretive Center

Upper Missouri River Breaks National Monument Interpretive Center

Explore the landscapes, wildlife, and history of the Upper Missouri River Breaks.

Sweet Treats & Small-Town Fun

No family trip is complete without a treat. Grab an ice cream cone, enjoy a meal downtown, or simply spend some time watching the river flow by.

Sometimes the best family memories come from the moments you didn’t plan.

Clubhouse Bar and Grill

Clubhouse Bar and Grill

Relaxed local-sourced eatery and bar offering burgers, steaks, fries and cocktails.
River Market Grocery Store

River Market Grocery Store

Stock up on groceries, snacks, drinks, and essentials for your stay.
The Freeze

The Freeze

Ice cream and burger spot with a patio dishing up American staples like hot dogs, milkshakes and sundaes. (Open Seasonally)